Product Description
Nicole is tickled pink when her cool friend from New York, Leslie, moves to London. But the English Roses are less then impressed, especially when Nicole ditches them to perform in the talent show with Leslie. Will Nicole choose Leslie over her four best friends? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Too materialist
I didn't like it at all, my daughter received it as a gift. I read it first to see if it was appropiate for her, she is 9. And I really don't think this is the kind of things I want her to read and learn, I don't think she knows what a designer handbag is and to imagine a room full of them is not what I want her to learn from reading.The plot is really flat she would understand it very well and it has an age appropiate language.

Great book!
We love all of the books in this series! Perfect for girls as young as 9, especially if an older sister reads this to a younger sister. Wonderful!

The English Roses
The English Roses teaches kids to not let people be left out just because of their looks.I read the books, I love the books and I think the books are really good.I just ordered more of them. Madonna is a good singer but I like her books better.
Gretchen Savoy, age 9

awesom
I can take or leave Madonna's music but her books are awesome. I use them in my classroom. They are a good way to help girls of this age group to see some of the ways they mis-treat each other and how to be more mature.

A++++ on price and delivery!
Great transaction - communication and delivery was fantastic.The Madonna English Rose series is really fun reading. ... Read more

Product Description
These thrilling and harrowing first-hand stories of fellow-survivors and their Spanish rescuers vividly reveal the unknown history of the Jews who found asylum from Hitler's Final Solution under Franco's Fascist regime.

Originally published in hard cover by Simon and Schuster and by Harper/San Francisco in paperback, it was acclaimed as one of The Progressive’s “BEST READING OF 1993” and won an award from the Jewish Book Council in the category of Memoir and Biography. It is the first volume of Alexy’s HIDDEN IDENTITIES TRILOGY, followed in 2003 by THE MARRANO LEGACY, and in 2005 by IN SEARCH OF FORGIVENESS, recounting her own search for her lost Jewish heritage.

Customer Reviews (1)

Award-winning book newly re-issued
Anyone interested in reading several excellent reviews of THE MEZUZAH IN THE MADONNA'S FOOT, (re-issued in 2006 by AUTHORS GUILD BACK-IN PRINT in this larger print edition, including an added photograph) will find them listed under the two (hard-cover and paperback) earlier editions above. This book is the first of Trudi Alexy's HIDDEN IDENTITIES TRILOGY, followed by THE MARRANO LEGACY, and, finally, IN SEARCH OF FORGIVENESS. ... Read more

Product Description
Seven slippery scoundrels.
One tricky lock.
An unlikely solution...

Yakov, the kindly cobbler, and his wife, Olga, are heartbroken because their son, Mikhail, is very ill. They seek advice from a wise old man, who enlists the help of seven thieves and proves that miracles can occur if we do good deeds. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Madonna's book
This little but lovely book was read to me by my granddaughter - she had chosen it from the library.But she enjoyed it so much that I purchased it so I could read itover and over.I had not noticed the author was Madonna and was quite impressed with her simplicity and charm

children book
I love the books written by madonna good moral of the stories she wrote now i got all 5 good read for my daughter

What a country!
Finally, someone has had the literary foresight to pass along the astute observations of Russia's greatest comedian to the next generation. The fact that this particular someone once wore conical bras whilst grinding on-stage just makes this book all the sweeter. While glasnost and the transition from communism to plutocracy has made such classic Yakov jokes as "In Russia, television watches you!" outdated, it's not like we've stopped teaching Hamlet in the schools because we're no longer ruled by monarchs and their deluded offspring. Thank you, Mrs. Richie.

Beautifully illustrated but poorly written
If the text had matched the classic illustrations in this book, it would have deserved ten stars. The storyline and message are wonderful. Unfortunately the style is uneven. The author switches back and forth between an older and appropriate storytelling style and smarty ("When they had all finished belching and farting and behaving like twits, they grew very quiet.") modern ("Yakov's heart was broken, and I felt his pain") language. I appreciate the author's efforts to bring stories with moral messages to children, and I hope that she will get some help with her writing skills.

I was slightly touched (for the very first time)
To say that "Yakov and the Seven Thieves" is the best book Madonna has written to date is much like saying, "Ibberty flibberty gibberty goo".Which is to say, it's not saying much.Now, it is very difficult for a reviewer such as myself to read and review this book without pounds of prejudice weighing on my head.I'll be perfectly honest with you:I am a librarian.One of the thousands that took offense when Madonna announced that her reason for writing children was as follows: "Now I'm starting to read to my son, but I couldn't believe how vapid and vacant and empty all the stories were".Presumably Madonna must've been reading the latest "Dora the Explorer" to her son.Or perhaps she had been given a copy of "Love You Forever".In any case, this inane reason for writing some picture books of her own spawned some of the foulest bits of treacle ever to grace the shelves of bookstores and libraries worldwide.If you think "Rainbow Fish" sends a poorly spelled out message, I assure you that it has NOTHING when compared to Madonna's hokey schmaltz-fest "Mr. Peabody's Apples".

So as you can see, I'm not exactly an unbiased reader.Still, "Yakov and the Seven Thieves" looked different from her other stories.Unlike "The English Roses" (moral: Pretty people are nice too) and "Mr. Peabody's Apples" (moral:In small town America, gossip is naughty) this story looked a little classier.It was written as a fable (good), with a delightful illustrator at the helm (good) and some really original elements in terms of characters and descriptions (very good).Then I got to the end of the tale and the whole kerschmazzle blew up in my face.Though she definitely starts strong and has a good idea of what her plot shoudl be, in the end "Yakov and the Seven Thieves" is still weakety weak weak.

In this tale, there was once a poor cobbler named Yakov.Yakov had a single son whom he loved very very much.Unfortunately the boy was often sickly and weak.In desperation, Yakov searched out the wisest man in town, an older gentleman who lived with his grandson alone.The wise man hears Yakov's problem and attempts to pray to God to save Yakov's son.This doesn't go particularly well and Yakov is distraught.In a moment of inspiration, the wise man tells his grandson to gather the most despicable thieves in town and bring them to his home.The seven thieves comes (apparently thieves are religious at heart) and when asked by the old man to pray for Yakov's son.They do so, the son is miraculously cured, and a sappy message about how the thieves were symbolically opening the gates of heaven sums the book up.Then there's an odd tacked on ending in which a thief named Boris the Barefoot Midget returns the grandson's stolen shoes and, when told he can keep them, scurries down the road.The end.

I'm a big big fan of a well told folktale and for quite some time Madonna was doing really well on this story.She has a nice section at the beginning about how Yakov enjoyed the scenery of his home, "the magical forests, the crystal-clear streams, and the majestic snowcapped mountains that rose before him in the distance".She does especially well when describing the different thieves (with the possible exception of the somewhat offensive Boris the Barefoot Midget).But Madonna isn't particularly good at summarizing the morals of her tales.Though it sounds funny to hear it, Madonna is the preachiest children's author I've ever read, outside of Christian fiction itself.If you're into incredibly didactic religious picture books, methinks "Yakov" is for you.The book ends happily because the thieves, afraid that the wise old man is magical and potentially dangerous ("Was he a wizard?... Did he have magical powers?") suddenly decide that because he's sincere (they're bad guys... but not too bad) they should pray for a little sick boy they've never seen.

Some people will be very touched by this tale.Others will find themselves stumbling a little over the stilted language employed (I dare you to find a single contraction in this entire book).Still more will enjoy the book, get to the ending, and find themselves uncomfortable with its overly earnest preaching.Now, the illustrations in this puppy are fan-freakin'-tastic, no question.They're beautifully rendered and bring a lifelike vibrancy to the various sundry thieves.My favorite shot in this tale, bar none, is the picture of the Angel of Death hovering over the sleeping sick lad.This is a gorgeous tale to flip through.If you'd like to just buy the book and cut out the pictures to frame on your wall, that would undoubtedly be the best use of this creation.Just don't bother reading it or anything.

I'm being rather harsh, I admit.As I mentioned before, I'm biased.I don't know how much a biased review is worth to you.But as long as you understand exactly where I'm coming from, this review should give you some kind of an indication as to how good or bad Madonna's third book is.I have said that it's the best of the three she's written so far.Still, if you want a picture book that tells a didactic fable about faith in a cold Russian land, try the Caldecott winning (and mind-blowingly illustrated) "Baboushka and the Three Kings" by R. Robbins.If you want a picture book that tells an amusing and original folktale, try the outrageous "Swamp Angel" by Anne Isaacs (more of a tall tale than a folktale admittedly) or the fabulous "It Could Always Be Worse" by Margot Zemach.And if you want a picture book written by a pop star with seemingly little experience writing good books for children but that is just a tinge more saccharine than is comfortable, try the tepid, "Yakov and the Seven Thieves".
... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (9)

Quintesssential Woman
In "Bright Dark Madonna," Elizabeth Cunningham's Maeve(Mary of Magdela ) again fascinates with her fierce wit, enthusiastic impulsiveness, intense ability to love and her loyalty to all she calls family or friend as she did in the first two offerings of the Maeve Chronicles--Magdalen Rising: The Beginning (The Maeve Chronicles) and The Passion of Mary Magdalen: A Novel (The Maeve Chronicles).However, in this, the third of the series, Cunningham grips the reader on an esoteric level as she is able to shed light on the mystical aspects of Christ's multi-dimensionality and share with us her thoughts on `the Way' as defined (or undefined) by Jesus and His Gnostic followers.With Maeve, Cunningham succeeds in presenting a multi-faceted female that both bright and dark (hidden) embodies the many characteristics of the Madonna as the quintessential mother and lover of the world while depicting a very real flesh and blood woman that carries within her, as we all do, the spark of the Divine.

