Book Description
Without Justice for All: The New Liberalism and Our Retreat from Racial Equality questions, examines, and explains the way a new orthodoxy of American leaders has contributed to the social stratification and inequality which plagues America today. By looking at the history of our social policies since the New Deal, as well as the status of specific policy arenas, contributors show how political shifts over the past fifty years have moved us away from a more egalitarian politics. Throughout, the central thread is a critical response to a now conventional argument that liberalism must be reconfigured in ways that retreat from immediate identification with the interests of labor, minorities, and the poor. From a look at federal housing policy and the failure of New Deal social programs to an examination of long established public assistance programs and Affirmative Action, Without Justice for All, written for both students and general readers, is timely and important contribution to the dialogue on race in modern America. In recent years, America's political and policy leaders have reshaped the nation's approach to race and equality. Our current political orthodoxy has turned away from the long held view that structural forces in our economy, public policies, and history serve to reinforce our nation's inequalities. This new cadre of leaders favors the perception that most inequalities are the results of defects or miscalculations by the minorities or inner city populations most affected. But have these changing notions of race in America served to shape the current patterns and definitions of inequality for better? Or for worse? Without Justice for All: The New Liberalism and Our Retreat from Racial Equality questions, examines, and explains the way a new orthodoxy of American leaders has contributed to the social stratification and inequality which plagues America today. By looking at the history of our social policies since the New Deal, as well as the status of specific policy arenas, contributors show how political shifts over the past fifty years have moved us away from a more egalitarian politics. Throughout, the central thread is a critical response to a now conventional argument that liberalism must be reconfigured in ways that retreat from immediate identification with the interests of labor, minorities, and the poor. From a look at federal housing policy and the failure of New Deal social programs to an examination of long established public assistance programs and Affirmative Action, Without Justice for All, written for both students and general readers, is timely and important contribution to the dialogue on race in modern America.
"Nation columnist Katha Pollitt calls Adolph Reed, Jr. the most intelligent person anywhere writing about race. After the publication of Without Justice for All: The New Liberalism and Our Retreat from Racial Equality, Reed also should be known as the most intelligent person editing books about race." -Cleveland Monitor
"How excellent it is, in such a depoliticised and cynical time, that so many genuine scholars should combine to treat, as if they were authentic human beings, those elements in society that have been used as 'raw material' both by our rulers, and the degraded academics who seek to please them. Sound research and good writing are, as ever, the best revenge." -Christopher Hitchens
"Astute and information-packed, these essays from a wide range of scholars are a powerful counter-argument to those who say racism in America is a thing of the past. Essential reading." -Katha Pollitt
"Brother Reed articulates in clear form the right-wing agenda and class warfare that both Democrats and Republicans have waged on the American worker. In addition, he makes a clear and strong argument why we are in dire need for a second political party in this country." -Robert L. Clark, General Secretary-Treasurer, United Electrical, Radio & Machine Workers of America
"A penetrating study of the myths that have been forged into policy. This critical analysis is an essential tool to help us define a coherent strategy to confront the powerful forces of injustice." -Tony Mazzochi, Presidential Assistant, Oil, Chemical & Atomic Workers Union, AFL-CIO
"An important source of context for health policy afiicionados seeking broader analysis of class and racial disparities in access to health services and insurance. Those who believe Clinton's Health Plan represented a neo-liberal pandering to large private insurance companies seeking a profitable role under 'reformed' health care will appreciate the collected critiques of other social policy initiatives assembled be Adolph Reed." -Kit Costello, RN, President, California Nurses AssociationPraise for Adolph Reed's W.E.B. DuBois and American Political Thought:
"Readers familiar with Adolph Reed Jr.'s work ... expect fiery polemics defending one interpretation of American race relations against any and all rivals. They will not be disappointed." -The New York Times
Reed's] stubborn belief in class politics, his fury at the self-satisfaction of intellectuals, and his repudiation of postmodern fashion ... make him a rare tonic." -The Nation
Customer Reviews:
New Insights into the Polarization of America.......2000-05-12
Adolph Reed has again used his brilliant mind to pinpoint the causes for the decline in race relations in the country. Today there is less socializing and less communication between not only the so-called "races," but also across socio-economic class lines. This book clearly shows that the major social problem in the country is not a racial or ethnic problem, but a conflict in life-styles. The concept of "race" is shown to be obsolete, and the continued use by the government to force people to classify themselves into a particular "race" is itself a racist act. The "One-drop-rule" is mentioned as one the major reasons why there is still so much confusion about what a "Black" is. This book is required reading for anyone wishing to begin to understand the reasons behind the continued push by certain interest groups to further polarize the nation along so-called "racial" classifications. The recent political decision by the takers of the Census to classify anyone who is of mixed ancestry, where any ancestor was a person-of-color, as a minority was totally unscientific and a step backwards from a trans-cultural society. Congradulations again on a great book.
