price：$20.04
Oster
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Well now...) 『As I write this, 70 people have given it 5 stars and 35 have given it 1 star... So, for every 2 who just love it, 1 person hates it. I'm giving it 5 stars because I'm one of the ones who loves this machine.
I have had mine for 3 years and it's been a real work horse for me. Mostly, I use the dough cycle, for rolls mainly, and then bake them in the oven. I have baked bread in the machine quite a bit though, especially fruit breads, and they turn out great.
When I started mine up this morning, the touch-pad-controls for the cycle were non responsive. Finally, after continually pushing it, it went to the cycle for me.
I came to Amazon to order a new one but, after reading these reviews, will purchase it locally instead. My reasoning is that, if I do get a machine that lets me down, at least I won't have to pay the shipping both ways, and on something as heavy as a bread maker. Amazon offers free shipping but, if you return it, they will charge back the shipping both ways (or at least they did that on another product that I returned because it was defective.) The price is the same at Wal-Mart.
That said, as others have mentioned, the book that came with the machine is pretty basic. It will walk you through making your first loaf of bread though. If you would like to see the manual before purchasing, you can download it on Oster's main website. There are loads of bread-machine recipes out there on the web (too many to ever try!) and I haven't had any problems using this machine to make them. I have found recipes on the web for our favorite steak-house brown rolls, those heavenly cinnamon rolls, you-know-who's pan pizza dough, etc.
All bread maker manuals that I have seen tell you to add the wet ingredients first and to add the yeast, on top, last. I like to proof the yeast first by warming the liquid in the microwave for about 20 seconds then adding the sugar and yeast and letting it sit for a few minutes until it starts to "grow." My breads always turn out and I've never been hit by lightening for disobeying the manual. Also, I store my yeast in the freezer. .』
(Great machine) 『I finally got rid of my old Oster and replaced it with this one. It works great and I like the sleek look. Makes bread perfectly, and I enjoy the true loaf style. I think the medium crust is too crusty and dry, so I'm just using the light setting.』
(Do Not Buy) 『I received the Oster 5838 Breadmaker for a gift. It would not work. I returned it. Then I got another Oster 5838 Breadmaker in return. I have used it three times. Now it continues to register the error message E01. Now what? I would not recommend this breadmaker.』
(Very Unhappy with product) 『I read the reviews for this and there were a lot of people that were happy and a lot that were not happy with this product. I have a friend who has this same machine and loves it so I thought I would give it a try. Big mistake! I made 7 loaves of bread following the directions exactly, and not a single loaf turned out. Everyone rose like it was supposed to but then the middle dropped during baking. I would not recommend this product. I will say that when I returned this item back to Amazon, I received a prompt refund.』
(Oster Breadmachine is the best) 『I have worn out two Oster Breadmachines and loved them. I tried another brand when the second one wore out and was very disappointed. So I sent it back and ordered another Oster. It does the best job of making a good textured, even crust color loaf of bread. I am very happy once again.』 『Versatile - makes 1 lb., 1.5 lb, or 2 lb. Family-size horizontal loaves.Make a variety of all-natural breads with 18 bread settings&3 crust color selections.Easy to use manual with over 50 recipes included.Come home to fresh baked bread with the 13 hour delay bake timer.Simple and easy to use with 3-step programming.Create fresh bread fast with 58 minute Express Bake cycle.Serve the bread when you are ready with the 60 minute keep warm features.Add fruits&nuts with ease with audible add in signal.Modern oval design offers large glass view window, removable lid, non-stick aluminum bread pan, and cool touch exterior.』
price：$52.44
Zojirushi
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (One Year Later "I love it") 『I purchased this for a friend. I thought (at this price) it would have a stainless steel interior cooking bowl and interior. Poor assumption on my part. My friend will not eat from ANYTHING with an aluminum surface so I ended up keeping it for myself. The unit has an aluminum lid the bowl is aluminum that is coated with a non-stick surface inside and out. It is very easy to clean. It is a top quality unit no doubt. The interior bowl is marked for water level and you get a scoop with a prescribed size for the unit. I have cooked white rice, brown rice and steel cut oatmeal in it. For my liking the white rice needs more water than the bowl measure requests. My origional thought was the unit was too expensive for what it did but I like it very much.
After one year of use, I can't say that there is another appliance that I have enjoyed and got so much use out of. I am a fan of this appliance beyond words. The rice is always the same, perfect. I add a little extra water for my liking.』
(Who'd have thought...) 『I used to make rice on the stove. It's not hard to do, really, so the idea of getting a rice cooker seemed a bit of a waste. But man, was I wrong. The rice this thing produces is on another level. The porridge setting is great for rice pudding or congee, which I have had nothing but great success with the white rice, sushi rice and brown rice options. The only downside is that it's not predictive when you initially start cooking the rice, so it's a bit of a gamble how long it will take to cook. The fuzzy logic unit determines when the rice is done and the timer begins to count down after an unfixed amount of time. The quantity produced by this unit is suitable for 3 people, but anything more I'd suggest the bigger unit.
Summary: Buy this rice cooker.』
(I love this machine!) 『I absolutely love rice. But I am the only one in my household who eats it and I never took the time to cook on stovetop just for myself. The only time I would ever eat rice would be at a restaurant (which is hardly ever). After reading all the favorable reviews I decided to splurge on myself and boy am I ever happy I did. Perfect - Perfect - Perfect every time. I have made white rice and steel cut oats and the results were awesome! I just purchased some whole grain brown rice and can't wait to try it. I would like to thank all previous reviewers because the information contained is very valuable for a new user. Lots of good tips about rice and the machine itself. You cannot go wrong buying this product. Very good gift idea as well!
Update: Brown rice turned out great first try! Clean up really is a breeze!!』
(Nice rice cooker) 『This rice cooker performs well and is reasonably priced for what you get. The capacity is plenty for a small family of 2 or 3, but not enough for feeding a large group. Be sure to follow the cooker's directions exactly, or the rice won't turn out. If you use the measuring cup that comes with the machine, the rice comes out perfect every time. The grains are fluffy and separate, but sticky enough to eat with chopsticks. The retractable cord doesn't work very well, which is to be expected. It takes about the same amount of time as doing rice properly on the stove. Overall, I am very pleased with this rice cooker. The machine comes preset with a horrifying midi of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star", but you can change it.』
(Excellent for a small family.) 『The Zojirushi Micom 3-cup rice cooker and warmer arrived a few days after being ordered from Warehouse Deals by Amazon. It appeared to be a new, unopened item. It had been discounted because of neglible damage to one of the corners of the outer box. The contents of the box were in perfect shape. I wouldn't hesitate to order from Warehouse Deals again.
I love making steel cut oats in this cooker. Just add oats and water the night before, set the program for "porridge," set the timer to when you want the oats to be ready the next morning, and wake up to perfectly-cooked oats. No more standing over the stove and constantly stirring to keep the oats from sticking! This cooker also does a great job with other grains, including quinoa and hulled barley. I'm still trying to perfect brown rice. So far, it tends to come out a bit stickier than I would like, despite washing the rice thoroughly before cooking.