Like the warrior witches from whom she has sprung, an older Maeve fights tooth and nail to protect her daughter from the overreaching control of the apostles leading the early Christian community in the days after Christ's death, resurrection and ascension.

Cunningham realistically depicts the individualized struggle of each disciple as he/she attempts to mainstream the teachings of Jesus in a way that captures his/her personal and revelatory stories and yet manages to unite all the followers with some standard dogma.She infuses her portraits of Peter, Paul, James and Mary of Bethany with a compelling mixture of righteous zeal and a confused inability to fathom what will come next as they lay the cornerstones for what will become the established state religion of Rome as ordained by Constantine in the early part of the third century.

Caught in the crossfire as the one who truly shared Jesus's mind and yet is overlooked by the others as being either too controversial or disreputable, Maeve adheres to her belief in a One-on-One relationship with the Divine and is driven primarily by her desire for the safety of her child.Uncomfortable with the apostles' interpretation of her beloved's words and works, Maeve itches to speak out and reveal the mystery that she has lived.Nonetheless she is aware of the fact that Jesus' former companions want to emphasize Christ's divinity and underplay his role as husband to a former whore. Unwilling to participate in the ensuing power play, Maeve flees with her child Sara and her mother-in-law in tow to the mountains of Galatia where even in hiding she cannot fail to be in the eye of the hurricane that is the early Church.

Cunningham paints a most admirable portrait of the many aspects of woman.Her Maeve bristles with scorn as she observes the friends of her husband mainstream his mystical teachings.As the apostles, Paul in particular, attempt to undermine the leadership roles of the female followers of Jesus, Maeve boisterously defends and then finally relinquishes her hard-earned turf.She shrugs in disbelief as Miriam, her mother-in-law, thinks more and more of herself as the Queen of Heaven and wonders resentfully why it isn't she, as Jesus' wife, who symbolizes the Divine feminine.Most of all, she drowns in sorrow as her child grows older and questions her actions.Here, Cunningham shows off her skill as a brilliant character writer--the reader feels Maeve's pain and vulnerability as a proud woman, reluctant to tell of her past to a daughter from whom she wants love, respect and unconditional acceptance.

Bottom line?Elizabeth Cunningham in her third novel in her series, the Maeve Chronicles, excels in telling the tale of Mary Magdalen after the ascension of her husband Jesus and her input, detrimental or not, in the formulation of the early Church.Weaving in legend and facts, Cunningham creates a wonderfully colorful portrait of Maeve (Mary) that captures all that defines the quintessential female.With its irreverent voice, it cannot fail to entertain on a multitude of levels. For those readers that appreciate illumination with regard to some of Jesus' more mystical and esoteric themes, Cunningham brightens the path with this tale of her bright dark Madonna as a lover, wife, mother, and woman of years.I await the fourth of this series with great anticipation and fondness.Highly recommended.
Diana Faillace Von Behren
"reneofc"

what a woman!
I am waiting for the fourth book in the Maeve
Chronicles.I did not think that when I began to read this series that I would be drawn into Maeve's story as I have been. This novel (and I have to remember that it is a novel and not "the truth")gives this reader the opportunity to think about options beliefs and possibilities.The book is sexy, funny, poignant and challenging.I have a story line in my head about where the fourth book in the chronicles will take Maeve and Sara; guess I have to wait and see.

An outstanding and superbly written series
A superbly written historical novel by a master storyteller, Elizabeth Cunningham's 474-page novel "Bright Dark Madonna" is the tale of Maeve, a young pregnant woman who played an intimate role in the mystery of the Resurrection as the Celtic Mary Magdalen. A great controversy breaks out when Maeve seeks to preach the gospel in her own manner, giving voice to her own ideas about how to raise the daughter that Jesus of Nazareth sired with her prior to his execution on a cross by the Romans at the behest of the Jewish religious authorities. When she returns to Temple Magdalen (a holy whorehouse she founded), a custody battle breaks out over her infant daughter Sarah and Jesus' mother must flee to the remote Taurus Mountains to living in hiding among the Galatians. There is where a mysterious stranger shows up on her door step badly in need of her healing. As Maeve determines to keep her family's secret she must also deal with her now adolescent daughter's anger, strength of will, and determination to learn the truth about her father. The legions of readers who so fully enjoyed and appreciated Elizabeth Cunningham's previous two titles in the Mary Magdalene trilogy, "The Maeve Chronicles" will be equally enthralled with the further adventures of Mary Magdalene in "Bright Dark Madonna" as the journey of Maeve and her daughter Sarah continue and conclude with the third and last volume in this outstanding and superbly written series.

I can't wait for the next installment, the further adventures!
I have thoroughly loved the Magdalen series!
I love the irreverance and the voice of the writing and the adventure of the story! Looking forward to the continuation of the series!

Red is back!
I was thrilled to get my hands on the latest in the trilogy.I really wondered how she would explain the events after Jesus's death.If I wasn't laughing with her interesting point of view and sassy remarks I was experiencing her sadness wondering where her lover had gone and why he was talking to everyone else! It was also refreshing to learn about a very different relationship she had with Mother Mary, or Ma.I loved how they loved each other. I hope we don't have to wait forever to find out if she will meet her Celtic offspring in Ireland. Stay tune for Book 4.
I would highly recommend all 3 of these books for excellent summer reading. Magic, female empowerment, romance and mother earth will be your companions on your journey. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

African Genesis...
Robert Ardrey commenced his book, with the subject title: "Not in innocence, and not in Asia, was mankind born." Written in the early `60's, his thesis was that humankind's origins were in Africa. The last days of the European colonial power's overt presence in Africa were setting; in the future less direct means of control would be required. "Uhuru", "freedom," and all, that would be the promise of African nationalists. Much has been written about the black-white relationship in Africa, none perhaps more incisively, and with a greater moral compass, than Doris Lessing, who was eventually awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2007, most deservedly so.

Lessing was born in Iran, lived through the colonial and apartheid periods in southern Africa, and for her opposition to both nuclear arms and apartheid, was banned for many years from Rhodesia and South Africa. I've read several other African writers, and I think she is the best at describing, to paraphrase Gunnar Myrdal, "The African Dilemma." Her magnum opus is The Golden Notebook: A Novel (P.S.)I haven't read it, know I should, but have been deterred by a friend who was reading it over 30 years ago. He said: "I've been depressed for most of the month, finally decided to stop reading The Golden Notebook, and now feel much better." Hum, few `recommendations' have so discouraged me from picking up a book.

I found "The Black Madonna" a wonderful antidote for that discouragement; a medicine that was put in my eye to counteract the poison from a spitting snake, a tribal herb, as was depicted in the last story, "No Witchcraft for Sale." This book is a collection of seven short stories, all rather intense. It is a tribute to Lessing's craft that she can convey so much in so few words. Only about half the stories address the black-white relationship. They range from the artistic work of a recently released Italian POW; the killing of a cuckold; the transformation of a white woman's consciousness coupled with the dispossession of a tribe's land; and the aforementioned story where a white boy's eyes are saved thanks to the skills of a black "medicine man."The other three stories were set in Africa, but their subject matter did involved the natural death of an unassuming aunt who looked after others; the isolation of living on the veld, and the impact on all, men, women, and the children; and then there was the sheer exuberance of being 15, and awaking to enjoy the African dawn, and then being confronted with the reality of life and death in the bush.

A superlative 5-star read.
... Read more

Product Description

In Madonna: An Intimate Biography, author J. Randy Taraborrelli's scrupulously researched and completely balanced unauthorized biography of one of the world's most celebrated entertainers, the reader is allowed to draw his or her own conclusions. Indeed, the portrait bestselling author Taraborrelli paints here is of a truly complex woman, one who is driven and determined to succeed at any cost, yet who displays remarkable vulnerability when it comes to matters of the heart.

It is significant that Madonna: An Intimate Biography is the first such book written about the star in over a decade, because in the past ten years the ever-changing Madonna has gone through her biggest transformation yet -- from tempestuous sex goddess to happily married mother. Amazingly, as she launches her first worldwide tour in eight years, she is now -- at forty-something -- enjoying one of the most successful periods of her groundbreaking career.

Whereas other books about Madonna have been based on previously published material, Madonna: An Intimate Biography is the result of ten years of exclusive interviews with people who are speaking publicly about her for the first time, including close friends, business associates and even family members. Since Taraborrelli interviewed the star herself early in her career, he is now able to draw from such firsthand experiences to place her success story in perspective and provide new, stunning insights. The true Madonna, as presented here, is not merely a sensation-seeking tabloid vixen, but a flesh-and-blood woman with human foibles and weaknesses -- as well as great strengths and ambitions.

For the first time, the reader learns about the complex nature of her difficult relationship with her father, and how the two finally found one another after years of estrangement; how Warren Beatty broke her heart, and why the two never wed; how she and John Kennedy, Jr., became romantically involved, his mother's reaction to the prospect of Madonna as a daughter-in-law and why it could never have worked out; the truth of her relationships with the fathers of her two children and how, as a loving and attentive mother, she has evolved into a surprisingly different woman...and what the future holds for her.

