| General Anatomy and the Musculoskeletal System (THIEME Atlas of Anatomy)
Publisher: Thieme Medical Publishers |
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| ISBN: 1588903877 List Price: $64.95 Amazon Price: $64.95 Usually ships in 24 hours |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 5 Reviews: Summary: 5 Stars from a Medical Student!!!! I have seen so many different anatomy textbooks and atlases that I feel I can speak with authority on this book. I am a medical student and this book is the greatest atlas every created! Those small "look inside" illustrations online don't do it justice. The quality of illustrations is mind-blowing. The book is filled with normal view, action view, and what I call the "progessive pealed" view of general anatomy and the musculoskeletal systems. On one two-page layout you will see say, the upper extremity, and it will have 4 or 5 pictures of the same thing, same orientation, except muscles are removed progressively. This allows you to visualize nerves and vasculature in a way no other atlas allows for. Now for a comparison. I will use Netter's (everybody's gold standard anatomy atlas). The Thieme atlas does not include internal organs (i.e. - anything inside the abdomen or chest), head or neck, nor would it be used for a neuroanatomy course due to the precision needed by such a course. It covers everything else though in great detail. The Netter has SLIGHTLY more detail... not much, in terms of an arrow with a name attached to it. However, the illustrations cannot begin to be compared. Thieme spent 8 years just on the illustrations. They blow Netter out of the water... honestly. Thieme is releasing 2 more books to complement this one: Neck and Internal Organs, and Head and Neuroanatomy. I've already pre-ordered the Neck one. When the other 2 are done, NOTHING will compare. Of course, you would have to lug around 3 awesome books which may not be to everyone's liking. Also, the tables and graphs are spectacular. If you don't want to lug around the extra books for perfect clarity of your course material, buy the Netter. You won't get the level of visual understanding and 3D feeling that you will with the Thieme but it is comprehensive and has a proven track record of success. For me, I will lug the books around when needed, because now that I've seen the Holy Land of anatomy atlases, I can't go back to wandering for 40 years in the wilderness. Summary: Artistic anatomy I am a 3d graphics artist working in LA. I've studied the human figure intensely for years. Over the years I've always been on the lookout for any anatomy books with clear illustrations rendered with anatomical skill. I've found a couple of books with photos of cadavers and their musculature but those can be difficult at times to make out distinct muscles and/or groups of muscles. After many years of study and searching, the Thieme Atlas is at the top of my list of anatomy texts. It is the only book I now use for anatomical study of the muscles (except the face of course). I even emailed the musculoskeletal artist with compliments for his work. I'm getting impatient for the other 2 books to be released. It's the only atlas any artist should need for bone and muscle study of the body...minus the head. Summary: insanley good anatomy book As an artist and sculptor this book is the diffenitive anatomy text book offering multiple view, cross sections, insertions and area placement of the muscles and bones of the human body. The illustrations are beutifully clear and concise. I have several anatomy books and this tops them all on realistic anatomy. Summary: |
| Mighty Fitz: The Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA |
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| ISBN: 158234647X List Price: $24.95 Amazon Price: $15.72 Usually ships in 24 hours |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 5 Reviews: Summary: The story behind the song As a kid growing up, I was one of probably thousands who heard Gordon Lightfoot's ballad "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" and assumed that he was singing of a ship lost long, long ago, and certainly not in my lifetime. I later learned the "Fitz" went down in 1975, and gave it little thought, then reconnected with the ship once again through Lightfoot's song and looking for something to read, came across Schumacher's account. Unlike those written in the aftermath of the Fitzgerald's sinking, Schumacher's story has the benefit of time, which does nothing to change the historical facts of the wreck, but everything to loosen the lips of then-stunned family members and officials involved in the investigation. Time has also served to make the tale seem even more like a story worthy of being told in song. And the through Schumacher's words and extensive research and interviews, the legend lives on... Summary: A Worthy Contribution to Lake Superior Lore When I first saw this book, I wondered what there could be new to say about the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The author ties together many of the latest accounts and theories