Advent Books

I first read this book a long time ago in middle school and I still have the full series both Lioness and the Immortals they are no joke bound with duck tape because over the last 11 years or so I have read them soo many times that they are indeed falling apart and I just had to replace my In the Realm of the Gods copy because half the book fell out. Once my kids get a little bit bigger these books will be read to them and I hope that when they get even older that they will pick up these books and read them over and over again like I did!

Run of the mill fantasy book even with the twist of a girl becoming a knight. I bought it for my classroom but don't think it's all that interesting.

So, the first book of Tamora Pierce's Song of the Lioness Series. What did I think of it? It was all right, better than most formulaic fantasy, but not quite great. An enjoyable, casual read.

I'll start with the faults. The prose is nothing extraordinary, and there often isn't quite enough description. At the same time, things always happened quickly, as if the characters were in a mad rush. If you like your fantasy quick and to the point, and just can't slog through heavily descriptive novels like the Wheel of Time, then this book may be perfect for you.

Secondly, magic was handled a little bit casually. Even children can use it, and its treated more like a handy tool to keep at your belt rather than a mystical, arcane force. The magic system was pretty basic and not much more complicated than you'd expect to see if you were playing an RPG like Dungeons and Dragons.

Thirdly, and this is the most criminal, Thom(the best character) barely gets any page time. I hope Pierce rewrites this series from his POV sometime, because that would make for an interesting read.

Finally, the climax was rather abrupt, quick, and didn't carry much weight. The Ysandir(the final enemies) were pansies, as easily dispatched as flies to be swatted, with the exception of the leader, Ylon. The final battle could definitely have done with being drawn out a bit more, given a bit more suspense. It would probably have been more dramatic if the fight was just against Ylon, minus the underlings who is uses as fodder.

Besides these flaws, however, this is a fairly good read. Nothing deep or groundbreaking, nothing fantastic, but consistently entertaining and adaquately written. The characters were pretty good, I can't recall ever being bored with the story, or wincing at the dialogue. Hardcore fantasy fans, however, might want to look for a series with a little more meat to it, though.

3.5 stars.

I love Tamora Pierce books I have all of them that are available on CD...Amazon was the lowest price around and I checked them all... I did have to return this book because of a flaw on one of the CD's and Amazon had another copy to in my hands within 48 hours... AMAZING

Alanna: the First Adventure by Tamora Pierce tells about Alanna's life as the only girl knight-to-be in the palace. Alanna lives in Tortall where only boys can be knights and she also has the magical gift, which means she can heal and do other things. Very few people know Alanna is a girl, and everybody who doesn't, knows her by the name "Alan." She has many friends and many enemies, whom she soon hopes to defeat. Alanna wants to be a knight and she hopes she is brave and strong enough to be the first girl warrior in a century. Will she ever make it?
Alanna: the First Adventure is an exciting read for girls in grades five and up. Alanna, the main character, will surprise you at every turn. The ending is perfect for this book and it makes you want to keep reading. This is one of my favorite books ever because every time you read it, you catch new information that you missed the first time, and Alanna keeps you entertained from the beginning of the book. Tamora Pierce's writing style is fairly easy to read and it will captivate you the second you pick it up! Alanna: the First Adventure, is the first book in the Song of the Lioness series, which is the first series of five, taking place in Tortall. This book has everything from romance to adventure to captivate your attention.

I read this book for the first time many years ago and it remains one of my favorites. Funny and moving. A read to please all ages!

Every year a number of new books appear for the Christmas season, seeking to show new significance to old customs, or sometimes merely to put a contemporary story in a holiday context to stimulate sales. Most of those little books disappear from memory as quickly as the year's ornaments and greenery. This book is one whose value and impact seems to grow from year to year. It can be enjoyed by kids of most ages, and it holds the interest and challenges the thinking of adults. The book is worth reading again and again--privately and out loud. The audiobook is an excellent presentation. The movie adaptation, though sharing the limits of any visual interpretation of a piece of literature, is quite faithful to the facts and spirit of the story and has a particularly poignant wrap-up. Highly recommended!

"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" is probably the best book ever, in my humble opinion! Believe me, it is not just a children's book whatsoever. My mother and I actually sat in the hospital an extra hour so we could finish reading it before going home! The author has quite the sense of humor, and will have you laughing along as you read this politically-incorrect book on six dysfunctional siblings who decide to be in the church's Christmas play because they were told they had "refreshments" there. It is a great gift for everyone on your list this season, and will likely become a household name. It most certainly made me feel better about my dysfunctional family! It's "political incorrectness" makes it all the more funny- you can't get this kind of sick quality humor anywhere but the 70s! I'm buying it for everyone I know!