Madonna: An Intimate Biography is a truly explosive and definitive account of the life of an entertainer who is undoubtedly one of the most popular, trendsetting figures of our time. Full of amazing disclosures about her private life and public career, New York Times bestselling author J. Randy Taraborrelli's latest work reveals Madonna in a new -- and surprisingly inspiring -- way. Not only a feast for fans, this book is great entertainment for anyone who enjoys a remarkable story, stirringly told.Amazon.com Review
What's the best part of Madonna: An Intimate Biography? The sex part! According to author J. Randy Taraborrelli, Madonna tried to insure her breasts for $6 million each. Prince dumped her because "he wanted to savor every second [of sex]; she was into multiple orgasms." Sean Penn demanded she get an HIV test. "Screw you," she said. "Not until you get tested," he said. When Penn found out about Madonna and Prince, he punched a hole in her wall. Madonna demanded that Prince plaster it ("You're responsible!"), and he did. JFK Jr. refused to give her a baby, and Jackie objected to his affair with someone called a "Material Girl." "Who in this world has been more materialistic than you?" JFK Jr. asked his mother. When he and Madonna dumped each other, he said, "Easy come, easy go." She compared her Broadway debut in Speed-the-Plow to "having really good sex." After their first kiss, Warren Beatty said, "Houston, we have lift-off." Madonna's tune "Hanky Panky" reflects Beatty's favorite sport, spanking. But Barbra Streisand helped convince him to dump the "floozy," so she picked up Tony Ward on Malibu Beach by putting out a cigarette on his back and pinching his nipple. When she realized he was more of a floozy than she was, she spent 21 and a half hours in the Carlyle Hotel trying to convince the married Penn to father her child. Rebuffed, she picked up Carlos Leon, a fitness trainer at Crunch, in Central Park, and presto, she had a baby. Dennis Rodman (whom she called "Daddy Long Legs") was a dud in bed, but she found true love in the daddy of her second child, Princess Diana's cousin Guy Ritchie, director of Snatch.

There's stuff about her career in the book, but Taraborrelli is a lousy music and film critic. I can't vouch for the accuracy of his dish, but I promise you that as a gossip he's the real thing. --Tim Appelo ... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

A peek into a very fascinating life
What I love about Randy's books is that he gives you the sources, as best he can, from where he gets his info. So while this might not be 100% true, it is about as well documented as it gets.

In this book we are carried through Madonna's life from birth to the wedding with Guy Richie. We are shown that above talent---it was her marketing genius, charisma and determination--and willingness to work her behind off--that made her one of the world's richest and most famous women. She is also one of the genetic lucky ones that can get by on 3 hours of sleep per night, which definitely gives one the edge in whatever they do!

Vicariously, we get to enter her world of dating rich and famous men like Sean Penn and JFK Jr. as well as nonrich and nonfamous men such as Carlos Leon, who left her because he couldn't stand to be with someone who went to bed at 2 AM and got up at 5 AM to read the world's newspapers and see what they wrote about her (and let anything bad written spoil her whole day!)

Very interesting stories, anecdotes, and gossip in this book! It makes a great escape.

Madonna - We Hardly Knew You
What a price the material girl paid!

This is a must for any Madonna fan collection. Many former tween wanna-bes of the 1980's are now in their late 20's and early 30's ... and owe a lot of their own ambition to Madonna Veronica Louise Ciccone, native of Bay City Michigan, who at 17 ran off to New York with $50 not knowing a soul. She is a mixture of strength of mind and vulnerability of heart. She is an icon whose humanity has been assessed over and over again by tabloids. She has had a fire in the belly since she was a Bay City teenager which found sustenance after she took on the world. Now a British Lady with a house in the country, Madonna has come a long long way from the Motown roots in Michigan to New York City in the 80's to London and her 2005 release of Confessions on a Dance Floor.

At 17, a New York cab driver dropped her off at the center of everything - Times Square - and circa 2006 before her next World Tour .... Madonna's image is everywhere in H&M ad near the very spot her teenage self was dropped off at. She is still on her throne while her contemporaries from the 1980's are sometimes, nowhere to be found. Madonna is the ultimate testament of: YOU GO GIRL!

very interesting
This book is very thick, but its an easy read all the way. I know this book can't all be true, but it sure feels like it. Very well done.

A Fun Read
Madonna is one of the most successful artists in the history of pop music.A key to her success was her single-minded determination to become a star no matter what it took.Along the way she used a lot of people and bruised a lot of egos.Not surprisingly, many of those whom she stepped on were very willing to talk to Taraborrelli, a modern day Kitty Kelly whose biographies/victims include Diana Ross (the delightfully nasty Call Her Miss Ross) and Michael Jackson (The Magic And The Madness).This makes for quite a fun read.

Taraborelli does a good job of detailing Madonna's turbulent childhood (the loss of her mother, her strained relationship with her father, even the loss of her virginity!?!) but the book really takes off when Madonna goes to New York in 1978 in search of stardom.We are introduced to Camille Barbone, a talent agent who is the unsung heroine in the Madonna story.Camille invests every cent she has into Madonna's career only to be dumped by the Material Girl when she finally secures a recording deal with Warner Brothers.Early on, we also see Madonna go through a series of male musical collaborators who double as lovers, ensuring their professional devotion to her until she moves on to bigger and better things (among them Jellybean "Holiday" Benitez).

As Madonna's career takes off, the men she chooses to date are inevitably celebs themselves.The book is most entertaining in dealing with her many relationships, including hothead first husband Sean Penn, wishy washy JFK Jr. (who dumps Madonna on Mommy's orders), old fart Warren Beatty (as much a user as Madonna), and superfreak Dennis Rodman, who kissed and told about his relationship with Madonna in his own tell-all book (a big no-no in Madonna's world).

Where the book falls short (and is kept from meriting five stars) is in its frequently contradictory assessments of Madonna's music.After raving about the contents of Madonna's third album TRUE BLUE (and its five major hits), for instance, he sums it up by saying it "wasn't a great album.A less intriguing artist might not have survived it."Even though Taraborrelli wrote for music magazines early in his career, he is not a strong analyzer of pop music.

This book ends in mid-2001, at a time in Madonna's life when her personal and professional life were seemingly at her peak (the birth of her son Rocco and marriage to Guy Ritchie, the release of her two strongest albums RAY OF LIGHT and MUSIC had all occured within the previous two years).As her wedding unfolds on the final pages, we are introduced to a kinder, gentler Madonna who has reconciled with her father and seems to finally appreciate the little things in life.For Madonna fans, it was a great time to end the book (since then, her professional life at least has not been so successful, with the universal panning of her film Swept Away - which Ritchie directed - and the subpar AMERICAN LIFE album).For all of the entertainment this amazing woman has provided, she deserves a happy ending.

PERFECT!!
I wasn't even a Madonna fan until I read this book. Taraborrelli does an INCREDIBLE job and has converted me to Madonna 'fanhood'. Revealing, exciting and most of all addictive, I read An Intimate Biography cover to cover in two days.
Excellent book choice for any Madonna fan, or like me,pepole not even interested. You'll be pleasently suprised what the combination of Madonna and Taraborrelli have to offer. You won't be disappointed! ... Read more

Product Description
Long, long ago, in a land far, far away, a little boynamed Abdi was given a very big task -- to deliver the most preciousnecklace in the world to the queen.

Come along with Abdi on hisfantastic journey into a magical world of ruthless rogues, savagesnakes, and deadly dungeons, where he remembers the wise words of hismentor: "Everything we have been given in life is always for thebest." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

It is a very good lesson in perseverance and the belief that things will work out for the best
This book was much better than my preconceived notions allowed it to be. When I read on the cover that the author was called Madonna I immediately went to the back jacket to verify that she was in fact Madonna the singer and "Material Girl."
The context is in the Muslim area of Central Asia and the lead character is a little orphan boy named Abdi. His guardian is a master jeweler named Eli, an old family friend that treats Abdi well. Abdi's tasks include working in the jewelry shop by greeting customers and sweeping up.
One day an important man came in and asked Eli to create a magnificent necklace for the queen in time for her upcoming birthday. Eli pleads for more time but the man is unyielding in his insistence. After the man leaves Abdi expresses his frustration to which Eli says, "... everything that we have been given in life is for the best."
By working day and night, Eli and Abdi are able to complete the necklace in time. Due to his age and frailty, Eli is unable to make the journey to the king's palace so he sends Abdi alone. This begins a series of great adventures for Abdi as his faith that things will work out for the best is put to the test. After a series of trials, Abdi and the suddenly appearing Eli are able to dazzle the king and queen and receive a commensurate reward.
The writing her is very good and the illustrations are lightly colored and very expressive. You must look closely to see and appreciate all of the objects in them. For example, the following all appear in the image where the queen is donning her necklace:

*) A feathered hat topping that has the body of a parrot and the head of a lion.
*) A small deer-like creature that is wearing a small sword and has the head of a man.
*) The king is wearing a mammoth bulbous hat almost as large as he is.

A fairly serious book about persistence and belief, Madonna proves that her talents extend to writing children's books.

Abdi
I knew Madonna had penned children's stories, but was very much surprised and pleased by the quality of her writing. She does a great job of engaging the reader while leaving room for mystery and imagination. The primary reason I purchased the book however, was for the incredibly beautiful illustrations. Such richness of textures and whimsicality isn't seen much anymore. Each and every illustration is a world of its own, begging for exploration and discovery.

Poor translation
Great idea for a book, just poorly planned. When writing a book based on a culture that uses a language with which the author is not familiar, an accurate translation is pretty important.In Arabic, "Abdi" literally means, "my slave." It is not a name, just a title for one who is literally owned by another. I really can't imagine what Madonna was going for here. The name "Abdullah" is common in Arab culture, however has a very different meaning; "slave of God." What may have been a simple translation mistake, transforms what would be a fun-filled children's book, into a story of child slavery and servitude.Whoops!

