Collecting Early Machine-Made Marbles: The M. F. Christensen & Son Company and Christensen Agate Company

Customer Reviews:

Holey COW!!.......2006-07-14

This is my great great Grandfather's Marble Company! I had no idea folks were collecting his marbles.
And a book with price guide, I am in total amazement.

EXCELLENT REFERANCE BOOK.......2006-03-14

All illustrations are exceptional and discriptions perfect. A must have for marble collectors.

Book Description

“Here was a siren who had depth, strength, dignity, and humour who could inspire great trust, suggest deep intellect and whose misty languorous eyes melted your heart away!” remarked co-star Christopher Plummer.

In the darkest days of World War II, Greer Garson was Hollywood's most inspiring icon of strength and courage. Her work in Mrs. Miniver was rewarded with an Academy Award in 1941.

Garson earned a total of seven Academy Award nominations for Best Actress. Fourteen of her films premiered at Radio City Music Hall, playing for a total of eighty-four weeks—a record never equaled by any other actress.

She worked with such legendary performers as Clark Gable, Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, Errol Flynn, Joan Crawford, Robert Mitchum, Debbie Reynolds, and Walter Pidgeon. Garson's memories of them, and their comments about her, provide an incomparable view of Hollywood at its most influential and creative peak.

Michael Troyan sweeps away the many myths that even today veil Garson's life in the first-ever biography of the star. With the benefit of exclusive access to studio production files, personal letters and diaries, and the cooperation of her family, he explores the triumphs and tragedies of her personal life, a story more colorful than any role she played on screen.

Customer Reviews:

Very good overall read.......2007-01-04

An excellent read if you're into details. For me, the details got a little overwhelming, but I so much wanted to learn more about this actress that I admire greatly. Sadly, as the author himself stated, it was difficult to write a biography because Greer Garson was a very private person and did not give many interviews or express many personal opinions in public. However, he richly details her movies, her public service, and others' opinions of her (and a good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold). I have always enjoyed watching her many films and am tracking down as many of them as I can on DVD so this made for a fine addition to my collection of her work. I enthusiastically recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading and loves any of her many films.

Biography at its best........2006-10-09

Michael Troyan has a gift for biography. I hope he can collaborate with Turner Classic Movies to produce a video on the life of Greer Garson.
This book makes me wish I could have known Greer Garson. She loved and respected her mother, she loved her husband, she loved children and orphans and the disabled and disadvantaged. She loved her dogs, ranching in New Mexico, history, and she loved Texas...makes me love her even though I never met her. Good job, Mr. Troyan.

really well written.......2004-07-06

This book on Greer Garson I highly recommend. It's very balances and tells of the good and bad times in her life about her career andher fmaily. Though i must admit I wished it had mentioned more about her interests and personal life off screem. But overall it's really well written and interesting book about alovely screen actress. Greer Garson really had class
and a wnderful grace about her in all of her films

A Wonderful Life.......2004-06-22

All too often, celebrity biographies are depressing catalogs of scandal and hedonistic, self-destructive behavior. Not this biography. When you finish it, you are sad, but it's because Greer Garson is no longer with us and you will never have the opportunity to meet her.
This fascinating biography is full of vignettes that reveal the character and personality of this woman who overcame chronic illness and many other obstacles to become one of Hollywood's most respected actresses. Examples of her warmth, sincerity, and decentness abound. As her beloved husband of more than thirty years to whom she is devoted lies near death in a Dallas hospital, she stands by his bedside with an old friend and recites from memory her favorite Psalm. Asked to read the Bible at a church service on Easter she realizes she has forgotten her glasses. She composes herself and ad libs for the congregation a beautiful and memorable message of her own.
She contributes millions to fund libraries, build theaters, establish scholarships, and support medical facilities. At the College of Santa Fe to which she has donated millions, she can be found on occasion pulling weeds and tending favorite rose bushes. She was so admired and respected in Texas where she had a home that she was formally asked to run for the U.S. Congress.
One hopes that Mr. Troyan or some other writer will gather Greer Garson's letters and publish them and that the A&E Network will finally remember her in an installment of "Biography." In the meantime, Garson fans should buy this book. It will inspire you and enrich your life and your appreciation of this beloved actress will only deepen. A richly detailed, superbly written biography of a truly lovely human being!