Product Description
Contents include: America, Aubade, Babillage, Bed-Time, Canzonetta, Carnival of Venice, Carpenter's Song, Welcom March, Wee Cradle Song and many more...
Average customer rating:
|
A Man Without Equal
Bill Bright
Manufacturer: San Bernardino, CA: New Life 2000, 1992
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000LVDY3S |
Average customer rating:
|
A Man Without Equal: Jesus, the Man Who Changed the World
Bill Bright
Manufacturer: New Life Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
 Study
| New Testament
| Reference
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Topical
| Reference
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Christian Living
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Evangelism
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Jesus
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Theology
| Religious Studies
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Christian Living
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Evangelism
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Jesus
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
New Testament
| Reference
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Topical
| Reference
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Theology
| Religious Studies
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
ASIN: 1563990121 |
Average customer rating:
|
Man Without Equal: Life Without Equal
Bill Bright
Manufacturer: New Life Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette
Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Books on Cassette
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
| Bibles
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| Books on Cassette
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
Inspiration & Philosophy
| Religion & Spirituality
| Books on Cassette
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
General
| Books on Cassette
| Audiobooks
| Formats
| Books
General
| Philosophy
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Christian Living
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Evangelism
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Inspirational
| Spirituality
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1563990172 |
Book Description
James Charlton has produced a ringing indictment of disability oppression, which, he says, is rooted in degradation, dependency, and powerlessness and is experienced in some form by five hundred million persons throughout the world who have physical, sensory, cognitive, or developmental disabilities. Nothing About Us Without Us is the first book in the literature on disability to provide a theoretical overview of disability oppression that shows its similarities to, and differences from, racism, sexism, and colonialism. Charlton's analysis is illuminated by interviews he conducted over a ten-year period with disability rights activists throughout the Third World, Europe, and the United States.
Charlton finds an antidote for dependency and powerlessness in the resistance to disability oppression that is emerging worldwide. His interviews contain striking stories of self-reliance and empowerment evoking the new consciousness of disability rights activists. As a latecomer among the world's liberation movements, the disability rights movement will gain visibility and momentum from Charlton's elucidation of its history and its political philosophy of self-determination, which is captured in the title of his book.
Nothing About Us Without Us expresses the conviction of people with disabilities that they know what is best for them. Charlton's combination of personal involvement and theoretical awareness assures greater understanding of the disability rights movement.
Customer Reviews:
Disability: All Around the World.......2006-11-14
Even though America may be one of the world's most enlightened
countries when it comes to treating people with disabilities
with respect, we still have a very long way to go.
As proven in "Nothing About Us Without Us", the revealing
expose by James I. Charlton, so does the rest of the globe,
to varying degrees. Listen to the voices of people with
disabilities in different countries that carry the same
messages of fear, shame, discouragement, and even hope:
Maria Paulo Teperino: "There is a cult of the body in Brazil.
We call it 'culto ao corpo'. Machismo is very strong, and
it affects the way many men think of women. Because of its
prevalence, machismo leads many men to believe that a disabled
woman can't satisfy him. Many even believe that disabled women
cannot have children."
Fadila Lagadien: "In South Africa, families don't educate or
support the education of disabled women because of the attitude
that no man will pay a 'bola' (dowry) for a disabled woman."
Joshua Malinga: "I had an inborn attitude not to accept the
attitudes at the institution. These ideas were very bad. For
example, disabled people were told when to eat, when to sleep,
that they couldn't make love, it was banned...By the mid-1970's
I and a few others wanted to reject all these ideas and start our
own organization. By 1965, I began organizing disabled people
because I knew things were not right."