GREAT BOOOK ABOUT LOVE, FRIENDSHIP AND MORE...
I HAVE BOUGHT ALOT OF MADONNA'S BOOK FOR MY NIECES AND THEY LOVE IT FOR THEIR COLLECTIONS. THEY KNOW WHO SHE IS AND THEY ACCEPT HER MY NIECES ARE 10 AND 7

MADONNA#1

wonderful
Modonna did it again.I am collecting her Children's books and have enjoyed this one as much as the others.ENJOY ... Read more

Product Description
A cultural icon, the Black Madonna is a blend of the Virgin Mary and ancient mother-goddesses from Eurasian, Native American, and African cultures. She is worshipped and adored by millions of people around the world. In this examination of the dark mother archetype, Oleszkiewicz-Peralba explores the Black Madonna's functions in the varied cultures of Poland, Mexico and the American Southwest, Brazil, and Cuba. In these four geographic settings, the Black Madonna has become a symbol of national identity, resistance against oppression, and empowerment for the female population.

The opening chapter considers the Black Madonna in early East-Central European popular spirituality, folklore, and symbolism. Chapter two discusses the Virgin of Guadalupe and the creation of national mestizo identity in Mexico. The third chapter follows up with a study of Afro-Indo-European syncretism involving the Black Madonna in Brazil and the Caribbean. The fourth and final chapter discusses the Madonna in the form of the Virgin of Guadalupe in greater Mexico and the Latino United States.

As shown in The Black Madonna in Latin America and Europe, this revered image has been a symbol of motherhood, protection, and identity in public ceremonies and private devotions, while subtly becoming a visible manifestation of the blending of cultures and religious beliefs over time and place. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Only book on black madonnas that considers Latin America
I just received this book, therefore I haven't read it yet. Nevertheless, I'm impressed by the presentation and the contents, as far as I can see. It's heavily illustrated, mostly black and white, but it has a beautiful collection of selected Latin American virgins. The author travelled to Poland, Lituania, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Brazil in order to understand the Black Virgin cults in those countries. What trully appeals from this book is the fact that it considers some of the most important Black Madonnas in Latin America, instead of restrict the study to Europe. It also appears to be well researched, and heavily supported by good sources.

In order to give an idea of its contents, I transcribe one of the paragraphs from the book:

"Themes and Organization. Each chapter focuses on a different geographical/cultural area: east-central Europe, Mexico, Brazil and the Caribbean, and the soutwestern United States. The main themes of this book are (1) the transformation of sacred symbols, termed syncretism; (2) the Black Madonna as an example of such transformation during the Christianization process; (3) the Madonna and her adoration as a symbol of matriarcal beliefs, religious practices, and feelings of national identity; and (4) appropriation and use of the Madonna in various unexpected forms as an exemple of cultural transformation and hybridity in postmodern times." ... Read more

Product Description
[INSIDE-FLAP COPY]
"Not only are you the best chef in the world...your amazing food helped me to be a happier, healthier person, balanced in body and mind."
--Madonna (from the Preface)

[BACKCOVER COPY]
"Mayumi makes beautiful, energizing food, which I have been lucky enough to enjoy many times over the years. I am thrilled that now everyone can have a chance to experience the effects of her meals, which are as healing and healthy as one can get!"
--Gwyneth Paltrow

"When people think of macrobiotics, they think of healing and recovery, but they rarely think of gorgeous, yummy food. Mayumi's Kitchen changes all that."
--Christina Pirello, Emmy Award-winning host of Christina Cooks on national public television and best-selling cookbook author

"Mayumi has long been one of my favorite chefs in the world-her cooking is infused with love, joy, and the spirit of a true artist. So it's no surprise to me that this wonderful book is as inviting as her food-gorgeous, friendly, and welcoming."
--Jessica Porter, author, The Hip Chick's Guide to Macrobiotics

"In this book and its recipes, Mayumi captures the beauty and spirit of macrobiotics and natural foods cuisine. She has inspired many toward a healthful lifestyle, and will continue to do so with this wonderful book."
--Dr. Lawrence Haruo Kushi, nutritional epidemiologist

"With years of innovative experience, Mayumi Nishimura brings food to life with a balanced sense of taste, color, and good nutrition. The recipes and artistic photography in Mayumi's Kitchen are sure to make your mouth water and your lips quiver! This is whole food kitchen inspiration at its best."
--Verne Varona, author, Macrobiotics for DummiesAmazon.com Review
Product Description
Macrobiotics--the healthy, nature-friendly way of life based on a diet of whole grains, vegetables, and beans--is now a global phenomenon. In recent years a number of Hollywood stars have taken up the macrobiotic diet because of its many benefits, which include higher energy levels, beautiful skin, a tranquil mind, and a greater sense of connection with the universe. In Mayumi's Kitchen, the woman who worked for seven years as Madonna's private macrobiotic chef shares with the world her dazzling recipes.

Mayumi Nishimura's unique style of cooking is healthful, intuitive, and easy to stick with. She draws her inspiration not only from Japanese food, which she grew up eating, but also from Chinese, French, Italian, and any number of other world cuisines, as well as from macrobiotic traditions. She believes that enjoyment, above all, is the key to sustainable healthy eating, and that means adapting her cooking to cosmopolitan tastes. The reader will thus discover in her book a number of familiar-looking dishes prepared with macrobiotic as well as more conventional ingredients, in both Western and non-Western styles.

The centerpiece of Mayumi's Kitchen is her ten-day detox diet. Here readers can enjoy a macrobiotic menu that will transform them from the inside out. Following this are meal-planning tips and recipes for more than fifty dishes, including such favorites as Salmon Soup, Avocado Rolls, Vegetable Lasagna, and Seitan Pot Stickers. There is even a party-food section with recipes for spring rolls, tempura, pizza, and more.

In all, Mayumi introduces more than 130 mouthwatering recipes, all lavishly illustrated with color photographs. Many are explained in terms of their nutritional value or energy quality, and unfamiliar techniques are made clear with step-by-step pictures. For beginners and lifelong macrobiotic practitioners alike, these dishes will wow and delight.

From Mayumi’s Kitchen: Brownies

These brownies proved incredibly popular with Madonna’s back-up dancers, whom I sometimes made snacks for while on tour. Brownies have since become a favorite birthday treat. Makes one 8 × 8-inch (20 × 20-cm) pan.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup (110 g) unbleached white flour or barley flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup (80 g) maple sugar
• 1/4 cup (20 g) cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (90 g) sugarless chocolate chips

Wet Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp unsweetened soymilk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) rapeseed oil or other vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla
• Sea salt, to taste

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Oil a Pyrex or other square ovenproof pan. Or, for easier cleanup, line the pan with baking paper.

3. Place all DRY INGREDIENTS in one bowl and all WET INGREDIENTS in another. Mix well separately, then add the WET INGREDIENTS to the DRY INGREDIENTS and mix just enough to blend, using a spatula to prevent lumps.

4. Transfer to the pan, place on the middle rack of the oven, and bake for 20 minutes (time may vary depending on the oven; test for doneness with a toothpick). When a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean, remove from oven.

5. Allow to cool before cutting into squares and removing from the pan.

From Mayumi’s Kitchen: Strawberry Tempeh Smoothie

I invented this recipe for a Japanese TV show. They wanted me to demonstrate how to use tempeh in several different ways. It tastes wonderful and feels healthier than store-bought protein drinks. For a sweeter flavor, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or any natural sweetener of your choice. Serves 2.

Ingredients

• 1 oz (30 g) tempeh, steamed
• 8 to 10 strawberries
• 2 cups (480 ml) rice milk
• 1/4 tsp vanilla
• 1/8 tsp maca powder (optional)
• 1/8 tsp sea salt

Directions

1. Steam the tempeh for 15 minutes.

2. Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

good
its a basic microbiotic cookbook. i was looking for a little more flair and variety,but prob not gonna find it with this kind of a diet.

An interesting take on macrobiotic cooking
As a newcomer of macrobiotic cooking, this book opened up a whole new world for me, which is interesting and fascinating! The recipes are overall easy and accessible and appealing to all tastes! Thumbs up for Mayumi!

A must-have for healthy and delicious eating
I love this book.Mayumi's petit macro approach includes recipes that traditional Americans will love (pot pie, brownies, pizza) as well as please those who are already familiar with Japanese or macro cuisine.If you are able to obtain macrobiotic and Japanese ingredients and feel comfortable with them, I think this is definitely a must-have book.I am fortunate to live near an excellent health food store and 2 large gourmet supermarkets--essential for cooking from this book.(I only mention this as a warning of sorts, not as a sign of superiority!)It is not terribly expensive to make this food, but it may be difficult to find what you need in more remote areas.As for the food, it makes me feel light yet nourished.And it could not be more gorgeous! I hope to see more from Mayumi--her book Happy Petit Macro is still available only in Japan.(Note: there are minor typos, maybe only 3 or 4, that are thankfully not in the recipes--not a big deal to me, but worth a mention.)

Any macrobiotic or world cookery library needs this!
Mayumi's Kitchen: Macrobiotic Cooking for Body and Soul comes from a fine macrobiotic chef who cooked for Madonna and her family for seven years. Her approach to whole foods cuisine packs in over a hundred tested recipes and begins with a 10-day 'detox diet' to introduce newcomers to macrobiotic cooking, offering seasoned dieters a new look into dishes reflecting world cuisines and culinary trends alike. Any macrobiotic or world cookery library needs this!

