Shoes Books

Francine Barbetta's book, A Pebble in His Shoe, is the moving story of one woman's struggle to come to peace with her husband's homosexuality. Through entries in her diary, she reveals the human emotions involved after learning that her perfect marriage had another side that was not so perfect. While Francine's and Frank's story deals with the impact of his gender orientation confusion on their lives, it also extends beyond this focal issue. Those who have dealt with a partner's addictions, who have had to cope with abusive behaviors in a partner, or who have had to face the need to move out of a relationship and confront the trauma of letting go of a dream will all identify with Francine's journey. What a gift she gives us in revealing her vulnerabilities and modeling her tremendous capacity for forgiveness. In a broader sense, A Pebble in His Shoe speaks to the devastating impact of social prejudice on the lives of innocent people - the gay partner, the straight spouse, and the children who love them and inevitably become caught in the middle of their struggles. I applaud Francine's courage in telling the truth about an issue that haunts many but is rarely recognized or understood in our culture. Congratulations, Francine, on making a difference.

I just loved this book. It grabs you on the first page and you literally can't put it down. It is a real life story of a woman's personal journey toward her own truth. As she comes to understand her husband's homosexuality, she is forced to face her own denial of that truth, face her fears and all the while help her husband through the same. I felt every emotion as she did as I read each page. I must admit, I don't love reading but this was truly a book I could not put down. I finished it in 24 hours. I highly recommend it.

At first glance this looks like the story of a wife trying to deal with her husband's homosexuality, but it is much more than that. It is a story about the love of two people for each other. It is a story about someone trying to figure out who he is, and not being who he wants to be. It is a story about having the courage to face an unpleasant truth about someone you love. And it is also a story about forgiveness.

The author tells us about her experience and the process, for both herself and her husband, of coming to terms with his homosexuality. She shares her thoughts and feelings every step along the way. As a reader, I felt like I was traveling the path right along with her.

This is truly a beautifully moving story of one woman's quest to understand and forgive her ex-husband's homosexuality. Dr. Francine Barbetta generously shares her inner most thoughts and events of her life through her diary revealing the devastation of an almost perfect marriage lost forever as her gay husband turned into a stranger she never knew. Dr. Barbetta has an impressive writing style that compels you to keep reading her story and makes you feel her emotional sense of loss. She also shares her journey of forgiveness and acceptance which began her healing process. I strongly recommend this book to any woman who finds herself in this situation as well as to any person who wants to gain a greater insight into straight/gay marriages. This book is definitely a winner! Congratulations to Dr. Barbetta!
Bonnie Kaye, M.Ed. [...]

A highly readable book with just the right blend of research and advice. Written in a clear yet entertaining voice, Barbara Meltz has zeroed in on experiences that parents have, and behavior that children show, that troubles us. Whether it's a child's lie or a fear, you can read her insight and expert advice know that there is a solution. You come away feeling that, with the right parenting, you and your children can survive almost anything. In an age when every parent seems to shudder daily, this book is a welcoome sight and read. I'm buying a copy for every parent in my family!

A highly readable book with just the right blend of research and advice. Written in a clear yet entertaining voice, Barbara Meltz has zeroed in on experiences that parents have, and behavior that children show, that troubles us. Whether it's a child's lie or a fear, you can read her insight and expert advice know that there is a solution. You come away feeling that, with the right parenting, you and your children can survive almost anything. In an age when every parent seems to shudder daily, this book is a welcoome sight and read. I'm buying a copy for every parent in my family!

This parent friendly book offers insightful advice and practical information on a range of perplexing child rearing issues. The perspective of the child is unique and invaluable. As a psychologist, author (The Complete Single Mother)and the single mother of two, I recommend this thoughtful and thorough book as a "must have". You will turn to this book again and again for help with a wide range of challening parenting problems.