Charlton's book reveals the often-ignored truth that 'things are
not right' for people with disabilities all around the world.
Whether it's being called a 'chirema' for 'useless' in Africa
or being 'ai duan' (looked down upon because of your disability)
in Asia, if you have one, then good luck NOT being treated as a
second-class citizen or worse. Things are looking up, however...
Rachel Hurst: "I decided I had to do something. I quickly realized
that a single person never gets anywhere, so I tried to figure
out how I could do something collectively." --London, England
More and more people with disabilities are joining Rachel in
organizing to stand up and fight for the human rights that other
humans take for granted. After you read "Nothing About Us Without
Us", I sincerely hope you will want to join them in their just cause.
Excellent book.......2002-08-11
I'd thoroughly recommend this book. It provides a global overview of the disability rights movement, and includes interviews with many activists from different countries. I found it easy to read, and thoroughly interesting.
Excellent Book on Disability Issues.......2001-08-10
This is a well written, thoroughly researched work dealing with the treatment of disabled people in various cultures. The book explores the impact of religious institutions, charities, schools and various other institutions on how the disabled are treated. It also does a remarkable job of explaining how consciousness needs to change in order for progress to be made. It is an extremely thought provoking work which raises many issues. I recommend this book to anyone who may some day be disabled - which is any of us.
A great book for anyone into disability empowerment.......1999-01-04
"The oppression of 500 million people with disabilities is rooted in the political-economic and cultural dime sions of everyday life", says James Charlton in Nothing About Us Without Us. Calling his book part descriptive, part conversational and wholly argumentative, the author observes how oppression and empowerment affect and change individuals and the community. Charlton's interviews with 45 international disability rights activists and his own observations as an activist recognize the essential theme of the disability rights movement: a demand for self control and conditions resulting from the lack of it. The author's threefold mission challenges existing epistomologies and ontologies of disability. With a close eye on Marxist theory, Charlton explains existing practices and suggests new foundations, structures and contexts in which to think about the relationships and conditions of oppression and resistance and to understand and support disability rights. Excellent
Book Description
Toller Cranston is: six-time Canadian figure-skating champion, celebrity, costume designer, artist extraordinaire, broadcaster, choreographer of skating routines, raconteur, bon vivant, coach, world traveller, art collector, legend, and enigma. In 1976 he won Olympic bronze (so why did it feel like defeat?). This book tells the story of his life after those fateful games at Innsbruck.
The rise and fall of Toller’s first professional ice show is described in soul-searing detail. His subsequent triumphant tour of Europe as the Skater of the Century is recounted, in contrast, with wicked humour. There are vignettes here of his encounters with the rich and famous from Leonard Bernstein to Pierre Cardin and of his life among Europe’s aristocrats and bohemians. Toller has experienced the high life and the low. He has stayed in the most luxurious hotels, held court in palatial houses, sought seclusion in beautiful estates. But the hard times have taken their toll.
In the early 1990s a combination of circumstances, including a disastrous professional association with out-of-control American skater Christopher Bowman and a lawsuit that dragged on for years (ending in complete victory for Toller), led to a personal crisis from which recovery came slowly. But even in the blackest hours, Toller’s humour and creative powers never deserted him.
This generously illustrated book is an extraordinary self-portrait written by a uniquely gifted individual. Toller’s wit, insight, and delicious way with words will entertain and astound readers whether they are skating fans or not.
Customer Reviews:
Zero Tolarence; and, not all remembered correctly........2002-10-29
I skated with Toller, as a principal, at Radio City Music Hall in the production of ICE, in New York City. I must admit that this book is extremely entertaining!! A must read for figure skaters and fans. But I was there! And though Toller said there was no closing night party, there was. Toller and I were there along with Peggy Flemming, Robin Cousins, and the rest of the cast. Plus, its producer: Bob Shipstad and choreographer: Sara Kawahara and pair skater, soon to become one of skatings most innovative producers and choreographers, Sandra Bezic.
But anything Toller writes is his interpretation, which is slightly different to what actually happened. Still, take it with a grain of salt -- and enjoy. I think Toller is one of the greatest skaters -- of any era. And perhaps the most esoteric skater of all time. I'll buy anything he writes and enjoy (if not agree)every word. His books are hilarious and witty.