This book has inspired me to write my first book review!
I found myself wanting to change over to a macrobiotic diet but felt intimidated by most macrobiotic cookbooks.A friend who is a macrobiotic chef recommended this book so I bought it.I fell in love with it immediately!The pictures are beautiful and the recipes are so well written.All the food, and I mean ALL the food, has been delicious.The 10-day detox is so great b/c I don't have to think about what to make next - it is laid out perfectly.What I love is that no matter what I make it comes out exactly as it looks in the book, which is very encouraging.Mayumi's seasonings and sauces are right on target.Her tofu mayonnaise is surprisingly better than regular mayo.This book inspires me to eat healthier.

The only complaint I have is that I wish there were twice as many recipes.Mayumi, please write another book soon!!! ... Read more

Product Description
[INSIDE-FLAP COPY]
"Not only are you the best chef in the world...your amazing food helped me to be a happier, healthier person, balanced in body and mind."
--Madonna (from the Preface)

[BACKCOVER COPY]
"Mayumi makes beautiful, energizing food, which I have been lucky enough to enjoy many times over the years. I am thrilled that now everyone can have a chance to experience the effects of her meals, which are as healing and healthy as one can get!"
--Gwyneth Paltrow

"When people think of macrobiotics, they think of healing and recovery, but they rarely think of gorgeous, yummy food. Mayumi's Kitchen changes all that."
--Christina Pirello, Emmy Award-winning host of Christina Cooks on national public television and best-selling cookbook author

"Mayumi has long been one of my favorite chefs in the world-her cooking is infused with love, joy, and the spirit of a true artist. So it's no surprise to me that this wonderful book is as inviting as her food-gorgeous, friendly, and welcoming."
--Jessica Porter, author, The Hip Chick's Guide to Macrobiotics

"In this book and its recipes, Mayumi captures the beauty and spirit of macrobiotics and natural foods cuisine. She has inspired many toward a healthful lifestyle, and will continue to do so with this wonderful book."
--Dr. Lawrence Haruo Kushi, nutritional epidemiologist

"With years of innovative experience, Mayumi Nishimura brings food to life with a balanced sense of taste, color, and good nutrition. The recipes and artistic photography in Mayumi's Kitchen are sure to make your mouth water and your lips quiver! This is whole food kitchen inspiration at its best."
--Verne Varona, author, Macrobiotics for DummiesAmazon.com Review
Product Description
Macrobiotics--the healthy, nature-friendly way of life based on a diet of whole grains, vegetables, and beans--is now a global phenomenon. In recent years a number of Hollywood stars have taken up the macrobiotic diet because of its many benefits, which include higher energy levels, beautiful skin, a tranquil mind, and a greater sense of connection with the universe. In Mayumi's Kitchen, the woman who worked for seven years as Madonna's private macrobiotic chef shares with the world her dazzling recipes.

Mayumi Nishimura's unique style of cooking is healthful, intuitive, and easy to stick with. She draws her inspiration not only from Japanese food, which she grew up eating, but also from Chinese, French, Italian, and any number of other world cuisines, as well as from macrobiotic traditions. She believes that enjoyment, above all, is the key to sustainable healthy eating, and that means adapting her cooking to cosmopolitan tastes. The reader will thus discover in her book a number of familiar-looking dishes prepared with macrobiotic as well as more conventional ingredients, in both Western and non-Western styles.

The centerpiece of Mayumi's Kitchen is her ten-day detox diet. Here readers can enjoy a macrobiotic menu that will transform them from the inside out. Following this are meal-planning tips and recipes for more than fifty dishes, including such favorites as Salmon Soup, Avocado Rolls, Vegetable Lasagna, and Seitan Pot Stickers. There is even a party-food section with recipes for spring rolls, tempura, pizza, and more.

In all, Mayumi introduces more than 130 mouthwatering recipes, all lavishly illustrated with color photographs. Many are explained in terms of their nutritional value or energy quality, and unfamiliar techniques are made clear with step-by-step pictures. For beginners and lifelong macrobiotic practitioners alike, these dishes will wow and delight.

From Mayumi’s Kitchen: Brownies

These brownies proved incredibly popular with Madonna’s back-up dancers, whom I sometimes made snacks for while on tour. Brownies have since become a favorite birthday treat. Makes one 8 × 8-inch (20 × 20-cm) pan.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup (110 g) unbleached white flour or barley flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup (80 g) maple sugar
• 1/4 cup (20 g) cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (90 g) sugarless chocolate chips

Wet Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp unsweetened soymilk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) rapeseed oil or other vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla
• Sea salt, to taste

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Oil a Pyrex or other square ovenproof pan. Or, for easier cleanup, line the pan with baking paper.

3. Place all DRY INGREDIENTS in one bowl and all WET INGREDIENTS in another. Mix well separately, then add the WET INGREDIENTS to the DRY INGREDIENTS and mix just enough to blend, using a spatula to prevent lumps.

4. Transfer to the pan, place on the middle rack of the oven, and bake for 20 minutes (time may vary depending on the oven; test for doneness with a toothpick). When a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean, remove from oven.

5. Allow to cool before cutting into squares and removing from the pan.

From Mayumi’s Kitchen: Strawberry Tempeh Smoothie

I invented this recipe for a Japanese TV show. They wanted me to demonstrate how to use tempeh in several different ways. It tastes wonderful and feels healthier than store-bought protein drinks. For a sweeter flavor, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or any natural sweetener of your choice. Serves 2.

Ingredients

• 1 oz (30 g) tempeh, steamed
• 8 to 10 strawberries
• 2 cups (480 ml) rice milk
• 1/4 tsp vanilla
• 1/8 tsp maca powder (optional)
• 1/8 tsp sea salt

Directions

1. Steam the tempeh for 15 minutes.

2. Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

good
its a basic microbiotic cookbook. i was looking for a little more flair and variety,but prob not gonna find it with this kind of a diet.

An interesting take on macrobiotic cooking
As a newcomer of macrobiotic cooking, this book opened up a whole new world for me, which is interesting and fascinating! The recipes are overall easy and accessible and appealing to all tastes! Thumbs up for Mayumi!

A must-have for healthy and delicious eating
I love this book.Mayumi's petit macro approach includes recipes that traditional Americans will love (pot pie, brownies, pizza) as well as please those who are already familiar with Japanese or macro cuisine.If you are able to obtain macrobiotic and Japanese ingredients and feel comfortable with them, I think this is definitely a must-have book.I am fortunate to live near an excellent health food store and 2 large gourmet supermarkets--essential for cooking from this book.(I only mention this as a warning of sorts, not as a sign of superiority!)It is not terribly expensive to make this food, but it may be difficult to find what you need in more remote areas.As for the food, it makes me feel light yet nourished.And it could not be more gorgeous! I hope to see more from Mayumi--her book Happy Petit Macro is still available only in Japan.(Note: there are minor typos, maybe only 3 or 4, that are thankfully not in the recipes--not a big deal to me, but worth a mention.)

Any macrobiotic or world cookery library needs this!
Mayumi's Kitchen: Macrobiotic Cooking for Body and Soul comes from a fine macrobiotic chef who cooked for Madonna and her family for seven years. Her approach to whole foods cuisine packs in over a hundred tested recipes and begins with a 10-day 'detox diet' to introduce newcomers to macrobiotic cooking, offering seasoned dieters a new look into dishes reflecting world cuisines and culinary trends alike. Any macrobiotic or world cookery library needs this!

This book has inspired me to write my first book review!
I found myself wanting to change over to a macrobiotic diet but felt intimidated by most macrobiotic cookbooks.A friend who is a macrobiotic chef recommended this book so I bought it.I fell in love with it immediately!The pictures are beautiful and the recipes are so well written.All the food, and I mean ALL the food, has been delicious.The 10-day detox is so great b/c I don't have to think about what to make next - it is laid out perfectly.What I love is that no matter what I make it comes out exactly as it looks in the book, which is very encouraging.Mayumi's seasonings and sauces are right on target.Her tofu mayonnaise is surprisingly better than regular mayo.This book inspires me to eat healthier.

The only complaint I have is that I wish there were twice as many recipes.Mayumi, please write another book soon!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Here is an updated edition of the dazzling style exploration of a unique pop-culture goddess.A sumptuous collection of Madonna Louise Ciccone's style effects, from Michigan childhood to English shires of motherhood. Every aspect of Madonna is examined, including her natural assets and the wildly inventive catalogue of personae that she and her style army have conjured up over the years. ... Read more

Product Description
Money can't buy love and being the wealthiest person in the world doesn't guarantee happiness.

Lotsa de Casha is the richest -- and most miserable -- man in the world. No matter how colossal his castles, how fast his horses, nor how big his sandwiches, he remains a gloomy old sourpuss -- until he embarks on a fantastic adventure that leads him to the discovery of life's greatest treasure...

What is the secret to happiness? Read Lotsa's story and find out... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

Fantastic book to teach a beautiful lesson!
All of Madonna's books have a message.This one is about giving to others and that is how you find true happiness.My daughter is 6 1/2 and all of Madonna's books have been on her 'favorites' list for over a year now.We give this book as a birthday gift to all of her 6 and 7-year old friends.The illustrations are like beautiful masterpieces from a museum, and the message is strong.

I don't just recommend this book (especially for girls...although the message is valid for boys as well) but ALL of Madonna's books.I originally doubted Madonna's ability to be a wonderful author, but once again, she rises to the occasion and does a fantastic job!My only regret is that she has only 6 books as I would love a series of her books like Seuss!