Recently, I wrote Ms. Meltz regarding one of her regular parenting columns in the Boston Globe. Then, I remembered that I had a copy of her book, Put Yourself In Their Shoes, and e-mailed her the following day: I am glad that Dr. Brazelton encouraged you to undertake your column and predicated that you would write a book. I bought your book for reference purposes and I want you to know that I enjoy referring to it. To me, it is a breath of fresh air. You share information and observations WITH parents, about their children, in a refreshing manner .... with a voice that is empathetic to both ... you don't talk AT them. Thanks again.

Regards,

Elizabeth Milligan Maynard, MA

My girlfiend and I's introduction to the world of erotica started out with a Bamf and a Bang! We really have to thank Ms. Donovan and Ms. D'Haene for bringing a whole new level of excitment into our lovemaking. You can enjoy these stories for a quickie or get lost in them and let imaginations run wild!
Looking forward to more!

"Hard Labor" by Zalman King and Elise D'Haene. Jake is depressed wondering if he could have done something different to save the life of his beloeved Alex who committed suicide. He seeks answers in her diary, but finds nothing illuminating. Desperate he asks betrayed or betrayal women to send their diaries to Red Shoes. Three do. Aleta does not want relationships beyond a one night stand to interfere with her goal to succeed. That changes when she meets Antonio, who she fears will expose her soul to pain.

"Strip Poker" by Zalman King and Patricia Louisianna Knop. Jack wants Katherine to set a marriage date, but she hesitates because he has changed from a free soul into a bore. They are to meet at Yalta for a special tryst, but he allows business to delay him. An angry Katherine notices a strip poker game and debates whether to join the players and drop Jack.

"Slow Train" by Julie Marie Myatt. Edna dies leaving her home, grocery store, and her diary to her granddaughter Sally. The diary highlights Edna's sexual awakening during the Depression and awakens the granddaughter to what life.

These three erotic tales filled with profanities offer sex as the prime elixir to most relationship issues. The stories derived from the Showtime show are well written as diary entries, but lack substance as solutions to complex issues are too simplistically resolved in bed. Ironically Jake remains lost just like the audience. Fans of lust as the center of relationships will appreciate this trio, but those who believe there is more between two people will pass.

Harriet Klausner

LOVE this book. It is both erotic and beautifully written. I had to read this book because I used to watch the Red Shoe Diaries series on Showtime, and Zalman King's 91/2 weeks was the sexiest movie I had ever seen. The writers, Elise D'Haene and Stacey Donovan brought these sexy stories about women to the page in a way that put me in touch with hidden fantasies inside myself. I often find erotica uninteresting, but these stories are full of emotional complexity, beauty and humor. I highly recommend this book to anyone, male or female, who enjoys a steamy and visual journey from a woman's point of view.

Three novellas and a bonus story make this book one of the most satisfying, (and HOT), erotic reads I've had in along time. Writers Elise D'Haene and Stacey Donovan have adapted Zalman King's Red Shoe Diaries into three steamy, emotional, exceptionally enjoyable stories. The three women who write to Jake, (played by David Duchovny in the series!), are completely identifiable characters, their relationships and sexual explorations are moving, human, and compelling. I just couldn't put this book down! Lusty, literary, and sexually empowering for BOTH women and men. The "cherry on the sundae", (so to speak), is the bonus story at the end of the book: SEX IN THE HAMPTONS: THE WRITERS' CONFESSIONS. Here the authors reveal their most intimate experiences with men and women. Funny, touching, and wild, I really felt as if I was getting to know these two women up close and personal. I can't wait for the second book!

I read this book expecting I would find a high-browed treatise of sorts... froo-froo food and what not. Instead, I was blown away by the simplicity, the very personal feel of the text and the food contained within the pages of the book. I have since come to learn Rafael's music is very similar in that it has the feel of a heartfelt and personal search, a kind of looking [and finding] himself that is very inviting.