I was skeptical about spending over $100 for a rice cooker, but after using it 2 or 3 times a week for the last month, I'm sold on the convenience. The cooker is well constructed, looks good for an electronic appliance, and takes up minimal space in my small kitchen. Highly recommended!』 『Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker&Warmer NS LAC05 Fuzzy Logic - Zojirushi NS LAC05』
price：$2.01
Presto
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Great Timer/Clock/etc.) 『I was looking for a timer I could hear just about any place in the house and this one does that. Not only is it loud, there are 4 separate timers, a clock and a stop watch. Great value.』
(Stopped Beeping) 『The timer worked fine for about the first 6 months, although I'd have to hunt down the manual to figure out how to reset the stopwatch occasionally because it wasn't intuitive. But then it stopped beeping when time was up. I've tried changing the battery, checking the manual and website, even tried emailing Presto and no luck. A timer that doesn't make any sound doesn't do you much good!』
(Doesn't work) 『I bought two of these. One never worked at all and the second one worked for awhile and then tonight it kept ringing and the only way to get it to stop was take out the battery.
I have used clock timers for years and given them as gifts. I find this one is more difficult to use then other timers I have bought.
The Westbend timers I have are great and still running after ten years.』
(Good, but can be better) 『I used this timer for more than two years. It is still working fine. I like it because it uses regular batteries instead of those tiny button batteries which are used up quickly. However, it could need some improvement before it can be better. First, the timer 1 has no memory. You have to reenter the time every time. Second, it is not convenient to push the memory button to circle back to the present timer setting, if you want to use the present timer setting. Third, after two years, the buttons become "rigid". You need to press harder to get the setting. Besides these, it is a good timer.』
(too quiet) 『I am dissatisfied with this timer. When I have the exhaust fan on the timer beep can not be heard. In general the beep is too quiet for me.』 『4 functions - timer, stop watch, calendar, and clock. Loud electric tone signals when time is up. Easy-to-read LCD digital display shows hours, minutes and seconds. Accurately times up to 24 hours in counter-up or counter-down mode. Memory stores 3 differ ent timer settings. Time up to 4 activities at once. Special clip on back converts to an easel stand and has a magnet for use on metal surfaces. Heavy-duty battery included.』 『Some purist cooks claim to have an instinctive inner timer, but most people need a little help remembering when to take the roast out or punch down the bread dough for its second rise. The Presto four-in-one Electronic Clock/Timer fulfills that basic function, but it doesn't stop there.
When not in use as a timer, the time and date--month, day, year, and day of the week--are displayed. There's also a stopwatch function that's useful in many ways, and not necessarily only in the kitchen. The easy-to-read display is helpful when there's kitchen work going on; that way it can hang up out of the way and stay clean. A loud tone sounds when the time is up; and the memory function stores up to three countdown times for reuse. The versatile clip can also become an easel stand, and it has a magnet, too--it's good to go wherever it's needed.
The Presto electronic Clock/Timer operates on one AAA battery (one battery is included.) The Clock/Timer is not immersible; it can be carefully wiped clean with a slightly damp rag. The timer measures 2-1/2 inches by 2-1/2 inches. A sheet detailing containing operating instructions is included. Presto guarantees this product with a limited one-year warranty.--Garland Withers』
price：$16.98
Caravan Music UK
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Variety is, indeed the spice...........) 『I'm relatively new to bellydancing and bellydance music. I have found on a lot of bellydance albums that, after a while, the songs become numbingly repetitive, and I get tired of listening to them. This album had so much variety in the styles and tempos of the songs, I enjoyed listening to it to the end. Clean, clear, crisp arrangements and recording as well. I was even inspired to get up and dance a few steps (and, I was at work). I think I understand now, just a bit, what it means to be carried and inspired by great bellydance music.
My only wish would be for more detailed liner notes -- orgins of songs, breakdown of rhythms, etc.
Overall, a beautiful, vibrant, luscious offering. 』
(Fantastic traditional belly dance music) 『This CD provides a range of quality artists performing quality traditional bellydance music. Many of the tracks count as 'essential listening' for bellydancers - I recall quite a few from my early classes. There is a range from classic Egyptian cabaret through to folkloric tunes, and basic notes about which category each track falls into are included. Despite being more tribal fusion in my own dance focus and music taste, I still appreciate this as a great collection of classic belly dance music.』
(Great Bellydance music) 『After listening to them for over ten times, they finally touched my heart and I love them! Several of them became my favorite! Give it a try and be patient. You will be happily rewarded.』
(Very Nice) 『This is a great starter CD for dancers, it comes with a lot of different tempos and beats which gives you a wide range of options for practice and performance!』
price：$12.00
Legacy International
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (History, Relaxation and Good Qi) 『If you are looking for the soothing sounds of the East to help you focus your Qi... I would recommend this.』
(I ws expecting more) 『I am not fully familiar with traditional music from China other then what you hear on movies. This album to me was more of a learning about the various instruments and their sounds than music to relax too. It has a beauty of its own - just not what I was expecting.』
(Poetry) 『Stark. Discordant. Primitive. Traditional Chinese. Beautiful poetry of sound. The history of the Chinese culture and the sounds of ancient instruments are on display here.』
(ANCIENT MUSIC OF CHINA) 『FOR ANYONE WHO IS A MUSIC LOVR OF ALL CULTURES, THIS IS ANOTHER WONDERFUL CD. THE EXPLANTIONS OF THE DIFFERENT MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND THE HISTORY BEHIND THE MUSIC IS JUST WONDERFUL AND ENLIGHTENING.』
(Excellent real Chinese music) 『Traditional instruments, historical recordings. "Some Ways of Touching the Ch'in" is a demonstration of zither technique. The brief liner notes mention that the final track is a piece for orchestra with solo for small oboe; well, "orchestra" in this sense is the Chinese version with percussion and stringed intruments -- I think of the accompaniment to the puppet show in the movie "To Live". The pipa is featured on several tracks, such as "Ambush". Soloists and the name of each instrument featured are listed for each track. This great CD is an hour in length.』 『Eleven Centuries Of Traditional Chinese Music by Chinese Traditional Group
This product is manufactured on demand using CD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply.
price：$15.98
Putumayo World Music
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (great CD) 『I was first sent the wrong CD by mistake, but the seller was quick to correct the error.』
(World music) 『Love this CD. Great for background music at parties or long road trips. Funky, jazzy, hip-hop, fun. Ethnic eclectic sound.』
(Family music bonding) 『My two boys (age 2 and 7) LOVE this CD. We play it almost on a daily basis and they dance around all over the house to it. After a year, it still has this effect to them. Their favorite track is the 2nd one. I rarely get to listen to the whole CD through before they are jumping around asking for "TRACK 2! TRACK 2!"
This is by far my (our) favorite Putumayo compilation!』
(A cocktail party for the ear) 『I received this CD as a gift from my younger sister&I STILL enjoy it.It's worth every listen.
