20,000 Leagues Under The Sea. Walt Disney Home Video 2003 [This is a two-disc DVD special edition of the classic 1954 underwater adventure of Captain Nemo and the Nautilus based on the Jules Verne novel. The second disc is loaded with great features about the making of the film which was so well cast with James Mason, Kirk Douglas, and Peter Lorre.]Ambrose, Stephen E. Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West. Simon & Schuster 1996]
Anastasia. Atlantic 1997 [This is an Audio CD version of one of the best soundtracks of 1997. The soundtrack, like the movie, was a hit with both children and adults! Note: only available from Amazon.com.]
Anonymous 4. 1000 - A Mass for the End of Time. Harmonia Mundi 2000 [Audio CD. #907224. Performers: Anonymous 4. ". . . In one of the more interesting musical program ideas to be inspired bythe turn of the calendrical odometer, Anonymous 4 revisits the original "millennium madness" with a disc of chant from around the year 1000--specifically, a Mass for the Feast of the Ascension, one of the few occasions on which the liturgy included readings from the Book of Revelation. . . . not only is their performance both assured and confident, but one can hear new facets in their vocal sound. . . . immaculately executed. . . ." -- Matthew Westphal, Amazon.com.]
Apple iMac Desktop with 17" Screen. Apple Computer 2003. [This is one awesome machine. It is one of the computers we use, and we love it! It features a 1.0GHz PowerPC G4 engine, 256MB RAM, an 80GB HDD, and has a DVD-RW/CD-RW drive. It also comes loaded with lots of great software.]
Airport Extreme Base Station. Apple Computer
Airport Extreme Card. Apple Computer
Apple Computer M7600LL/D AirPort Card. Apple Computer
Back to the Future: The Complete Trilogy (Widescreen Edition). Universal Studios 2002 [This brings together the three films, and loads of neat features, on to three DVD discs. These movies are great fun and can be recommended for the whole family. This trilogy can be ordered now and it will ship in December.]
Baldrige, Letitia. Letitia Baldrige's Complete Guide to the New Manners for the 90's. Scribner 1990 [646 pages on how to be proper? The Golden Rule is only 11 words long and pretty much sums it all up.]
Bee Gees. The Bee Gees - Their Greatest Hits: The Record. Universal 2001 [Includes <>2 audio CDs.]
Beethoven, Ludwig van. Beethoven: A Life With Beethoven. This is a DVD. [Starring: Anne-Sophie Mutter, et al.]
Beethoven, Ludwig van. Face to Face With Beethoven. Deutsche Grammophon 1998 [DG #457861. This is two Audio-CDs. Performers: Anne-Sophie Mutter with Yo-Yo Ma and Mark Zeltser. Conductor: Herbert von Karajan. Ensemble: Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Disc 1 contains Concerto for Violin in D major, Opus 61, and Disc 2 contains Concerto for Piano, Violin and Cello in C major, Opus 56 "Triple Concerto."]
Beethoven, Ludwig van. Violin Concerto. Deutsche Grammophon 1987 [DG #13818. This is an Audio-CD. Conductor: Herbert von Karajan. Performer: Anne-Sophie Mutter. Ensemble: Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. This disc contains Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D, Opus 61.]
Beethoven, Ludwig van. The Violin Sonatas. Deutsche Grammophon 1998 [DG #457619. This is four Audio-CDs. Performers: Anne-Sophie Mutter & Lambert Orkis. "This complete cycle of Beethoven violin sonatas was recorded during a series of live performances in 1998. Mutter devoted the entire year, together with her partner, Lambert Orkis, to an extensive global tour focused on these works, and the accounts are infused with a sense of cross-connection, expressive freedom, and depth of insight acquired from such prolonged concentration. It shows Mutter in full maturity, commanding the artistic confidence to take risks and imprint her intensely personal signature. . . . Throughout the set, Mutter couples her probing intelligence with nuanced phrasing, incisive rhythms, and expressive gestures (notice the tender turn she gives to the all-important trill that opens the last sonata) to bore into the music, unearthing many buried treasures. The discs also include a handful of encores as bonbons and are encoded with CD-plus software so that listeners can follow the scores of four of the sonatas." -- Thomas May, Amazon.com. "Most of [Mutter's] tempo modulations and sharply characterized phrasing are utterly convincing. Even when she's not convincing, one applauds her adventurousness and imagination, which easily eclipse Gidon Kremer's reputedly iconoclastic recordings of these works." -- USA Today.]
Ben-Hur. 1959 [The epic William Wyler film of Civil War General Lew Wallace's "tale of the Christ" has finally made its way to DVD. Star Chuck Heston, the director, and the film raked up 11 Oscar victories. The DVD uses a widescreen anamorphic format enhanced with Dolby sound. The disc features commentary by Heston; a documentary, Ben Hur: The Making of an Epic; newly-discovered screen tests of the final and near final cast including Leslie Nielson, Cesare Danova and Haya Harareet; addition of the seldom-heard Overture and Entr'acte music; and an on-the-set photo gallery featuring Wyler, producer Sam Zimbalist, cameraman Robert Surtees and others.]
Bend It Like Beckham. Twentieth Century Fox Home Video 2003 [This is the widescreen version of the hit movie all the kids in our neighborhood are talking about -- they love it. Although I have yet to see it, I will admit it sounds like a wonderful family movie.]
The Best of Mission: Impossible, Vol.7. Paramount Home Video 2000 [This is the second episode of Mission: Impossible, titled "Old Man Out," and it aired in two parts on 8 October and 15 October, 1966. The IMF has to rescue a cardinal imprisoned by the Communists. This is on a VHS videotape]
The Best of Mission: Impossible, Vol.11 Paramount Home Video 2000 [This VHS videotape contains two episodes of Mission: Impossible. The first one is "The Killer," which aired during season five on 19 September, 1970. The IMF must stop a hit-man (Robert Conrad) who is completely unpredictable. MI aficionados consider this one of the best episodes ever (some consider it their favorite episode considering how the IMF must improvise). The second show is "Cocaine," which is from season seven and it first aired on 21 October, 1972. Generally not an MI fan's favorite episode, the heavy is William Shatner, and as you can guess from the title, the IMF is about to put him out of the cocaine business.]
Braman, James D. Where the Fuzzy Marmots Grow. [Gloria Campbell, editor & Larry Campbell, illustrator] Good Scout Publishers 1998
Brodie, Fawn M. Thomas Jefferson: An Intimate History. Norton 1998 [Also available from Amazon.com. A new edition of an older, very popular psychological history of Jefferson. This book is available in a mass market paperback edition.]
Brubeck , Dave. Essential Dave Brubeck. Sony 2003 [This 2 CD set assembled by Dave Brubeck himself is considered by many of his fans to be the best collection of Brubeck now available.]
Brubeck, Dave. Ken Burns JAZZ Collection: Dave Brubeck. Sony/Columbia 2000
Buckley Jr., William F. Elvis in the Morning. Harcourt Brace 2001
Buckley Jr., William F. The Lexicon. [Jesse Sheidlower, intro & Arnold Roth, illus] Harvest Books 1998 [". . . will stretch the frontiers of most readers' vocabulary, and the illustrations by Arnold Roth are a perfect accompaniment to the text. This would be a great choice for students studying for the SAT's or for anyone who loves language-it's certainly more useful, and more fun, than those word-a-day calendars. Highly recommended." -- Library Journal. ". . . The Lexicon is a pocket guide to his esoterica with several hundred entries, each concisely defined and accompanied by an example of its use from his writings, which is quite a handy feature. . . . It is a sign of his skill as a writer that the book may be read for pleasure. Illustrations by Arnold Roth add to the enjoyment, making this the perfect introduction to Buckleyian erudition." -- Rob Lightner, Amazon.com.]
Bug Zapper. Charcoal Companion [This is the "Amazing Bug Zapper" -- a low-cost, handheld bug zapper (it looks like a tennis racket) that kills insects on contact. It is an environmentally safe alternative to insect sprays. It uses a two-button activation switch for safety as a current runs through zapper's net upon activation. It runs on two AA batteries (which are included).]
A Bug's Life. Pixar 1998 [One of the great comedies of all time, this is the VHS videotape edition. It is also available in a DVD edition which contains both the full-screen and widescreen versions. One of my all-time favorite comedies! And it is available in a three-pack VHS videotape edition with Toy Story and Toy Story 2.]
Byrn, Anne. The Cake Mix Doctor. [Anthony Loew, photographer] Workman Publ. Co. 1999 [This is one of the most wildly popular cookbooks. The title link is to the more durable hardcover edition which many people prefer. This book was published simultaneously in a softcover edition.]
CD-R (Compact Discs-Writeable). Verbatim Corporation [This is a 25-pack of Verbatim's DatalifePlus Color discs that we use and recommend (and Apple sends these out with the new iMacs). Here are the specs: 48X (speed), 80 minute, 700 MB. The color discs come with slim cases.]
CD-RW (Compact Discs-Re-writeable). Verbatim Corporation [This is a 20-pack of Verbatim's DatalifePlus Color discs that we use and recommend. Here are the specs: 2X-4X (speed), 80 minute, 700 MB. The color discs come with slim cases.]
Chenoweth, Kristin. Let Yourself Go. Sony 2001 [Recently saw the Disney remake of my favorite musical, The Music Man. It was OK, but there were two noticeable standouts -- Kristin Chenoweth and the quartet reprising the role of the Buffalo Bills. Only they matched the high standards of the performers in the original. In discussing the show, I found several big Chenoweth fans out there and they had me listen to this CD. And it is fantastic! The songs, from the 1920s, '30s, and early '40s, are great fun, and Chenoweth's amazing singing talents shine through. Listen to "The Girl in 14G" and you can hear her operatic training. This CD is a "must-have" and friends have been requesting it after seeing her stellar performance in the The Music Man. She is ably backed by Rob Fisher and the Coffee Club Orchestra. The disc features sixteen songs by George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Richard Rodgers, Kurt Weill, Duke Ellington, and others. One a is a fun Gershwin duet with guest vocalist Jason Alexander (of Seinfeld fame). Song samples can be found on the Amazon.com site. ". . . this is an enjoyable album with a good deal of old-fashioned class, expertly accompanied by Rob Fisher and the Coffee Club Orchestra" -- David Horiuchi , Amazon.com.]
Chicken Run. 2000 [This is the DVD edition of the great comedy film of 2000 starring Mel Gibson and Julia Sawalha, and directed by Nick Park and Peter Lord.]
