Clara: Mrs. Henry Ford

Book Description

An examination of the fascinating life of Clara Bryant Ford, lifelong partner of Henry Ford the industrialist.

Customer Reviews:

Just Records of the Amount on the Receipt - No Meat.......2007-01-12

This is probably the worst biography I have ever read. Having recently toured Fairlane Estate in Dearborn, I was interested in learning more about the woman who was instrumental in designing and building such an interesting house and gardens. I learned NOTHING from "Ford Bryan's" (if that's his real name) book. Mr. "Bryan" took incredible pains to record the details of every sales receipt and house purchase made by the Ford Family but there was literally nothing substantial about the people he was supposed to be writing about. If it wasn't for the pictures, we would have no idea what Henry or Clara even looked like! As for their personalities? A neighbor or two was quoted from probably some old letters or interviews but the book presents a huge family of one-dimensional, cardboard characters from the past. I suspect that Clara Bryant Ford was a woman worthy of an incredible biography. Let's hope it comes along soon!

Clara - Mrs. Henry Ford.......2004-05-24

This biography of Clara Bryant Ford was one of several books written by Ford R. Bryan, a cousin of Henry Ford, who died on May 14, 2004, the day after his 92nd birthday. Clara saved everything, and many of the materials she saved were used to write this extremely detailed account of her life. The book includes diaries, recipes, and even some family history and genealogy of the Bryant and Ford families.

The believer;: The life story of Mrs. Henry Ford,

Average customer rating:

The believer;: The life story of Mrs. Henry Ford,
Louise B Clancy
Manufacturer: Coward-McCann
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

General | Genealogy | Reference | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B0007E4VJA

Good Morning : After a Sleep of Twenty-Five Years, Old-Fashioned Dancing is Being Revived by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ford

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Good Morning : After a Sleep of Twenty-Five Years, Old-Fashioned Dancing is Being Revived by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ford
Henry Ford , and Clara Ford
Manufacturer: Dearborn Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B0008AY6WA

Average customer rating:

Try your hardest and you'll do your best.

Long distance, short read

Painfully vivid and refreshingly candid

Review - Going the Distance

Going the Distance: The George Thomas Story
George Thomas , and Jeff Welsch
Manufacturer: Sports Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies | Sports | Subjects | Books
General | Cycling | Individual Sports | Sports | Subjects | Books
General | Sports | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

The Complete Book of Long-Distance Cycling: Build the Strength, Skills, and Confidence to Ride as Far as You Want

Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner

ASIN: 1582616299

Book Description

Going the Distance is the compelling saga of George Thomas' quest to prove himself physically and emotionally after a car accident left him with life-threatening epileptic seizures. The story is told vividly through Thomas' eyes as he pedals 2,911 miles in the bicycle Race Across America. As he battles stifling temperatures, grueling climbs, relentless headwinds, heavy rains, tedium and hallucinations from sleep deprivation, Thomas is repeatedly reminded of the even greater obstacles he once had to overcome simply to ride a bicycle again. Ultimately, Thomas discovers his journey is more than an individual accomplishment; it's a platform to inspire others. Going the Distance examines his extraordinary evolution from an ordinary man with an ordinary name to an accomplished ultra-athlete. George Thomas' story is both intriguing and inspiring -- a shining example of courage in the face of enormous odds.

Customer Reviews:

Try your hardest and you'll do your best........2004-03-03

In writing, "Going the Distance," George Thomas and Jeff Welsch made a significant contribution to both the cycling community and the interested public.

I gained an understanding of ultra marathon cycling and the Race Across America when I was invited to crew for a solo rider in 2000. Ever since then, I have told the story countless times, trying to express to people outside of the Ultra Cycling Community exactly what the race is about. But my descriptions are usually insufficient.

So far, this is the only writing I have found able to clearly express the aspects of the sport and race that confound most people with disbelief.