surrounding the story, composing a detailed narrative of the freighter, its crew, its final hours, the search, the investigations, and the ongoing fascination with the tragedy. It is very concise, well-written, and readable. This book did a good job of introducing many of the crew members on the Edmund Fitzgerald, and puts you in the pilothouses of the ships on that fateful November night in 1975. Highly recommended. Summary: People are still very interested some three decades later. "Mighty Fitz" arrived on the shelves of our local library in early December. It has already been checked out 9 or 10 times indicating to me that there is still a remarkable level of interest in trying to ascertain just what happened to the Edmund Fitzgerald on that stormy November day three decades ago. Unlike some of the other reviewers I had not read anything about the Fitz prior to this. I must admit that at times I was absolutely spellbound by author Michael Schumacher's chilling account of the demise of this formidable vessel. For those unfamiliar with the history of Great Lakes shipwrecks "Mighty Fitz" offers a crash course on the subject. Michael Schumacher has devoted much of his adult life to studying these wrecks. You will discover the circumstances surrounding the sinkings of the Carl D. Bradley and the Daniel J Morrell in the late 1950's. And when you read the account of the great storm that claimed some 30 ships over a three day period in late November 1905 you will come to understand the powerful forces of nature that the Edmund Fitzgerald was up against back in 1975. The fact of the matter is that there are still a lot of unanswered questions as to why the Edmund Fitzgerald plunged to the bottom of Lake Superior. Was it human error? Had the crew been negligent in securing the ship? Was there too much weight on board? What about the possibility that the Fitz was structurally unsound? Or did Captain McSorley make a fatal navigational error when he took the vessel too close to the Six Fathom Shoal? "Mighty Fitz" explores each of these possibilities and many others in great detail. Michael Schumacher also discusses the continuing odyssey of attempts to get to the bottom of the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy. There are so many competing interests at play here. Family members want to ban furthur exploration of the wreckage and designate the site off-limits to everyone. And as new technolgies emerge others are bound and determined to discover once and for all just what happened to the Edmund Fitzgerald. The truth is that there are compelling arguments on both sides of these issues. I found "Mighty Fitz" to be a very well-written and entertaining book. It is clear that Michael Schumacher is passionate about his subject. I must say that I agree with at least a couple of the other Amazon reviewers who found that the lack of any kind of maps was a drawback for them. Had such illustrations been included I don't think I would have had any trouble rating "Mighty Fitz" a full five stars. It comes awfully close anyway. Highly recommended. Summary: |
| Crossroads: The Life and Music of Eric Clapton
Publisher: Citadel Press |
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| ISBN: 0806524669 List Price: $15.95 Amazon Price: $10.37 Usually ships in 24 hours |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 5 Reviews: Summary: Insightful A fascinating journey into the life of Eric Clapton. As someone who has been an avid Clapton fan from the beginning, it was quite interesting to read about his growth and evolution as a musician over the years and with his different groups. I was fascinated to discover that he did not think he was lead guitar material and that he lacked confidence regarding his vocal abilities. This is a book which will stimulate discussion among friends and have you running to your music collection to listen to old songs yet once again, while eagerly awaiting a new Clapton release. Summary: Very Comprehensive This biography is indeed very informative. The details on Eric's life are very complete. One can see how Eric's small stature and limited coordination stunted his confidence at the beginning of his music career. In the Yardbirds, Cream, and Blind Faith, Eric was content just to be a part of the band. I especially enjoyed Delaney Bramlett's influence on Eric's vocal development. And of course the Layla stories are always a joy to read. The feelings behind many of Eric's signature songs are a joy to read over and over again. The only slight drawback in this book is the fact that the author discounts the There's One In Every Crowd CD. Truthfully, I find it an underatted gem. Otherwise, Michael Schumacher does an excellent job. Summary: GREAT. NEUTRAL STORY TELLING OF ERIC'S LIFE THis book is very good. Schumache portrays Clapton as a musician and man, nothing going into the cheap way of focusing the book around gossips. Even the subject of Conor�s death is treated decently. Also, he gives a good portrait of Eric�s band mates along time, all his influences, a brief analysis of each album recorded, etc. It�s a shame that Clapton didn�t give any personal interviews for the book, that I think is best than Ray Coleman�s offical biography. Summary: |
