Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Cesar's Way is the Magic Way!, 18 Nov 2008
"Cesar's Way" is truly a bible for us who love and have dogs. Growing up, my family always had two dogs. We always gave affection first, then discipline, and then exercise. No wonder we always had unbalanced pets who ran the household - it was opposite of what Cesar Milan teaches. Cesar suggests a simple formula in order to have a balanced dog. Exercise, discipline, and affection... in that order! Who knew?!

Cesar writes that dogs live in the moment and that they communicate using energy, constantly. We can learn a lot from our dogs. If we are lost in thought and neurotic in our behavior, our dogs will mirror our energy. When we are in the moment with our animals, our dogs have new possibilities with their behaviors, living a balanced life.

To live in harmony with my family's pet and other animals, I have to find harmony within myself. As Cesar Milan is the "Dog Whisperer", I see author's Ariel & Shya Kane as "The People Whisperers". I highly suggest reading their award winning books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. The less I work on myself, the more presently I live my life. It's great for my relationships with people and dogs!

interesting but nothing new, 06 Sep 2008
As said before if you watch his show most of what is in the book will be nothing new, if you are looking for advice on specific problems and how to cure them this is not for you.
It really just goes over Cesar's attitude towards dealing with your dog rather than any specifics.
It is nicely written and I did enjoy reading it and it did give me a push to be more confident around my dogs to help influence them which I do feel helps, although I'm not into alpha rolls or choke chains.
If you are looking for the miracle cures you see him do on TV, look somewhere else, like a trainer/behaviourist, but if you already have a dog and don't feel totally incontrol this may give you a bit of a lift to be more confident in their handling.

Not what I thought, 29 Aug 2008
This book is well written for the most part and almost appears to be an autobiography in places which is a plus for Milan fans.

However...

Having tried the techniques on my own dog I realised that they are not for everyone and should not be touted as such.

I also found the book to be more than enlightening on what these techniques ACTUALLY involve, which you dont get to see on the TV.

Unfortunately (and as an ex-fan I mean this whole-heartedly) it did not meet my expectations as a book for training advice, although it is still a good buy if you are looking for life advice or to know more about Cesar himself.

Doggie Style, 14 Aug 2008
I've been an avid watcher of "The Dog Whisper" on The Discovery Cannel for a while, so I was thrilled to read a book by one of my hero's, Cesar Milan. As the proud owner of a pitbull (Topper) I have a vested interest in Ceasr's magic. I used to feel guilty making Topper surrender to my commands. But as pack animals, dogs need and love having boundaries. My dog is not a person. He is a D-O-G who will take the lead, if I don't. I've noticed a shift in my dog's energy since he has started listening to my "calm and assertive" nature. Cesar states that "Dogs live in the moment". My dog has been doing naturally what I've been striving to do all my life.

I've found an easy way to access the moment by reading "How To Create A Magical Relationship" by Ariel and Shya Kane. This engaging and inspiring book effortlessly dropped me into the moment by simply listening. Hey, if my dog can listen, so can I. Enjoy!

Of no practical use, 29 Jul 2008
I was so disappointed by this book that I have given it away to charity. I wouldn't have given it to anyone I know who has an interest in dogs, and I wouldn't recommend it. The information that I was looking for - Cesar's take on how to have your dogs behave as you'd like them to while providing them with a happy and secure life - simply wasn't there. For the few snippets of rather loose and outdated info that were buried in the text, I had to wade through pages of Cesar's self-congratulatory 'look how clever I am and see how well I've done' autobiography, with far too many crass references to his wealthy celebrity clients (does the size of Oprah Winfrey's ranch with its ocean view really matter in a book that I thought was about dog behaviour? I don't think so).

I came away from reading this book with the impression that I - along with every other dog owner - must have unlimited energy, unlimited time and be prepared (just for starters) to get up at the crack of dawn to take my dogs out for a minimum of an hour's exercise (having learned to rollerblade first, of course). The way the book was written made me feel that, as I don't have the energy or think the same way that Cesar does, I may as well forget about being a dog owner as, in his eyes, I'm not up to it. I found that all rather disheartening, but then I realised something - Cesar Milan's views don't apply.

I would recommend 'Think Dog' by John Fisher instead, and I have made a note of the authors recommended by other reviewers for my own further reading (Jean Donaldson and Karen Pryor in particular).