Only readable for the mildly humorous writing style.......2000-11-22
What a disppointment! As other reviewers have stated, I too enjoyed Mr. Cranston's skating. I had read this in anticipation of his new book coming out, but now I will save my money.
There are some moderately interesting descriptions of skating tours in Japan and Central America. There are some vague descriptions of salacious or bizarre encounters with famous people. It should be a lot more interesting than it is. But Mr Cranston fails to make his era live for the reader, and he fails to offer any analysis of his decisions, making the book essentially pointless. Furthermore, any humor he achieves is ruined by two parallel themes: How great and Artistic Toller is, and how much he has Suffered. These themes were singularly unconvincing. ...
This is definately Toller!.......2000-01-18
An interesting look into the mind and life of Cranston. The figure skating world is shown, warts and all. Toller is definately THE most innovative and influential skater that has come along in this century.
Brilliant!.......1999-03-28
Toller Cranston is truly a complex and fascinating person, one of a kind both on the ice and off. I think it took great courage to write such an honest memoir.I had to force myself to put it down so I could savour it over the course of several days, when I really wanted to devour it all at once. I'm sure he has much more to share, and I'm eagerly awaiting his next book!
Just loved the book and Toller Cranston.......1999-02-05
I absolutely loved the book. I had a crush on Toller from the minute I first saw him skate. I followed his career, and my skating partner and I saw all his shows. I remember my heart pounding when I saw his grand entrance on the star from the heaven in Toller On Ice in Manhattan. It was good to hear about all his escapades and how the famous skaters live. I enjoyed hearing about his extravant costumes and programs. It was an eye opener to hear about his encounter with Leonard Bernstein - who my grandmother had a crush on. We use to see him at Tanglewood every summer. Toller has lived an exciting life and I'm glad he shared part of his life with us. He has an exceptional sense of humor which comes thru in his writings. I heard he has another book in the making. After reading this book, I will be standing in line waiting for it to come out.
Customer Reviews:
This Book gives a look into the work of Laurel & Hardy.......2003-10-13
In this first book that looks at the work of one of the movies'most beloved comedy teams.Prof(Now Dr.)John McCabe gives some insight into Laurel And Hardy's film work.As he explains the evolution of Stan Laurel's approach to comedy and methiods to creating and performing comedy skits.The Prof. also looks at the boyhood days of Oliver Norvell(Babe)Hardy and his unconventional approach to performing comedy and the development of his singing talent.
The book also looks at the team's vintage years at The Hal Roach Studios and their forgetable film series at Fox and MGM During the war years.It also recalls the team's successful performances at The Music Halls and Cabrets of Europe and Stan Laurel creating funny comedy skits and seeing the team's rebirth during the early days of tv.As he became an idol to many kids of the tv generation(Myself included).While the book doesn't go into great depth about the complete creation of the team's film work.It does show us all how L&H worked at creating and presenting their classic comedic characters and their approach to spoofing man's foilbels.And it shows us Prof.McCabe's love and admiration for both men and for their wives:Ida Laurel(Stan's fourth wife) and Lucille Hardy(Babe's third wife)and their love for their work and for life.If you ever wanted a book that shows a positive look into the physce of two funny and charming people? This is The One movie bio to have.Bravo Jack.Kevin S.Butler.
Buy this book.......2003-01-10
Laurel & Hardy fans will love this book. I certainly did. The warmth and affection that John McCabe had for both Stan and Ollie comes through on every page. While the focus is more on Laurel, Hardy comes off well in the chapters devoted to him.
I wish there had been more pictures, but the text more than made up for it. Don't be surprised if you find yourself whistling the "cukoo song" while reading this book. The "boys" are gone, but the laughter they created is still with us, unlike the current crop of "comedians".
Sublime.......2002-02-22
I wish they'd put Stan and Ollie back on TV to show another generation how wonderful these two are. There's no doubt that they remain as funny today as they did back in their prime. I'm a big fan and have many of their DVD's. I wanted to know about the duo and this book informed me greatly.
Mr Laurel and Mr Hardy is a riveting biography of the two men. It took me only a few hours to get through. It concentrates mostly on Stanley who was the creative genius behind the pair, but this only heightens interest in the chapter on Ollie, which is written in interview form. I liked the way the book started with Laurel failing miserably on his first attempt at performing, with his Dad in attendance. His perseverence was incredible as he subbed for Chaplin during the early days before hard work and the luck to be partnered with Mr Hardy, finally garnered him some success.