in this book and totally love it! I actually helped with the print production as the book was going to press and so was obligated to read it. However, I am the owner of over 200 cookbooks and feel totally qualified to state that this book is a "must have." The essays alone are worth the purchase! The recipes are varied, not just Mexican cuisine but Asian-inspired and European as well, and range from the basics (Sopa de Tortilla) to exotic appetizers (Spicy Yellow Prawns.) My favorite chapter is the chapter on Pastas. Don't miss the essay on why "Making Pasta is a Lot Like Making Love." Rafael is a wonderful chef and humorist. Also, if you are ever in Puerto Vallarta, do not miss Daquiri Dick's. You can actually taste many of these recipes first-hand. Some of my favorites and ones I've actually tasted: Romesco (they served it with an asparagus/prociutto appetizer,) House Caesar Dressing, Green Pozole of Duck, Rigatoni Pablano, Lobster Tacos, Grilled Black Cod over Cous-Cous with a Tequila-Citrus Sauce.

I came across this book at Daquiri Dicks in Puerto Vallarta after eating a fantastic meal there. These recipes are all winners. This book is so entertaining, I read it for enjoyment! Rafael takes the reader carefully and with care through each recipe, never assuming we know too much, nor condesending as though we don't. The recipes are simple, and simply wonderful. I have friends and party-goers begging for these recipes (little do they know where I got them) , and unless they read this, they never will!

There must be a million cookbooks to buy, and many of us have a good number of them. Nazario has put together a true work of love. The book not only has wonderful, seductive recipes, but also embraces the reader's heart with personal stories. Recipes are fun to read, and Nazario shows you how to make them as a close friend would. His work reveals deep talents from cooking to teaching to entertaining. My guess is that he would be more fun to watch and learn from than many of the celebrity chefs we regularly see on television. I recommend that anyone who loves food should get this cookbook and immediately make his polenta. It is a revelation, and introduces polenta to a level that you may not have know existed. You won't stop trying his recipes after this one! The chef is obviously one who truly understands how different foods, seasonings and techniques work together. More importantly, as a reader, it gets passed to us. All of us would-be chefs dream of achieving the holy connection with food that great chefs have, and this book will shed light on the path to get there and entertain you at the same time. Get this cookbook? Sure, but don't just put it in your collection. Start cooking!

This story feels timeless, a real feat for a children's book published this year. From the period details to the lyrical prose, I felt a sense of deja-vu throughout, as if I were reading a childhood favorite. And the last page is stunningly beautiful. I bought it for my daughter, and I'm about to go get another copy for my nephew.

"The Shine Man" is a wonderful book that will surely
become a classic Christmas story. It reminded me of
my own father's tales of life during the Depression.
It teaches an important lesson in giving as well as
a bit of history and will stimulate family discussion.
Both the artwork and the story are excellent.

This story of finding the divine in people during the Great Depression is a gentle way of helping children (and their adult loved ones)focus on what's most important about the holiday season. Illustrations are reminiscent of Dickens, but set in the 1930's in this country. I'll think of this story (especially the last two pages)when I behold the stars in a bright December sky.

The Shine Man makes the perfect Christmas present for children of all ages! In a manner consistent with her previous works, Mary Quattlebaum's use of language and imagery brings her story to life. She captures the mood of a time before I was born, and makes me believe I was there, experiencing it first-hand. The story is simple, but impactful. I can still feel the warm glow of the Christmas spirit while I search for the "Shine Man" within myself.

This is the third book I bought from this series and it just makes me want to go on buying the other ones to learn more about the Middle Ages. This book too, is not just an inventory of what was found and what the items look like, it is much more : the art of shoemaking and cobbling is described, there are references to art and literature and - for me by far the most interesting chapter - the social inferences of wear and tear are discussed. At the back of the book there are (very) short summaries in French and German and as always there is an extensive bibliography.
If you are into re-enacting, this book will not provide you with actual patterns, so it is not really a 'practical' book, but the bakground information is priceless.

Shoes and Pattens is one of THE two great books using actual finds to show footwear in the English Middle Ages. A must have for anyone who is interesed in recreating period footwear or simply knowing about leather uses.
The second book is Stepping Through Time (David Brown Books) which follows footwear found in Holland dating from pre-history to 1800.