The Chieftains. Film Cuts. RCA 1996 [This is an audio CD with some of the best music the Chieftains composed for eight different films. i.e., Treasure Island (the superb 1990 version), Rob Roy, Circle Of Friends, Barry Lyndon, The Grey Fox, Tristan And Isolde, Far And Away, and Ireland Moving. "Directors have come to see the Chieftains as an option when it comes time to add a stately grace to the scores of their films, a predilection that provides the impetus behind this anthology." -- Steven Stolder, Amazon.com. ]
Chu, Chin-Ning. The Asian Mind Game: Unlocking the Hidden Agenda of the Asian Business Culture: A Westerner's Survival Manual. Rawson Assoc. 1991 [Publisher supplied info: This is the first book to reveal secret of the Asia psyche that influence behavior in business, diplomacy, lifestyles, and battles. Americans seldom realize that Asians regard the marketplace as a battlefield, but now successful East-West trade consultant Chu tells how Westerners can defend their interests by playing the same game.]
Charlotte Church. Sony Classics 1999 [Audio CD. Welsh singer Charlotte Church has another winner in this mix of religious and secular inspirational music. The CD contains: (1.) Just Wave Hello; (2.) La Pastorella; (3.) Barcarolle; (4.) O Mio Babbino Caro; (5.) Lascia Ch'io Pianga; (6.) Guide Me, Oh Thou Great Redeemer; (7.) The Holy City; (8.) Plaisir D'Amour; (9.) Summertime; (10.) The Jewel Song; (11.) Tell Me What Love Is; (12.) She Moved Through The Fair; (13.) Songs My Mother Taught Me; (14.) If Thou Art Near; (15.) The Last Rose of Summer; (16.) Men of Harlech; and (17.) Lullaby.]
Church, Charlotte. Dream a Dream. Sony Classics 2000 [This is the Audio CD edition. There is an SACD edition also available. The renowned Welsh soprano has a new album that will surely be one of the hits for the 2000 holiday season. The nineteen songs on this album are as follows: (1.) Dream A Dream (Elysium); (2.) O Come, All Ye Faithful; (3.) The Little Drummer Boy, (4.) Mary's Boy Child; (5.) Ding Dong! Merrily On High; (6.) Winterwonderland; (7.) The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire); (8.) Hark! The Herald Angels Sing; (9.) The Coventry Carol (Lully Lullay); (10.) Joy To The World; (11.) When A Child Is Born; (12.) What Child Is This?; (13.) God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen; (14.) Draw Tua Bethlehem/Far Over Bethlehem; (15.) Ave Maria; (16.) Gabriel's Message; (17.) O Holy Night; (18.) Lo! How A Rose E'er Blooming; and (19.) Silent Night. ". . . Even the glummest of moods will disappear when you hear Charlotte's infectious take on chestnuts such as "Winter Wonderland" and "Little Drummer Boy" (and having the London Symphony Orchestra as your backup band doesn't hurt either). And on top of that is a really special treat: the title song (borrowing an unforgettable classical melody) which blends Church's soaring vocals with the tender voice of young country prodigy Billy Gilman." -- Sarah Chin, Amazon.com.]
Church, Charlotte. Voice Of An Angel. Sony/Columbia 1999 [Audio CD. This is a wonderful CD by a young Welsh girl with a very gifted voice. The CD contains: (1.) Pie Jesu; (2.) Panis Angelicus; (3.) In Trutina; (4.) The Lord's Prayer; (5.) Jerusalem; (6.) Ave Maria; (7.) Psalm 23; (8.) I Vow To Thee, My Country; (9.) Danny Boy; (10.) My Lagan Love; (11.) Suo-Gan; (12.) A Lullaby; (13.) Amazing Grace; (14.) Three Welsh Bird Songs: The Curlew; (15.) Three Welsh Bird Songs: Owls; (16.) Three Welsh Bird Songs: There's Longing In The Sea; and (17.) When i Night I Go To Sleep. This performance is also available with the title, Voice Of An Angel in Concert, in a VHS Videotape edition, and a DVD edition.]
Cleobury, Stephen. The Splendour of King's: Organ Favorites. Collins Classics (#1401, UK) 1994 [This Audio CD features thirteen wonderful pieces, all DDD format. It has received rave reviews in BBC Music Magazine. Performer: Stephen Cleobury. The disc offers: (1.) Pièces (24) en style libre, Opus 31: no 21, Carillon by Louis Vierne; (2.) Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565 by Johann Sebastian Bach; (3.) L'Ascension, 4 Meditations for Organ: 3rd movement by Olivier Messiaen; (4.) Herzlich tut mich verlangen, BWV 727 by Johann Sebastian Bach; (5.) Orgelbüchlein: In dulci jubilo, BWV 608 by Johann Sebastian Bach; (6.) Toccata for Organ by Robert Prizeman; (7.) Chorale Improvisations (66) for Organ, Opus 65: Nun danke alle by Sigfrid Karg-Elert; (8.) Sonatas (6) for Organ, Opus 65: no 6 in D minor - Finale by Felix Mendelssohn; (9.) Prelude and Fugue for Organ on B-A-C-H, S 260 by Franz Liszt; (10.) Chaconne for Organ in F minor by Johann Pachelbel; (11.) Preludes and Fugues (3) for Organ, Opus 37: no 1 in C minor by Felix Mendelssohn; (12.) Chant de May, Opus 53: no 1 by Joseph Jongen; (13.) Symphony for Organ no 5 in f minor, Opus 42 no 1: 5th movement, Toccata by Charles Marie Widor. Only available via Amazon.com.]
Conner, Floyd. Baseball's Most Wanted: The Top 10 Book of the National Pastime's Outrageous Offenders, Lucky Bounces, and Other Oddities. Brassey's 2000 [A fun collection of annotated Top Ten lists that feature the best and worst of baseball.]
Conner, Floyd. Baseball's Most Wanted II: The Top 10 Book of More Bad Hops, Screwball Players, and Other Oddities. Brassey's 2003 [More of the best and worst of baseball.]
Conner, Floyd. Golf's Most Wanted: The Top 10 Book of Golf's Outrageous Duffers, Deadly Divots, and Other Oddities. Brassey's, Inc. 2001 [This is a fun book for any golfer or fan of the game. I have read much of it and enjoyed the great stories.]
Conner, Susan & Linda Kitchen. Science's Most Wanted: The Top 10 Book of Outrageous Innovators, Deadly Disasters, and Shocking Discoveries. Brasseys, Inc. 2002 [In keeping with the format of the popular "Most Wanted" Series, this new volume comprises sixty top-ten lists. These include Worst Ideas by Great Scientists, Most Unlikely Inventors, Greatest Unsolved Mysteries, Most Ridiculous Attempts at Flight, Biggest Hoaxes, Most Suppressed Inventions, and Top UFO Sightings. [The book] shows how throughout history, mankind has tried, often wildly unsuccessfully, to come to grips with life's biggest questions.]
Conroy, Susan. Mother Teresa's Lessons of Love and Secrets of Sanctity. Our Sunday Visitor Publ. 2003 [This is a beautiful autobiographical account of Conroy's journey to Calcutta at age 21 to work with the Missionaries of Charity. There she came to know and understand the modern saint, Mother Teresa. Conroy states that her book, "is a trasury of the lessons of love that I learned from Mother Teresa and her beloved poorest of the poor." She took many photographs which are scattered throughout this work, including a sixteen-page insert of color photos.]
Conspiracy Theory (1997) [The title links to the DVD format. Starring: Mel Gibson, Julia Roberts, and Patrick Stewart. Director: Richard Donner. Features: Closed-captioned, Dolby, Widescreen, HiFi Sound, Surround Sound, AC-3, production notes, theatrical trailer, full-screen and widescreen anamorphic formats. This movie is also available in VHS and VHS Widescreen formats.]
The Count of Monte Cristo. Walt Disney Home Video 2002 [The classic Alexandre Dumas tale comes alive in this new version starring James Caviezel under the direction of Kevin Reynolds. This widescreen DVD version has numerous interesting features, including a commentary by Kevin Reynolds; a feature on Alexandre Dumas; a useful discussion on the difficulties of screenwriting when dealing with a classic, well-known story; a production design feature on recreating the Napleonic era; an extensive discussion of swordfighting with the fencing expert who choreographed the scenes of swordplay; deleted scenes (with director's commentary); and a layer by layer interactive sound design feature. The movie, without all of the added features, is also available in a VHS videotape version.]
Croke, Vicki. Cats Up Close. Abbeville 1998 [An oversized hardcover with a colorful look at cats.]
Croke, Vicki. Dogs Up Close. Abbeville Pr. 1998 [An oversized hardcover with a colorful look at dogs.]
Delacampagne, Ariane & Christian Delacampagne. Here Be Dragons: A Fantastic Bestiary. Princeton Univ. Pr. 2003 [Publisher supplied info: "Sphinxes, hydras, chimeras, dragons, unicorns, griffins, sirens, and centaurs--fantastic animals can be found in works from Greek vases to paintings by Bosch, Goya, and Picasso, from folk art to comic strips, advertising, and Hollywood movies. Here Be Dragons is a lavishly illustrated compendium of the marvelous menagerie of imaginary animals that humans have conjured up over the ages. Ariane and Christian Delacampagne take us on a visually and intellectually riveting journey through five thousand years of art, examining the symbolic meanings of such creatures and what they say about the unconscious life of the human mind. In the Middle Ages, "bestiary" referred to an edifying poem, in Latin or French verse, in which the moral characteristics of real or imaginary animals were highlighted. With the passing of time, this once-flourishing genre disappeared. . . . In the first book to explore this subject with such cross-cultural and chronological range, the Delacampagnes identify five basic structures (unicorn, human-headed animal, animal-headed human, winged quadruped, and dragon) whose stories they relate from prehistory to the present day. They also provide fascinating sociological and psychoanalytical insight into the processes through which artists have created these astonishing animals and how they have been transmitted from culture to culture." "The Delacampagnes' argument is crisp, lucid, economical, and persuasive. Their conceptualization and interpretation of the subject is, so far as I am aware, new. I know of no work that both presents such an extensive range of imagery and offers a comprehensive analysis of this kind." -- Arthur Goldhammer, Harvard University.]
E-reader with Pinball. Nintendo 2002 [Newest item for the Game Boy Advance system.]
El Grande. Hans im Gluck (Germany)/Rio Grande (US) [This is the English language edition of the classic game. Seriously, this is one of the best games ever developed. It rivals Die Siedler von Catan (The Settlers of Catan) as one of the greatest of games.]