I've directed the play for a couple of years and actually purchased several copies of this book to give away as prizes in a drawing for children attendees. This book is read in both public and private elementary schools locally leading up to Christmas. The book will evoke a catharsis of emotions: laughter, shock, sadness and tears of surprise and joy. It's also fantastic for those teaching moments on character, judging others and loving all people.

I read this book years ago...It is funny but also has
a serious side to it. I love the humor but also the
lesson in seeing the Christmas story with the eyes of
children who have been denied the right to go to church.
I bought it this time as a gift for an inmate at our County Jail.
It gave him a big smile.

Kathy in Las Vegas

I'm debating what book pieces seem to define Christmas for me. Oddly this is up there, maybe the story I like the most to reacquaint me with a tear or two, I never can get through it dry.
On the surface the Grinch is impossibly unlikely to undergo transformation into a better and kinder being. He's so delightfully bad, glad to stop Christmas from coming. With his lively old Max and his clumsy old sacks this fellows a far cry from the Saint Nick he represents. How fascinating that this Grinch could be used to compare/contrast with Santa Claus, an interesting thing for a teacher to try with a class....anyway just for me when I raised my children it was the 1st book I gave to a three month old 1st daughter inscribing it "mom's favorite." And my favorite part would be Cindy Lou Who, not more than two, as well as the line, "maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store, maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more." A message of peace for one.

I would think anyone would enjoy this, but I often underestimate my ability to be wrong. It's a pretty nifty piece to me.

When I was a child, I found the Dr. Seuss books a bit scary because I didn't much like abstract or surreal stuff. Fast forward many years and I have a daughter who is just learning to read so after seeing that she enjoyed a Dr. Seuss book in the doctor's office I thought I would order this book and give it a spin. This particular edition comes in a nice metallic finish green and red cover. It feels like a quality book.
After reading it to her the first night, I had to read it two more nights after that in succession. It was great fun for me too because the rhyming prose allows the reader (who may not be a great thespian) to do some role playing and added intonation. The illustrations are both unusual and vivid which helps stimulate the young reader's imagination. Finally, the essential story message which is to have a heart is a good one particularly in times such as these. Highly recommended!

the product arrived in a timely manner...and was much more elegant than i thought a "deluxe"' edition would be...i'm very pleased !!!

This was one of my favorite holiday stories when I was a child. Now I share that classic with my children, and I hope someday they will pass that along to theirs.

It's a wonderful, funny, and heartwarming story.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!, by the incomparable Theodor Geisel - aka Dr. Seuss, is a true Christmas classic. It is a story of hope, faith, and epiphany, and of discovering the true meaning of Christmas. Who else but Seuss could tell such a story so entertainingly, in so few words, and all in rhyme?

That grumpy old Grinch thought Christmas was about presents... and food and decorations and things of that vane. But he stole everything, down to the crumbs too small for the mouses, and Christmas still came! It came joyfully, noisefully, loudy proclaimed! This made our grizzled old Grinch puzzle and puzzle until his puzzler was sore, and until he realized that Christmas was so much more. He returned all the presents and food for the feast, and then our grinny Grinch, himself, the Grinch carved the roast beast.

Only Dr. Seuss could spread the true, pure message of Christmas without any reference to religion. He communicated directly to children of all ages in his wonderfully wacky and wise rhyming, teaching us all about faith, hope, and love.

What a perfect book for this Christmas season. I introduced it this year to my 3 1/2 year old, who just loves it. As her new Christmas favorite, she requests it nightly. And I am happy to read it to her again and again.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

This is the best pop up book I've ever seen. My small children are completely dazzled by the pictures, and I am too, actually. I've given this book as a gift multiple times and it's always a big hit for the whole family.

I bought two other pop-up books by Robert Sabuda, a counting one and The Twelve Days of Christmas for my grandchildren and they (and me) simply loved them......the pop-ups were delightful and complimented the story line perfectly.....however, I was disappointed in the Night Befoer Christmas as I feel the pop-ups (they are unique) over shadowed the story.

Everything about the book is exactly what I wanted. The illustrations are incredible. Expensive! Yes, but worth it.

I got this for my mother in law and she was just in awe at all of the graphics, and illustrations!

These books are a tradition that Santa brings one each year. They are amazing in the cut out detail and definately heirloom quality and a treasure for all ages.

What started out as a wonderful book for children has become a family tradition. Each Christmas, we read Red Ranger and it never loses it's charm---for children or for adults. Truly unique and delightful!

This book was recommended by my child's school librarian. All three of my kids, ages 5-10, girls and boy, loved the book. The illustrations were vibrant and the story captivated everyone.

I've been known to buy several copies of this book and give it to people whom I think need to get the message. I LOVE this book. I love to read it aloud~ even to adults. Breathed is so clever and the text is magnificient. The illustrations are vivid.
The story is about a boy in depression days so it may be better to give it this year than ever before. I've never given it as a gift and not had a great reaction.
This book may help even the most cynical believe in Santa Claus again.
I think I'll go read it right now in preparation for reading it to a group in a couple of weeks.