This CD kicked off Putumayo's Lounge series,giving it an auspicious start.There are tracks I enjoy more than others,but it isn't a weak album;there aren't fillers.The best tracks are those by Pink Martini,Nicola Conte,Jasmon,Mo'Horizons,Gotan Project,Hamid Baroudi,Montefiori Cocktail,Arling&Cameron,and Blue Asia.Mau Mau&Dissidenten aren't my favorites;as you can see,99% of the CD is pure perfection.
The music uses a variety of styles.Nicola Conte,Jasmon,as well as Arling&Cameron use Bollywood as inspiration."Shiva's Daughters" is loveably cheesy.Hamid Baroudi&Blue Asia make haunting Middle Eastern melodies.Mo'Horizons&Gotan Project have more Latin flavors.Montefiori Cocktail turns a Brazilian bossa nova tune into kitschy bliss.Pink Martini from Portland,Oregon (being from Oregon,I'm proud of them)gives a nod to chanson.
This CD is intoxicating;it's a musical margarita.』
(Great CD for Variety and Fun Listening) 『I have had this CD for a while and I really enjoy it. I actually play it quietly in the background when I teach Pilates and the class LOVES it....every time I use it at least one person comments on my "great" music...I always share the title with them. Great music is meant to be shared!!』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (good) 『Wery good to see local trains with local people. Music can take off the film.』
(Cute kids) 『This is a harmless, pleasant video showing a lot of southern Asia. The best thing about it is probably the children. The Travel the World by Train series shows us lots of adorable little kids of different countries.』
(First-rate production values, but superficial coverage.) 『Like all the TWBT DVD's (there are 10) this one has excellent video quality - sharp, good color, professional narration - but it really tries to cover too much ground in an hour. You get a glance of the train station, a few shots of the passengers and a scenic view or two from the moving train, and then you are at the next location, maybe with a shot or two of a few famous sights. There is NO"railfan"data about the types of locomotives, rolling stock, etc. Overall, I believe you do get your money's worth but look elswhere for in-depth coverage of the countries visited or the details of train operation.』 『Beginning amid the Buddhist temples of Myanmar, the railroad odyssey featured inTravel the World by Train: Asiatakes the viewer aboard trains in six nations in Southeast Asia before leaping to Beijing, where the final leg of the trip is an amazing 5,700-mile jaunt through China and across Kazakhstan to the final destination of Moscow. This video often leaves the rail route for side trips to temple ruins and other equally startling sights in the countries along the way, and the footage of scenery as well as of trains is always professional and often quite striking. The trip through Vietnam, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, aboard the Reunification Express surprises with its appreciation for the natural beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. The video really doesn't offer much information about how Westerners could book such a trip for themselves, and some shots aboard the trains indicate that some of the accommodations (hammocks swinging in crowded train cars and lunches of chicken feet served on skewers) probably wouldn't entice most Western tourists anyway. But what the video lacks in practical instruction it makes up for with glorious footage of trains and remarkable scenery.--Robert J. McNamara』 『Travel five continents in a 55 country rail trip in this ten part series. On this journey, we travel through six countries in South East Asia and across the Siberian continent from Bejing to Moscow.』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Works just fine) 『Plug is exactly what you see. Been using 3 months and only issue is if I plug my cord into adapter until it is seating completely, contact is lost, had to pull plug out approx 1/16" to gain contact.』
(Didn't hold the plug) 『The adaptor works, but the plug won't stay in. My husband has overcome the problem with some sticky tape - at least he can shave while in the UK - but that isn't really the idea. My advice would be not to bother with this one: instead, spend a bit more and get better quality.』 『Converts grounded US and Australian plus 2 prong European plugs to grounded U.K.』
タイトル『 Golden Asia Solar #C5111A FS Pumpkin Solar Light >
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price：$16.75
GOLDEN ASIA SOLAR INDUSTRIAL
『Four Seasons, Translucent Pumpkin Solar Light, 2 Flashing Amber LED, One 600 Mah, 1.2 V "AA" Nicd Battery, Running Time Up To 8 Hours On Full Battery, 6 To 8 Hours Exposure To Full Sunlight For Full Charge, Using Crystalline Silicion Solar Cells For Maximum Charge, Built In Light Sensor That Will Turn Light On Automatically Upon Nighttime, Pumpkin Made From Translucent Poly Resin Material That Will Glow At Night, For Replacement Battery Use True Value #775-173.』 タイトル『 Unique Simple Tropical Asian Style - 20" Bamboo Ceramic Lamp w/ Earthtone Ice Crackle Glaze >
price：$2.00
Eros Entertainment
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Enchanting and warm family movie) 『This is a simple, highly entertaining, family oriented movie. The plot revolves around the concepts of friendship and life priorities based on values. The song Khudaya Khair is particularly captivating and can be downloaded from Amazon.com Billu Barber (2008) CD. It is impossible to get tired from listening to this beautiful song. This was the second Bollywood movie I ever watched, and its beauty stuck to my mind. Irrfan Khan as Billu steals the show. Lara Dutta fits well the role of a gorgeous and at the same time humble and kind wife. The last scene is obviously sentimental but effective. I do not believe in writing spoilers in reviews, although this certainly is not a movie for those who expect big surprises. Beauty and simplicity in life can go together very well.』
(Not Too Bad) 『Despite Sharukh Khan's mediocre acting and larger than life personality in almost each and every one of his films, he comes through as a all-around entertainer. I don't think that Shahrukh Khan is a good actor, but he has a charismatic personality that attracts attention, keep an audience loyal. Irfan Khan plays his role beautifully and I personally find him to be a more mature, versatile actor than most of his Bollywood peers. I only gave this film three stars because I tend to be very critical of Bollywood films and actors in general. But this film is a winner and very much enjoyable. Buy it!』
(A Simple Story Beautifully Told) 『How many Chinese Malaysians would give an Indian produced Hindi movie 5 stars? This speaks strongly for one of the best movies I've seen in a long time - in any language. This goes far beyond your typical Bollywood masala to serve up a really touching story about dignity and friendship. Irrfan Khan is a class act and Shah Rukh Khan pokes fun at his screen persona, with some great in-jokes to keep Bollyphiles - and this viewer - very happy and impressed. A real must-see.』
(Some good music and dance numbers. One for SRK fans) 『This is a movie about a poor village barber (Irrfan Khan) who had mentioned in passing once that he used to be a friend of the biggest Bollywood star (Shahrukh Khan playing a character close to himself). The star comes to the village to film for a movie. Everyone pushes the barber to meet his old friend but the barber keeps avoiding this. Is it because he's ashamed of his poverty or thinks a famous man wont remember him? Or did he ever know him and perhaps made it all up? The movie's focus is on the barber so while SRK is woven throughout the movie he is very much secondary to the barbers story, and how 'ordinary people' react in various ways to celebrity. Irrfan does a good job but his wife (Lara Dutta) didn't look that 'villagey' (more like a Bollywood lady dressed as a poor woman). SRK plays the star appropriately well. He has charisma that is tangible whenever he is on screen. The best parts of the movie for me were the very showy song and dance numbers (done as scenes from the movie being shot). SRK partners with Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Deepika Padukone in separate big numbers. If something slipped it from higher potential it was a slowness and repetitiveness at times with people trying to persuade the barber to contact his friend and him dodging that. Another biggie was a speech SRK gives at the end that went on and on to spin into greater absurdity (even for Bollywood). However the movie's heart is in the right place. It is an entertainer, SRK I find always watchable even when he reaches for some excesses (driven by the script more this time) and the music and dances alone were enough to keep this movie. Elsewhere on the Net it tends to average around 6-7 out of 10. For me its also a little above average for the dance and music.』 『Billu Barber is a story of a simple ordinary man who led an extra ordinary life. Bilas Rao Pardesi (Irrfan Khan) was living in his village with his wife Bindiya (Lara Dutta) and two great kids. Life was bitter sweet... we can say more sweet than bitter.