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Cesar's Way is the Magic Way!, 18 Nov 2008
"Cesar's Way" is truly a bible for us who love and have dogs. Growing up, my family always had two dogs. We always gave affection first, then discipline, and then exercise. No wonder we always had unbalanced pets who ran the household - it was opposite of what Cesar Milan teaches. Cesar suggests a simple formula in order to have a balanced dog. Exercise, discipline, and affection... in that order! Who knew?!

Cesar writes that dogs live in the moment and that they communicate using energy, constantly. We can learn a lot from our dogs. If we are lost in thought and neurotic in our behavior, our dogs will mirror our energy. When we are in the moment with our animals, our dogs have new possibilities with their behaviors, living a balanced life.

To live in harmony with my family's pet and other animals, I have to find harmony within myself. As Cesar Milan is the "Dog Whisperer", I see author's Ariel & Shya Kane as "The People Whisperers". I highly suggest reading their award winning books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. The less I work on myself, the more presently I live my life. It's great for my relationships with people and dogs!

interesting but nothing new, 06 Sep 2008
As said before if you watch his show most of what is in the book will be nothing new, if you are looking for advice on specific problems and how to cure them this is not for you.
It really just goes over Cesar's attitude towards dealing with your dog rather than any specifics.
It is nicely written and I did enjoy reading it and it did give me a push to be more confident around my dogs to help influence them which I do feel helps, although I'm not into alpha rolls or choke chains.
If you are looking for the miracle cures you see him do on TV, look somewhere else, like a trainer/behaviourist, but if you already have a dog and don't feel totally incontrol this may give you a bit of a lift to be more confident in their handling.

Not what I thought, 29 Aug 2008
This book is well written for the most part and almost appears to be an autobiography in places which is a plus for Milan fans.

However...

Having tried the techniques on my own dog I realised that they are not for everyone and should not be touted as such.

I also found the book to be more than enlightening on what these techniques ACTUALLY involve, which you dont get to see on the TV.

Unfortunately (and as an ex-fan I mean this whole-heartedly) it did not meet my expectations as a book for training advice, although it is still a good buy if you are looking for life advice or to know more about Cesar himself.

Doggie Style, 14 Aug 2008
I've been an avid watcher of "The Dog Whisper" on The Discovery Cannel for a while, so I was thrilled to read a book by one of my hero's, Cesar Milan. As the proud owner of a pitbull (Topper) I have a vested interest in Ceasr's magic. I used to feel guilty making Topper surrender to my commands. But as pack animals, dogs need and love having boundaries. My dog is not a person. He is a D-O-G who will take the lead, if I don't. I've noticed a shift in my dog's energy since he has started listening to my "calm and assertive" nature. Cesar states that "Dogs live in the moment". My dog has been doing naturally what I've been striving to do all my life.

I've found an easy way to access the moment by reading "How To Create A Magical Relationship" by Ariel and Shya Kane. This engaging and inspiring book effortlessly dropped me into the moment by simply listening. Hey, if my dog can listen, so can I. Enjoy!

Of no practical use, 29 Jul 2008
I was so disappointed by this book that I have given it away to charity. I wouldn't have given it to anyone I know who has an interest in dogs, and I wouldn't recommend it. The information that I was looking for - Cesar's take on how to have your dogs behave as you'd like them to while providing them with a happy and secure life - simply wasn't there. For the few snippets of rather loose and outdated info that were buried in the text, I had to wade through pages of Cesar's self-congratulatory 'look how clever I am and see how well I've done' autobiography, with far too many crass references to his wealthy celebrity clients (does the size of Oprah Winfrey's ranch with its ocean view really matter in a book that I thought was about dog behaviour? I don't think so).

I came away from reading this book with the impression that I - along with every other dog owner - must have unlimited energy, unlimited time and be prepared (just for starters) to get up at the crack of dawn to take my dogs out for a minimum of an hour's exercise (having learned to rollerblade first, of course). The way the book was written made me feel that, as I don't have the energy or think the same way that Cesar does, I may as well forget about being a dog owner as, in his eyes, I'm not up to it. I found that all rather disheartening, but then I realised something - Cesar Milan's views don't apply.

I would recommend 'Think Dog' by John Fisher instead, and I have made a note of the authors recommended by other reviewers for my own further reading (Jean Donaldson and Karen Pryor in particular).