This book does an EXCELLENT job of covering all the information that you'd want about shoes, there patterns, and all the data from the early 12th to 15th century. I give it four stars ONLY because I'd hoped for some 9th and 10th century information, otherwise, it's a 5-star. Find a shoe you need and enlarge it to your size, cut, and sew!!

Shoes And Patterns is an in-depth archaeological study of medieval footwear, made possible by preserved footwear of the 12th through 15th century discovered along the north bank of the river Thames and permanently housed in the collection of the Museum of London. The detailed and informative text is enhanced throughout this impressive work of archaeological and historical scholarship with numerous black-and-white photographs and drawings which make the shoes of centuries ago as real and practical as if they were worn today. An essential addition to academic Medieval History studies reference collections, Shoes And Patterns is particularly recommended reading for theatrical costumers, replica-makers, historical reenactors and anyone with a festive curiosity about this down-to-earth topic of medieval footwear.

I suggest picking up a copy of SKATING SHOES for the ruff-and-tumble young lady of your household. This is the only one of the "Shoe" books that held my attention past the end of the first page -- the other's were just so-o girly! As a kid I put them in the same category as the Little House on the Prairie set (GAG). However, this one caught my attention with the description of Harriet's appearance and her family interaction and it kept me to the end with the antics of competition.

And the customer asked about the "Shoes" books, and a monologue about the wonders of Noel Streatfeild's "Shoes" books ensued, touching on Dancing Shoes, Ballet Shoes, and Skating Shoes, which is absolutely wonderful? That scene made me break down crying, because I had never heard anyone other than myself talk about these terrific books, and the fact that it is tragic that they are mostly out of print and hard to find. This book is a wonderful story of working hard for a goal, and accomplishing it, or at least getting on the road to achieving a reasonable, yet magical, goal. If you want a great book for your favorite elementary school girl, buy this one - then buy the other "Shoes" books (and get a copy of Tennis Shoes for your favorite boy too!)

After Ballet Shoes, of course, this is my favorite of the Shoes books. And with the recent interest in skating because of Sarah Hughes, I think this one should be reprinted. What I like about this one is that the heroine is a gawky "daddy long-legs" girl who turns out to be a real skating star after being in her friend's shadow. And her friend, Lalla, who is the shining star in the early part of the book suffers from the perils of early success and of a "stage mother" or "skating mom" in a very realistic way. Despite her being a bit of a spoiled girl, we really come to like her. Probably the most balanced and realistic characterizations of the Shoe books. It's formulaic, of course, but we Shoe fans love the formula.

I have loved the Shoes series since I first discovered them at my library when I was younger. My favorite is probably Dancing Shoes, but any of these books make wonderful reading for young girls, especially if they dream about being an actress, skater, or dancer. And there is good news for those who wish they could buy some of the books that are out of print in the US. Skating Shoes (also known as White Boots in the UK), Circus Shoes, Party Shoes, and Tennis Shoes are all still in print in England, and can be purchased at amazon.co.uk.

My daughter and I originally found this book in the library. She absolutely loves it! It's the story of two monsters named Grump and Pout who live in a forest. Obviously with names like Grump and Pout they are not the most charming monsters but they have a chance to change their ways. Even though the pictures are of monsters they are not scary! It's illustrated by Sandra Boynton who has done numerous board books for 9 to 24 month olds. It also has a very funny ending that's written on two levels for both children and adults. Plus it's a great to read out loud. This is an excellent book. I highly recommend it.

This is definitely one of my favorite books - my son laughs every time we read it. The perspective on monsters, and the combination of adult and child humor make it a great son for my son and i to read together.

When reading this book, every page makes my son and I laugh. We've read it to friends, and everyone finds the writing hilarious. It offers such an unusual view, and the illustrations enhance the humour. It's great for all ages!

This is a favorite book in our family. We recently shared this book with our daughter's kindergarten at story hour and they loved it! I hope the author(s) and publisher will seriously consider re-release.

An excellent adventure continues from where "The Sacred Quest" left off. More characters enter the story along with plenty more of action and characteristic snappy humor. There is even a little romance as new characters are introduced.