For those not interested in cycling, it is still a great book to read. The "plot" is cycling, but the story is much, much more.

Through his struggles, George Thomas has proven that the only thing more limiting to man than the laws of nature is his own psychology. George has made the impossible possible, he has transformed himself from limited to limitless, and the authors tell his story in such a way to make readers realize that accomplishment, no matter what kind, is always within reach, as long as you're willing to stretch and believe.

Long distance, short read.......2003-02-24

A great fast read! I couldn't put it down. The story draws you in immediately. George Thomas is a source of inspiration. Not only does his story impact those afflicted with epilepsy, it gives us regular folks reason to get off our couches.

This is a book that anyone can get into, athletic or not. It's about setting goals, gaining strength from within, and going for guts over glory. You'll want to get off your duff and not only cheer but participate.

Makes a great gift.

Painfully vivid and refreshingly candid.......2003-02-24

A sensitively told story of loss and growth. It definitely has a message. A superb story about the persistance of desire and the perils of commitment. I give it a 5 star rating.

Review - Going the Distance.......2003-02-22

I recently finished reading "The George Thomas Story: Going the Distance" by G. Thomas and J. Welsch. I feel, unequivocally, that this book merits a 5-star rating! The story entails the many moments of personal agony and anguish of a determined and courageous bicyclist by the name of George Thomas. The drama of this story, so eloquently and vividly expressed by the authors (Welsch and Thomas), took place during a 9 to 11 day, 2911 mile long bicycle race named the Race Across America (RAAM). This bicyle race, which started in Irvine CA and terminated in Savannah GA, is recognized by exercise physiologists as the most grueling athletic event in the world, far more strenuous then, e.g., the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon and requiring considerably more exertion then, e.g., the Tour de France. To add substantially to this incredible story is the recognition that George Thomas suffers from a relatively common but seriously debilitating disease known as epilepsy! The Forward of this book is written by renown Harvard Medical School neurologist and epilepsy expert Steven Schachter, M.D. who states...."At least once in a lifetime, you may be fortunate enough to meet someone truly inspirational, someone whose influence becomes a change in your life. I know this to be true, because I have met and been inspired by George Thomas." I would be remiss to share with you, in advance of your reading this book, the ultimate success/failures of George Thomas in this incredibly arduous solist bicycle race. I will say, however, that this is a book that I could not "set down", a book whose drama will remain in my memory forever. In essence, I enthusiastically and whole-heartedly recommend this superb and riveting book to you.

A Bicyclist in Michigan

Book Description

Covering Hollywood to Bollywood and everywhere in between, the Chambers Film Factfinder is packed with information about every country's film industry, listing history, key figures, major films, festivals, and much more. Includes more than 1,000 biographies of actors, directors, and producers, including career highs and lows.

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Chambers Film Factfinder

Manufacturer: CHAMBERS
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000GX6KBE

Book Description

Fetishism has been an enduring element at the cutting edge of style for decades. It hints at decadence and danger and speaks the language of the rebel. This accessible treasure trove of kinky delights is packed full of facts about the influence of fetish on popular culture, design, advertising, cult TV and art, as well as the role of fetish icons in cinema, music and literature.

Customer Reviews:

Fetish has wormed its way into American Mainstream Culture........2007-08-08

Most Americans haven't the faintest idea of how deeply fetishes have wormed their way into the popular culture. Leave it to a Brit to point out the obvious to those of us living in their former American Colony. After a brief definition of just what constitutes the sub-culture of "Fetishism," Scott provides a historical glimpse of various fetishes especially those practiced within the Christian Church almost since it's birth.
In addition to the peculiar practices of some of the Saints, and in other ancient cultures, the author then examines Feudal Japan and the birth of Japanese Rope Art and bondage fetishes. From Japan the author visits the France of Louis XV and then switches to the world of the Marquis de Sade. He slowly works through modern history including the Weimar Republic to its portrayal in the movie "Cabaret." Other films with a strong "fetish twist" included "After Hours," "Alien," "Barbarella," "Belle de Jour," "Blue Velvet," "Cat People," "The Matrix," and "Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl." etc., etc.
Masked Balls, T.E Lawrence, Biker Chic, Corsets, Man Ray, Betty Page, Liz Hurley, Angelina Jolie, Emma Peel, Madonna, Goths, Robert Mapplethorp, whips, flogging, humiliation, unusual and horrible public punishments of criminals, leather, latex rubber, stockings, garter belts and extremely high-heeled boots, spanking, and S&M are only a few of the topics discussed by the author. It's amazing how the subliminal messages of various fetishes have slipped into main street fashions, music, literature, television and the cinema. As some of the obvious examples of the influence of various fetishes were pointed out and documented by the author, this reader felt like he was undergoing an epiphany. "Of course, it's so logical and obvious, how could I have missed it," was my usual reaction to what I was reading. I definitely grew up in a very sheltered home environment.
This brief review can't begin to convey all the fetish facts revealed by this book. Once a reader has studied it, the whole media world appears entirely different. My biggest criticism of this book was the fact that it was printed in such a small format size (less than 4" by 6") that it was difficult to read, especially since the print was a shade or two light for the small type used for the text. That was probably because darker print would have shown through the book's cheap paper stock. Despite the ultra-economic (Cheap Charlie) production of the book itself, once a person has read this tome, the everyday news of the world will take on a whole new meaning. Humanity is very, very kinky and it often doesn't even realize it.

Average customer rating:

Most Recommended!

Guide to Better Card Play: Standard American Edition (Master Bridge Series)
Ron Klinger
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Bridge | Card Games | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Look Inside Entertainment Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

New Complete Book of Bridge (Master Bridge Series)

100 Winning Bridge Tips: For the Improving Player (Master Bridge Series)

Card Play Made Easy: Know Your Suit Combinations (Master Bridge Series)

Guide to Better Duplicate Bridge (Master Bridge Series)

Better Bridge with a Better Memory: How Mnemonics Will Improve Your Game (Master Bridge Series)

ASIN: 0395591074

Book Description

The most comprehensive elementary-through-intermediate guide available on declarer play and defense, featuring tutorials, summaries, reviews, quizzes, and example deals.

Customer Reviews:

Most Recommended!.......2003-03-27

Ron Klinger has written a very thorough, easy-to-understand, yet concise book that teaches declarer play and defense very well. And the quizzes at the end of the chapter serve to clarify the concepts. I cannot recommend this enough. This was selected as the Book of the Year by the ABTA in the year it was published.

Guide to Better Duplicate Bridge (Master Bridge Series)

Average customer rating:

Decent coverage of duplicate strategies

Guide to Better Duplicate Bridge (Master Bridge Series)
Ron Klinger
Manufacturer: Cassell P L C
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0304363200

Book Description

In the world of tournament bridge, styles change, new ideas come forward, and more effective methods are developed. This new edition contains the standard strategies and conventions that have proven successful in the past, as well as recent developments, how they work, when they apply, and why you can get better scores by adopting them.

Customer Reviews:

Decent coverage of duplicate strategies.......2003-01-15

The book has decent coverage of duplicate strategies and conventions like weak twos, but nothing earth-shattering. There are two different editions - ACOL and Standard American, so make sure you get the right one.

For a better coverage of duplicate techniques, see "50 Winning Duplicate Tips", also by Klinger. That is an outstanding book!

Average customer rating:
Guide to Better Card Play
Ron Klinger
Manufacturer: GOLLANCZ (ORIO)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000K7MEQ6

Amazon.com

Your class library works, but could it be better? Refactoring: Improving the Design of Existing Code shows how refactoring can make object-oriented code simpler and easier to maintain. Today refactoring requires considerable design know-how, but once tools become available, all programmers should be able to improve their code using refactoring techniques.