El Grande: Grandissimo expansion. Hans im Gluck (Germany)/Rio Grande (US) [This is a FREE English-language, promotional expansion to the game El Grande. It features 30 more action cards which add two additional stacks to the play of the original game. This is a free promotional item from the manufacturer, and can be included with any game order from Funagain Games at no extra charge. (If ordering only this free item, there will be a shipping & handling charge.)]
El Grande: König & Intrigant expansion. Hans im Gluck (Germany)/Rio Grande (US) [This is the original German edition expansion for the classic game.]
El Grande: Großinquisitor & Kolonien expansion. Hans im Gluck (Germany)/Rio Grande (US) [This is another original German edition expansion for the classic game.]
The El Grande Expansions. Hans im Gluck (Germany)/Rio Grande (US) [This is an English language edition expansion for the classic game. It combines both the Großinquisitor & Kolonien expansion, and the König & Intrigant expansion in one box for one low price. A must have for the El Grande addict!]
Ellington, Duke. Ellington At Newport 1956. [2 CD] Sony/Columbia 1999
Ellington, Duke. Ken Burns JAZZ Collection: Duke Ellington. Sony/Columbia 2000
Ellis, Joseph J. American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson. Vintage 1998 [Originally published by Knopf in 1997, this book is available in a hardcover edition.]
Enya. A Day Without Rain. Warner Brothers 2000
Epson Stylus CX6400 All-in-One Multifunction Machine. Epson 2003 [This great machine is a color printer, copier, and scanner. It can run independently of a computer, or you can hook it up to both Macs or PCs. It also reads memory cards. Amazing what high tech one get for less than $200. We use this machine, so we know its capabilities.]
Epson T044120 Black Ink Cartridge. Epson 2003 [Compatible with Epson Stylus CX6400, C64, and C84 printers, this DURABrite ink cartridge produces rich black print and is ideal for double-sided print jobs because the acid-free formulation is designed to resist bleeding, fading, and smudging.]
Epson T043120 High Capacity Black Ink Cartridge. Epson 2003 [Compatible with Epson Stylus CX6400 and C84 printers, this high-capacity DURABrite ink cartridge produces rich black print and is ideal for double-sided print jobs because the acid-free formulation is designed to resist bleeding, fading, and smudging.]
Epson T044520 Color Ink Cartridge Multipack . Epson 2003 [Compatible with Epson Stylus CX6400, C64, and C84 printers, this package provides DURABrite cyan, magenta, and yellow ink cartridges. They are ideal for double-sided print jobs because the acid-free formulation is designed to resist bleeding, fading, and smudging.]
Epson S020193 Color/Photo Ink Jet Cartridge. Epson [For the Epson Stylus PHOTO 750.]
Epson S020187 Black Ink Jet Cartridge, 2 pack. Epson [Two ink jet cartridges for the Epson Stylus PHOTO 750.]
Epson S020187 Inkjet Cartridge Black Ink, single pack. Epson [A single ink jet cartridge for the Epson Stylus PHOTO 750.]
Ever After: A Cinderella Story. Polygram 1998 [This Audio CD is the original motion picture soundtrack from the movie based on the Cinderella fairy tale.]
Extreme. More Than Words. A&M Records 1998 [This is a CD-single.]
Faragher, John Mack. Daniel Boone: The Life and Legend of an American Pioneer. Owl/Henry Holt 1993
Fischer-Dieskau, Dietrich. Fischer-Dieskau Edition. Deutsche Grammophon 2000 [21 Audio CDs. DG #463500. This is a marvelous collection of singing by one of the great voices of the twentieth century on the occassion of his 75th birthday.]
A Foreign Field. (1993) [This a charming comedy about old soldiers and their families and friends as they gather in Normandy for the 50th anniversary of D-Day. Amos (Alec Guinness) and Cyril (Leo McKern) are British veterans there to visit a fallen comrade's grave. Their paths cross with Waldo (John Randolph), an American veteran, and his son Ralph (Edward Herrmann) and daughter-in-law, Beverly (Geraldine Chaplin). Cyril and Waldo then run into a French woman they had both fallen for during the war, which leads to competition to again win her affections. All of these characters come across Lisa (Lauren Bacall) who has come to visit her brother's grave. Although this film is a comedy, the film has its poignant moments. And none more so than when they go with Lisa to the cemetery. It is truly a heartrending moment and evokes a spirit of camaraderie that transcends time and borders. This is a movie I heartily recommend. It was also released with the name We Shall Meet Again. Only available via Amazon.com.]
Frazee, Charles A. World History the Easy Way: Ancient and Medieval Times to A.D. 1500. [Easy Way Series] Barrons Educational Series 1997
Frazee, Charles A. World History the Easy Way: A.D. 1500 to the Present. [Easy Way Series] Barrons Educational Series 1997
Galaxy Quest. Dreamworks 1999 [This is the VHS version of one of the funniest films ever made. It is a great spoof of "Trekkies," but has a hilarious adventure to boot. It's in my Top Five Funniest Films of all time.]
Game Boy Advance SP - Platinum. Nintendo [It is also available in a Cobalt blue version.]
Gilbert, Martin. A History of the Twentieth Century, Volume III: 1952-1999. Morrow 1999
Gran Turismo 2. Sony Computer Entertainment [This is an extremely popular PlayStation game.]
Grunwald, Lisa & Stephen J. Adler, eds. Letters of the Century: America, 1900-1999. Dial Pr. 1999
Haege, Glenn. Fix It Fast & Easy 2: Upgrading Your House. [Kathleen Stief, editor & Ken Taylor, illustrator] Master Handyman Pr. 1997
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Warner Bros. 2001 [This is the Widescreen DVD Edition of the hit film. It is also available in a Full Screen DVD Edition, a VHS Videotape Edition, and VHS Videotape Spanish-language Edition. The DVD editions have loads of features on two discs, including: Never-before-seen footage, a 360-degree self-guided tour of Hogwarts, new interviews with director Chris Columbus and producer David Heyman, instructions on how to play Quidditch, theatrical trailers, and much, much more.]
Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets. Warner Home Video 2002 [This the Widescreen Edition of the second Harry Potter movie. The movie is also available in a Fullscreen edition. On two DVDs, the extra features include: 19 additional/extended scenes; interviews with Daniel Radcliffe (Harry), Rupert Grint (Ron), Emma Watson (Hermione) and other cast members; an exclusive interview with author J.K. Rowling and screenwriter Steve Kloves; a self-guided tours allowing viewers to linger on the details of the Chamber of Secrets, including places never shown in the film such as more Diagon Alley shops; activities which allow viewers to escape the Forbidden Forest, sneak into the Chamber and more; a visit to Lockhart's class and a closer look at his photos and memorabilia through the use of still galleries; keep track of events with the Hogwarts official, animated timeline; The One VoiceDVD technology which allows users to navigate through the DVD-ROM features and access set top features using only their voices; a slider puzzle challenge; printable magic trading cards; jigsaw puzzles, matching challenges, downloadable screensavers and more. A VHS videotape edition is also available.]
LEGO Harry Potter: Chamber Of Secrets. LEGO Systems, Inc. 2002 [The newest and the neatest of the Harry Potter Lego series.]
Harry Potter Wizard Chess. Arco Toys Ltd 2002 [Uses pieces crafted to look to those in the first Harry Potter movie.]
Haydn, Franz Joseph. Haydn: Harmoniemesse, Salve Regina. Chandos (#612) 1997 [Audio CD. A beautiful recording receiving 5-stars in the music magazines. Composer: Franz Joseph Haydn. Conductor: Richard Hickox. Orchestra: Collegium Musicum 90. Performers: Nancy Argenta, Mark Padmore, Pamela Helen Stephen, Stephen Varcoe. This CD contains: (1.) Mass in B flat major, H 22 no. 14 "Harmoniemesse," and (2.) Salve Regina in E major, H 23b no. 1. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Hobby & Craft Set with Window Storage Case. Allied International [Features: Tools and accessories for hobby and craft applications. Window storage case. Lifetime warranty.]
Inkjet Cartridge Replacement. Amazon.com [This is an inexpensively priced color ink replacement tank for the Epson Color Stylus Photo 750 Printer (#S020193).]
Jane Austen's Emma. 1996 [This is the DVD version of a classic work by Austin directed by Diarmuid Lawrence. Comes recommended by my wife, a great Jane Austin fan.]
Jane Eyre. Walt Disney Home Video 1996 [VHS Videotape. The version of Jane Eyre starring William Hurt. Disney does Eyre? Whom does Goofy star as? Only avaailable from Amazon.com.]
Jedi Knight 2: Jedi Outcast. Aspyr Media 2002 [This is the Macintosh version of the popular game.]
Jump 5. Jump5. Sparrow/Emd 2001 [This is the version of the Christian music CD that comes with extra bonus tracks.]
Junior Carpenter Tool Set. Allied International. [Real working tools for small hands. Set also includes hard hat, suspenders, and tool pouches with belt. Recommended for kids age 8 and older with adult supervision. Lifetime warranty]
Karaoke Christmas. Emi Gold 1999
Kenison, Katrina. Mitten Strings for God: Reflections for Mothers in a Hurry. [Melanie Marder Parks, illus.] Warner Books 2000 [This book is also available in an audiobook edition.]
Kinkade, Thomas. I'll Be Home for Christmas: Lighted Path Collection. Harvest House Publ. 1997
Kinkade, Thomas. Thomas Kinkade: Masterworks of Light. Bulfinch Pr. 2000
Kodak EasyShare Camera Dock II. [This handy device allows for quick and easy transfers of pictures from all Kodak CX and DX series digital cameras into a computer via a USB connection.]
Kodak Max 4 NiMH 1850mAh Rechargeable AA Batteries. Kodak [Rechargeable AA batteries for digital cameras, MP3 players, etc.]
Kunzel, Erich with the Cincinnati Pops. Celtic Spectacular. Telarc 2002 [This is a music CD with sixteen tracks and features guest appearances by James Galway, the Chieftains, and John McDermott.]
LaBastille, Anne. Jaguar Totem: The Woodswoman Explores New Wildlands & Wildlife. West of the Wind Pubns. 1999
Labyrinth: das Kartenspiel. Ravensburger-F.X. Schmid [This is a new, card-game variation of the classic board game. Number of Players: 2 - 6. Ages: 7 and up. Designer: Max J. Kobbert. Not available from Amazon.com, the link goes to Funagain Games.]