Me Very Impressed!, 11 Nov 2008
This is that rarity, a work of genius that's also accessible in all the right ways: hilarious, touching, cutting, thought-provoking and beautifully written, breathtakingly so at times. But fear not: the romance is constantly sauced with the simian hero's outrageous, turd-slinging wise-cracks and put-downs. Cheeta speaks in a lovely blend of street wisdom and naïve poetry that makes you want to listen to him for much longer than the book lasts. And his racy, piquant subject matter is utterly intriguing!

The brilliance here lies in several layers, beginning with the very idea of a celebrity chimp telling his tale in a mind-boggling combination of natural history (Cheeta's self-awareness leads to many "you'll know this from National Geographic" type references) and "urban jungle" adventure. Add in the period glamour of Hollywood and Manhattan, amongst others, for further seduction. Then there's the constant insider scandal and sly digs at various cinematic egos: if you're looking for scurrilous iconoclasm, just seek out Rooney and Chaplin wherever they appear. The same subtlety informs the dissection of "swimming star" Esther Williams, done in part by having the chapter on her "removed on legal advice" but with frequent sarcastic sneers elsewhere and some nudging clues in the index - yes, even the index is worth reading! And watch out for the deflations of some more contemporary posturers towards the end, during Cheeta's "Oscar acceptance" sequence - scalpel-sharp stuff.

The heart of the book, though, is the enduring friendship with cinema's greatest Tarzan, Johnny Weissmuller, here portrayed with an ultimate poignancy that is genuinely heart-wrenching. Their earlier exploits constitute a most original "romance," the bond between a bright animal and a child-like man (initially idolised but increasingly worn down and out by his fellow humans, especially his wives) very affectingly realised. It's particularly touching during their separations, when time, especially for Cheeta, becomes a blank despair completely opposite to the "dreams" (films) the pair create when they're together; the ape's innocence of the man's oblivion during these periods is truly poignant.

The sleazy "reunion" eventually orchestrated by a trashy magazine is all the more distressing in this regard. Whilst the lowest aspects of it go thankfully over the innocent heads of the pair, the once-godlike Weissmuller's decrepitude and Cheeta's desperation for his company and urge to "rescue" the human from exploitation tug our heart-strings in several directions and raise all sorts of thoughts about captivity, dependence and consciousness. The whole thing can be read, in fact, as a love story between man and chimp, with this book the latter's celebration of, and love-letter to, a human he sees as the best of his species and whom he worshipfully considers to be his son (ape-rescued and reared), father (jungle-king, protector) and brother ("keeper" and friend) - a moving and thought-provoking trinity.

It must be said, though, that the imaginative empathy of the "ghost writer" goes beyond anthropomorphism and achieves plausibility without liberties, emotion without sentiment: descriptions of the jungle life "of infanticide and cannibalism" from which his beloved humans rescue Cheeta are lyrical, realistic, violent, sad and laugh-out-loud comical. And when he reaches America it gets even better! The early escape (orchestrated by the macaques) from a Manhattan animal dealer (Cheeta thinks of it as "rehab") into the exotic setting of Depression-ridden New York leads to one of the funniest sequences I've read for ages - and Kong makes an "appearance" you won't forget!

This is such an original premise that you might fear for its actual fulfilment: how could anyone sustain this level of invention! But the execution is so wonderful that Cheeta becomes, and remains, completely engaging, whilst his adventures and reminiscences more than fulfil the promise of the book's concept - indeed, they transcend it. The mischievous suggestion that Cheeta has "accidentally" typed all this out (in the manner of those infinite Shakespearian monkeys and with appropriate Shakespeare references around the text) is typical of the sly wit at work here.

Our hero is, of course, affectionate and scathing in turns on human nature; and he tells us, in the most entertaining way, what is to be respected and despised in our behaviour, along with what we can learn from our primate cousins. Loving, forgiving and always fascinating, Cheeta's unique story gives us many deep insights into our own lives - and has us frequently weeping with laughter as he does it. This is not to diminish the beautifully-imagined primate psychology; indeed, I'm amazed at how well such profound ideas as Cheeta's non-concept of death, his oblique knowledge of animal cruelty and his ultimately, well, existential take on it all sit alongside the barbs and ironies.