One day a superstar Sahir Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) came into their lives and everything changed. Life changed, people changed, friends changed, the village changed but one man did not... Billu Barber. Will this ordinary man redefine the words ordinary? Will the words see the greatness behind his small existence? And most of all, Will life ever be the same for Billu Barber again?』
price：$5.50
TLA
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (A BOY TORN) 『I cannot say enough good about this picture from the Philippines. This story of a gay boy who bonds with the cop who is out to destroy his family is in Tagalog with subtitles. Heart rending and subtle. Please don't miss it. Particularly telling is the "long walk" ending which, I am sure, is taken from The Third Man.』
(The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros) 『Maximo is trying to find love with another guy. It never gets anywhere near the point of an x Rating, but he does find someone in an older guy who happens to be a police man. Well, the guy finds out that Maximo has a crush on him and tries to let him down easy, but Maximo is crushed/shattered. In the end Maximo does seem to get things going to here he is on his way to find a lover/friend. It's worth watching again and again, but if an x-rating is needed then this is not the one.』
(A fascinating film) 『Frankly, I wasn't expecting much from this DVD, since lady-boys are not at all my type (much less 12yo lady-boys). But, just as a person, the 12yo lady-boy won my heart.
And that is perhaps the crucial thing about this film. Folks who come prepared to condescend will likely wind up wishing they knew more people like Maxi. Sure, he's an effeminate gay boy, and he's only 12, but... how to put it?....he's a great guy, sincere, affectionate, hard-working, and his dreams are firmly fixed on the stars. To sum it up: he's a believable character, and very sympathetic.
Now you have to get ready for the "Romeo&Juliet" part of the story. Maxi lives with a family of criminals, and he falls madly in love with an honest cop. To say any more would spoil the story, except that I will say this: the story is about love, not about sex. In the end, both Maxi and Victor have been seen in tears. The affection is very real.
Frankly, I don't regard this as a "quirky little film." It is a film about real human feelings. (When I was living in Iran, I had the same experience of a young boy falling in love with me! It happened during a vacation trip, and so it was short, but neither of us ever forgot it.) I don't think I need to repeat myself, but it was all about affection, and never about everyone's favorite subject. The last I heard, a dozen years later, Arman was in medical school --- and I was overjoyed to hear it.
In precisely the same way, Maxi and Victor come to care for one another, and to care ABOUT one another.
And that's really what life is about.』
(Bloom Already!) 『Dear Reader,
I find this film hard to believe. So much of the time, till the last 10 minutes, I tried to give it the benefit. My review is based on the inconsistency of the film and how it does not manage to keep the time/day and time, place and events in proper sequence. I guess the producers thought we wouldn't notice suttle differences in what people are wearing, to what people say and do when the camera cuts and pans over to a different angle.
Overall I am disapointed with this film because I went to great lenghts to rent it from our big local movie rental places. Only one place had it in stock under the foreign sections.
The acting was slow and painful, yet the boy was easy to look at and feel compassion for, regardless of quality of film. The love romance between the two main characters is too hyped up by the reviews, it is simply a crush that flew in and didn't seem to make a difference toward the end of the film.
Bloom, bloom little one! We are still waiting!』
(Overrated, but worth watching) 『The main reason to recommend watching this coming-of-age film from the Phillippines is the main character of Maximo Oliveros, an unashamedly femininine 12-year-old boy growing up in the slums and fulfilling "wife" duties (cooking, cleaning) to his family of crooks (widowed dad and two brothers) when he unwisely develops a crush for a hunky policeman amused by his attention. Its the type of character you never see in gay-themed movies and the early family scenes and especially the scenes between the cop and the boy, basically a series of innocent flirtations which begin to take on a potentially dangerous erotic tone, are very well made. However, cinematically, the movie shows its low budget and the director's inexperience with narrative film. The plot degenerates by the third part of the film, falling into crime melodrama, and the last scene, a nod to The Third Man, is inconsistent with character development. Still, the film is well worth a rental, since the quality of TLA DVDs is really not worth the money and Im not sure about repeated viewings of this film.』 『THE BLOSSOMING OF MAXIMO OLIVEROS tells the story of Maxi (Nathan Lopez) a gay pre-teen growing up in the slums of Manila who is deeply loyal to his family of petty thieves. His world revolves around his father and two brothers who love and protect him in return for Maxi s devotion to completing domestic chores and covering their tracks when they commit crimes.When Maxi meets Victor (JR Valentin) a well-meaning handsome policeman the two become fast friends and Maxi begins to learn that he can have a better life which soon incurs the ire and disapproval of Maxi s family.System Requirements:Running Time: 100 minutes Language: Tagalog Subtitles: EnglishFormat: DVD MOVIE Genre: DRAMA UPC: 807839002935 Manufacturer No: TLAD182』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Smooth Cuppa) 『My son, daughter and I had dinner at a wonderful Thai restaurant in Richmond, Va. Instead of an "after dinner" mint, we were served a Kopiko candy. My son fell in love! So, for Christmas I ordered him a box! I have to admit, they are delicious. So, if you love a smooth, creamy coffee flavor, you will love this candy. Not too sweet so it really doesn't taste like candy. . .tastes like a smooth cuppa coffee on the go!』
(Yummy!) 『First tried on vacation to Thailand. Had to share with friends who love coffee. Great flavor! Just try it, you'll like it.』 『Kopiko coffee candy is made from best selected coffee bean's extract and well blended.』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Hands down awesome!) 『I got hooked on this Chili sauce when I visited Mongolian BBQ. Since then I am addicted and love it on everything! It has a very nice kick and flavor to it. I love hot and spicy and this sauce delivers.』
(Warning: Highly Addictive) 『I ran upon this in the grocery store and it looked like it would be good. I love spicy sauces.
I thought it would be good but this is WOW! It isn't just a hot sauce, it has flavor. It is so good. It's good on chicken and eggs. It is out of this world on cottage cheese, sounds like a strange combo but I haven't tried anything that it tasted so good on, the cool of the cottage cheese, the heat of the chili sauce, yum!