Perhaps one of Heimerdinger's best novel, this has everything that is necessary for a great story (see all that is mentioned above.) Now that everything had been set up in the prior novel, the story truly juices itself up with excellent plot and intrigue.

The characters continue to be fascinating, and Heimerdinger's references to religion and history make this both educational and amazingly spiritual.

Excellent, excellent novel.

This is a great book series. Many people I know have read the entire book series!

I was very impressed with the Seven Chuches, and couldn't wait to find out how this story was going to end. I like the writting style of having two first persons, the author pulls it off well. It contiunes to offer a new look on the ancient Roman Empire outside of Rome. It is a great book to read.

Meagan and Harry are still in Jerusalem. They are now in the grasp of an evil sorceror, Simon Magus. It is up to Meagan to conquer her fears to free herself and a Jewish orphan named Jesse.
Meanwhile Harry must travel to Jerusalem with Gidgiddonihah to try to recover a sacred scroll that may contain the ultimate power and mysteries of the universe. The scroll may be the key to saving his friends and himself.

A must have for anyone with a collection of pre 1930s shoes; well organized and illustrated; invaluable for analyzing, dating, and describing women's footwear.

This is the book that you want to own if you have a collection of women's shoes to catalog. The front matter of the book includes "Fig 1. Parts of the Shoe" which features 16 illustrations drawn by the author diagramming the terminology for common parts and pieces of shoes, basic types of front-lacing footwear and common heel types. Part Two, Dating Women's Shoes, 1795-1930, offers steps for dating a shoe and five chapters devoted to every aspect of the shoe: upper patterns in shoes, upper patterns in boots, heels and soles, variations in lasts and materials/decorations. Part two alone has over 400 illustrations of individual shoes elegantly drawn by the author with a caption to explain the style/type described. The text of each chapter tells you everything you wanted to know about uppers, heels and decorations in an energetic, meticulous and succinct writing style. Each illustration/shoe is further described in a credit section at the back of the book. Appendixes discuss: "How leather is made" and "How shoes are made", and include a "Partial Listing of Shoe Manufacturers as compiled from Labels and Advertisements," which is particularly valuable when trying to decipher worn labels. The glossary of 15 pages is thoroughly written so that one can feel confident using the correct terminology. Part I, A History of Women's Footwear in America includes the chapters: A Brief Look at the American Shoe Industry, Women's Shoes and Female Stereotypes, a Chronological Overview of Shoe Fashions, The Correct Dress of the Foot, and Shoes Adapted for Sports and Protection. Every aspect of the subject matter is laid out before you so that a beginner can feel confident dating and describing a shoe while those interested in fashion and costume history will treasure the wealth of information and the precision with which the author covers her subject. I can't imagine anyone writing a better book on the subject than this one.

This great book is a very interesting reading and one of the most valuable sources for dating the shoes. If you work with historical shoes or just love shoes you cannot just read it once - you will be always using it! On many occasions this book actually helped to date the shoes correctly.

Since I received my delivery of _Women's Shoes In America, 1795-1930_ from Amazon earlier this week, I have been unable to put down this extraordinary book. Nancy Rexford's work is a magnificent contribution to the field of costume history. I understand that it took Nancy 14 years to research the information for this book. I have no doubt that she will soon be acknowledged as the leading expert on the history of American shoes. Women's Shoes in America is divided into two main sections. The first section is "A History of Women's Footwear...". This section includes chapters on the rise of the American shoe industry (fascinating), cultural stereotyping, sporting shoes, etc. The second section of the book is "Dating Women's Shoes, 1795-1930". This section is a well organized and easy to follow guide on how to date shoes by their various parts; eg. heels, soles, uppers, trimmings, etc. This is a book every museum, dealer and fashion lover will cherish. You will be wowed by the author's breadth of historical knowledge, thorough research, clear organization, easy to follow identification key and her beautiful illustrations. For me, the icing on the cake for this book is that it is also so very literary; simply a delight to read!! I highly recommend it!

______________________________________________________________