Besides an introduction to refactoring, this handbook provides a catalog of dozens of tips for improving code. The best thing about Refactoring is its remarkably clear presentation, along with excellent nuts-and-bolts advice, from object expert Martin Fowler. The author is also an authority on software patterns and UML, and this experience helps make this a better book, one that should be immediately accessible to any intermediate or advanced object-oriented developer. (Just like patterns, each refactoring tip is presented with a simple name, a "motivation," and examples using Java and UML.)

Early chapters stress the importance of testing in successful refactoring. (When you improve code, you have to test to verify that it still works.) After the discussion on how to detect the "smell" of bad code, readers get to the heart of the book, its catalog of over 70 "refactorings"--tips for better and simpler class design. Each tip is illustrated with "before" and "after" code, along with an explanation. Later chapters provide a quick look at refactoring research.

Like software patterns, refactoring may be an idea whose time has come. This groundbreaking title will surely help bring refactoring to the programming mainstream. With its clear advice on a hot new topic, Refactoring is sure to be essential reading for anyone who writes or maintains object-oriented software. --Richard Dragan

Topics Covered: Refactoring, improving software code, redesign, design tips, patterns, unit testing, refactoring research, and tools.

Book Description

As the application of object technology-particularly the Java programming language-has become commonplace, a new problem has emerged to confront the software development community. Significant numbers of poorly designed programs have been created by less-experienced developers, resulting in applications that are inefficient and hard to maintain and extend. Increasingly, software system professionals are discovering just how difficult it is to work with these inherited, "non-optimal" applications. For several years, expert-level object programmers have employed a growing collection of techniques to improve the structural integrity and performance of such existing software programs. Referred to as "refactoring," these practices have remained in the domain of experts because no attempt has been made to transcribe the lore into a form that all developers could use. . .until now. In Refactoring: Improving the Design of Existing Software, renowned object technology mentor Martin Fowler breaks new ground, demystifying these master practices and demonstrating how software practitioners can realize the significant benefits of this new process.

With proper training a skilled system designer can take a bad design and rework it into well-designed, robust code. In this book, Martin Fowler shows you where opportunities for refactoring typically can be found, and how to go about reworking a bad design into a good one. Each refactoring step is simple-seemingly too simple to be worth doing. Refactoring may involve moving a field from one class to another, or pulling some code out of a method to turn it into its own method, or even pushing some code up or down a hierarchy. While these individual steps may seem elementary, the cumulative effect of such small changes can radically improve the design. Refactoring is a proven way to prevent software decay.

In addition to discussing the various techniques of refactoring, the author provides a detailed catalog of more than seventy proven refactorings with helpful pointers that teach you when to apply them; step-by-step instructions for applying each refactoring; and an example illustrating how the refactoring works. The illustrative examples are written in Java, but the ideas are applicable to any object-oriented programming language.

Customer Reviews:

Most Useful for People engaged in Post Imp Environments.......2007-04-26

This is the most practical book for people involved in Post release / production support projects still reporting bugs and in dire need of refactoring. Project with bad Code albeit working code are toughest to refactor, even peers are scared to touch anything which has been working. Martin Fowler's insight gives all that there is to know about refactoring. Thanks Martin for your insights. Keep up the good work.

Anirudh Vyas

By far the best Tech book I have purchased.......2007-04-05

This is one of the best books that sit in my office desk. I really enjoyed reading this book & implementing lot of the refactorings.

Good ideas, bad book.......2007-02-26

Fowler's book is has a lot of very good ideas, but it is poorly written, hard to follow, and incredibly disorganized. I think it would have benefited immensely from the services of a good editor.

My two major complaints: First, Fowler tries so hard to be clever and witty that at times his point is completely lost in his misguided attempts at humor. Second, he constantly refers ahead to material not yet covered, so that it's impossible to understand Chapter N without already having read Chapter N+1, which of course presupposes that you have read and understood Chapter N.