The book, written after many interviews with Stan, has got a very appealing narrative. We get insights into the making of their films, answering questions about how the pair came together and how most of their routines got started. It's very enlightening.
What I found most surprising was the undercurrent of emotion throughout. Its author obviously had a wonderful adoration for the pair and Stan, while speaking to him is very nostalgic about the past. I love the parts where Stan met Chaplin after many years, after they both had made it. And where, years after their filmic success, when they were touring Europe, the church bells in Cobh played out their theme tune.
If you have any interest in Laurel and Hardy, you must get this book.
A Good Primer.......2001-11-03
This was the first book about everyone's favourite comedy couple. I recently read it for the fourth or fifth time and felt inspired to recommend it at Amazon. McCabe interviewed both comics and knew Laurel for years. As an overview and appreciation of the Laurel and Hardy career this is still the best book to start with. Those more seriously interested will find a number of excellent books on the subject written in more recent years. I recommend 'Mr Laurel and Mr Hardy' enthusiastically to all fans.
Mr Laurel & Mr Hardy: An Affectionate Biography.......2001-10-01
A great book. If you are a Laurel & Hardy fan get this book. Very few pictures but a lot of quality information. A realistic look at team team's early years, hayday and then fall after leaving Hal Roach. It is obvious John McCabe loves Laurel & Hardy. A GREAT BOOK.
Average customer rating:
|
Mr. Laurel & Mr. Hardy
Manufacturer: Signet
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000HKVSPE |
Average customer rating:
|
MR LAUREL AND MR HARDY
Manufacturer: A SIGNET BOOK
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000HFUD1Y |
Average customer rating:
- Well-intentioned but misdirected
- Required reading for an understanding of...
- Read, study and be inspired!
- The Politics of Jazz
- A powerful but frustrating read
|
John Coltrane and the Jazz Revolution of the 1960's
Frank Kofsky
Manufacturer: Pathfinder Press (NY)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
| Architecture
| Artists, A-Z
| Design & Decorative Arts
| Drawing
| Fashion
| General
| History & Criticism
| Instructional & How-To
| Museums & Collections
| Other Media
| Painting
| Performing Arts
| Photography
| Reference
| Religious
| Schools, Periods & Styles
| Sculpture
Arts & Literature
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
| Actors & Actresses
| Artists, Architects & Photographers
| Authors
| Composers & Musicians
| Dancers
| Entertainers
| Movie Directors
| New Age
| Television Performers
| Theatre
African-American & Black
| Ethnic & National
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Biographies & Memoirs
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Blues
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Jazz
| Musical Genres
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Theory, Composition & Performance
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
| Appreciation
| Composition
| Conducting
| Exercises
| Instruction & Study
| MIDI, Mixers, etc.
| Sheet Music & Scores
| Songbooks
| Songwriting
| Techniques
| Theory
| Vocal
General
| Race Relations
| Sociology
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Sociology
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
African-American Studies
| Special Groups
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Black Music, White Business: Illuminating the History and Political Economy of Jazz
-
John Coltrane - The World According to John Coltrane
-
Beneath the Underdog: His World as Composed by Mingus
ASIN: 0873488571 |
Book Description
John Coltrane's role in spearheading innovations in jazz that were an expression of the new cultural and political ferment that marked the rise of the mass struggle for Black rights.
Customer Reviews:
Well-intentioned but misdirected.......2003-04-16
Kofsky's effort in this book is to tie the avant-garde jazz music that emerged in the sixties to the politics of black nationalism that were boiling up at the same time. His essential thesis is that jazz is an African American art form that is and always has been by its very nature a form of protest against the physical and ideological shackles placed on black people by an oppressive society. He asserts that the musical freedom that black jazz artists searched for in the '60s went hand-in-hand with the efforts of Malcolm X and others to create a new, Afrocentric society that would presumably free black people to nurture their cultural identity.