Get all of them!
These books are great for all children (and grown-up ones too!)...

A great read
We have bought all of the Madonna books and enjoy each of them but this is, by far, our favorite.Our 5 and 7 year old and I have so much fun reading it.I just love reading Losta's lines as they are written in English but with the Italian pronunciations.Our children laugh every time.The illustrations are gorgeous and there are many morals scattered throughout the book. It can be a bit preachy at times but the messages are all good.

books
I bought this book and the rest of madonna's books for my grandaughter . I love all Madonna's books.

Educational and fun
I read this to my daughter tonight, she is 4.5 and she loved it! She is more advanced in her vocabulary and understanding dialogue then others her age so this book was not too old for her. I always read with animation so using an accent for Mr. De Casha comes easy (one reviewer complained about). We enjoyed discussing it during and afterwards and the art is beautiful. I came to Amazon looking for the rest of her books which are in my cart right now! I would say it is more suitable for most older children (as it says in the description of the book) but it works for my daughter. I am excited to get the other children books in this series Madonna has written as they are entertaining and in addition filled with gorgeous art. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (6)

The Ruby Slippers...
Chris Epting's books should no longer require any reviews they are all great pieces of work, with each one just getting better.These books of Americana are an historians encyclopedia to America's past and present, and where those artifacts and places are today.I am sure you will see more from Chris - so add this one to your collection - you won't be disappointed.

Wonderful
This is an amazing reference guide for artifacts.I plan on using it in my around the US trip to find these amazing facts.I'd absolutly recommend this book.

interesting reading
Overall good book. Lots of pictures. Good for an afternoon read.Once its been read ==its been read.Don't find myself going back for a second look

I Love These Crazy Places
I really enjoyed this book.I collect "superlatives" and other weird roadside oddities - by "collect" I mean I really enjoy visiting as many as I can.This book lists a great collection of strange things and pop culture landmarks throughout the United States.I enjoyed the places and items included a great deal and it was a lot of fun seeing some of those crazy places that I have actually been to before!The only thing I would have liked better would be if the organization of them was a little different.PERSONALLY, I prefer these types of books to be organized geographically, although the index did include a geographical listing by state which was helpful.I also would have liked to get more information on the locations of the items - where they are and how to get there.

Other than those two criticisms, I love this book and was SO glad to have received it as a gift after putting it on my wishlist.I see that this author has other titles available and I plan to look into those now!

A Great Guide for a Great Day
Chris Epting first took us all over the US in his trilogy of American landmarks.He allowed us to stand where the famous, and at times infamous, moments in history occurred.Now, Epting put us in touch with the artifacts of many of these events.Epting cannot put us on the "yellow brick road;" yet, within the covers of "The Ruby Slippers, Madonna's Bra, and Einstein's Brain: The Locations of America's Pop Culture Artifacts" exists a goldmine of pop-culture "whereabouts."Some relics and there exact locations is information that folks like the Wicked Witch would die to know.Grab your cameras, get a copy of this book, take small children by the hand, and hit the road.It is a great alternative to wiring kids to their entertainment. ... Read more

Product Description
Explores the connection between ancient druidic worship of a virgin at Chartres and the veneration of the Black Madonna.

• Examines the Virgin Mary's origins in the pagan worship of the Mother Goddess.

• Identifies Mary with the dominant solar goddess of matriarchal societies.

The great cathedral of Chartres is renowned the world over as a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture and for its remarkable stained glass, considered alchemical glass, and its mystical labyrinth. But the sacred foundations of this sanctuary go back to a time long before Christianity when this site was a clearing where druids worshiped a Virgo Paritura: a virgin about to give birth. This ancient meeting place, where all the druids in Gaul gathered once a year, now houses the magnificent Chartres cathedral dedicated both to the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, and to one of the most venerated Black Madonnas in Europe: Our Lady of the Pillar. Coincidence? Hardly, says Jean Markale, whose exhaustive examination of the site traces Chartres' roots back to prehistoric times and the appeal of the Black Madonna back to the ancient widespread worship of Mother Goddesses such as Cybele and Isis.

Markale contends that the mother and child depicted by the Black Madonna are descended from the image worshipped by the druids of the Virgin forever giving birth. This image is not merely a representation of maternal love--albeit of a spiritual nature. It is a theological notion of great refinement: the Virgin gives birth ceaselessly to a world, a God, and a humanity in perpetual becoming. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Full of grace
The title of this work is a bit misleading. Rather than being about Chartres Cathedral itself, it focuses upon the development of the cult of the Virgin Mary, from the Roman and Celtic eras to early modern times. Author Markale has skilfully presented and examined the available historical evidence that pertains to the enigmatic Black Madonna statues and paintings that exist by the dozens throughout Europe, particularly in France. This is an engrossing and valuable study, but readers looking for specific information about the iconography contained within and without this most mystical of Christian cathedrals would do better to look elsewhere.

Fascinating Mystic Thoughts
Recommended if you are into Black Madonnas -- he goes beyond vague New Agey ramblings that attempt to connect Madonnas and various Pagan goddesses, and makes a connection between the Black Madonnas and Sun Goddesses which I thought was absolutely, well, brilliant.

Jean Markale is Brilliant
I love this man and wish more of his books were translated into English.His insight is phenonemal as well as his research.A must read 'before' your trip to Chartres.It arrived after I returned last year, but encouraged me to go again this year.

A stunning labyrinth of discovery
Jean Markale's books are an amazing journey of discovery through philosophy, gnosis, and the wonderful world of esoterica.He is a mystic and a scholar, he is a teacher and a guide.Markale will never force his conclusions upon you, rather he leads you to them and makes you think and feel for yourself.There is no dogma in his work, only wisdom.While he researches with the thorough tenacity of the most intrepid academic, he is never pendantic or stodgy in his conclusions.

There are layers of fascinating historical information within, the kind of detail that isn't found in a library, but that comes from Markale's lifelong love of his French homeland and the folklore and cultures that he was raised in.This is wisdom firsthand.It is experiential and real.

If you have an interest in ancient cultures, goddess worship, the sacred nature of the cathedrals and those who built them, and the path of Gnosis, there is much to love in this book.But don't expect a linear, typical journey.Markale is a genius, and he would never do anything that obvious.

Read it, put it away and read it a few months later.You will see something within it that you did not see before. ... Read more

Product Description
From the author of The Fat Girl's Guide to Life--an insightful and humorous memoir of one woman's quest to navigate the world of alternative healing.

At age 33, Wendy Shanker was on the verge of Have It All-itis: a Midwestern girl living in Manhattan, writing for television, mingling with celebrities, and publishing her first book. Plus, she had a fierce haircut. Life was good. Then suddenly, it wasn't.

Diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease, Wendy knew she was in for it- at the very least a cocktail of chemo and steroids (certain to challenge her body image), a bustling career put on hold, and a major hurdle to her dating life. When she ran out of medical options, Wendy found herself exploring everything from acupuncture, colonics, and energy healing to detox retreats, tarot card readers, and an intuitive therapist who wanted her to talk to her liver. Surely there must be a guru somewhere who can fix everything-right? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Buy This Book. Then Buy Some For Your Friends.
Witty, insightful, wise, smart-ass and fabulous. Armored with humor, brains, guts, fiercely loving family & friends and MAC Russian Red lipstick, Shanker takes us with her on the road to finding out there's a guerilla disease ambushing her gorgeous self, onward into the jungle of Western medicine, and then still further into the mysterious realm of alternative medicine, and championing your choices to the Big Guys in the world of traditional medical practice. How do you find humor in the maw of the beast? Shanker knows and she's brilliant and generous to share it with us. A true Hero's Journey, complete with dark cave, crossroads, seizing the elixir, and returning reborn. Get this book and find yourself - the warrior goddess - in its pages. Then get more for your warrior goddess friends.

So happy I found this book
Wendy's writing style is fantastic and she tells her story with brutal honestly. For anyone that has been faced with a life-threatening illness or has had "wellness" issues that western medicine can't quite address, this is the book for you. I certainly doesn't explain all the possibilities that exist in the world of complimentary medicine, but it helps empower you to "think outside the box" and realize that you ultimately have power to make choices for your health and well-being. It also presents that we must trust our intuition and be willing to make corrections as we navigate our path to good health. Thank you, Wendy.

Rare injection of humor into spirituality and alternative medicine exploration
No matter how you feel about so-called alternative spirituality and medicine, you can't fail to admit that its practitioners are overly earnest - which is why Wendy Shanker's "Are You My Guru?" is such a breath of fresh respiration. In her first memoir, "The Fat Girl's Guide to Life," Shanker addressed body image, only to be blindsided by the reality of a body that was not potentially merely (and subjectively) unattractive, but ill. In the body wars of aesthetics and self-acceptance, health barely even comes into the picture. Shanker's rare illness, Wegener's granulamotosis, realigns her priorities and prompts her to take charge with an unusually open mind. As she goes through the paces of Western medicine, she augments with anything and everything recommended to her by trusted sources. As you can imagine, in the right hands, this is darkly hilarious, and Shanker's are the right hands. Shanker is someone you want to go through just about anything with, to hear it in her simultaneously wise and hilarious voice. She transcends humor as defense and just uses it for truth. For Shanker's sake, let's hope she doesn't experience additional personal challenges, but for our own . . . The perfect book for anyone who has experienced a serious illness, body issues, struggled with Western vs. alternative medicine, or anyone who appreciates wisdom and humor.