If you love films, animals, movie stars, gossip, satire, scandal and, above all, inspired writing, you will take this marvellous book and its innocent, wise, witty, perceptive and irreverent author straight to your heart. And this is right at the top of my gift list for the humans I care about: I can't imagine a better compliment to anyone's intelligence, sense of humour and literary taste. Absolutely fantastic!

Scurrilous gossip and a glimpse of a long gone Hollywood, 31 Oct 2008
An autobiography by an acting chimp, does on the surface, seem like a ridiculous concept. Have no fear though; this is not what it seems!

It is a beautifully crafted, funny, cathartic, sleazy and gossipy look at 30's Hollywood in the form of a memoir. Me Cheeta has been fantastically ghost written by an author of some considerable talent, blessed with biting wit and an endless catalogue of sleaze on Cheeta's co stars of the day

This book is part tell all, part shocking indictment of the treatment of animals in the name of entertainment and part love poem to Johnny Weissmuller - Cheeta's co star in the Tarzan pics. Cheeta leaves no stone unturned and the frankly litigious slander doled out is worth the price of this book alone. Chaplin, Bogey, Mikey Rooney, Rex Harrison and many more are given the Cheeta treatment, making for some of the funniest lines in the book.

Cheeta's voice to me, had a touch of Stewie from Family Guy, a little of Ignatius P. Reilly from a Confederacy of Dunces and a touch of David Niven. His rakish asides and backbiting make it infinitely more entertaining than any contemporary Autobiography you'll read this year, or maybe ever.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Cesar's Way is the Magic Way!, 18 Nov 2008
"Cesar's Way" is truly a bible for us who love and have dogs. Growing up, my family always had two dogs. We always gave affection first, then discipline, and then exercise. No wonder we always had unbalanced pets who ran the household - it was opposite of what Cesar Milan teaches. Cesar suggests a simple formula in order to have a balanced dog. Exercise, discipline, and affection... in that order! Who knew?!

Cesar writes that dogs live in the moment and that they communicate using energy, constantly. We can learn a lot from our dogs. If we are lost in thought and neurotic in our behavior, our dogs will mirror our energy. When we are in the moment with our animals, our dogs have new possibilities with their behaviors, living a balanced life.

To live in harmony with my family's pet and other animals, I have to find harmony within myself. As Cesar Milan is the "Dog Whisperer", I see author's Ariel & Shya Kane as "The People Whisperers". I highly suggest reading their award winning books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. The less I work on myself, the more presently I live my life. It's great for my relationships with people and dogs!

interesting but nothing new, 06 Sep 2008
As said before if you watch his show most of what is in the book will be nothing new, if you are looking for advice on specific problems and how to cure them this is not for you.
It really just goes over Cesar's attitude towards dealing with your dog rather than any specifics.
It is nicely written and I did enjoy reading it and it did give me a push to be more confident around my dogs to help influence them which I do feel helps, although I'm not into alpha rolls or choke chains.
If you are looking for the miracle cures you see him do on TV, look somewhere else, like a trainer/behaviourist, but if you already have a dog and don't feel totally incontrol this may give you a bit of a lift to be more confident in their handling.

Not what I thought, 29 Aug 2008
This book is well written for the most part and almost appears to be an autobiography in places which is a plus for Milan fans.

However...

Having tried the techniques on my own dog I realised that they are not for everyone and should not be touted as such.

I also found the book to be more than enlightening on what these techniques ACTUALLY involve, which you dont get to see on the TV.

Unfortunately (and as an ex-fan I mean this whole-heartedly) it did not meet my expectations as a book for training advice, although it is still a good buy if you are looking for life advice or to know more about Cesar himself.

Doggie Style, 14 Aug 2008
I've been an avid watcher of "The Dog Whisper" on The Discovery Cannel for a while, so I was thrilled to read a book by one of my hero's, Cesar Milan. As the proud owner of a pitbull (Topper) I have a vested interest in Ceasr's magic. I used to feel guilty making Topper surrender to my commands. But as pack animals, dogs need and love having boundaries. My dog is not a person. He is a D-O-G who will take the lead, if I don't. I've noticed a shift in my dog's energy since he has started listening to my "calm and assertive" nature. Cesar states that "Dogs live in the moment". My dog has been doing naturally what I've been striving to do all my life.