As the title suggests, Kofsky saw John Coltrane as the key figure in this movement. He is unstinting in his praise of Coltrane's music, so much so that even I, a hard-core fan of Trane's for more than 30 years, found myself yearning for a more leavened approach. Kofsky certainly knows Coltrane's music well. But he makes, in my opinion, a fatal error in investing that music with a political consciousness and aim that Coltrane himself never professed. In fact, in an interview included in the book that Kofsky conducted with the saxophonist, he (Coltrane) makes clear that he does not subscribe to Kofsky's thesis, despite the writer's repeated attempts to put words in his mouth. Some years ago, I secured a tape of this interview, and it's startling to hear how insistent Kofsky becomes in attempting to lead his subject where he clearly doesn't want to go.
Another key weakness of the book is that it gives short shrift to so many fine musicians of the period. Charles Mingus, for example, a key influence on the avant-garde, is barely mentioned. If you read the book and had never heard of Miles Davis, you'd come away thinking that he was just another planet circling the Coltrane star instead of one of the formative influences on the saxophonist himself. And of course solid and influential musicians who made incremental contributions to the music -- Joe Henderson, Bobby Hutcherson, Lee Morgan, Jaki Byard, Herbie Hancock (the list could go on and on) -- receive nary a word. Meanwhile, Archie Shepp is lionized, first and foremost because of his radical politics.
Lest anyone think I'm taking a shot at Archie, I hasten to add that I think he's made a number of fine albums, and I own quite a few of them. The point is that one realizes early on that Kofsky is less interested in understanding the creative process and analyzing the relative musical merits of jazz musicians than he is in developing a social critique and applying his political litmus tests to the musicians of the era. Viewed in this light, the book is not very informative. A long critique of the "cockroach capitalism" practiced by jazz club owners 40 years ago doesn't carry much weight today. And alas, the socialist revolution that Kofsky proclaimed was imminent has somehow failed to come to pass, yet jazz has endured. Is there a lesson there?
In the end, Kofsky manages to minimize the artistry of the musicians and make them appear to be guided inexorably by Marxist ideology. That's pretty flimsy and it certainly in my mind is a disservice to the many great musicians of the '60s who could never be pinned down to one influence. In fact, their stubborn resistance to being pinned down, and to be endlessly open to new ideas, is precisely what made them jazz musicians.
For a much better insight into the life of the jazz musician, I would suggest A.B. Spellman's "Four Lives in the Bebop Business," and for a balanced analysis of Coltrane's music, Eric Nisenson's "Ascension."
Required reading for an understanding of..........2003-01-10
sixties jazz culture. I'm not going to add much to the above reviews as there's already a pretty good balance of opinion, and a lot depends on how you wish to view things. Understand that there was a great political undercurrent to the music at that time and many of the struggles as depicted here paved the way for the opportunities that are available to jazz musicians today. If you can get your hands on it - better still if someone could reprint it - try to find Rob Backus' 'Fire Music - A Political History of Jazz' and AB Spellman's wonderful 'Four Lives in the Bebop Business.' There's a lot more to the music than just the music, and I believe that a fuller understanding makes the listening that much more enjoyable.
Read, study and be inspired!.......2002-04-17
Although I am not particularly familiar with jazz, I found this book a fascinating.
Kofsky's work takes on the white-owned big-business music establishment, debunking their myths and prejudices. He explains the evolution of jazz in the context of the changing social conditions of Afro-Americans-- not least of which are the social struggles they waged, from the battles to unionize industry in the 1930s to the civil rights and Black power movements of the 1960s. He details the use and abuse of human beings-- the actual musicians-- by the recording industry and club owners in their relentless pursuit of profits from the labor of others.
Kofsky has extensive chapters on the rhythms and other musical innovations of Coltrane and those he worked with, material I found particularly challenging to work through, but which help to understand the real, complex questions Coltrane took on as an artist and why his contributions were so important and inspiring to others. Of particular interest is his discussion of the interrelations between Coltrane, Albert Ayler, Elvin Jones and other artists-- of the collective social process that makes artistic creation possible.