This is an AWESOME story for kids and grown-ups alike--for all the right reasons! Berkeley Breathed weaves such a rich and colorful tapestry with his words and the illustrations will make you "fall on the floor laughing!" It is a delightful Christmas story about the human experience and one of enlightment without any deep religious undertones. It's old-fashioned in the respect that it has a "moral." It's tickles one's fancy because the story is based on an actual "thing" that can be visited with wonder and intrigue. I know because my family had to make a "pilgramage" years ago to see it with our own eyes!!

As a Realtor in the Portland, Oregon, area I make it a habit to give this book to clients every Christmas...whether they have kids or not! You certainly won't be sorry for the purchase and I truly believe you're getting an excellent value for the cost. Enjoy!

Leslie Newberry
Cell: 503-349-2727

This is my favorite Christmas story, hands down. I cannot read it without getting choked up and teary... and it's NOT a sappy story! This tells of a young boy who has a run-in with an old man who may or may not be Santa Claus; the boy has little and believes in even less, though his encounter changes that. Don't think you know how this ends though - the boy is not easily won, and he does more for the old man than the other way around. The final image will give you chills... (in a good way)
DON'T SKIP TO THE END! IT IS BEST AS A SURPRISE.

A lovely story and written for children AND adults. Our Minister read the entire book one Sunday morning in place of his regular sermon and it was met with great praise from the congregation. It inspired me to get the book for myself as I have 3 great-grandchildren that will soon be ready to hear this wonderful story. Because this book is out of print, it's wise to be sure that you're getting a new or like -new book as I had a previous bad experience with a soiled and torn copy.

A meaningful, well-written and paced story. Accessible to children, but still plenty interesting (and moving) for adults. The illustrations are just what you would expect from P.J. Lynch - a perfection of warmth and realism. He is quickly becoming my favorite illustrator. A good read whether or not it's Christmas time, but especially at Christmas.

We purchased this book upon my sister's recommendation. We absolutely loved it. I sat the whole family down and read it to them, even my teenagers. It provided some really nice new conversation about the Nativity and also about how grumpy, unhappy people can be softened with kindness and service. I highly recommend this book.

This is one of those books that adults and children alike will enjoy for the Christmas season! Definitely worth having in every family collection.

Great book...good quality...arrived in record time. I will highly recommend ordering this book for a Christmas present for any age.

This book was like new, as advertised. It was shipped in a timely manner and I am very satisfied. If this book isn't a children's classic, it should be. It is a wonderful warm account of sharing on Christmas.

I am thrilled to see "Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree" still in print and available on Amazon. You see, I am holding the 1963 original copy of the book, published by Weekly Reader Children's Book Club, and with pages bathed only in the colors of black, white, and green.

Green is so appropos today in 2009 when our country is trying to go "green." Mr. Willowby doesn't know it, but he goes "green" in the story, only now it is 46 years later and the reader, even children, can actually see how "extra" is put to good use. What a timely story this is!

Mr. Willowby has his tree delivered in time for Christmas, but it is too tall for his parlor. Even in 1963 Willowby knows that the top he cuts off his tree can decorate the maid's room. But it is too tall for her, only she does treat it as waste.

The gardener takes the topping to his wife who tops it. The bear takes it and tops it, the fox takes that and tops it, and the rabbit takes it, and throws out the last little bit which goes home with to the mice family.

What a lovely story! What a "green" story! I'm reviewing this book now so that early Christmas shoppers can stash it away for that giving time of year. It's well worth the time and effort because it is a good story which teaches such a wonderful lesson!

I am surprised at how little people know of this book. I think this is my favorite Christmas book EVER! I have read this to my children, recommended it to friends, and even gave a copy to the school librarian to read to children. She was in love with this book. The story is so sweet and you are eager to find out what else happens to the tree. If you haven't read this before, i think you should. It's wonderful!

I was tickled to death when I found a copy available of my all time favorite Christmas story. I had a very special little girl to buy for this Christmas and I knew just the book for her. Thank you for the quick delivery. RB

Reading this book has become a tradition at my home. My 14 and 20 year old sons still love hearing this book read to them at Christmas time. I still read from the same book that I have had since I was a child. It is the 1963 original edition. We Love This Book! Very endearing.

There is "something" about this book. It radiates a certain spirit--a spirit of hope and peace. Yeah, I know, what I'm saying sounds a little far out. But read it for yourself, and I'll bet you'll agree with me. There is just "someting" about this story...It makes you think, it jolts you, it makes you cry, and in the end it gives you hope.

This book gets better with each reading...and so far I've read it six times!

This is a book of comfort, inspiration, faith...a parable about the rewards of anonymous service...a story of eternal bonds. This story shows how service to others can make a life meaningful, even after the most severe and traumatic of tragidies.