It does have a good bit of heat to it. I have to have something close by to drink because it does burn the tongue a little.
I'm addicted now and will be a lifelong lover of this chili sauce. I find myself looking through the refrigerator just looking for something to put my chili sauce on.
Yes, it's that good.』
(Great Chili Sauce - Great Price) 『You see this hot sauce very popular at most oriental restaurants. Not only because of the low price but because of its terrific flavor. You get 17oz (compare that with the skinny tabasco bottle) of hot spice that will last for a very long time. Great especially for soup lovers who want to spike it up a notch. Also good with your pizzas, burritos, nachos, ... and more.』
(liquid fire) 『Got mine earlier today! If you like tasty and hot, you'll love Huy Fong's sriracha hot chili sauce. Great for opening frozen doors, or melting lead. I now know what the Earth's core tastes like!
Jokes aside, this stuff is tasty and hot...and I like tasty and hot. I used it on pizza this evening, and it was just what I wanted! No more tabasco- the new king of flavor is Huy Fong's Sriracha hot chili sauce. It's thick, not watery like tabasco, so you can squeeze just the right amount out of the bottle.
I can see already, that this is going to be great on virtually anything- potatoes, soups, salads, and of course, chili. This is a must try product. Hot, yet very flavorful. Great stuff!』
(The Bomb of Chili Sauces) 『Wow! This is the bomb of all chili sauces. It is wicked hot and has a great flavor. The chili sauce flavor is tinged with the garlic and vinegar and it's just fabulous to jack up soups to a spicy fiery hot treat. I haven't tasted a chili sauce this good before, as most have no real flavor beyond the heat. This stuff is flavorful and spicy. Love it.』 『Sriracha hot chili sauce is great add a spicy taste to any food.』
タイトル『 Decorated Mouse Pad with "black and white", China, Asia >
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SHOPZEUS
『Professional "Brite White" fabric mouse pads are among the most versatile and durable, providing brilliant graphic reproduction for spot color or full color imprints. This durable polyester surface is above industry standards and provides a superior product value overall. Designed to reproduce vibrant detailed images. Our mouse pads have white fabric top with the 100% genuine black rubber base (not the cheap foam your seen on other advertisements).』 タイトル『 VTM 150GS - LAPTOP POWER SUPPLY FOR EUROPE AND ASIA >
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SIMRAN
『Step down grounded transformer with a grounded German plug.
Maximum capacity: 150 Watts.
Converts 220/240V down to 110/120V.
On/Off Switch
Fuse Protected.
Ideal for laptops to be used in Europe and Asia.』 タイトル『 Decorated Mouse Pad with "black and white", Japan, blossom, buds, flora, flower, branch, leaves, plants, Asia >
『Step down grounded transformer with a grounded German plug.» Maximum capacity: 150 Watts.
» Converts 220/240V down to 110/120V.
» On/Off Switch
» Fuse Protected.
» Ideal for laptops to be used in Europe and Asia.
Weight: 2.5 lbs.
Dimensions: 4.5" x 2.8" x 2.8』
price：$40.79
Garmin
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Useless -- don't waste your money!) 『Tried using this map while travelling in China -- it was useless! First, the addresses are impossible to find. Then the map seems to be off-set with the GPS by several meters. For example, while travelling in Hangzhou, while we were driving on the road, the map showed us as being inside the lake! The problem is with the map because we use Garmin device all the time at home with the North America map.』
(Maps were useless and lacked many roads) 『I purchased this map to use in my Garmin Nuvi 370. I had previously used my Garmin very successfully in europe. I purchased the map just prior to my departure for China in June of 2009. The map was totally useless as it was significantly offset which made navagating in Shanghi, Hangzou, or any of the other 9 cities we visited unworkable. If there was a fix it was not in the packaging or on the website. While tour travelling with marginal internet connections there is little hope of troubleshooting major product failures.
Even if the map had worked, there was a serious lack of detailed roadways. On the first day in Shanghi it was evident that the major 6 lane street that travelled in front of the Holiday Inn downtown next to the northern major railstation was not on the map. With this kind of lack of detail makes this the worst Garmin product I have seen. My sons and I own many Garmin products with great success.
Even corrected this is a very poor product.』
(Worked great on my Garmin 60csx) 『My wife and I backpacked for 29 days in China at the end of 2008. This map pack was invaluable for confirming that we were going in the right direction. Because of the language, it's very easy to get going in the wrong direction in China so I always checked the GPS to verify where we were and what direction we were heading. I also used the maps to find a place to stay in Xi'an since it has a bunch of food, hotels, etc on the maps.
The maps are less detailed in the rural areas, as would be expected. If you travel in China and you aren't fluent in the language, you'll want to take advantage of any opportunity or tool to double and triple check where you're going. It's not so easy that you can just ask anyone for directions... practically no one speaks English in China, and if they do, they are probably to shy to talk to you. My wife and I almost ended up on a train to Chengdu instead of Zenshou because they sound similar... and that was a misunderstanding between two Chinese people, not between me and a Chinese. The language is so complex, they don't even understand each other sometimes! The GPS is adds peace of mind.
I'm not sure why the NUVIs are having such problems but these maps worked flawlessly on my 60csx handheld. My unit is 100% up to date with the software updates on the Garmin website.
Be advised that the Chinese government isn't keen on foreigners carrying GPS devices but if you just don't go waiving it around everywhere like a freak, you'll probably be fine, I didn't have any issues. As a point of reference, tourists aren't supposed to even bring tourists books with maps into China.』
(Out of date) 『This map product is not only out of date on what roads and expressways exist, but there exists a shift from real location. If tracking on a long stretch of road, it can be seen clearly because the track created by the GPS unit runs off to one side by a 100 meters or more. Makes it tough to navigate in a city.』
(e-mail from Garmin support) 『I asked Garmin technical support about this and got this reply (June 1, 2009):
Thank you for contacting Garmin International. It is not intentional on our part, however the Chinese government does "shift" the mapping.
I think this is mainly to with China's legislation in regards to security in China and the use of GPS devices, so as to distort it not to give an accurate reading.
We would not be able to guarantee the accuracy of the mapping. Some customers have found it useful and some have not.
』 『Are you planning to visit Beijing this summer? Do you wish you had a personal guide? The Garmin City Navigator China NT 2008 map is what you need. Simply insert this microSD™/SD™ card into your compatible Garmin unit*, then you will be able to navigate in China like a local. Garmin makes it simple for you to find the nearest restaurants, attractions or sporting venues, then return to your hotel at the end of the day.
With almost seven million points of interest, including sport venues, restaurants, hotels, airports, train stations and much more, the Garmin City Navigator China NT add-on card is essential for your August holidays in China. Don't forget to bring it with you along with your passport, airplane ticket and, of course, your Garmin device!