Spirituality, Western and Eastern medimne, and Life With a Chronic Autoimmune Disease
Shanker offers up an incredibly moving, funny, intense look at living with an autoimmune disease. This memoir isn't an excoriation of Western medicine, but it does show how even with health insurance, when faced with a long-term illness like Shanker has, there is no easy or cheap answer.

She chronicles her career and weight ups and downs, which are balanced against the blunt drama of her illness; her nose starts to literally fall off, she can't smell, and her body is extremely compromised. To try to understand what's happening to her, she reads and researches but is also willing to try almost anything--except putting pigeons on her body to absorb her illness, which is suggested by her father and a rabbi. Through this episode, in all its outrageousness, Shanker also shows that when she was in the depths of, basically, bodily hell, she didn't stoop to something like this, but in the back of her mind there is at least the shadow of a question of whether it could have worked.

Shanker doesn't make light of her illness at all; in fact, I put this book down a few times because I had trouble with how terrible her life seemed at times, not because of her storytelling but because of the starkness of Wagener's granulomatosis. There is, however, both humor and an immense amount of heart as she navigates various philosophies regarding treatment. She rightly counters the healers who say that if you only wish hard enough, your illness will go away, but sends up and stumps one of her doctors when she manages to make her liver problems dissipate using Eastern methods. Shanker also offers advice to family and friends who are trying to help someone with a prolonged illness, and while she doesn't offer false hope, like her idol, she does offer a ray of light (and I do hope Madonna reads about the concert Shanker attends that makes that phrase truly come alive).

I laughed and I cried
I wish I had been able toread this book 5 years ago.
As a cancer survivor who had to learn to navigate the medical world, this would have been my guidebook.
Wendy Shanker'svery personal journey is written with humor and grace.She validates the need to know your own
body and be your own best advocate.Thank you ... Read more

Product Description

Material Girl . . . Immaculate sexpot . . . Superstar . . . Mother . . . Kabbalah enthusiast . . . For three decades she has defied categorization. . . . She remains one of our greatest living pop icons.

Customer Reviews (6)

Good but Wordy Book
This book was very informative with new information that I never knew about Madonna who is such a legendary artist. I really enjoyed delving into Madonna's life, but sometimes the author got too informative such as a big chunk of text about Catholicism. If I wanted to read about that, I'd pick up the Bible. The book is worth the time to read, but you'll definitely have to skim over a lot of "fluff" at times.

The Best Book About Madonna
"Madonna: Like An Icon" is probably the most insightful book about Madonna that I've ever read. It's not a trashy unauthorized biography, it is a serious look at Madonna as an artistic force to be reckoned with. Unfortunately, that may not be something everyone is into, because many people would rather buy into the myth of Madonna as a man-eating, sex-crazed control freak. The author of this book, Lucy O'Brien, has said that too many biographies of the icon have focused on her sex life and her image-changing at the expense of her work. Beneath the sometimes superficial facade, Madonna's work has a depth and sociological resonance that many people underestimate or fail to understand.

However, to be fair, this is not exactly a biography. But what's the point of a "Madonna biography" by now? Her life is the stuff of myth that even casual fans are familiar with. Instead, O'Brien only focuses attention on Madonna's personal life when it relates to her art, her passion and her identity as an artist. It's more of a character study, and a very insightful one. Her mother's subservience, religious fanaticism, and untimely death made Madonna reject traditional values. Although this is well-known by now, O'Brien adds dimension and legitimacy to this theory. The sexual assault she faced in New York compelled her to project an image of assertiveness and control, in order to prevent losing control and facing attack again. This dominating attitude was reflected in her work, constantly turning the tables on men in the game of sex. The details on her love life were also only mentioned when they related to her music. The vulnerability and loneliness she encountered during the crumbling of her marriage to Sean Penn made her create the confessional "Like a Prayer" while a string of disappointing lovers afterwards contributed to the cynical tone of "Erotica". There is also a great deal of attention that focused on her tours, her creative process, her cultural impact, and her artistic influences. I found this very refreshing. It showed how much the author respected and admired her as an artist, not just a "controversial chameleon". While O'Brien is a big fan of Madonna's, she is fair and objective when needed. She is rather critical of her "Sex" book and questions her interests in Kabbalah.

Something that I also enjoyed were the interviews from her collaborators and friends. They portrayed Madonna in a light that is very different than the "queen bitch" Madonna of legend. Many people remark on how warm, vulnerable, and sweet she can be in unguarded moments. Those intimate moments with close friends and trusted colleagues. I've always suspected that this version of Madonna is closer to the real thing than the controlled, imperious image she often presents to the world. The interviews with her collaborators also revealed how focused, savvy, direct, and, yes, wildly talented she is when working. Her work is her safe haven, the place where she can freely express herself and reveal herself and explore new territories. "Madonna: Like An Icon" drives that point home like no other book that I've ever read before.

'Like An Icon': An Intimate Study and Portrait of Madonna
One Amazon.com reviewer complained that 'Like An Icon' is just a re-hashing of old stories and that there's not much to this biography. I totally disagree. 'Like An Icon' by Lucy O'Brien dismantles the curious and elusive celebrity and pop 'icon' known as Madonna and pieces her back together, revealing her motivations, fears, accomplishments, setbacks and failures. While other biographies seem to take a distant, detached observer stand-point, re-telling the same stories and quotes that appear in magazines or through a simple Google search, O'Brien manages to truly delve into Madonna and her psyche, making for an intimate and very revealing case study. Having listened to Madonna's music and albums, I was hesitant to give this biography a try because I was afraid it would be the usual run-of-the-mill biography that didn't reveal much more than I already knew. I am glad to say that I was completely wrong.

'Like An Icon' is not perfect. It's strange; it covers Madonna from birth through motherhood, from the debut self-titled 'Madonna' album through the very early stages of 'Hard Candy'. I expected the more recent material, perhaps the 2000s onward, would be the most revealing due to the access of information. This is not the case. The most telling chapters of the book are of early, pre-fame Madonna. We learn of her parents, of her relationship with her mother and her issues with her father and brothers, all of which are reflected in some of her modern songs. We learn of Madonna's sexual assault, and how she manages to embrace sex later on in her career in an attempt to profit from it. The book reveals back stories of many of her albums and individual songs, making for a very interesting read. As a reader, I found myself most interested in reading of how Madonna approached each album and how each was, in some way, an attempt to either top herself or a response to the previous album's failure. The reader is treated to very rare side of Madonna; an intimate, up-close and personal look at a woman deemed an icon. She's revealed to be shy, reserved, unsure of herself at times. Yet, as the chapters go forward, and we see Madonna evolve from a dancer trying to make it in New York to a spiritual, devoted mother grappling with the desire for fame and immortality while rising above her flaws.

In a curious move, I found the later or modern chapters of 'Like An Icon' to be lacking in some respect. The earlier chapters reveal a very colorful portrait of Madonna, making you believe that O'Brien was always behind her and taking notes from conception through each album. The later chapters reveals a very changed Madonna; one who is in some respects more tame, conservative, coarse and a tad bit unlikable. There's less insight into the album and music-making process after the 'Ray of Light' era. While O'Brien touches on everything from 'Music', 'American Life', the tours, the infamous VMA Britney smooch, these chapters felt very reserved and pulled back, as if the older Madonna became, the more elusive she became and the harder it was to capture her essence in prose. By far the most interesting chapters were from the end of the 'Like a Prayer' era through the notorious 'Sex' chapter, showing how Madonna went from the safe 'pop' realm to the dark, adult artistic realm and how it threatened her fame and changed her.

After reading this biography, I feel as if I understand Madonna a great deal more. Even though the book doesn't delve into the 'Hard Candy' era, having read about Madonna's evolution through the years even has left me with some understanding as to why she may be, in some respects, finally looking back and going with styles and trends that aren't groundbreaking but are rather dated and familiar to her. O'Brien does a wonderful job of revealing situations and instances in Madonna's life that fans would recognize as themes in Madonna's musics, videos or photos. Yes, like any biography of a celebrity, especially one as exposed and one with a long career like that of Madonna, there's going to be rehashing of stories already told, familiar quotes, a sense of deja vu, but trust me - this is really the 'definitive' biography and the only one you will need to read if you are curious to know more about Madonna. It's not all pleasant; O'Brien's portrayal of Madonna in her later years is not very flattering and questions the star's motivations. Yet, this made the biography all the more great to me. This was a full, round-about look at Madonna and her rise to fame. It's an explanation of why she's managed to keep her career afloat through the years while many of her '80s contemporaries have faded off into obscurity. It's an explanation of why each generation still talks about Madonna and knows a different side or iteration of her. It's a case and study of why Madonna is indeed a pop icon and visual artist. This is a great story and holds little back; definitely worth your attention and read.

Excellent bio!
This is great! Buy it NOW! The author reviews Madonna's life and music while talking about her own growing up listening to M's tunes! Madonna's music makes the people come together and really is the OST of our lives! Like an icon? Absolutely!

More re-hash than definitive
I've almost reached the end of this book. I feel kind of cheated. This was supposed to be the "definitive" Madonna biography. Instead, what you get are the same old stories re-hashed with maybe a bit of extra totally extraneous information. For example, I don't really care to know the exact address of Madonna's family home in Pontiac, but would've liked a bit more insight into what really makes her tick. This book basically runs methodically through every album release, every tour and throws in comments from some people who knew her. It's lazily written, there's no real analysis going on here. O'Brien makes statements about Madonna and just leaves it hanging (or makes comparisons to herself). I did kind of enjoy reading the book anticipating some new information - and there were a few morsels, but not nearly enough. Her family are barely mentioned, but we get what seems every detail of every album she's ever recorded! It just feels impersonal - I wanted to read about Madonna, not about everything I already knew about her career. Only buy this if you know almost nothing about Madonna's life and career. You'll end up knowing alot about her career and chart positions etc. But you'll learn almost nothing about the woman herself. This is the biography of a career, not a person. I think I'll wait for the autobiography.... ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (6)

Surprisingly an Awesome Read
Never heard of Eric Maisel before but the cover drew me to the book because A) I recently discovered that I am too a writer hiding in corporate smocks and B) The view of the coverart is the exact view from my apt.