I've found an easy way to access the moment by reading "How To Create A Magical Relationship" by Ariel and Shya Kane. This engaging and inspiring book effortlessly dropped me into the moment by simply listening. Hey, if my dog can listen, so can I. Enjoy!

Of no practical use, 29 Jul 2008
I was so disappointed by this book that I have given it away to charity. I wouldn't have given it to anyone I know who has an interest in dogs, and I wouldn't recommend it. The information that I was looking for - Cesar's take on how to have your dogs behave as you'd like them to while providing them with a happy and secure life - simply wasn't there. For the few snippets of rather loose and outdated info that were buried in the text, I had to wade through pages of Cesar's self-congratulatory 'look how clever I am and see how well I've done' autobiography, with far too many crass references to his wealthy celebrity clients (does the size of Oprah Winfrey's ranch with its ocean view really matter in a book that I thought was about dog behaviour? I don't think so).

I came away from reading this book with the impression that I - along with every other dog owner - must have unlimited energy, unlimited time and be prepared (just for starters) to get up at the crack of dawn to take my dogs out for a minimum of an hour's exercise (having learned to rollerblade first, of course). The way the book was written made me feel that, as I don't have the energy or think the same way that Cesar does, I may as well forget about being a dog owner as, in his eyes, I'm not up to it. I found that all rather disheartening, but then I realised something - Cesar Milan's views don't apply.

I would recommend 'Think Dog' by John Fisher instead, and I have made a note of the authors recommended by other reviewers for my own further reading (Jean Donaldson and Karen Pryor in particular).

Me Very Impressed!, 11 Nov 2008
This is that rarity, a work of genius that's also accessible in all the right ways: hilarious, touching, cutting, thought-provoking and beautifully written, breathtakingly so at times. But fear not: the romance is constantly sauced with the simian hero's outrageous, turd-slinging wise-cracks and put-downs. Cheeta speaks in a lovely blend of street wisdom and naïve poetry that makes you want to listen to him for much longer than the book lasts. And his racy, piquant subject matter is utterly intriguing!

The brilliance here lies in several layers, beginning with the very idea of a celebrity chimp telling his tale in a mind-boggling combination of natural history (Cheeta's self-awareness leads to many "you'll know this from National Geographic" type references) and "urban jungle" adventure. Add in the period glamour of Hollywood and Manhattan, amongst others, for further seduction. Then there's the constant insider scandal and sly digs at various cinematic egos: if you're looking for scurrilous iconoclasm, just seek out Rooney and Chaplin wherever they appear. The same subtlety informs the dissection of "swimming star" Esther Williams, done in part by having the chapter on her "removed on legal advice" but with frequent sarcastic sneers elsewhere and some nudging clues in the index - yes, even the index is worth reading! And watch out for the deflations of some more contemporary posturers towards the end, during Cheeta's "Oscar acceptance" sequence - scalpel-sharp stuff.

The heart of the book, though, is the enduring friendship with cinema's greatest Tarzan, Johnny Weissmuller, here portrayed with an ultimate poignancy that is genuinely heart-wrenching. Their earlier exploits constitute a most original "romance," the bond between a bright animal and a child-like man (initially idolised but increasingly worn down and out by his fellow humans, especially his wives) very affectingly realised. It's particularly touching during their separations, when time, especially for Cheeta, becomes a blank despair completely opposite to the "dreams" (films) the pair create when they're together; the ape's innocence of the man's oblivion during these periods is truly poignant.

The sleazy "reunion" eventually orchestrated by a trashy magazine is all the more distressing in this regard. Whilst the lowest aspects of it go thankfully over the innocent heads of the pair, the once-godlike Weissmuller's decrepitude and Cheeta's desperation for his company and urge to "rescue" the human from exploitation tug our heart-strings in several directions and raise all sorts of thoughts about captivity, dependence and consciousness. The whole thing can be read, in fact, as a love story between man and chimp, with this book the latter's celebration of, and love-letter to, a human he sees as the best of his species and whom he worshipfully considers to be his son (ape-rescued and reared), father (jungle-king, protector) and brother ("keeper" and friend) - a moving and thought-provoking trinity.