Longfellow, Henry Wadsworth. Poems and Other Writings. [J. D. McClatchy, ed.; Library of America Series] Library of America 2000
Congratulations to Peter jackson and his talented cast and crew for the 11 Oscar nominations and 11 wins. Even if you are not a fan his films, they have led people to read Tolkien's great writings. And I say this with some experience, I had not read Tolkien until after having seen the movies! So Mr. Jackson, thank you for getting me to go beyond the movie versions and reading what are truly great works of literature. Here then are LotR resources:
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Lord of the Rings. [Alan Lee, illustrator] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2002 [This is the hardcover boxed set beautifully illustrated in full color by Alan Lee. A winner of the Carnegie Medal for his illustrated edition of The Illiad, Lee was a conceptual artist and the set decorator for the film trilogy. "An extraordinary work -- pure excitement" -- New York Times.]
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Lord of the Rings. [Brian Sibley, intro.] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2001 [This is the hardcover boxed set tied to the release of the movie trilogy. It's cover feature images from the films.]
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien. [Christopher Tolkien & Humphrey Carpenter, eds.] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2000 ["Scholars and fans of the great mythologist will find a rich vein of information in [this book]. . . . with the able assistance of Tolkien's son Christopher and a healthy dose of determination, Carpenter manages find the cream of the crop--the letters that shed light on Tolkien's thoughts about his academic and literary work, as well as those that show his more private side, revealing a loving husband, a playful friend, and a doting father. The most fascinating letters are, of course, those in which he discusses Middle-Earth. . . . These letters offer significant insights into how he went about creating the peoples and languages of Middle-Earth. . . . This new edition of letters has an extensive index, and Carpenter has included a brief blurb at the beginning of each letter to explain who the correspondent was and what was being discussed. Still, we strongly recommend buying the companion volume, J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography, in order to better understand the place these correspondents had in Tolkien's life and get a better context for the letters." -- Perry M. Atterberry, Amazon.com.]
Carpenter , Humphrey . J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography. Houghton Mifflin Co. 2000 [Publisher supplied info: "The authorized biography of the creator of Middle-earth. . . . Carpenter was given unrestricted access to all Tolkien's papers, and interviewed his friends and family. From these sources he follows the long and painful process of creation that produced The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion and offers a wealth of information about the life and work of the twentieth century's most cherished author." ". . . brilliantly puts meat to the bones of the Tolkien legend . . . offering a well-rounded portrayal. . . . Carpenter chronicles Tolkien's early life with a special sensitivity. . . . Academic life--both as a student and professor--is where this biography shines. Friendship with other men played a huge part in Tolkien's life, and Carpenter deftly reveals the importance these relationships--his complex friendship with C.S. Lewis, membership in the Inklings and the T.C.B.S.--had on the development of his writing." -- P.M. Atterberry, Amazon.com.]
Flieger, Verlyn. A Question of Time: J.R.R. Tolkien's Road to Faerie. Kent State Univ Pr. 2001
Pearce, Joseph. Tolkien: Man and Myth. Ignatius Pr. 2001 [Publisher supplied info: "A controversial approach to the Lord of the Rings and Tolkien's other work. Unlike the conventional view that his fantasy writing was an escape from reality, Pearce argues that Tolkien saw his stories as a leap into reality. This is because of Tolkien's own view of life, faith and the supernatural. This understanding is crucial to fully appreciating both 'The Lord of the Rings', 'The Hobbit' and 'Middle Earth'. J.R.R. Tolkien had no more than seven books published during his lifetime and yet he is a towering literary figure around the world. This text considers him in the context of his time and also his beliefs. It examines his influence upon other story tellers such as C. S. Lewis and the influence upon him of the writers group called the Inklings." To order via Amazon.com.uk, please click here.]
Pearce, Joseph, ed. Tolkien: A Celebration: Collected Writings on a Literary Legacy. Ignatius Pr. 2001 [Publisher supplied info: "Tolkien: A Celebration begins and ends with two writers -- George Sayer and Walter Hooper -- who knew J.R.R. Tolkien well, offering a rare insight into the man behind the myth. Between these delightful memoirs are twelve essays that explore the threads of inspiration and purpose in his major works. The works are examined theologically, philosophically, culturally, ecologically, mystically, and historically, as the various contributors seek to understand the profundity of Tolkien's achievement. Above all, these collected essays reveal a writer of inspired creativity and profound spiritual depth." For a thoughtful review of this book, please click here. To order via Amazon.com.uk, please click here.]
Shippey, Tom. J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century. Houghton Mifflin Co. 2002 ["In a wonderfully readable study aimed at not just the Tolkien fan but any literate person curious about this fantasy author's extraordinary popularity, British scholar Shippey makes an impressive, low-key case for why the creator of Middle-earth is deserving of acclaim. . . . In treating such topics as the nature of evil, religion, allegory, style and genre, the author nimbly answers the objections of Tolkien's more rabid critics. By the end, he has convincingly demonstrated why the much imitated Tolkien remains inimitable and continues to appeal." -- Publishers Weekly. ". . . a critical appreciation of the popular creator of The Hobbit and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. The subtitle refers to Tolkien's ability to write about concerns of the 20th century (evil, religion, etc.) in stories that at first glance seem to be mere fantasy. . . . He convincingly argues that Tolkien deserves to be ranked as a major literary figure. Shippey also castigates those critics, the so-called literati, for their vituperative and ill-informed attacks on Tolkien's reputation and achievements." -- Morris Hounion, Library Journal. ". . . keenly interesting because of Shippey's clear, if not uncomplicated, writing and because it substantiates "common" readers' great esteem for Tolkien." -- Ray Olson, Booklist, *Starred Review*. "Shippey succeeds brilliantlyÉ[His] exploration of Tolkien's themes, especially the nature of evil, power, and what one character calls 'the long defeat,' is superbÉTaking on the critics on their own ground, Shippey reveals Tolkien's use of a complex narrative structure and the flexibility with which he moved between different literary modes." -- Independent. "Shippey's witty, combative book is illuminatingÉthe central chapters demonstrate the ingenious articulation of the trilogy, the profundity of its thought about suffering, and evil, both personal and institutional, cosmic and frankly devilish." -- Observer. Tom Shippey taught at Oxford University at the same time as J.R.R. Tolkien and with the same syllabus, which gives him an intimate familiarity with the works that fueled Tolkien's imagination. He subsequently held the chair of English language and medieval literature at Leeds University that Tolkien had previously held. He currently holds the Walter J. Ong Chair of Humanities at St. Louis University in Missouri. Originally published in 2001, this book is still available in a hardcover edition.]
Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2001
Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2002 [Also available is a Limited digibook edition, i.e., it has a bonus track "Farewell to Lorien," a booklet, and a fancy case.]
Mansfield Park. 1999 [Directed by Patricia Rozema, this is the DVD movie version of Jane Austen's strongly autobiographical novel. it features full-screen and widescreen anamorphic formats, audio commentary, and more. "Rozema delivers full-blooded Austen and a protofeminist with savvy charm in this entertaining ride in the socioeconomic fast lane, circa 1806." -- Kathleen Murphy, Amazon.com.]
Mapp, Alf J. Thomas Jefferson: A Strange Case of Mistaken Identity. Madison Books 1989
Mapp, Alf J. Thomas Jefferson: Passionate Pilgrim: The Presidency, the Founding of the University and the Private Battle. Madison Books 1993 [Originally published in 1991, this book is still available in the hardcover edition.]
Martin, Dean. Dino: Italian Love Songs/Cha Cha De Amor. EMI 1997 [An audio CD collection of 24 Martin favorites.]
Martin, Dean. Greatest Hits. 1999 [An audio CD collection of 16 Martin favorites.]
McGuane, Thomas. The Longest Silence: A Life in Fishing. Knopf 1999 [Noted writer, Thomas McGuane, now turns his talents to writing about his several decades old passion -- the pursuit of most every sporting fish known to the angler's hopes and dreams. This book contains thirty-three essays that span the years and the globe. ". . . a virtuoso . . . a writer of the first magnitude." -- Jonathan Yardley, New York Times Book Review. "Tom McGuane, who nevers disappoints, keeps the reader tight to the line with his matchless prose about a lifetime of fishing and the lessons that go with it." -- Tom Brokaw. "In The Longest Silence we are extended the treat of days with McGuane, sharing the struggles and triumphs of his life on the water in pursuit of fish. He is a streamside companion we would gladly give up our solitude for: at once unexpected, poignant, and hilarious, he shows us that fishing is not only a vehicle to beautiful places but a way to look at the world." -- James Prosek. "In The Longest Stlence I have perceived without hyperbole that Thomas McGuane writes better about fishing than anyone else in the history of mankind." -- Jim Harrison.]
Miss Congeniality. 2000 [This is the DVD version of director Donald Petrie's comedy hit about the FBI agent assigned to undercover duty in a major beauty pageant. It stars Sandra Bullock as the frumpy agent turned beautiful contestant, and she gets some great cast support with Michael Caine as her demanding coach, William Shatner playing (and lampooning) a William Shatner-type pageant emcee, and Candice Bergen as the pageant organizer. This movie has a rather unoriginal script, but Bullock, Caine, Shatner, and Bergen have comedic talents that turn this into a winner. My wife, friends, and I, all came out of theater saying how this was a film we would want to see again! This movie is also available in a VHS videotape edition.]
MouseMan Dual Optical Wired Mouse. Logitech [I have been using a Logitech mouse for years and love the comfortable shape and convenient thumb button. Although my specific mouse is out of production, this newer version is just as useful. It uses USB connectivity and works for Mac, PC, and PS2 systems.]
Mulan. Disney 1998 [The VHS version of the hit 1998 animated film.]
The Mummy Ultimate Edition. 1999 [This is a family favorite of adventurer Brendan Fraser and Egyptologist Rachel Weisz matching brawn and brains against a rather nasty mummy come back to life. This ultimate edition comes on 2 DVDs. It includes full-screen and widescreen anamorphic formats, DTS Surround Sound, and Dolby. Also features are a commentary by director Stephen Sommers and editor Bob Ducsay; theatrical trailers; "Building a Better Mummy": An in-depth look into the filmmaking process; visual and special effects formation; "Egyptology 101": Facts about ancient Egypt and Egyptian mythology; deleted scenes; original script with links to storyboard and feature film comparison; a look at the pharoahs; highlights on the filming of the sequal: "The Mummy Returns;" and the Mummy PC Video game demo and trailer.]
