I am an avid reader and every now and then I come across a book that I think is exceptional. I have listed some of the books I have read and some commentary on them below. I have also included some books that others have recommended. I have not read some of these so I cannot comment on them. If you have read a book that you really liked, give me your feedback on it. I am always looking for referrals to put on my site. Include the Title - Author - Publisher - Copyright - and brief Description. I am an affiliate of Barnes and Noble. I am impressed with their inventory and pricing. It always seems to be where I can find what I want. Instead of having a ton of misc. links off my, site I just send everyone to B&N. Any links out of this page will direct you to Barnes and Nobles as I feel they are the best resource for such items.

The Law Of Psychic Phenomena
By Thomson Jay Hudson Ph.D.
ISBN: 0785804706
Publisher: Book Sales, Incorporated
Pub. Date: August 1995

I loved this book! It was written in the late 1800's and is Mr.Hudson's theory to explain much of what is still unexplainable. He explains what he believes to be the bio-technology behind "out of body experience", "mental telepathy", "precognition" and more. Much of what he states I found humorous if nothing else. However, I found merit in Mr.Hudson's detail of the history of the study of the partitions of the human mind. I am interested in Hypnosis and much of what the author says is surprisingly relevant. Unfortunately I found wading through his religious connotations a bit trying but fortunately, they are kept to a minimum.

Kevin

Extraordinary Poplular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds
By Charles Mackay
ISBN: 051788433X
Publisher: Crown Publishing Group
Pub. Date: June 1995

I am currently reading this one. What I have read so far is intriguing. I have been told that this book is what much of today's Social Psychological practice is based on. It examines a number of classic social studies. I include it because I am impressed,so far, with Mr. Mackay's foresight, but at the current schoolwork load, I can't see myself being able to finish it any time soon.

Pale Blue Dot
By Carl Sagen
ISBN: 0345376595
Publisher: Random House
Pub. Date: September 1997

The introduction starts with "Wanderers: The Introduction". This grabbed me. Mr. Sagan delves with almost merciless depth, into the wanderings of mankind's wanderings; past, present and future. He takes our imaginations vague and casual conclusions and applies the scientific proof to make them valid. This is a great book for the daydreamer willing to put the book down occasionally, in order to process some bit of frustratingly abstract but delectable scientific theory. I was left with a comfortable feeling of validation and confirmation, as well as optimism curbed with the facts. He explores the possibility and probability of colonization of other worlds. He also offers a credible and experienced discussion of the viability of such a step. Mr. Sagan gave words to the seemingly undefinable products of the creative and optimistic mind. He is deeply missed.

Demon Haunted World
By Carl Sagen
ISBN: 0345409469
Publisher: Random House
Pub. Date: March 1997

Have not read this yet but everyone is telling me that if I loved Pale Blue Dot, I will love this. I include it here because of the overwhelming positive feedback from readers. Currently on my "to-do" list.

Essential Interviewing
By David R. Evans
ISBN: 0534349498
Pub'r: International Thomson Pub.
Pub. Date: January 1998

This is a required text in two of my Human Services Classes. I include it here because I am impressed with the very reader friendly format. The skills of interviewing are presented individually through a schedule of exercises. After an exercise, you are given a question designed to affirm you're understanding of the specific skill. Your answers are then evaluated. I find this systematic approach easy and complete in purpose. I can see myself using this book for reference long after I graduate (sixty years from now). The one aspect of this text I find slightly frustrating is that at no point are the skills used together as a complete interview and analyzed as such. Chapter 14 does discuss the interaction of the skills in "Putting It All Together" but does not include the entire interview. However, the clarity and ease of use far outweigh this small shortcoming.

The Secret Language of Symbols
By David Fontana
ISBN: 0811804623
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Pub. Date: February 1994

This book was a delight! It was entertaining, informative and easy to read. Mr. Fontana discusses the meaning, history and scope of symbols to a moderate depth. I particularly enjoyed the section of the book that summarized Carl Jung's theory and perspective. Lots of well-indexed graphics throughout the book effectively convey where words may fall short. The introductory nature of this book makes for enjoyable reading for the person interested in, but not immersed in, the social evolution of meaning in symbols. Perhaps not a great book for someone hoping to gain a deep and comprehensive understanding, but perfect for my goal of satisfying general curiosity of the subject.

Shop for the latest software or for popular magazine titles.
Look at the Special Feature area for special holiday or otherwise timely book titles.
Find great gift ideas in the Gift Center.