| There but for Fortune: The Life of Phil Ochs
Publisher: Hyperion Books |
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| ISBN: 0786860847 List Price: $24.95 Amazon Price: This item is currently not available. |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 5 Reviews: Summary: There But For Fortune Sadly, this excellent biography of one of the sixties generation's great topical songwriters is out of print. Michael Schumacher writes a moving account of Ochs, who was haunted by his own personal demons and political enemies, such as the FBI, a federal agency sworn to protect us. Ochs' songs, including "Crucifixtion" - among the greatest songs of the Vietnam War era - are the heart and soul of a tremendous creative talent. Ochs' descent into mental illness is sad, yet Schumacher's account of it leaves us with meaning and encouragement to follow Ochs' social and political conscience. Summary: An adequate biography, but no great insights When I heard that this book was released, I was eager to read it as a long time Phil Ochs fan. I was disappointed to discover that Schumacher's book provides little new information or insight beyond Marc Eliot's Death of a Rebel. Too often, Schumacher skims over important periods in Ochs' life, with people and events popping up without adequate explanation. For example, while Schumacher talks about Ochs' travels with Victor Jara and the effect Jara had on him, later in the book Schumacher mentions Jara's death only in passing, with no effort to explain its effect on Ochs. Schumacher also makes a few factual errors, including a claim that Gunfight at Carnegie Hall was never released in the United States. I purchased it on CD nearly 10 years ago. Summary: Must read for any Phil Ochs fan. No sugar-coating. A well-documented biography of one of the greatest topical song writers and singers ever. Easy-to-read account of Phil Ochs life. Includes background information on the circle of people that lived, travelled and performed with Phil Ochs. Also provides a look at the troubled era when Phil was at his peak. Chronicles the hipocrasy and ineptness with which certain parts of our own government tracked and harrassed people with contrary views. Summary: |
| Dharma Lion: A Critical Biography of Allen Ginsberg
Publisher: St Martins Pr |
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| ISBN: 0312081790 List Price: $35.00 Amazon Price: This item is currently not available. |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 5 Reviews: Summary: A substantive bio on one of America's great poets It's been several years since I read "Dharma Lion". However, it remains for me as one of the finest and most focused journeys into the mind, soul, art and life of a truly great poet and an amazing individual. The life and times and creative genius of Allen Ginsberg will inspire many people for different reasons. First, as a poet, he blew the lid off traditional poetry in the same way Picasso turned art into an intellectual and psychological study of man and the world he has created. Ginsberg was a liberating force for all those who felt "stuck" and "frustrated" by the American "ideal" dream. Second, as one of the beat writers and the ultimate "Bohemian" in his thinking and lifestyle, Ginsberg is fascinating to read about. His travels, both inner and global, take the reader behind, beneath and beyond their wildest imagination. As I read about his adventures, I wondered how he had the energy and money to maintain his incredible journey. Third, his openness and frankness as a gay man was truly heoric and remarkable for his time. Ginsberg, like Walt Whitman, understood the beauty of the mind and the body, and celebrated himself and life through his poetry and how he lived. He fully embraced himself and life in a way that will always leave those who haven't the depth and breadth of a Ginsberg, cold and turned off to this poetic and primal celebration of the Self. Michael Schumacher not only wrote a biography about a literary giant, but filled every inch with the insights and brilliance of Ginsberg and his times. I like a slow read, one that I can savour and think about, put down and pick up again, and then continue the read with more interest and perceptiveness, not only for the subject matter but about life and myself as well. "Dharma Lion" is a biography I'll surely go back to one of these days and enjoy as much, if not more, than I did on the first read. I've recommended this book to many of my friends and I strongly recommend it to you. Summary: Vast in scope; minute in detail Vast in scope; minute in detail I read this bio immediately after reading Michael Schumacher's bio of Phil Ochs. The Phil Ochs bio was lean and mean and riveting. Michael Schumacher took another route with this book, and made it long and detailed. It's often boring, but you really get immersed in the subject. Allen Ginsberg was a role model for me as a gay man, and as a person who has been fearlessly open about who he is. I admire him more after reading this book. An abridgement might be desirable for the general reader. There are just too many exerpts from journals. The author cuts out after 1980. I would go back to 1970 as the cutoff date. The early years, the ones that made Ginsberg famous, are the fascinating ones. The years after Chicago demonstration seem repetitious. Summary: |