Mutter, Anne-Sophie. Brahms & Mendelssohn: Violin Concertos. Deutsche Grammophon (#45515) 1995 [Audio CD. Here are six great violin concertos composed by Johannes Brahms and Felix Mendelssohn and performed by the incomparable violinist, Anne-Sophie Mutter. Herbert von Karajan directs the Berliner Philharmoniker (Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra). The CD contains: (1.) Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in e; op.64: 1. Allegro molto appassionato; (2.) Con for Vn and Orch in e; op.64: 2. Andante; (3.) Con for Vn and Orch in e; op.64: 3. Allegreto non troppo- Allegro molto vivace; (4.) Con for Vn and Orch in D; op.77: 1. Allegro non troppo (5.) Con for Vn and Orch in D; op.77: 2. Adagio; and (6.) Con for Vn and Orch in D; op.77: 3. Allegro giocoso,ma non troppo vivace - Poco piu presto. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Nintendo 64 Grape Controller. Nintendo
Norton Internet Security 2.0. Symantec 2002 [This is the Mac Version which contains Norton AntiVirus 8.0, Norton Personal Firewall 2.0, and Norton Privacy Control. Norton Internet Security 2003 is for the PC. It contains: Norton AntiVirus, Norton Personal Firewall, Norton Spam Alert, and Norton Parental Control.]
Osborne, Mary Pope. Favorite Greek Myths. [Troy Howell, illus.] Scholastic Trade 1991 [Reading level: Ages 9-12.]
Osborne, Mary Pope. Favorite Medieval Myths. [Troy Howell, illus.] Scholastic Trade 1998 [Reading level: Ages 9-12. A collection of nine, favorite and well-known tales from medieval Europe, including "Beowulf," "The Sword in the Stone," "The Song of Roland," "Robin Hood," Chaucer's beast fable "Chanticleer and the Fox," "Gudren and the Island of the Lost Children," a French werewolf parable, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and versions of Finn Maccoul. "Dramatic and immediate for storytelling, [this book has a] large-size, handsome design with spacious type, thick paper, and full-page painting and illustrated title page for each story. Osborne's nine retellings are faithful in spirit to the original stories . . . all of them passed down orally and first written down between 1100 and 1450. Howell's acrylic paintings evoke the brightly detailed designs of illuminated manuscripts and medieval tapestries, with monsters and heroes, arches and battlefields. The excellent, readable notes provide historical and literary context." -- Booklist. "The retellings demonstrate a sure hand. . . . Osborne's versions have an effortless, readable flow. Howell's illustrations capture a feel for medieval pictures and borders. . . . Extras such as the quotation and the back matter -- definitions of terms, information about how English evolved, and more -- set the volume apart: This is not just another book of stories, but a reference as well." -- Kirkus.]
Osborne, Mary Pope. Favorite Norse Myths. [Troy Howell, illus.] Scholastic Trade 1996 [Reading level: Ages 9-12. ". . . this handsome volume introduces the framework and some of the tales of Norse mythology. . . . many dramatic tales, retold with clarity and grace. The unusual artwork combines acrylic paintings with line drawings reminiscent of Norse carvings in their simplicity and vigor. . . . The informative appendixes include glossaries of the gods, goddesses, giants, giantesses, dwarves, worlds, events, places, and things as well as discussions of symbols and runes. There is also a note on the art and a bibliography. A fine addition to mythology collections." -- Carolyn Phelan, Booklist. "Brisk, workmanlike retellings of some of the major stories in Norse mythology, beginning with the creation and ending with the destruction of the world at Ragnarok, and including familiar tales about Thor, Loki, and Odin. . . . the accompanying material that makes this volume exceptional. . . . The striking illustrations will be carefully scrutinized; each full-page and double-page oil painting would be stunning in itself, but each one overlays runic drawings of the same subject; these hover, ghost- like, within each picture. Osborne's careful research and Howell's outstanding approach to illustration make this a worthy entry in the World's Great Stories series." -- Kirkus. "Fourteen accessible retellings of episodes from Norse mythology are elegantly showcased in a well-designed, profusely illustrated volume. The timeless tales are preceded by a thoughtful introduction that not only sets the stories in historical context but also notes resemblances to other cultures." -- Horn Book.]
Panasonic KX-FA55 Replacement Film for Fax Machines. Panasonic [2 Rolls. For Panasonic KX-FP80, KX-FP81, KX-FP85, KX-FPC91, KX-FPC95, and KX-FPC96 fax machines.]
Panasonic SA-HE100 Home Theater Receiver (Black). This is Consumer Reports "Best Buy" for receivers. After researching this product, I agree with them. Amazon.com's price is quite reasonable, especially in light of its free shipping (other online retailers were charging $18, $22, and up in shipping fees.]
Party Tyme Karaoke Christmas. Sybersound 2001
Persuasion. 1995 [This is the movie adaptation on DVD of the Jane Austen novel directed by Roger Michell and starring Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds. "Persuasion is the story of a love that survives eight years of dormancy and the frustrating obstacles of class prejudice in 19th century England. Anne (Amanda Root) is captivated when she meets the dignified naval officer Capt. Wentworth (Ciarán Hinds), but she is advised to discourage his romantic overtures because he has no fortune. They meet again eight years later, but now Capt. Wentworth has become wealthy while Anne's father is in reduced circumstances in the wake of reckless extravagance. . . . The film's success depends entirely on the subtle, superb performances of Root and Hinds." -- Jeff Shannon, Amazon.com. "A lovingly crafted (and beautifully acted) adaptation of Jane Austen, this film demands patience but provides ample rewards. Impeccable yet understated period detail brings early-19th-century England to life." -- Leonard Maltin's Movie & Video Guide.]
Pope John Paul II. Words of Inspiration: The Private Prayers of Pope John Paul II. Pocket Books 2001 [This book is also available from Simon & Schuster Audio in abridged audiobook editions in both a cassette format and a CD format.]
Presley, Elvis. Love Songs. BMG/RCA 1998 [Audio CD. Don't ask my opinion, don't get me started. Click on the title to see the list of songs on the CD. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Pride and Prejudice. 1996 [This is the BBC TV Mini-Series on 2 DVD discs. Directed by Simon Langton, it stars Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle. "Jane Austen's classic novel of 1813, Pride and Prejudice, still wins the hearts of countless schoolgirls with its romantic story of Elizabeth Bennet and her Mr. Darcy. Now, the 1996 BBC miniseries is winning over adults, with its faithful adaptation, gorgeous scenery, and superb acting. . . . this miniseries will round out the ultimate Austen video library. For those new to these romantic period pieces, this version of Pride and Prejudice will have you hooked and longing for more. One caveat, however: plan to watch it in an entire day, because very few have the self-control to not watch all six hours in a single sitting." -- Jenny Brown, Amazon.com.]
Putumayo. The Best Of World Music: World Dance Party. Putumayo Series 1994 [This is an Audio CD.]
Quest For Camelot. Warner Brothers/Atlantic 1998 [This is the audio CD soundtrack from the movie. It has received a number of very positive reviews. My wife and children are some of the fans of this music. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Randall, Willard Sterne. Thomas Jefferson: A Life. HarperPerennial 1994 [Originally published by Henry Holt in 1993, this book is available in a hardcover edition.]
The Rodgers & Hammerstein Collection. This is a boxed set that collects six classic movie musicals by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein on seven DVDs. The films are: State Fair (1945), Oklahoma! (1955), Carousel (1956), The King and I (1956), South Pacific (1958), and The Sound of Music (1965).]
Ross, Ann B. Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind: A Novel. HarperPerennial 2000 ["This comic mystery takes Julia Springer through more twists and turns than the mountain roads she drives." -- AudioFile. ". . . a light and entertaining story, eminently suitable for Jan Karon fans." -- Booklist. "Good-natured entertainment, done with a sharp eye for the details of small-town southern life and domestic melodrama." -- Kirkus. "A witty tale . . . replete with charm . . . it is impossible not to like this book." -- Ft. Worth Morning Star-Telegram. "[A] delightful yarn that's light enough to entertain, but deep enough to leave a lasting impression on the reader." -- Richmond Times-Dispatch.]
Salvatore, R. A. Star Wars: Episode II, Attack of the Clones. Del Rey 2002
Santana. Shaman. Arista 2002 [An audio CD.]
Scimone, Nancy. Ora Pro Nobis. St. Gabriel's Media 1998 [Audio CD. This is a world-class performance of traditional sacred songs and chants by soprano Nancy Scimone. Some of the arrangements are original, albeit based on traditional approaches. And traditional doesn't mean stuffy, my ten-year old loves this album as much as my wife and I. The songs are spiritually uplifting and listeners will find themselves turning to this CD again and again. The CD contains: (1.) Soul of Mary (Sr. A. Gutierrez, FSP); (2.) Magnificat (Mary Hubley); (3.) Immaculate Mary (Traditional/Lourdes Hymn); (4.) O Dearest Love Divine (Traditional); (5.) Salve Mater/Sing of Mary (Ancient Carmelite Chant/Traditional); (6.) Mother Dearest, Mother Fairest (Traditional); (7.) Thy Heart Immaculate (Nancy Scimone); (8.) Memorare (Prayer of St. Bernard); (9.) Gate of Heaven (Mary Hubley); (10.) The Crucifixion (Samuel Barber); (11.) Ave Maria (Gounod); (12.) O Blessed Jesus (Palestrina); (13.) O Sanctissima (Latin/Sicilian Folk Melody, Arr. N. Scimone); and (14.) Lord of All Hopefulness (Traditional Irish Hymn). "The unique aspect of Scimone's CD is that it contains original recordings of traditional-style sacred music as well as original arrangements of familiar music. The debut original track, written and arranged by Scimone, is "Thy Heart Immaculate," a prayer to the Blessed Mother sung in Scimone's clear, operatic voice. All songs are masterfully supported by the piano, organ or violin." -- The Arlington Catholic Herald. This is truly a magnificent performance and this CD is one we give frequently as a gift. Only available from Amazon.com.]
The Secret Labyrinth. Ravensburger-F.X. Schmid USA [This is a new variation of the classic game. Number of Players: 2 - 4. Time to Play: about 30 minutes. Ages: 10 and up. Designer: Max J. Kobbert. Not available from Amazon.com, the link goes to Funagain Games.]
Sense and Sensibility. 1995 [This is the DVD version of the superb adaptation of Jane Austen's novel which brilliantly examined the manners and social mores of early 19th-century England. Directed by Ang Lee, the film stars Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Greg Wise, and Hugh Grant. It uses the widescreen anamorphic format, and comes with a number of special features, e.g., deleted scenes, audio commentary by Emma Thompson and producer Lindsay Doran, and another audio commentary by Ang Lee and co-producer James Schamus. Thompson won an Oscar for Best Screenplay Adaptation.]
Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2001
Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2002
Die Siedler von Catan. [The Settlers of Catan is one of the best family games of all time. Players compete to develop the best settlement on an island. This game has won top honors around the globe. For three or four players, there are expansion sets for five to six players available. This German edition comes with an English translation of the rules. The German edition is produced with better materials than the English edition.]
Snyder, John. Soccer's Most Wanted: The Top 10 Book of Clumsy Keepers, Clever Crosses, and Outlandish Oddities. Brasseys, Inc. 2001 [This book delivers little-known facts and funny anecdotes about soccer from the early days of the game to the present. Arranged in sixty top-ten lists, many of the 600 stories are published here for the first time. Snyder features the most outrageous players, the oddest injuries, the strangest matches, the most fantastic finishes, the greatest champions, and the most inept teams. In short, it covers the best and worst moments in the history of world soccer. Die-hard fans as well as newcomers to the sport will enjoy this irreverent guide to soccer trivia.]
The Sound of Music. 1965 [The classic film starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer is now on DVD with a widescreen format. Also available on the movie disc is commentary by director Robert Wise It comes with a second disc loaded with features, e.g., an original 1965 documentary Salzburg Sight and Sound; a documentary on the making of the film, The Sound of Music: From Fact to Phenomenon; cast interviews; rare music outtakes; photos; an audio supplement by Ernest Lehman; audio interviews with Julie Andrews and Robert Wise; DVD-ROM games and links to fan site; storyboards, sketches, and production stills; and theatrical trailers, radio and TV spots.]
The Sound of Music 35th Anniversary Soundtrack. RCA 2000 [This is a set of two audio CDs featuring the original 1965 Rodgers & Hammerstein recording now wonderfully remastered, plus a bonus disc. Disc 1 has the sixteen songs from the movie everyone knows: 1. Prelude/Sound of Music, 2. Overture/Preludium (Dixet Dominus), 3. Morning Hyme/Alleluia, 4. Maria, 5. I Have Confidence, 6. Sixteen Going on Seventeen, 7. MT Favorite Things, 8. Do-Re-Mi, 9. Sound of Music, 10. Lonely Goatherd, 11. So Long, Farewell, 12. Climb Ev'ry Mountain, 13. Something Good, 14. Processional and Maria, 15. Edelweiss, and 16. Climb Every Mountain (Reprise). Disc: 2 has 15 tracks containing music and/or verses not used in the original soundtrack, plus Richard Rodgers speaking.: 1. Prelude/The Sound of Music (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), 2. I Have Confidenc, 3. Sixteen Going on Seventeen (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), 4. My Favorite Things (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), 5. Edelweiss (not on original soundtrack album), 6. Grand Waltz (not on original soundtrack album), 7. Laendler (not on original soundtrack album), 8. Processional Waltz (not on original soudtrack album), 9. Climb Ev'ry Mountain (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), 10. Something Good (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), 11. Sixteen Going on Seventeen [Reprise] (includes additional verse not used in original soundtrack), 12. Edelweiss [Reprise] (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), 13. Chase (not on original soundtrack album), 14. Escape/Climb Ev'ry Mountain [Reprise]/Finale (contains some music not used in original soundtrack), and 15. Richard Rodgers Speaks.]
Spicer, Mark. Sniper: The Techniques and Equipment of the Deadly Marksman. Salamander Books 2001
The Spitfire Grill. 1996 [This is a good film on DVD that will appeal to one's religious beliefs. Directed by Lee David Zlotoff, it stars a solid cast including Ellen Burstyn. It has full-screen and widescreen anamorphic formats. This book is also available in a VHS videotape edition.]
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (Director's Edition). Paramount Home Video 2002 [This is a 2-disc DVD edition of arguably the best of the Star Trek films and it comes loaded features.]
Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds. Aspyr Media 2002 [This is the Macintosh version of the very popular game.]
Star Wars: The Queen's Gambit. Hasbro 2000 [A big game with lots of cool pieces. A hit with gamers and Star Wars fans alike. The title link is to Amazon.com, it is also available from Funagain Games.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann. Die Fledermaus. RCA Victor 1999 [RCA #61949.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann. Die Fledermaus. [Great Recording of the Century Series] EMI Classics 1999 [EMI #67153. Herbert von Karajan directs the Philharmonia Orchestra. This performance features Helmut Krebs, Rita Streich and many other fine singers.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann. Die Fledermaus. Deutsche Grammophon 2000 [DG #457765. The greatest operetta ever, IMVHO, is available in a perfomance conducted by Carlos Kleiber leading the Bavarian State Opera Chorus and the Bavarian State Opera Orchestra. This 2 CD recording stars Ferry Grüber, René Kollo, Benno Kusche, Julia Varády, Bernd Weikl, baritone Hermann Prey as von Eisenstein, Lucia Popp as Adele, and Ivan Rebroff as Prinz Orlovsky.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann. Die Fledermaus. Kultur 1990 [This is a VHS videotape recording of the brilliant comic operetta. It features the 1990 Covent Garden New Year's Eve Gala performance with Richard Bonynge conducting the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House supplemented by the Royal Opera Chorus. It features Nancy Gustafson, Judith Howarth, Louis Otey, Jochen Kowalski, Bonaventura Bottone, and Anthony Michaels-Moore. In addition to the cast, this gala edition offers "guest" performances by Luciano Pavarotti, Marilyn Horne, and Dame Joan Sutherland in her last performance.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann. Die Fledermaus. 1983 [This is a VHS videotape recording of the Strauss operetta with English subtitles. Directed by Humphrey Burton, Placido Domingo [yes, Domingo] conducts this performance at the Royal Opera, Covent Garden. The cast is led by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa with Hermann Prey, Hildegard Heichele, Benjamin Luxon, Doris Soffel, and Josef Meinard as Frosch. "Guests" include Charles Aznavour, Dr. Evadne Hinge, Dame Hilda Brackett, Merle Park and Wayne Eagling. It's great music and song combined with lots of fun, especially the interplay between the drunken Frosch and the the hapless conductor.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann & Johann Strauss, Sr. The Best of Vienna. Deutsche Grammophon (#459730) 1999 [Audio CDs. A great collection of music composed by the Strausses and performed by the Wiener Philharmoniker (Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra) under the direction of five noted conductors -- Herbert von Karajan, Lorin Maazel, Claudio Abbado, Willi Boskovsky, and Karl Böhm. Karl Swoboda is also featured in some of the performances. The two CDs contain: (1.) An der schönen, blauen Donau, Opus 314; (2.) Annen-Polka, Opus 117; (3.) Morgenbl&aouml;tter, Opus 279; (4.) Cagliostro in Wien: Auf der Jagd Polka, Opus 373; (5.) Leichtes Blut, Opus 319; (6.) Wein, Weib und Gesang, Opus 333; (7.) Vergnügungszug Polka, Opus 281; (8.) Wiener Bonbons, Opus 307; (9.) Perpetuum mobile, Opus 257 "Musikalischer Scherz;" (10.) Accelerationen, Opus 234; (11.) Pizzicato Polka; (12.) Geschichten aus dem Wienerwald, Opus 325; (13.) Kaiser-Walzer, Opus 437; (14.) Unter Donner und Blitz, Opus 324; (15.) Die Fledermaus: Overture; (16.) Frühlingsstimmen, Opus 410; (17.) Prinz Methusalem: Banditen-Galopp, Opus 378; (18.) Künstlerleben, Opus 316; (19.) Persischer Marsch, Opus 289; (20.) Das Spitzentuch der Königin: Rosen aus dem Süden Waltzes, Opus 388; (21.) Eljen a Magyar, Opus 332; (22.) Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka, Opus 214; (23.) Wiener Blut, Opus 354; and (24.) Radetzky March, Opus 228.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann & Johann Strauss, Sr. Waltzes, Polkas, Marches. Deutsche Grammophon (#449768) 1997 [Audio CD. Here are eleven classic Strauss compositions performed by the Berliner Philharmoniker (Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra) under the direction of Herbert von Karajan. The CD contains: (1.) Geschichten aus dem Wienerwald, Opus 325; (2.) Cagliostro in Wien: Auf der Jagd Polka, Opus 373; (3.) Egyptischer Marsch, Opus 335; (4.) Pizzicato Polka; (5.) Unter Donner und Blitz, Opus 324; (6.) Morgenblätter, Opus 279; (7.) Persischer Marsch, Opus 289; (8.) Wiener Blut, Opus 354; (9.) Postillon d'amour, Opus 317; (10.) Sphären-Klänge, Opus 235; and (11.) Leichtes Blut, Opus 319. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Strauss, Jr., Johann & Johann Strauss, Sr. et al. New Year's Concert in Vienna. Deutsche Grammophon (#19616) 1997 [Audio CDs. This is the 1987 New Years performance by the Wiener Philharmoniker (Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra) under the direction of Herbert von Karajan and starring Kathleen Battle. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Surge Isolator Multi Protector 8 Outlet 12 Foot, 2960 Joule Cord. Belkin Components.
Takeuchi, Naoko. Meet Sailor Moon. [Chikako Noma, ed.] Kodansha International 1995 [Reading level: Ages 4-8.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. Sailor Moon. Mixx Entertainment 1999 [Reading level: Young Adult.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. Sailor Moon, Vol. 1. Mixx Entertainment 1998 [Reading level: Young Adult.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. Sailor Moon, Vol. 2. Mixx Entertainment 1999 [Reading level: Young Adult.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. Sailor Moon, Friends And Foes. [Chikako Noma, ed.] Kodansha International 1996 [Reading Level: Grades 2-3.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. Sailor Moon Supers. Mixx Entertainment 1999 [Reading level: Young Adult.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. The Power of Love: A Sailor Moon Novel. Mixx Entertainment 1999 [Reading level: Young Adult.]
Takeuchi, Naoko. A Scout is Born: A Sailor Moon Novel. Mixx Entertainment 1999 [Reading level: Young Adult.]
MacKinnon, Mark C. The Sailor Moon Role-Playing Game and Resource Book. Guardians Of Order 1998 [Only available via Amazon.com.]
Sailor Moon: Songs From The Hit TV Series. Atlantic/Rhino 1996 [This is an Audio CD with soundtracks from the Sailor Moon television show performed by various artists. The songs are: 1. Sailor Moon Theme, 2. I Wanna Be A Star!, 3. My Only Love, 4. Call My Name (And I'll Be There), 5. Oh Starry Night, 6. It's A New Day, 7. Carry On, 8. Rainy Day Man, 9. Only A Memeory Away, 10. She's Got The Power, 11. Sailor Moon Theme (Reprise). Only available via Amazon.com.]