Life can bring you to your knees in despair...but it can also exalt you when you learn what great things can come of everyday kindnesses.

This book has made me really think!

John Allen is a consumate story teller...a modern day Dickens. I contacted HCI Books and they told me John is working on another book that should be completed soon. I cannot wait to read it!

Also recommended: The Christmas Jars--wonderful!

I am so glad this book is now avaialbe in a kindle edition! This is a life changing book. It is eloquently written an has an inspirational message. It will warm your heart, and it will make you think. The first time I read this book I could not put it down. This book makes you realize that there is something "bigger and better" out there.

This is a COOL book. It makes you want to believe, and it gives you hope. It's SAD, but also has FUNNY parts. I like the part about the dog. You will LOVE this book!

Readers will get one third of the way through this book and say, "What's so comforting about this book? This book is SAD!"

Well, parts of the book ARE sad...but other part and inspiring and uplifting. You just have to keep reading till the end. I had a chance to hear the song, "The Spirit of Christmas," that goes with the book: it is wonderful!

I can't wait for this book to be made into a MOVIE!

I also loved:This Christmas Night: Reflections from Our Hearts to Your Home

A wonderful and meaningful listen which puts the real meaning of
Christmas in perspective as opposed to all the commercialism.

I read this book in one sitting! I couldnt put it down. It is more that I expected to learn. Very refreshing. I bought several of these and mailed as christmas presents. I also purchased another of the author's best seller books. I Highly recommend this book to believers and non believers.

This book is great! It was very helpful for me to pause and understand my feelings towards Christmas and understand again the true meaning of Christmas. It has changed my thinking in life crisis, daily living and learning to let go of the past problems. It is a book that should be read again around Christmas time, it is a good read, short and to the point.

I enjoyed the book and the service I got was excellent.It came quickly and in excellent condition

Pastor Rick Warren asked people what they were celebrating at Christmas and what they were grateful for. Not surprisingly in this secular society, few people mentioned Jesus Christ or Salvation.

This book has a dual value: Helping Christians to refocus on the spiritual significance of celebrating Jesus' birth and helping those who want to learn about Jesus to potentially decide to accept the free gift of Salvation. I was impressed at how well the book served both purposes.

Every Christian would benefit from reading (and re-reading) this book around Thanksgiving. It would also be a good idea to keep a few extra copies around to give to people who say that they would like to learn more about Christianity.

The book isn't heavy, and it's not light. I would describe it as "just right" for toning up your spiritual connection to the Lord. I liked the images and photographs in the book. They made The Purpose of Christmas seem like a family album.

Pastor Warren also describes how he decided that he wanted to celebrate Jesus' birthday as a youngster and started a family tradition that continues today.

What are you thankful to God for this year?

What are you going to give Jesus this year for His birthday party in December?

I particularly liked the latter question. Two Christmases ago, I decided to hold a global contest to find good ways to help lost people gain Salvation as a Christmas gift. I was so blessed by that experience. I feel inspired to find something like that to do in 2009.

May God bless you, your family, and all you do!

It was pretty good, the product is in excellent condition, but it came with an outdated guide :(

I went from "Shorter" Christian Prayer to Christian Prayer and now the 4 vol. set. I heard people say how much better it was than the one vol. Christian Prayer but I just couldn't spend that much on the 4 vol. set. Well, after a little extra cash swung my way I opted for it and they were right. It's easy peezy george and weezy. No more flipping back and forth and the leather edition makes you feel like it will be in the family for a long time. Think of it as an investment.

I started with the one-volume "Christian Prayer" and moved to this four-volume "Liturgy of the Hours" after a year or two.

I'm glad I invested in the leather binding for the 4-vol. Liturgy of the Hours. It is more expensive, but worth it. Easy to read, great binding and the book lies flat without you holding it down. Includes an easy to follow outline of each hour and the format of the various offices.

I HIGHLY recommend it!

Excellent for your prayer life

This set is of high quality. I am currently using mostly for the Daily Readings although I occasionally perform the Morning or Evening Prayers as well. The Readings contain many exceptional sermons and epistles. Reading these during Adoration or before sleep is a very good way to improve your prayer life.

I use the LOH daily. However I find grail translation idiosyncratic and the american bible unnecessarily
difficult. I keep a copy of the RSV catholic edition handy to read the psalms.
For some reason the grail translation does not like the word " righteous ". Whenever the word righteous
should be used they throw in the word "just". Maybe they thought this was easier to chant? or maybe this
was another way of throwing in the "social justice" dogma even when it is inappropriate.
On the other hand the LOH has a number of great readings from the bible and the church fathers.
The poetry section is especially good. It is a handy way to say your daily prayers.
I just wish they would have used a less bizarre translation of the psalms.