Product features
PinYin-English language
Full country coverage with complete intertown road network
Street level detail and point of interests for more than 980 cities, including Beijing, Shenyang, Shanghai, Tianjin, Qinhuangdao and Qingdao
With nearly seven million POIs, including sport venues, restaurants, hotels, airports, train stations and much more
Originally worn by Cuban guava tree growers, the guayabera shirt was adopted by businessman in 1950s Havana and exported by visiting tourists. The Guayabera shirt (gwai-a-Ber-a) is one of the most authentic symbols of Latin Culture. Distinctive for its two vertical pleats, four spacious pockets and embroidery detail, designed to be worn un-tucked.
The guayabera shirt is a traditional Cuban shirt, popular in Latin America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, the West Indies, and Zimbabwe. It is also referred to as a Mexican Wedding Shirt, cigar shirt, bowling shirt, or Cuban shirt.
In Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Panama, guayaberas are generally considered the most popular attire for beach weddings.
The guayabera is also often an acceptable form of office wear as a means of coping with hot weather. It is flattering, comfortable, and it makes you look and feel good even when the weather is hot and humid making it perfect attire for any occasion in the summer.
』 タイトル『 Spotted Family T-Shirt 100% Cotton Short Sleeve Cheetah Shirt for KIDS - TEENS&ADULTS >
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『This high quality T-shirt is hand dyed and printed in the United States. This is not an iron-on decal that will crack and flake off. The ink is deeply embedded in the fibers which guarantees a long lasting print design and extraordinary comfort. Available in youth sizes small to x-large&adult sizes S-XXXL. See Size Chart for Details.』 タイトル『 Cengage Learning 130603 Asian Service Repair Manual 2002-2006 - Set of 3 >
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Cengage Learning
Usually ships in 1 to 2 days 『Features and Benefits Access up-to-date service and repair information covering model years 2002-2006, all logically arranged by manufacturer Follow clear, step-by-step procedures from drive train to chassis, to yield fast, accurate results Service more mechanical systems, including brakes, engines, suspensions, steering and related components Know what special tools are required for specific jobs, as Chilton editors describe and illustrate them to make repair work go more smoothlyThe Chilton 2006 Asian Mechanical Service Manuals Set includes Volumes I, II, and III. These manuals provide updated coverage through 2005 models and even many 2006 models, as made available from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Chilton is still your reliable source for fast, accurate repairs and reassembly and it still provides the lowest-priced professional repair manuals on the market! These manuals are organized by make, model and system so information gathering is easier. Now with even more illustrations and a streamlined index, it's no wonder more automotive professionals turn to Chilton Professional Manuals for their mechanical service and repair information.』 タイトル『 Asian Pride Vinyl Sticker - White >
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Stickermatic
『This vinyl sticker is 10 inches wide and 2.5 inches tall. This is a decal that can be applied to just about any smooth surface. This decal are made from the highest quality vinyl to give you many years of use without fading or peeling. Included are detailed instructions for application.』 タイトル『 2240:60 68-84 SPEEDO 12MM >
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Boots) 『Did not fit well and were not really that impressive. Not at all what I thought they would be. Item was returned.』 『The Asia boot from Annie has a winter-ready look you'll love. Its soft, brushed fabric upper has the appearance of suede, and it's trimmed with cozy faux fur. Its low, chunky heel will add lift while keeping you light on your feet.』 タイトル『 I Love Asia Wooden Keychain >
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price：$5.95
Shopzeus
『The wood is 2" x 1" and the chain is about 1" long - the hook has a diameter of 1 inch』 タイトル『 BRUNO MAGLI Asia | Women's Shoes Dark Brown Suede >
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BRUNO MAGLI
『BRUNO MAGLI Asia - BRUNO MAGLI Women's Shoes : This simple and sophisticated pump has a modern edge. ; Suede upper and covered heel with metallic detail. ; Leather lined footbed is lightly padded. ; Leather sole. ; Made in Italy. ; Made in Italy. ; 1 3/4 heel. ; Product measurements were taken using size 6.5. Please note that measurements may vary by size.. Product Type: BRUNO MAGLI Women's Shoes.』 タイトル『 Speereo-Columbus Voice Travel Guide for Asia >
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Titan Information Service
『In Speereo-Columbus Voice Travel Guide for Asia you will find the most comprehensive and detailed information about this region and its most known cities.』 タイトル『 Speereo-Columbus Voice Travel Guide for Central Asia >
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Titan Information Service
『In Speereo-Columbus Voice Travel Guide for Central Asia you will find the most comprehensive and detailed information about this region and its most known cities.』 タイトル『 Betty Ride's Women's Day Dream Asia Parka >
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Betty Ride's
タイトル『 ELECT TACH 84-94 FXRS-CON >
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ASIA SURGE ENT. CO. LTD.
『ELECT TACH 84-94 FXRS-CON』 タイトル『 Asia (Bengal Tiger) 8" x 10" Double Matted Framed Photograph >
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Gifts Enterprises
『Asia - Tiger --- Respect Our Animal Planet! We share our Earth with many wonderful and varied animal species....some endangered and some pressured. Animal Planet Art is an attractive addition to any room in the home or office and comes custom-framed in durable black framing in 11x14 double matting.』 タイトル『 Asian Boy Outfit >
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Kaplan Early Learning Company
『3 - 5 years. Dramatic play just got more exciting! This Asian boy outfit can enhance and support multicultural education. Comes with information cards describing the fabric, its country of origin, and suggested activities to help children learn about cultural differences and similarities. Wash separately in cold water, hang to dry.』 タイトル『 Indian Chessmen >
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Fame Products USA
『Southeast Asia's brightly colored culture is represented in the Indian set with its various mounted calvary and soldiers guarding the swami and his advisors. (Chess board not included; available separately)』 タイトル『 Asia Map Learning Placemat >
price：$5.44
Yale University Press
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Holds up well) 『Considering that the book was written prior to September 11th attacks (and the polices that resulted) this book holds up fairly well. Above all, while this book near the end lays out a role for the U.S. diplomatically--it seems to lay out a framework for why any strategy involving the miltary (including the U.S) won't work.
Rashid does a good job of describing the violent history of Afghanistan and Central Asia, as well as how the Taliban came to power. This book is especially relevant given the current U.S dilemma with Afghanistan. Afghanistan was in civil war that even the Taliban, as violent as they could be, could not completely put out. The U.S. occupation more or less reopened this powder keg.
Reading this book, it's hard not to get a sense of blowback on the part of the U.S: i.e. supporting the mujaheeden and looking the other way on the drugs that supported the mujaheeden have created a nightmare now.』
(awesome seller) 『book was in great condition as described. speedy delivery. would buy from this person again.』
(Great historical account of Afghanistan/Taliban) 『Ahmed Rashid's book Taliban: Militant Islam, Oil, and the Fundamentalism in Central Asia is a great journalistic work that explains several important aspects of Afghanistan today. As a native of Pakistan, his background and knowledge of the region gives him the credibility of an expert. As a credible journalist he obtained access to sources in Pakistan and Afghanistan and in depth knowledge of Taliban. He provides an accurate historical account of Afghanistan's tribal divisions and U.S. sponsored war against the Soviet Union. Furthermore, he factually presents Taliban's establishment and rise to power from Pakistan's federally administrated tribal areas (FATA), through support base in Helmand province and on to Kabul. He emphasizes that the rise of Taliban through the 1990's and continuing existence is in no doubt assisted by Pakistan's Directorate for Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI), and regional actors, through drug trafficking, financial and military support.