Telemann, Georg Philipp. String Concertos. DG Archiv 2000 [Audio CD. Composer: Georg Philipp Telemann. Conductor: Reinhard Goebel. Ensemble: Cologne Musica Antiqua. Archiv #463074]
Tolkien, J. R. R. The Lord of the Rings. [Alan Lee, illustrator] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2002 [This is the hardcover boxed set beautifully illustrated in full color by Alan Lee. A winner of the Carnegie Medal for his illustrated edition of The Illiad, Lee was a conceptual artist and the set decorator for the film trilogy. "An extraordinary work -- pure excitement" -- New York Times.]
Tolkien, J. R. R. The Lord of the Rings. [Brian Sibley, intro.] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2001 [This is the hardcover boxed set tied to the release of the movie trilogy. It's cover feature images from the films.]
Viva Italia! Festive Italian Classics. BMG/RCA 1996 [Audio CD. Festive - yes, classic - well, I guess that depends on your idea of classic. Click on the title to see the list of songs on the CD. Only available from Amazon.com.]
Whittingham, Richard. What a Game They Played: An Inside Look at the Golden Era of Pro Football. [Keith McClellan, new intro.] Univ of Nebraska Pr. 2002
Wunderlich, Fritz. Die Fledermaus. Gala 1999 Gala #340 [Audio CD.]
100 Boleros De Amor, Vol. 1. Sony Discos/Orfeon 1995 [4 Audio CDs in a boxed set. [By various international artists.]
2BA Master: Music From The Hit TV Series. Koch Records 1999 [This is an Audio CD.]
Ever After: A Cinderella Story. 1998 [This the DVD version. A great retelling of the Cinderella story that will appeal to all ages. Directed by Andy Tennant, it stars Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Huston. Color, closed-captioned with the theatrical trailer and in the widescreen letterbox format. A VHS videotape edition is also available.]
Freemantle, James S. The Psalms of David. [Stephen Freemantle, foreword] William Morrow 2001 [Publisher supplied info: "Back in print, [this] is a unique, beautifully illustrated edition of the revered religious work, also known as the Book of Psalms. The lifework of a little known genius, this facsimile edition of a magnificent hand-painted illumination of the Psalms of David is a stunning tribute to love and spiritual devotion. Born in India, James Freemantle traveled through the Middle East during his years in the British Army. Shortly after his second marriage, he began this hand-lettered, illustrated volume for his beloved bride, Clara. For the next thirty years, he periodically worked to transfer the psalms into a book that would physically match the lyrical beauty of the poetry. Throughout the book one finds the brilliantly colored blooms of India: the jacaranda, the flame-of-the-forest, huge yellow laburnums, brilliant poinsettias, and highly scented mimosa. The pages are alive with kingfishers and larks, drummers and hoppie butterflies, storks and pheasants. There are pictures of the lake near Freemantle's home, the nearby Brahmin temple, and the view from the train as he went up to school in the hills. Scenes from his travels in the army, Middle Eastern harbors and villages, and copies of illustrations from Victorian travel books reveal his draftsman's training in the accuracy of every detail. A labor of love, a work of art, a volume to treasure, this illuminated edition of the King James version of the Psalms of David is the perfect gift for all seasons.""Nearly every page is filled with illustrations of magnificent Indian and Middle Eastern flora and fauna (including poinsettias, mimosas, canna lilies, kingfishers, storks, and pheasants) and of Brahmin temples and Christian and Jewish holy sites--even a gigantic iceberg. . . . his exuberant illuminations testify to his great love of his wife, of the world, and of the Psalms." -- Michael Joseph Gross, Amazon.com.]Lord of the Rings
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Tolkien, J.R.R. The Hobbit. Houghton Mifflin Co. 1973 [This is the Leatherette Collector's Edition of Tolkien's book. Publisher supplied info: "This deluxe collector's edition of Tolkien's modern classic is boxed and bound in green leatherette with gold and red foil rune stamping on the spine and cover. The text pages are printed in black with green accents. It includes five full page illustrations in full color and many more in two color in addition to Thror's map -- all prepared by the author."]
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Annotated Hobbit. [Douglas A. Anderson, annotator] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2002 [This is the edition I specifically to read. Anderson's introduction and margin comments are very insightful, and the amazing selection of images from various editions of The Hobbit published around the world are a treat. One gets a great sense of Toluene's desire to always improve his work from the many changes to The Hobbit that Anderson details in edition after edition. Publisher supplied info: "Newly expanded and completely redesigned, Douglas A. Anderson's The Annotated Hobbit is the definitive explication of the sources, characters, places, and things of J.R.R. Tolkien's timeless classic. Integrated with Anderson's notes and placed alongside the fully restored and corrected text of the original story are more than 150 illustrations showing visual interpretations of The Hobbit specific to many of the cultures that have come to know and love Tolkien's Middle-earth. Tolkien's original line drawings, maps and color paintings are also included, making this the most lavishly informative edition of The Hobbit available. The Annotated Hobbit shows how Tolkien worked as a writer, what his influences and interests were, and how these relate to the invented world of Middle-earth. It gives a valuable overview of Tolkien's life and the publishing history of The Hobbit, and explains how every feature of The Hobbit fits within the rest of Tolkien's invented world. Here we learn how Gollum's character was revised to accommodate the true nature of the One Ring, and we can read the full text of The Quest of Erebor, Gandalf's explanation of how he came to send Bilbo Baggins on his journey with the dwarves. Anderson also makes meaningful and often surprising connections to our own world and literary history -- from Beowulf to The Marvellous Land of Snergs, from the Brothers Grimm to C. S. Lewis." ". . . this edition offers more than the expected annotation of names, chronology, sources, and commentary. . . . There is a fine introduction to the book's inception and reception, a rune-key, both primary and secondary bibliographies, a wealth of black-and-white illustrations from foreign editions and from Tolkien's own hand, and an appendix detailing all text revisions in the many U.S. and English editions. . . . the scholar and general reader alike should find this commemorative edition both instructive and pleasing." -- Patricia Dooley, Library Journal.]
Tolkien, J.R.R. The Lord of the Rings, Collector's Edition. Houghton Mifflin Co. 1974 [This is the edition of Lord of the Rings that I specifically chose to read. The work is in one volume, which is as it should be -- Tolkien intended it to be a single book. It also comes in a nice, red leatherette, slipcase. I like the cream paper, it is easy to read, and their is an ample margin for making notes. There is a several page long "Note on the Text" by Douglas A. Anderson that explains much about this edition (e.g., it is the most up-to-date version of LotR, which is important given the number of changes made to LotR by Tolkien over the years). It is also the one hardcover boxed edition that Amazon.com ships for free. Publisher supplied info: A one-volume collector's edition boxed and bound in handsome red leatherette with gold, green, and blue foil stamping, two-color text setting, and large format fold-out maps containing the complete texts of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King, and six appendices.
Birzer, Bradley J. J. R. R. Tolkien's Sanctifying Myth: Understanding Middle-Earth. [Joseph Pearce, foreword] Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI) 2003 [Publisher supplied info: "Birzer explicates the religious symbolism and significance of TolkienÕs Middle-earth stories. More broadly, Birzer situates Tolkien within the Christian humanist tradition represented by Thomas More and T. S. Eliot, Dante and C. S. Lewis. He argues that through the genre of myth Tolkien is able to provide a sophisticatedÑand appealingÑsocial and ethical worldview.""Birzer reveals The Lord's Catholicism in five riveting chapters. Middle-Earth is a subcreation, he says, resembling real Creation so that a salvific myth of heroic virtue triumphing over dire evil may be played out in it. . . . Essential reading for all Tolkien enthusiasts. " -- Ray Olson, Booklist. "Birzer's book differs somewhat from recent volumes on the Christian themes to be found in The Lord of the Rings. . . . Tolkien's spirituality, says Birzer, was not generically Christian but specifically Roman Catholic. . . . The best chapter of Birzer's study explores how Tolkien's 'sanctifying myth' was informed by such Roman Catholic beliefs; Tolkien told a Jesuit friend, for example, that the trilogy was 'a fundamentally religious and Catholic work; unconsciously so at first, but consciously in the revision.' Other chapters place Tolkien more generally within the usual canon of 20th-century Christian humanists. . . . Birzer is a fine writer who does a wonderful job of integrating primary sources such as letters, reminiscences and journals into his text; he also includes glimpses of unpublished materials. . . . This is, overall, a fine tribute to the man who, Birzer suggests, 'resuscitated the notion that the fantastic may tell us more about reality than do scientific facts.'" -- Publishers Weekly. Originally published in 2002, this book is still available in a hardcover edition. To order via Amazon.com.uk, please click here for the paperback edition, or click here for the hardcover edition.]Wood, Ralph C. The Gospel According to Tolkien: Visions of the Kingdom in Middle-Earth. Westminster John Knox Pr. 2003 [i"Readers and fans of J.R.R. Tolkien have long been aware of the Christian underpinnings of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Still, Tolkien has not been without his religious critics, including those who have read a fascination with paganism into the pre-Christian world of Tolkien's creation. Wood, a professor of theology and literature at Baylor University, responds to those critics with an academically sound retort of "Nonsense!" Acknowledging straight off that Rings is devoid of any traces of "formal religion," Wood offers countless pieces of evidence that support his analysis of the full-fledged, deeply Christian theology of the mythological culture of Middle-earth. And he does so convincingly." -- Publishers Weekly. To order via Amazon.com.uk, please click here.]
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (Platinum Series Extended Edition Collector's Gift Set). Warner Home Video 2002 [This is it -- the grandest DVD release ever! Five discs with the film and many, many features, including a new edition of the National Geographic Beyond the Movie: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring DVD, collectible Argonath polystone figures, exclusive Decipher trading cards, and packaging illustrated by famed artist Alan Lee. There is also a less expensive edition of The Lord of the Rings that comes on four discs. Click here for it. "Superbly paced, the film is both epic and intimate, offering astonishing special effects and production design while emphasizing the emotional intensity of Frodo's adventure. Ending on a perfect note of heroic loyalty and rich anticipation, this wondrous fantasy continues in The Two Towers." -- Jeff Shannon, Amazon.com.]