A Rose For Mrs Miniver - And Applause for Michael Troyan.......2002-07-30

It's a tragedy that the work of this great actress seems to have been forgotten,the best example being that none of Miss Garson's
good films have found their way on to DVD. All of her films premiered to packed houses at NY's Radio City and quite a few broke box office records, including Mrs Miniver,Blossoms In the Dust,Madame Curie,Random Harvest,and Goodbye Mr Chips. I learnt many things about Greer Garson that I hadn't known, for example,she was born in London in 1904,not Ireland in 1908 as her publicist would have us believe. She made a name for herself on the London stage, before going to Hollywood, and despite an amicable relationship with Louis B Mayer, was freqently fustrated by his refusal to allow her to perform a range of roles,instead putting her in period dramas - hence her nickname of the Actress with the Bustle. She married three times (not two as is most commonly written) the first time disastrously to a British officer stationed in India, the second to Mrs Miniver co star Richard Ney (a union that didn't survive WW11) and finally when in her forties, to Col Buddy Fogelson, a marriage that lasted until his death many years later. A Rose for Mrs Miniver is a credit to author Michael Troyan, well written and well researched. Thanks to him we come to know this warm vivacious woman who lived her life with flare and class, - and who wasn't afraid to take risks - pretty well. I particularly enjoyed the recounting of Greer's refusal to be [pulled] in by Joan Crawford's jealousy and rudeness, and of her close life long friendship with regular co star Walter Pidgeon.
A wonderful book, thoroughly recommended.

A Rose for Mrs. Miniver: The Life of Greer Garson

Average customer rating:

A Rose for Mrs. Miniver: The Life of Greer Garson
Michael Troyan
Manufacturer: NY
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000MU9XZ6

Average customer rating:

A Great Read

Promising and interesting, but a little too light.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Thoughtful and a bit esoteric. Rewards your close reading.

Interesting Interpretations

Born in the U.S.A.: Bruce Springsteen and the American Tradition (Music/Culture)
Jim Cullen , and Daniel Cavicchi
Manufacturer: Wesleyan University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Reference | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Rock | Musical Genres | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Rock | Composers & Musicians | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Popular Culture | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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Racing in the Street: The Bruce Springsteen Reader

Meeting Across the River: Stories Inspired by the Haunting Bruce Springsteen Song

Runaway American Dream: Listening to Bruce Springsteen

The Ties That Bind: Bruce Springsteen A to E to Z

Bruce Springsteen: Two Hearts, the Story

ASIN: 0819567612

Book Description

Moving beyond the biographical and journalistic approaches of most writing on Bruce Springsteen, Born in the U.S.A. was the first major work of cultural criticism to situate Springsteen's work in the broader sweep of American history--the heir of Walt Whitman and Woody Guthrie, Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King. Springsteen is an influential chronicler of our society, says Jim Cullen, a "good conservative" who preserves the traditional values of hard work, inclusive families, and genuine concern for the less fortunate. In the new edition to this landmark work, Cullen also discusses new currents in Springsteen's music since 9/11, notably his 2002 album The Rising. This Wesleyan edition includes a new foreword, introduction, and afterword. Must reading for any serious fan--or anyone who has ever been curious about what all the fuss has been about.

Customer Reviews:

A Great Read.......2005-10-12

I highly recommend Geoffrey Hine's book on Born in the U.S.A. I had forgotten how good this album is. There were lots of good insights into Springsteen's creative process particularly how he was more successful when he started to pare down his lyrics for works such as Born in the U.S.A. There's fine research on the genesis of songs such as the title song. Also, there is a lot of additional information on the making of Nebraska, one of Springsteen's best works. You have to laugh when you read how politicians and pundits like Ronald Reagan and George Will praised the work of Springsteen at the time. They didn't quite get it. Finally, there is an excellent discography of Springsteen's work at the end of the book. A great read which I thoroughly enjoyed

Promising and interesting, but a little too light........2003-06-01

Both a recent convert to the Springsteen synod of the First Church of Rock n' Roll and a rogue scholar pursuing the aims of Deweyan democratic community, I have considered the possibility of a scholarly study of Bruce Springsteen's music. Such a study would consider (ideally) several themes: One, most importantly, is to situate Sprinsteen's music within a certain American literary and musical tradition; another is to present Springsteen's work as, in some respects, part of national dialogue on questions of citizenship, patriotism, manhood, etc.; yet another is to consider Springsteen's music as a sort of ethical practice, almost as an Aristotelian guide to character development. Jim Cullen's book, although it falls short of my ideal in many respects, does offer an interesting and, I think, ultimately compelling vision of the possibilities of scholarship on Springsteen.

Cullen's argument that Springsteen belongs to a literary tradition beginning with Walt Whitman, and including Mark Twain and John Steinbeck, is persuasive. Although his comparisons of these authors with Springsteen, both stylistic and thematic, are a little thin, the similarities are made evident. (One weakness of Cullen's argument is his failure to consider the most notable differences between Springsteen and Whitman, et al.) Springsteen's is an aesthetic of the everyday, offering a picture of lives and landscapes that form the stuff of life for most Americans, but are often overlooked (interestingly, by both conservative proponents of high modernism and and leftist supporters of avant-garde art). His stories are drawn from the very streets on which he grew and lived, from the events affecting his society, and from the plight of those left behind in the wake of society's progress ("The Ghost of Tom Joad" and "Nebraska" are most exemplary of this dimension of Springsteen's work -- having rather little to do with his own life). Thematically, this is the very stuff of Steinbeck and Whitman.