Maisel's style resonates with me greatly. The way he chooses to crochet his words is truly an art form and a skill to be admired. Not only are his essays poignant to any San Franciscan, each in itself is truly a love letter to his city reminiscent of a soldier in arms writing back to his betrothed. Excellent read - found myself nodding in agreement throughout the entire book. A must read!

Food for the starving artist
Every year in December I read a creativity book and take as much time as I can to rejuvinate my creative soul and decide what projects I want to focus on in the coming year. Last year I read A Writer's Paris and this year I read A Writer's San Francisco. Both books are wonderful, inspirational texts that will help any writer find creative energy and meaning through their work. The first book made me want to get out and travel the world, using the opportunity to hone my senses and gather new experiences for my writing. It was wonderful, as far as that goes, but I don't generally have the money to fly off to Paris for a month, or even a week, to feed my creative soul. You can tell Maisel lives in San Francisco, while he himself has been only a tourist in Paris, because the second book brings writing home. It makes you appreciate your own home town, even if it's not as artist-friendly as San Francisco, and it offers an illuminating look inside a successful writer's daily life with out the rules and regulations so often laid out in "a writer's life" type of book. Recommended for all aspiring, struggling, and successful writers.

Midwest Book Review:December 2006 Issue
From Bernal Hill to Washington Square Park, Alcatraz Island to the West Portal Tunnel, Eric Maisel has traveled physically and metaphorically, and in this beautiful new book, he gives the reader a guided tour of heart, soul, and place.

The physical book is stunningly beautiful. Paul Madonna's colorful drawings of buildings, streets, interiors, and still-life scenes add amazing depth to the narrative. A center foldout shows a typically hilly San Francisco street full of narrow houses and flats with a view to the Golden Gate Bridge. Quotations by Imogen Cunningham, Dylan Thomas, Mark, Twain, and Oscar Wilde on the reverse side attest to the strength and attractions of the city.

Those who have followed Maisel's career, read his books on writing, received his frequent newsletters, and participated in his creativity workshops will be further entranced by this book of reflections, memories, and wise observations, but any author or artist who has fallen in love with a city - or, indeed, any place - will find this "Guided Journey of the Creative Soul" irresistible. Highly recommended. ~Lori L. Lake, Midwest Book Review

A Writer Writing for Writers
I just finished reading A Writer's San Francisco and I'll be buying extra copies to give as gifts. I think this one is even better than A Writer's Paris (which BTW was also very good). With A Writer's San Francisco, Eric Maisel manages to weave history, his personal connections to the city and the best of his creativity coaching lessons together into a delicious mix. The wonderful illustrations by Paul Madonna were paired with the essays to compliment them perfectly.
A Writer's Paris made me consider it viable to go to Paris for a writing vacation.A Writer's San Francisco is even bigger than that--it's a writer writing for writers and revealing why it's important to write, how connection to place and events can be so meaningful and rich, and how non-fiction essays can be creative and satisfying.
This really is a great idea--I can hardly wait to read the next city that Maisel profiles from his unique perspective and writer's experience.

A real find.
I opened the book randomly to page 33, where the first line of the chapter read, "For a year I dated a schizophrenic poet-- let's call her Carol."

This is a travel guide?!

This essay was about a woman who hallucinated roses and poked strangers in the midriff and ended up institutionalized for some time, but who also wrote and recited poetry when she was "sane." And at one reading, a woman came up to her and said, "You are a real poet." It's the validation every writer craves, and it's the theme of this essay. Sure, the setting is San Francisco, but this is no "You must see this fine little café with the lovely murals" guide.

Having been drawn in by this essay, I flipped back to the first page and began reading. It's even more of a niche book than I imagined. It's written for nonreligious Democrat novelists who consider themselves "artists" and love San Francisco. I am precisely none of these things.

Considering how far out of his target market I am, I probably shouldn't have enjoyed this book. But I did. I enjoyed it despite wanting to toss mackerel at his kneecaps a few times. I enjoyed it partly because of that, maybe. What really matters, above all else, is that he's writing about the lives of writers. And even if I roll my eyes at the idea of "artistes" in coffee houses, we're going to have a lot in common.

The experience of walking into a bookstore and finding out someone else has already written the book you were planning to write, for instance. Trying to write even through tragedy and pressures. Missing a fabulous writing opportunity because you were in the wrong place at the right time. Blowing your first public speaking engagement in support of your book. Having conversations about the meanings of words like "haberdashery."

There are brilliant sentences and paragraphs here, things you'll wish you wrote. There are experiences you'll "get" even if you've never had them. This is part of the brotherhood and sisterhood of writers. The part that believes, regardless of what we write and where we live and what demographic boxes we check on subscription forms, that the merits of our work are still important. That those who try to belittle the craft should have their noses rearranged. That writing matters.

... Read more

Product Description
From the foreword:`On 12 February, 1979, a quiet, shy young woman walked into my studio for the first time.She was the nude model for my photography class that evening.She said that she was a dancer, her name was Madonna Ciccone.She was not only a welcome relief from the average lumpy, but sweet, art-class model, but she was also one of the loveliest models I ever photographed. This book is a celebration of the human form, a dedication to an innocent, determined young woman and to all figure models.It is a tribute to Madonna and anyone like her who aspires and through ambition, hard work and perseverance, achieves their goal.Bravo.` ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Back when Madonna had dark hair
... and a surname. These photos were taken when she was just 20. She still had some youthful roundness in her face back then, and made the most of that youthfulness in a few "girl with her kitty" picturs here. (I'll assume the visual pun was intended.)

Some pictures, like the cover shot of M in her longjohns, don't do much for me. (These pictures were taken in New York in February. The longies and conspicuous space heater in a few shots make sense, even if they're not esthetic.) Many of the other poses tend toward the standard. But, when a healthy young woman is involved, even standard poses serve to emphasize the unique features of her face and figure. A few shots close in on her breasts and - well, I've had a girlfriend like that. It's just a way some ladies are.

As figure photo, this isn't anything special. Only Madonna's later fame keeps this book in print thirty years after the pictures were taken.

-- wiredweird

madonna 1979 nudes
ok, i love this collection, i am sure madonna doesnt like the photos out there and the photogapher still making money off her image (since she was only paid 100.00 back in 1979). but her Body is AMAZING. perfection! and she was so young and innocent - something so pure about these photos. i wounder if at the time She knew what was in store for her ?!

Not an indispensable book on Madonna
Those who expect a significant collection of images of Madonna will be disappointed. First of all the book containsa very limited number of pictures, not more than 12 or 13 all in all. Many of the pictures are just the same image cropped differently. The central page is just the same image flipped 180 degrees. The image quality is rather poor and most of them are just showtorsos and pubic hair with no face. Lighting and composition are ordinary, and so are the props used. The images that Playboy published in 1985 (which were far better) are not included here.The only interesting thing (sort of, for those who like these things) is the photo of the model release form signed by Madonna.Although the book doesn't cost much, it is a total waste and you'd better save it for soomething else.

Very tasteful look at early Madonna
In the foreword, Martin Schreiber, then a struggling photographer in NYC, describes a young model who entered his studio on 12 February 1979 and for a short time, posed for him.That model was Madonna Louise Ciccone.Some of those photos ended up in the September 85 Playboy, after Like A Virgin exploded over the face of pop.Schreiber describes this book as "a celebration of the human form, a dedication to an innocent, determined young woman, and to all figure models."Given the photos that were shot, I'd concur.$30 for three hours, as the consent form signed by her says.Well, that three hour session yielded some really tasteful b&w photography, the highlights of which are blown up for this book.The last pages show the safety film of the complete sessions.

This particular form, done in various lighting and shadows, is quite appealing and artful.One full frontal shot of her, spanning 8 through 8A on the safety film, with the head cut off, would make an excellent Greek or Roman statue.

The frontal sphinx-like crouching shots of her are nice.A striped cat is crouched inbetween her arms.The next shot, the cat is gone, she is in the same position, and there's a view of her pubic hair in shadows.The cat comes out in two other shots of her, including the book cover photo.BTW, Madonna isn't smiling in these shots but maintains a dignified expression throughout.

Think about it though.These were taken in 1979, years before Like A Virgin, MTV, Sean Penn, Blonde Ambition, Evita, and the bogus British accent she has now affected.Often times, early activities by an actor or singer (think Sylvester Stallone) reveals some embarassing moments, but this isn't one of them, as the Certain Sacrifice movie was.No, years from now, Madonna can look through these pictures and remember the simpler times.P.S.I wonder if the cat got an autographed copy of Like A Virgin from her.

To the figure model
Martin H. M. Schreiber made this book as a dedication to Madonna and all figure models. It is a glance into the ambition and dedication that Madonna and other models have. Beyond the obvious conotations provided by the mystique that is Madonna today, we can find the simple beauty of a young woman expressing the beauty of her body. The works in this book are simple, but they have a subtle delicacy to them that I really appreciated. ... Read more