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (Platinum Series Special Extended Edition Collector's Gift Set). New Line Home Video 2002 [This is the most anticipated DVD release of 2003. This special gift set contains four discs, a collectible Gollum polystone statue created by Sideshow Weta, and an exclusive printed companion piece showing how Gollum evolved from pencil sketch to digital character. Discs 1 and 2 offer a new version of the second installment with over 40 minutes of never-before-seen footage incorporated into the film. There are four audio commentaries by the director, writer, the design team, and production team featuring more than 30 participants including Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor, Howard Shore, Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and Orlando Bloom. Discs 3 and 4 are the "appendices" and they contain hours of original content including multiple documentaries and design/photo galleries with thousands of images to give viewers an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at the film. E.g., you will find, adapting the book into a screenplay & planning the film; the inspiration for, and designing, locations in Middle-earth; storyboards to pre-visualization; a Weta Workshop visit in which one will see sculptors in action as they create weapons, armor, creatures, and miniatures from the film; an atlas of Middle-earth tracing the journey of the Fellowship; an interactive map of New Zealand highlighting the location scouting process; galleries of art and slideshows with commentaries by the artists; how sword fighting was done by the actors; stories from the set; digital effects including motion capture and the computer program to create the armies of Orcs; "bigatures:" a close-up look at the miniatures; galleries of behind-the-scenes photographs and personal cast photos; post-production editing; a sound design demonstration; and access to exclusive online features. Other versions available include extended, widescreen edition DVD, widescreen DVD, full-screen DVD, widescreen VHS videotape, VHS videotape, and Spanish-subtitled VHS videotape.]
Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2003 [This is the wonderful soundtrack to the third film of the trilogy. There is also an enhanced, limited edition of the soundtrack that also includes a DVD along with the soundtrack CD. The DVD includes a 5-minute Supertrailer encompassing all three movies and "Howard Shore: An Introspective," a 20 minute documentary on the making of the score. It is encased in a leatherette exterior. "This final chapter of Peter Jackson's sprawling adaptation of Tolkien's "Ring" trilogy closes out one of the most accomplished cycles in cinema--and film music--history. As he's done for the saga's first two installments, composer Howard Shore has honed a mature, brooding orchestral masterpiece that's long on subtle shadings of mood and nuance, while eschewing the hollow bombast that's characterized all too many mainstream action and adventure films for three decades. If anything, he's pared this chapter of his music for Middle Earth even closer to the bone, the trilogy's familiar themes repeated with a sparing hand that only heightens their dramatic power." -- Jerry McCulley, Amazon.com.]Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: Motion Picture Trilogy Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2003 [This Limited Edition 3-CD version also includes the first two soundtracks (Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers) packaged in a special slipcase and comes with all 18 character cards from the trilogy.]
Fonstad, Karen Wynn. The Atlas of Middle-Earth, Revised Edition. Houghton Mifflin Co. 2001 [I have just received this book and it looks fantastic. More to come on this later. Publisher supplied info: . . . the definitive guide to the geography of Middle-earth, from its founding in the Elder Days through the Third Age, including the journeys of Bilbo, Frodo, and the Fellowship of the Ring. Authentic and updated -- nearly one third of the maps are new, and the text is fully revised -- the atlas illuminates the enchanted world created in THE SILMARILLION, THE HOBBIT, and THE LORD OF THE RINGS. Hundreds of two-color maps and diagrams survey the journeys of the principal characters day by day -- including all the battles and key locations of the First, Second, and Third Ages. Plans and descriptions of castles, buildings, and distinctive landforms are given, along with thematic maps describing the climate, vegetation, languages, and population distribution of Middle-earth throughout its history. An extensive appendix and an index help readers correlate the maps with Tolkien's novels. "The publishing world is full of Tolkien spinoff products, some trivial and ephemeral--but some, like this thoroughly researched atlas, are genuinely classy. Karen Wynn Fonstad is a qualified geographer and cartographer who first mapped Middle-Earth in 1981 and has since added much new detail based on those endless volumes of drafts, abandoned passages, alternative versions, and laundry lists published since Tolkien's death. . . . It's all done tremendously seriously and would make a fine gift for enthusiastic Tolkien fans, except that they'll have bought it already." -- David Langford, Amazon.co.uk. "Tolkien loved maps and geography played a great importance in his books. In the paperback revision of a hardcover that is out of print, cartographer Fonstad here details that aspect of these stories." -- Library Journal.]Smith, Chris. The Lord of the Rings: Weapons and Warfare. [Christopher Lee, foreword; Richard Taylor, intro.] Houghton Mifflin Co. 2003 [This is the hardcover edition of an oversized book that compliments the completion of the film trilogy. Publisher supplied info: "[T]his new book reconstructs the history and events surrounding the epic battles in Peter Jackson's awesome film trilogy. Treating the filmmakers' notes, designs and props as a true archive, The Lord of the Rings: Weapons and Warfare uses these records to present a full historical account of the War of the Ring. It assembles all the background information to outline the story behind each battle and examine the strategy used by the opposing forces. Each of the major conflicts depicted in the films - from The Last Alliance of Elves and Men to the climactic Battle of the Pelennor Fields - is illustrated with a unique diagram by the films' designers that reveals how each battle was fought. Lavishly illustrated with 1,000 photos, paintings, maps, sculptures and sketches, most appearing here for the first time, Weapons and Warfare is an indispensable chronicle of The Lord of the Rings' many creatures, warriors, armies and battlegrounds. From the graceful and proficient Elven soldiers to the horrendous war machines of the Dark Lord, each culture's approach to combat is explained - how they fought, why they were fighting, what armor they wore and what weapons they used against their enemies." This book was published simultaneously in a trade paperback edition.]Risk: The Lord of the Rings (Trilogy Edition). Hasbro 2003 [This is the new edition of the game, not to be confused with 2002's Lord of The Rings: Risk. There is a difference as the new game offers quite a bit more. It is a great variation on the classic game. It has proven popular with both gamers and Lord of The Rings fans. Our family has greatly enjoyed playing this game!]Lord of the Rings Classic Chess Set. Hasbro [The title link is to Amazon.com, it is also available from Funagain Games.]Pinky & the Brain: A Pinky & the Brain Christmas. Warner Studios 2003 [A classic P&tB show on VHS videotape, this first aired in 1993?]Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl. Buena Vista Home Video 2003 [This is the Pripps, Robert N. The Big Book of Caterpillar: The Complete History of Caterpillar Bulldozers and Tractors, Plus Collectibles, Sales Memorabilia, and Brochures. [Andrew Morland. photographer; Bob Feller, foreword] Voyageur Pr. 2003 [Publisher supplied info: "There's nothing a Caterpillar can't handle. From farming to construction, Caterpillar is known as a leader in the agricultural and construction trades, helping build America's farms, roads, and buildings. This BIG book presents the complete history of Caterpillar, covering all steam, gas, and diesel farm tractors, logging crawlers, and construction bulldozers and tractors from the 1860s to the present. The text combines with stunning color photographs, historical artwork, advertisements, rare brochures, and collectible memorabilia such as dealer signs and clocks to tell the whole story of this leading heavy machinery maker. . . . Also included is background on Cat's predecessor companies, Holt, Daniel Best, and C.L. Best, as well as a discussion of products from associated companies such as Russell Grader, Letourneau, and Trackson." ". . . stunning archival photos. . . . a must for any serious Cat collector." -- Farm Collector. A paperback edition will appear in April 2004.]Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2003 [This is the wonderful soundtrack to the third film of the trilogy. There is also an enhanced, limited edition of the soundtrack that also includes a DVD along with the soundtrack CD. The DVD includes a 5-minute Supertrailer encompassing all three movies and "Howard Shore: An Introspective," a 20 minute documentary on the making of the score. It is encased in a leatherette exterior. "This final chapter of Peter Jackson's sprawling adaptation of Tolkien's "Ring" trilogy closes out one of the most accomplished cycles in cinema--and film music--history. As he's done for the saga's first two installments, composer Howard Shore has honed a mature, brooding orchestral masterpiece that's long on subtle shadings of mood and nuance, while eschewing the hollow bombast that's characterized all too many mainstream action and adventure films for three decades. If anything, he's pared this chapter of his music for Middle Earth even closer to the bone, the trilogy's familiar themes repeated with a sparing hand that only heightens their dramatic power." -- Jerry McCulley, Amazon.com.]Shore, Howard. The Lord of the Rings: Motion Picture Trilogy Soundtrack. Warner Brothers 2003 [This Limited Edition 3-CD version also includes the first two soundtracks (Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers) packaged in a special slipcase and comes with all 18 character cards from the trilogy.]Sony ICF-CD831 PSYC Clock Radio/CD Player (Blue). Sony 2003 [Great multipurpose clock radio with a CD player. Features: AM/FM stereo tuner, dual alarm, nap timer, great clock display, brightness control, and other cool things.]Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (Special Edition). Paramount Home Video 2004 [This a 2 DVD set featuring one of the better Star Trek movies (only Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is better, IMVHO). It has the old Enterprise crew led by Kirk, with a few from the later casts, e.g., Worf. And it features one great performance by Christopher Plummer as Chang, the hardline, Shakespeare-quoting, Klingon general. As with all of these Special Edition Star Trek DVD sets, it comes loaded with all kinds of fun and interesting features.]Wells, Diana. 100 Birds and How They Got Their Names. [Lauren Jarrett, illus.] Algonquin Books 2001 ["In this little volume, Wells . . . offers 100 two- to three-page essays that provide brief but satisfactory descriptions of an individual bird or bird group (e.g., sparrows, owls, and hawks). Tidbits and trivia, as well as literary, folkloric, biblical, mythical, or other references, help explain why a bird is named as it is. Wells discusses the origin of the scientific name, clarifying the meaning of the original Latin terminology, and often recounts who selected the name and why or for whom the bird was named. Each of the alphabetically arranged entries includes a black-and-white sketch." -- Nancy Moeckel, Library Journal.]
Wells, Diana. 100 Flowers and How They Got Their Names. [Ippy Patterson, illus.] Algonquin Books 1997 ["Wells . . . describes the mythology and history behind 100 favorite garden plants, emphasizing the exploits of botanists and plant explorers who brought them out of their native habitats. Their exploits make for engrossing reading, though it is sobering to learn how many of them suffered from disease and assault, lost their hard-earned collections, or were killed outright just trying to bring back plants for our gardens." -- Beth Clewis Crim, Library Journal. "This is a delightful book for browsing when it's too cold to be out in the garden. " -- George Cohen, Booklist. "To compile [this book], Diana Wells delved deep into horticultural history, etymology, and lore to uncover myths, legends, folk beliefs, and stories of the intrepid botanists who searched the world's far corners for new and unusual flowers. . . . Not for gardeners only, these flower stories tell of human striving, stories of ambitious explorers, clever hucksters, arbitrary monarchs, and patient scientists. Written with wit and energy . . . an essential reference book for those interested not only in the flower blossoms, but the root systems the flowers as well." -- Midwest Book Review.]Didn't Find What you Were Looking For?
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