Cullen also makes an interesting case that Springsteen be seen as a proponent of American republicanism. (Not to be confused with the Reagan sort of Republicanism -- Springsteen is certainly not right-wing.) This is the political tradition to which Whitman, Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., and (not mentioned by Cullen) John Dewey belong. It is a tradition which promotes and protects the rights of individuals, but always sees these individuals as members of a community. Springsteen's work, as a whole, it seems to me at least, in part traces a movement from individualism (consider the romantic idealism of Born to Run) to community (embodied in the group performance of "If I should fall behind" during the 1999 performance). His more recent work, "The Ghost of Tom Joad" and "The Rising" particularly, is concerned explicitly with the importance of community in the face of both internal and external challenges.

Overall, while Cullen's book does provide an interesting and compelling case for the 'serious' study of Springsteen's work, I think it does have a few significant flaws. For one, which I have already suggested, his comparisons of Springsteen with other literary figures are somewhat superficial. More detailed comparisons (involving, in part, more thorough examination of Springsteen's lyrics), even where this brings out the differences, would strengthen the argument. (In general, Cullen's presentation of the general historical and cultural settings of Springsteen and other artists is too superficial -- especially as compared with the studies in his other work on American popular culture.) For another, I think his analysis of Springsteen's political significance would benefit by a more individualistic interpretation (paired with his republican analysis). While I think it is true that Springsteen's political vision fits closely with that of Whitman, etc., it is also true that the direct impact of Springsteen's music (as is true of any art), is registered on the individual level. I believe that our moral identities are shaped, in large part, through identifications with various models, which may be culled from popular culture (among other sources, of course). Springsteen's music maintains a serious and generally consistent moral vision, and provides a model of moral character worth emulating. (This seems to be true of Springsteen the man as well.) And thus his music may actually serve as a valuable democratic resource.

This book is a fine read and a fairly unique interpretation of Springsteen's work. As an early serious effort to assess Springsteen's cultural and political significance it will of course have some problems, but these can be excused for the simple fact that so few other authors have tackled this subject in this manner.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.......2002-11-16

Whether you're a fan of springsteen's or a student of american history, this is a must-read. This book is by no means a biography, it is a study of Springsteen's work and its' meaning and context. I have no idea what this fella from spain is talking about calling these essays overblown and that Cullen has no right to compare someone of springsteen's stature to whitman. Cullen does an excellent job of discussing his theses - two of the most intriguing being how springsteen's viewpoints on parenthood and women grow and mature throughout his body of work (how many other rock stars work have that degree of sophistication?). Well-written, well-executed, anove all, SMART. More books like this - serious studies on a musician's work and not his/her life and lifestyle - should exist.

p.s. I originally wrote this way back when. I recently got a new e-address and am in the process of updating all my old postings. So, yes, you may see this review twice. It is worth noting that since the time I originally wrote this, I've re-read various sections, and was impressed with how well they stood up to repeated readings. So - yes, I stand beside my original review and then some.

Thoughtful and a bit esoteric. Rewards your close reading........2001-03-17

Jim Cullen's book carries a weighty premise: Bruce Springsteen is the cultural heir of Emerson, Whitman, Lincoln, and The American Kings (Martin Luther King and Elvis Presley). Cullen divides Springsteen's themes into useful categories and explores them in the context of America's great artists, thinkers, and cultural movements. Although it reads a little like a dissertation in places, I found Cullen a credible Springsteen expert. His discussions illuminated dimensions of Springsteen's work for me, as well as provided interesting but arguable perspectives on other American artists and cultural figures. This isn't a pop biography, but it rewards the thoughtful reader.

Interesting Interpretations.......2000-03-27

This is the kind of book that makes you think; sure, some of the conclusions are far fetched, but at least Jim Cullen offers an interesting and original perspective. Cullen firmly places Springsteen in an American tradition; puts the man and his music in a broader perspective, and he does this convincingly. The book is obviously a continuation of the article on Springsteen he published before, read this first. To say that his comparisons and his analyses are tenuous is easy; you really need to read the book carefully to be able to appreciate Cullen's interpretations, that is what they are, interpretations. Cullen doesn't seem to pretend otherwise and rightfully so because the assumptions he makes cannot be empirically proven, they don't have to be, art cannot be dissected mathematically. Therefore, if you are a more experienced reader, preferably in academic writings, AND a fan of Bruce Springsteen, this book is food for thought and well worth the money.