The importance of this work is aligned with current terrorism issues faced not only by the United States but by rest of the world. Ahmed Rashid provides historical evidence of Al-Qaeda and Osama bin Laden's influence in the region and the threat United States faced prior to September 11th. His forewarnings became more evident after the terrible terrorist attack on U.S. soil in 2001. He blames the international community, U.S. in particular, for the civil war after the pullout of Soviet Union and lack of foreign policy in Afghanistan.
On the other hand, this book, due to its vast historical and geographical data, including provincial composition, may overwhelm an average reader with minimal or no knowledge of Afghan history and background. Also, the author attempts in Part 3: The New Great Game; to establish the link of post Cold War U.S. policy and gas and oil pipeline bids by various companies acting on behalf of their countries. He points out the reason that U.S. involvement in this project is to exclude Russian and Iranian territories by establishing the pipeline from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan through Afghanistan for export to the West. The economical data in these chapters may come as astonishing to most readers because it presents a sudden shift from terrorism and Al-Qaeda to international economic policies supported by geo-political influence of regional actors.
Finally, despite the great amount of factual data combined with credible sources about the Taliban, it has left me as a student of international affairs and intelligence, with a contradicting and doubtful recommendation. My dilemma lies in the history of Afghanistan and many great powers from Alexander the Great to the Soviet Union and their failure to subdue the people of Afghanistan to author's plea for more international involvement in order to assist Afghanistan to become a stable state. Since the people of Afghanistan have strongly rejected foreign rule since the beginning of their existence and functioned without centralized government, it seems to me that the current objective of President Karzai and the international community will prove difficult to achieve. 』
(Great insight into Taliban) 『For anyone interested in learning about the Taliban, this book provides excellent background perspective and insight. Well written and informative, I found that I understood a lot more about how they viewed the world around them and how they operated towards achieving their goals. Maybe not the best Taliban source out there (a little dated) but definitely one of the best reference guides available. I highly recommend!』
(Objective and truthful) 『If you really want to know about Afganistan and why the Taliban emerged,you must read this book. Why were these people needed, why were they welcomed? It gives you a lot to think about, on why the west ignores alarm signs until it is too late, and too many economic interests are involved, which do not have in mind the welfare of other countries and their people.』 『This is the single best book available on the Taliban, the fundamentalist Islamic regime in Afghanistan responsible for harboring the terrorist Osama bin Laden. Ahmed Rashid is a Pakistani journalist who has spent most of his career reporting on the region--he has personally met and interviewed many of the Taliban's shadowy leaders.Talibanwas written and published before the massacres of September 11, 2001, yet it is essential reading for anyone who hopes to understand the aftermath of that black day. It includes details on how and why the Taliban came to power, the government's oppression of ordinary citizens (especially women), the heroin trade, oil intrigue, and--in a vitally relevant chapter--bin Laden's sinister rise to power. These pages contain stories of mass slaughter, beheadings, and the Taliban's crushing war against freedom: under Mullah Omar, it has banned everything from kite flying to singing and dancing at weddings. Rashid is for the most part an objective reporter, though his rage sometimes (and understandably) comes to the surface: "The Taliban were right, their interpretation of Islam was right, and everything else was wrong and an expression of human weakness and a lack of piety," he notes with sarcasm. He has produced a compelling portrait of modern evil.--John Miller』 『Correspondent Ahmed Rashid brings the shadowy world of the Talibanthe world's most extreme and radical Islamic organizationinto sharp focus in this enormously insightful book. He offers the only authoritative account of the Taliban available to English-language readers, explaining the Taliban's rise to power, its impact on Afghanistan and the region, itsrole in oil and gas company decisions, and the effects of changing American attitudes toward the Taliban. He also describes the new face of Islamic fundamentalism and explains why Afghanistan has become the world center for international terrorism.』
price：$9.18
Lonely Planet
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Surprisingly mediocre) 『I really expected more from this book. It had basic info about lodging and food, but really quite basic and obvious stuff. I was frustrated many times looking for places to eat. The section on Koh Samui was almost totally useless. There was nothing here to make it worth the price.』
(The Travel Bible, a bit dated) 『Known as "The Book", this is the standard for any travel guide to Thailand. I'm glad they are coming out with a new edition, though. On my recent trip, more than half of the restaurants we tried to find in Chiang Mai had either moved across town or shut down since The Book was last published. If you are in the market, pre-order the new edition instead, which will hopefully sport updated information.
By the way, I highly recommend the Chiang Dao Nest - bungalows set in the beautiful forests and mountains north of Chiang Mai, and amazing food despite the remote location.』
(Type is ridiculously small - DO NOT BUY) 『This book appears to contain the compendium of knowledge regarding Thailand. Too bad the font is so small that even my teenage daughter says it hurts her eyes. DO NOT BUY THIS BOOK unless you want to use a magnifying glass to read it. Very disappointed.』
(LP provide the best guide to exploring a country) 『Lonely Planet guides consistently provide accurate information. It is great especially for people who budget travel, travel light (backpack) and want some adventure.』
(A great guide) 『I went to Thailand for the first time with a backpack and this book. I used it almost daily. It was extremely helpful for my entire trip. Whether I was lost in the middle of town, looking for a cheap restaurant, or needing to kill a giant insect in my hostel this book was there. The writers obviously know what they're talking about. The maps are detailed and easy to read. This book gives you enough information to feel confident traveling in Thailand.』 『Nobody knows Thailand like Lonely Planet. Our 13th edition will have you soaking up the sun on the island paradises of the south, trekking among the hill tribes and riding elephants in Chiang Mai, discovering the ancient temples of Sukhothai and snapping up bargains or being pampered in a spa in Bangkok.
Lonely Planet guides are written by experts who get to the heart of every destination they visit. This fully updated edition is packed with accurate, practical and honest advice, designed to give you the information you need to make the most of your trip.
In This Guide:
Detailed advice on everything from food&drink to transport&health Special 'Thailand&You' chapter with tips on culture and etiquette Extensive Deep South coverage eases your travels in the conflicted region 』
price：$4.48
Touchstone
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (A compelling personal modern history of China) 『The story helps the reader to understand the recent history of China within the context of the last 60 years of modern China by retracing the lives of 3 women, her grandmother, her mother and herself. These personal stories start from the waning days under the Imperial regime prior to 1911 through the modern China of present days. It is told with objectivity and clarity. It also has a universal appeal as it illustrates the theme of the strength of the human spirit over cruelty and adversity.』
(NOT a "real life" Amy Tan novel!) 『Many of the negative reviews of this book seem to center on the idea that it should be a "real life" version of an Amy Tan novel. It isn't! So if you prefer your historical nonfiction and memoir to read as fiction, you should probably choose a different book. This ain't Amy Tan. It's not as readable, from a purely aesthetic viewpoint, but I did finish it and parts of it even made me cry.