If you are going to read this book (and I concede that you probably should) then you should at the same time buy a copy of Joshua Kerievsky's "Refactoring to Patterns." Kerievsky brings far more organization and explanation to the subject than does Fowler. Read Kerievsky first, and refer to Fowler when he directs you there (which he very frequently does). But don't try to read Fowler by himself.

Great Book! .......2007-02-19

I am working on an a C# agile project for the first time. The word "Refactoring" comes up a lot. This book will provide the true meaning of what refactoring is all about! Great examples will show you when and how to refactor your code. There is a handy list of Refactoring rules or guidleines that will tell you what page in the book to go to to learn about that type of refactoring technique. Make sure you put your name on the book because your co-workers will try to take it!

One of the few truly MUST HAVE books.......2007-02-17

Refactoring: Improving the Design of Existing Code is one of those amazing books that every professional developer should have on their book shelf. The bulk of this book is a catalog of refactorings, but there is more to it as I will explain below.

In case you aren't aware of what refactoring is, I'll give you Fowlers definition.

"Refactoring is the process of changing a software system in such a way that it does not alter the external behavior of the code yet improves its internal structure." For the most part this means cleaning up your existing - yet working - code. It involves anything from renaming a method to be more concise with the purpose of that method, to breaking up switch statements into a polymorphic structure. There are many different techniques used to refactor your code, which is what you learn in this book.

Right off the bat Fowler throws you into a small sample application that is poorly designed. He then takes you through a few different refactoring techniques that improve the design of this simple application. Right from the start you see how effective refactoring can be. From there he goes into topics such as how to detect "bad smells" in code. This chapter is particularly informative and entertaining. You also learn a little bit about testing. After the introductory chapters you begin to dig into a deep catalog of refactorings. Each one is named. Like design patterns - naming the refactoring and building a vocabulary really helps in communicating thoughts and ideas.

The catalog of refactorings is extremely useful. They are structured so that each refactoring has a name, a motivation, the mechanics and a simple example. This is very effective. As I said earlier, the name is useful because it helps build your programming vocabulary and it helps in communicating thoughts and ideas. The motivation explains why the refactoring should be done and when it should/shouldn't be used. The mechanics provide a step-by-step description of how to carry out the refactoring and the example shows a small example of the refactoring in use. All examples are written in Java 1.1.

Although the examples are written in Java the book is still very good for any developer. Developers that have never written a line of code in Java, C++, C#, or anything similar may have a little bit of a tougher time working through this book. Luckily most examples are very small and simple so even if you fall into this category you shouldn't have too much of a learning curve. Some of the code is a bit outdated and can be done a bit better now-a-days but what do you expect? This book was written 8+ years ago! Times have changed. The ideas are still very relevant though, which is what makes this book so timeless.

Martin Fowler books are always a joy to read. His writing style is humorous, yet often very blunt and to the point. Just like UML Distilled, he is able to communicate a lot of ideas into a very short amount of space - the book is a bit dense in other words, which is very good in my opinion. Martin Fowler does not beat around the bush and he has very strong opinions on certain topics. Unlike a lot of books you read, he actually writes with personality. I have a hard time putting his books down. Here is an example of the type of verbiage he uses...

On how comments can be a "bad smell":
"Don't worry; we aren't saying that people shouldn't write comments. In our olfactory analogy, comments aren't a bad smell; indeed they are a sweet smell. The reason we mention comments here is that comments often are used as a deodorant." - Martin Fowler. Here he is talking about how people use comments to hide bad code, or "bad smells".

I highly recommend this book. If you are a professional developer or plan on becoming one then click the "Buy Now" button without second thought. This is one of those rare books worth its weight in gold - I would spend $100.00 on a book like this if I had to.

Average customer rating:

Refactoring: Improving the Design of Existing Code
Martin, Beck, Kent, Brant, John, Opdyke, William, Roberts, Don Fowler
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley Professional
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OOS2SO

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