Born in the U.S.A.: Bruce Springsteen and the American Tradition

Average customer rating:

Born in the U.S.A.: Bruce Springsteen and the American Tradition
Jim Cullen
Manufacturer: Perennial (HarperCollins)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OEXR4S

Customer Reviews:

One of my "most recommended" books on craps!.......2007-05-12

If you understand the basics of the game but are still looking for a way to win on a consistent basis - John Patrick is your man. John's theories are simple and straight forward. You have to have near-perfect knowledge of the game in order to win consistently. You need sufficient bankroll to have a shot. You should approach the game with a theory or plan for HOW you are going to play. Set win objectives and loss limits. And have the discipline to walk with a small win. Will you do what it takes to win? Probably not. And according to John, that makes you a dork. Hey - get over it. After all, he's probably right.

On a personal basis, I've known John for about ten years now. He's a class guy and one of the few in this business who actually does the things he writes about. This book is a "must have" for serious crapsters.

Not So Advanced!.......2007-03-24

I have read this book several times. I have tested all of the systems in the book at great length and all have had the same results. All of the sytems and methods outlined in the book are, in the long run, losers. The best thing that can be accomplished (and not by all the systems) is that you learn how to manage your money and to leave the table if you should have a short term win. The newer books on craps have been revised to include more disclosures, but all in all this one has no more value than any other I have read. If any of the methods outlined in the book actually made money Las Vegas would be a ghost town.

Yes, yes, yes.......2007-02-18

This guy is a machine in writing books, and giving new logic and money discipline. I have about everything he's written, and always pick up new things in each. He throws in alot of stories as well about what it's like in his professional world of gambling. It must be something to have his skills and mindset when you walk into the room. Never hesitate in buying a Patrick book.

Good stuff.......2007-01-19

As always, Patrick does a great job with his money discipline in this one. He reminds me of alot of high level money managers in Wall Street. The upside always takes care of itself, when you take care of the downside. Great book.

Only Serious Players Need Apply .......2006-05-22

One of the few books available for the highly experienced player (aside from those on "dice control"), Patrick's book contains some very intriguing hedging strategies. A must-have for any craps library.

Book Description

A guide to the sultry celebs and tantalizing trends of the new hit show The O.C.! Any hip teen worth her Clinique lip-gloss knows that Fox's The O.C. is the new television show to watch. Now, in one of the first unofficial guides to the show, readers will meet the hot young cast members and gain insight into the show. Not just a celeb bio book, Orange County Undercover includes fashion tips and pop culture trends that are sure to attract any teen who is California Dreamin'! The book includes: - Bios of the Cast: Benjamin McKenzie, Adam Brody, Mischa Barton, Rachel Bilson, Chris Carmack. - What to Wear, O.C. Style: From Juicy Couture to Seven Jeans, and what's in and what's out in Orange County. - Surfer Slang: El Rollo, Fall Line, Geeked? Learn the lingo to impress even the most diehard dude. - Skater Chic: Just what is it about Adam Brody's geeky, skateboarder look that drives fans wild? And much more....

Customer Reviews:

not bad.......2006-03-04

this book wasnt bad, because its one of the only books on the OC and so a lot of oc fans like me get it. its a fun read, especially if you're as obsessed with the show as i am. (however, summer is so not 5'4" like the book says!)

CRAP, DON'T BUY IT WHATEVER YOU DO!!.......2005-09-18

This book sux, i'm not even joking, its crap. All the info is bs, and you can find more out about everything on the internet, with (gasp) Color pictures!?! This book has black and white pics...and not very many of them, if i could give this book absolutely no stars at all i would. ITS CRAP!! DON'T WASTE YOU'RE MONEY!!

Buy this book!.......2004-04-19

This book is SUPER funny! I love Adam Brody and was happy to find lots of great information on him in OC Undercover. Plus, this is cool because it is the only book on The O.C.

Excellent!.......2004-04-19

This book has tons of info on the show and the actors. I couldn't put it down! It's full of fun quotes and factoids. The quiz was fun, too. I think that all O.C. fans should pick up this book.

Fun and Straight to the point.......2004-04-18

I loved this book. Ms. Kent is hilarious in many of her comments and observations. I, unlike some other people, didn't buy this book with hopes of getting a "travel guide" of Orange County. That's not the point of this book. It is a funny and witty account of the fabulous TV show that I love so much. I love the sections on the stars (Adam BRody is my fave!)and the pics! Great summer read!

Average customer rating:

O.C Undercover
Brittany Kent
Manufacturer: Plexus Publishing Ltd
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Television | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0859653595

Average customer rating:

O.C Undercover

Manufacturer: PLEXUS PUBLISHING
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000GTIYDK

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