The Politics of Jazz.......2002-04-11
There are a lot of books on jazz and plenty on the subject of Black liberation. What makes this book special is how it combines a serious musical analysis of jazz-as in the chapter on Elvin Jones' drumming-with an understanding of the social and political dimensions of the music-as in the piece on jazz as a weapon of the Cold War. Kofsky takes on a range of music critics to argue the case for considering jazz as distinctively Black music. And he shows how John Coltrane and his collaborators had to fight to maintain their musical integrity in a business dominated by white critics, promoters, club owners and the like. Occasionally, the book reads like a personal vendetta by Kofsky against particular jazz critics, which is distracting. But for anyone who wants to understand better the connections between jazz music and the politics of the 1960s, this is a very useful book.
A powerful but frustrating read.......2001-11-16
This is an essential book for Coltrane lovers, especially because of the interviews with Coltrane, McCoy Tyner and Elvin Jones. As for the rest of the book, it is at times illuminating but too often frustrating. Kofsky's dogmatic Marxism does not help his overall points about the role of racial issues in the Jazz revolution. His anecdotes about the musicians are great, but his analyses of them are too one-sided. He doesn't consider the possibility that for some of them, the revolution was more about art than politics (not that the two can't be related). The interviews with Tyner and Jones show this as well -- Kofsky keeps trying to get them to say that their artistic decisions were politically motivated, but this doesn't seem to be the case.
This book is definitely worth reading, but be prepared to disagree with Kofsky's approach, unless you're a Marxist.
Book Description
The most famous and legendary kender of them all finally takes (or borrows) center stage!
When Wanderlust overcomes young Trapspringer Fargo, his insatiable drive for adventure propels him along a route that only a kender could map. With curiosity as his only guide, he sets out across Ansalon and unknowingly crosses paths with a pair of corrupt gully dwarves and a misplaced evil fiend (Oops!). The result is not only the inevitable madness and mayhem, but also a chance for the diminutive Trapspringer to save all of Krynn from a catastrophie of Takhisian proportions.
Customer Reviews:
Kender funny but monotonous.......2005-12-22
The book's main characters, Trapspringer and his sister were typically entertaining kender, however, the action predictable and lackluster. If you like kender, you'll like it, if you like a good Dragonlance story, skip it.
terrible for dragonlance - good for children.......2004-08-22
This was, by far, the worst dragonlance book i ever read. The language if very poor - suitable for children at best. It seems as if the story was just made up as it was written. Very random events. Keeps reiterating and using the same terms over and over again. Not very logical, even for a fantasy - just plain silly... Read it as a comedy perhaps, but if you want a serious indulging read, forget this book - terrible, terrible, terrible.
If books like this can be successful, it makes me belive I could be a sucessful writer.
One of the funniest books I have ever Read!.......2002-07-15
If your a kender fan you should definately go out and grab this book. Uncle Trapspringer makes for a great story. Some people are complaining that he's not like most kender, which is a relief, it's nice to see some originality here. Also people have been complaining about the fact that he did not live up to the stories that Tasslehoff told of him. Well Tas like most kender EXAGERATES! Of course he isn't quite as legendary as Tas's tales said he was, they were kender tales. All in all this has the whole package, good story, some gullu dwarves (a little bit more intelligent than the norm, but like before it's nice to see some change.
Over come by wanderlust (like all kender) Trapspringer ends up traversing Krynn, falling into company with a couple of gully dwarves and an evil fiend. The evil fiend is great, it'll keep you rolling with laughter.
So give the book a chance, get it fom the library id you can. You'll probly like it more than you would have thought!
My all time favorite Dragonlance book.......2002-06-28
I LOVED this book, most of the Dragonlance books I either just like or couldn't care less for but I really loved this one. I found the characters were well developed and felt like I knew them- the 'good guys' at least- the 'baddies' were pretty weak, physically too. Kinda annoying how easily they beat the bad guys in every fight while not even getting injured.
But other than that it was real funny, the plot twists and turns like a kender's rambling, keeps you turning pages. And there is very little to do about the gods (I'm not crazy about polytheism) and no sexual content.
This book is hilarious!.......2001-07-20
This book is a fine addition to the Dragonlance collection accomodating the humorous side of the series. Kenders and Gull Dwarves, Magic Users of good and evil alignment, and all in a very well written language and a wonderful tale.
I think many people would enjoy this book as I did, I just couldnt stop laughing :)
And if you do read the book, remember the following line: "Him dead. Make good tale that." Thats the base sentence of the book :P Hope you'll all enjoy this book, and laugh as much as I did,
R.G.L.D.