| Michael Schumacher: The Greatest of All
Publisher: Haynes Publishing |
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| ISBN: 184425044X List Price: $29.95 Amazon Price: $20.37 Usually ships in 24 hours |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 4 Reviews: Summary: Schumacher against history Delves on how Schumacher stacks up against the best drivers of all time. Contains some interesting anecdotes about Schumacher finishing a race in the top 10 with the car stuck in 5th gear! Could have added more anecdotes though. Interesting read nonetheless, finished it in one sitting. Summary: |
| Francis Ford Coppola: A Filmmaker's Life
Publisher: Crown |
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| ISBN: 0517704455 List Price: $30.00 Amazon Price: This item is currently not available. |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 4 Reviews: Summary: Francis Ford Coppola: Hollywood Godfather of Creative Genius Francis Ford Coppola was born in a great year for the movies! In 1939 the director was born to Carmen Coppola and his wife Italia. His parents were creative-Carmen was a musician in the Detroit Symphony and later in the New York Philharmonic under the baton of Arturo Toscanini. Carmen would later win a musical Oscar for the Godfather films. Francis was a younger son to his older brother who was everything Francis wasn't: handsome and well liked at school. His sister Talia Shire would later be a movie star in his own films most notably the Godfather classics. Coppola graduated from Hofstra and received a master's degree in film from the UCLA film school. His early apprenticship in film was under the tutelage of famed B director Roger Corman. Coppolla emerged from nudie films and small pictures to direct "Finigan's Rainbow" and began to emerge as a talented maverick whose creative/artistic wings were flying in the early 1970s. Despite arduous business and creative troubles he won fame and fortune and several Oscars for the Godfather films. His most controversial film was "Apocalypse Now" his take on the Vietnam conflict based on Joseph Conrad's novella "The Heart of Darkness." Coppola's career has more ups and downs than a roller coaster as he founded Zoetrope Films in San Francisco and went to the mat in countless donybrook battles with studio executives. Coppola reminds me of Orson Welles in that he achieved fame early and then had a difficult career in tinsel town. He is a man of massive ego; intelligence; daring and creative attention to the details/minutia of film. He was unfaithful to his wife Ellie; grieved over a son yet emerges from this biography as a flawed but good man. He is gregarious and honest and a good friend. His friendship assisted George Lucas in launching his storied career! I like Coppola's rich textured films. His screenwriting from Patton to his latest project is outstanding. This meticulous account of Coppola's career in the Hollywood jungle will not appeal to everyone. Countless pages are devoted to business deals, legal disputes and the difficulties encountered by Coppola in making his films. For me who loves the Godfather and FFC this is a fine book. Anyone who seeks to explore this brilliant man's career would do well to begin with Schumacher's fine biograpy. Summary: Apocalypse When I thought this biography was detailed mostly around this film. On page 262, first paragraph, I think Mr. Coppola would agree to mention the fact that "The Chief Phillips" made a life last attempt to end Willard after getting speared on the boat by Kurtz's mongrules. Overall, the book was a manificant biography of a Itailian-American film maker of our time. Summary: A TOTAL mystery... ...and I hope he stays that way. Francis Ford Coppola is one of the inspirations of my life. His energy and enthusiasm for what he does outshines even the projects many might deride. One thing you have to say is at LEAST he puts his all into what he does, and I'd imagine no one would doubt this. PS: WHEN is the UNCUT version of "One From the Heart" going to be issued on DVD? Summary: |
| Writer's Complete Guide to Conducting Interviews
Publisher: Writers Digest Books |
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| ISBN: 0898795931 List Price: $14.95 Amazon Price: This item is currently not available. |
Avg Cusomer Rating: 4 Reviews: Summary: Enormously helpful A terrific introduction to the art and craft of conducting interviews. Of course, I learned it all by trial and error. Duh! I wish I had read this book about ten years ago. Offers very practical and practicable advice on how to get the most out of your sources. Heartily recommended for would-be writers and journalists. Summary: |
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