What Chang does very well is to condense almost a hundred years of very complex, turbulent history into a relatively slim, easy-to-read volume. I admit that I found her tone, at first, a bit dry. But the story she has to tell is so interesting, that you keep reading it. It's not like potato chips, but something more substantial--a rich meal, maybe. It can be hard to take in large amounts or if you are in the wrong mood for it. I find with reading just about anything, you must be in the right mood. If you pick this up and don't like it after a few pages, put it down and come back to it another day. If you still don't like it, the book isn't for you and you just shouldn't bother.
Frankly, I found I couldn't put it down. I agree with some criticisms of the book, namely: she downplays her parents' roles as Communist officials a bit, though as I stated in response to someone else's review, she gives you enough clues as to her parents' personalities and early zealousness to let the reader "read between the lines" and understand that her parents may not have been saints--certainly not in their personal lives and probably not in their professional lives, either. But I do believe her parents were idealists and hard workers, though imperfect. She also clearly shows that--though the Cultural Revolution was devastating to the country and her family--in some weird way, it brought her family closer together and bonded them in a way that might not have been possible had the Revolution not happened. For me, there was emotional payoff later on the book: a certain telegram sent by her father to her mother made me cry and that's very rare for me to cry while reading a book (I am often moved, while reading, just not to tears). I also agree that it might have benefited from some tighter editing in the second half, but I do object that the author is--as another reviewer put it-- self-obsessed. I think she does a decent job balancing insights about herself with what was going on all over China. I think it's a little silly for people to pick up a memoir and then complain that the author was writing about herself. I mean, hello, that's what a memoir is, isn't it? Seriously.
One thing she does beautifully is write about the people she knows and loves in a very restrained way. There is no needless melodrama. The facts of the story speak for themselves and the accumulative power of those facts is sometimes overwhelming. There are many images from this book that will stay with me a very long time, I daresay. Someone else mentioned that the book was overwhelmingly negative and that the author is too steeped in her own negativity. I found this criticism both incorrect and incredibly irritating. I think she does quite a good job in restraining any self-pity. I think as you follow the story, it becomes very obvious how the daily onslaught of general nastiness throughout the Cultural Revolution impacted her mind and the minds of her fellow Chinese. Reading her account, I got a taste of the crippling anxiety and upset she had to live with everyday for years. It's very understandable that her father became mentally ill. It takes a person with quite a bit of emotional and mental flexibility to live through a nightmare like that, and clearly, her father was quite rigid; incapable of bending, he simply broke down.
I do highly recommend this book, with the following caveats: it does read a bit dry, at first (until you become accustomed to her tone), it does dodge a bit her parents' roles as Communist officials, and it does meander a little in the second half. If you make it through, it's a very rewarding read. It made me cry, it made me understand life in Communist China under Mao much better, and it made me want to read even more books about China. In this case, it's a success. I wish I could give it 4 1/2 stars, but no such luck on Amazon's rating system.』
(Fantastic book for new China hands) 『This is one of the best books I've ever read. I'm just starting to undertake a serious study of China and WILD SWANS introduces Chinese history, from the mid 1910s to the early 1980s, in a clear, welcoming format that keeps the reader engrossed in the main characters' life of pain, suffering, and torment. The presentation of the history of the Kuomingdang/Communist battles, Great Leap Forward (steel production period), all the purges, Cultural Revolution (remember the Red Guards?), etc., was written from the viewpoint of the author, Ms. Chang, who witnessed the above events first hand. Her mother, father, grandmother, and other family members all suffered tremendously. At the age of 26, after almost three decades of extreme hardship, Ms. Chang was able to leave the country on a scholarship to Britian, the first Mainland Chinese to leave Sichuan province (90 million people) since 1949.
I loved this book and would definitely read it again. I was particularly impressed with the father's moral and unyielding character. He was a committed Communist to the core who refused corruption and the chance to save his own life if such action meant harming others--and he paid tremendously for taking the moral high ground.
Kindle version has lots of errors. Grrr.』
(A must read for anyone going to China....) 『Read this book about 15 years ago and loved it. I reread it again before a recent trip to China and it's must for anyone who is planning a visit there....or wants to understand the complexities of Chinese culture. Whle it reads like a movie of the week, totally engaging and dramatic, it is a true life story that gives the reader a first had look at the many faces of Chinese society....and the dramtic changes in only a few generations. It is all the more striking against the backdrop of today's super modern Chinese life.
Highly recommend as a great read.』
(Don't Be Fooled) 『I specifically ordered a hardback from this "business" and received a paperback. It even had a magazine article tucked inside it. Well, the main points are that I didn't receive what I ordered, and there is no prepaid return plan, soooo I paid $30 plus for a used paperback. Now, how would you rate business practices such as these? Would you want to do business like this? It's an ongoing headache as I had to dispute a month ago. Be my guest if you like $30 plus used paperbacks when you order hardbacks and have to pay for returns!!!Wild Swans : Three Daughters of China』 『InWild SwansJung Chang recounts the evocative, unsettling, and insistently gripping story of how three generations of women in her family fared in the political maelstrom of China during the 20th century. Chang's grandmother was a warlord's concubine. Her gently raised mother struggled with hardships in the early days of Mao's revolution and rose, like her husband, to a prominent position in the Communist Party before being denounced during the Cultural Revolution. Chang herself marched, worked, and breathed for Mao until doubt crept in over the excesses of his policies and purges. Born just a few decades apart, their lives overlap with the end of the warlords' regime and overthrow of the Japanese occupation, violent struggles between the Kuomintang and the Communists to carve up China, and, most poignant for the author, the vicious cycle of purges orchestrated by Chairman Mao that discredited and crushed millions of people, including her parents.』 『
Blending the intimacy of memoir and the panoramic sweep of eyewitness history,Wild Swanshas become a bestselling classic in thirty languages, with more than ten million copies sold. The story of three generations in twentieth-century China, it is an engrossing record of Mao's impact on China, an unusual window on the female experience in the modern world, and an inspiring tale of courage and love.
Jung Chang describes the life of her grandmother, a warlord's concubine; her mother's struggles as a young idealistic Communist; and her parents' experience as members of the Communist elite and their ordeal during the Cultural Revolution. Chang was a Red Guard briefly at the age of fourteen, then worked as a peasant, a "barefoot doctor," a steelworker, and an electrician. As the story of each generation unfolds, Chang captures in gripping, moving -- and ultimately uplifting -- detail the cycles of violent drama visited on her own family and millions of others caught in the whirlwind of history.』
The scallop of large satisfactory ! northern countries and - [ of how much ] botan shrimp are ! tightly.
getting to know the technique of motorbike expensive sale -- Ta -- if -- -
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