Average customer rating:
|
Tales of Uncle Trapspringer
Manufacturer: Wizards of the Coast
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000HEGYD6 |
Customer Reviews:
The most useless worthless overpriced investment book ever published.......2007-07-12
I wholeheartedly agree with all the other reviewers. This p.o.s. is not even worth 1 star. The author uses a large font, wide spacing and empty pages to make this book look bigger than it really is. The author doesn't go into any detail on anything he wrote. There is absolutely nothing of substance in this book. If you go open an account with a Forex dealer, you would likely find more information on his faq page. I returned mine after reading about 10 pages. You can figure out that the other pages are like those first 10 pages. Thank God Amazon has a generous return policy. Leave this p.o.s. on the shelf. If you want a beginner's Forex book, "Getting Started in Currency Trading" by Archer and Bickford is less expensive and at least 50,000 times better!!!
There is a 5 star review by Super Trader. You should know that Super Trader is the author, and he gave his own book 5 stars.
Shameful.......2006-07-10
Just another author trying to make a buck on FX trading hype...this will be among the thousands of forgotten books of forex trading. I wouldn't buy this book at a garage sale.
Spatracus.......2006-04-16
dont buy this book, it is a total joke, takes 2 hours to read, gives some generic info on markets, that has no value to the forex trader.. dont waste money on it. there is tons of free FZorex info on the Internet...
What a Load of Nothing!.......2006-03-22
Usually I don't strongly criticize a book that has information you can find elsewhere. After all, I can find the complete works of Shakespeare and about thirty versions of the Bible for free on the Internet, but that doesn't make the paper versions worthless. But this book has nothing in it of any real use, certainly nothing to justify the outrageous price. We get the same tired old history of Forex that anyone can find on the 'net. And we get some terms defined. So far nothing that a beginner couldn't find in five minutes on Google. And there's a glossary in the back that defines those terms for you again, just in case you need refreshing. Other than that, there's nothing about technical or fundamental analysis; not even a chart. I'm glad I read this book in the bookstore. Thanks to the other reviewers for steering me clear of this worthless book. I'm very new to Forex, but I'm sure I could get enough info on Google in about two hours to write a book ten times better than this one.
Disappointed.......2006-03-10
I was somewhat disappointed at the level of understanding the author assumed my knowledge base was on the subject. I also was expecting definite trading strategies to employ. This is not a beginners book and i dont think it helps experienced traders either as the main antidote for succes is keeping a journal practice for one year and dont succumb to greed and fear. There I gave you all the book has to offer and didnt charge you for it
Books:
- Yale English Monarchs - William Rufus (The English Monarchs Series)
- Young Elizabeth: The First Twenty-Five Years
- A Celebration of Empire: A Centenary Souvenir of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, 1837-1897
- A Right Royal Bastard
- A Wee Guide to Robert the Bruce (WEE Guides)
- Adolphus Frederick, Duke of Cambridge: Steadfast Son of King George Iii, 1774-1850 (Studies in British History, V. 71)
- Aesthetics and Politics (Radical Thinkers)
- Alfred: The Boy Who Would Be King
- Beatrix: From Royal Court to Cookstove
- Becoming a Fundraiser: The Principles and Practice of Library Development
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Mr. Popper's Penguins
- Not Your Mother's Slow Cooker Cookbook
- One Hundred Years of Solitude: Modes of Reading
- Information Operations: Warfare and the Hard Reality of Soft Power
- Kitten's First Full Moon
- History: Fiction or Science
- Keepers of Life: Discovering Plants Through Native American Stories and Earth Activities Forchildren
- Iconoclast: Abraham Flexner and a Life in Learning
- Income, Inequality, and Poverty During the Transition from Planned to Market Economy
- Knowing your trees: With photos. of the full tree--leaf, bark, flower, and fruit
Stirrings in the Jug: Black Politics in the Post-Segregation Era
W. E. B. Du Bois and American Political Thought: Fabianism and the Color Line
The World of Marcus Garvey: Race and Class in Modern Society
The Jesse Jackson Phenomenon: The Crisis of Purpose in Afro-American Politics (Yale Fastbacks)
We Have No Leaders: African Americans in the Post-Civil Rights Era (Suny Series in Afro-American Studies)