It must be said, though, that the imaginative empathy of the "ghost writer" goes beyond anthropomorphism and achieves plausibility without liberties, emotion without sentiment: descriptions of the jungle life "of infanticide and cannibalism" from which his beloved humans rescue Cheeta are lyrical, realistic, violent, sad and laugh-out-loud comical. And when he reaches America it gets even better! The early escape (orchestrated by the macaques) from a Manhattan animal dealer (Cheeta thinks of it as "rehab") into the exotic setting of Depression-ridden New York leads to one of the funniest sequences I've read for ages - and Kong makes an "appearance" you won't forget!

This is such an original premise that you might fear for its actual fulfilment: how could anyone sustain this level of invention! But the execution is so wonderful that Cheeta becomes, and remains, completely engaging, whilst his adventures and reminiscences more than fulfil the promise of the book's concept - indeed, they transcend it. The mischievous suggestion that Cheeta has "accidentally" typed all this out (in the manner of those infinite Shakespearian monkeys and with appropriate Shakespeare references around the text) is typical of the sly wit at work here.

Our hero is, of course, affectionate and scathing in turns on human nature; and he tells us, in the most entertaining way, what is to be respected and despised in our behaviour, along with what we can learn from our primate cousins. Loving, forgiving and always fascinating, Cheeta's unique story gives us many deep insights into our own lives - and has us frequently weeping with laughter as he does it. This is not to diminish the beautifully-imagined primate psychology; indeed, I'm amazed at how well such profound ideas as Cheeta's non-concept of death, his oblique knowledge of animal cruelty and his ultimately, well, existential take on it all sit alongside the barbs and ironies.

If you love films, animals, movie stars, gossip, satire, scandal and, above all, inspired writing, you will take this marvellous book and its innocent, wise, witty, perceptive and irreverent author straight to your heart. And this is right at the top of my gift list for the humans I care about: I can't imagine a better compliment to anyone's intelligence, sense of humour and literary taste. Absolutely fantastic!

Scurrilous gossip and a glimpse of a long gone Hollywood, 31 Oct 2008
An autobiography by an acting chimp, does on the surface, seem like a ridiculous concept. Have no fear though; this is not what it seems!

It is a beautifully crafted, funny, cathartic, sleazy and gossipy look at 30's Hollywood in the form of a memoir. Me Cheeta has been fantastically ghost written by an author of some considerable talent, blessed with biting wit and an endless catalogue of sleaze on Cheeta's co stars of the day

This book is part tell all, part shocking indictment of the treatment of animals in the name of entertainment and part love poem to Johnny Weissmuller - Cheeta's co star in the Tarzan pics. Cheeta leaves no stone unturned and the frankly litigious slander doled out is worth the price of this book alone. Chaplin, Bogey, Mikey Rooney, Rex Harrison and many more are given the Cheeta treatment, making for some of the funniest lines in the book.

Cheeta's voice to me, had a touch of Stewie from Family Guy, a little of Ignatius P. Reilly from a Confederacy of Dunces and a touch of David Niven. His rakish asides and backbiting make it infinitely more entertaining than any contemporary Autobiography you'll read this year, or maybe ever.




Stunning, 04 Nov 2008
Wow,this is a book that you will look at time and time again. The photographs are stunning and beautiful at the same time. What will Tim be photographing next?

Equus, 30 Oct 2008
This is a beautiful book by photographer Tim Flach with stunning and unusual photographs of horses (and some other animals in the equus family). Everyone who has seen my book has loved it. It would make a very good present for people who are interested in horses or photography. It is a large book approximately 37cm wide x
29cm. It has photographs of everything from an embryo to horses photographed all over the world. It seems very good value for a book of this quality and size.

Stunning, 15 Oct 2008
Stunning photographic images of the horse whether in their natural environment or under human influence. A true masterpiece which will last a lifetime.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Cesar's Way is the Magic Way!, 18 Nov 2008
"Cesar's Way" is truly a bible for us who love and have dogs. Growing up, my family always had two dogs. We always gave affection first, then discipline, and then exercise. No wonder we always had unbalanced pets who ran the household - it was opposite of what Cesar Milan teaches. Cesar suggests a simple formula in order to have a balanced dog. Exercise, discipline, and affection... in that order! Who knew?!

Cesar writes that dogs live in the moment and that they communicate using energy, constantly. We can learn a lot from our dogs. If we are lost in thought and neurotic in our behavior, our dogs will mirror our energy. When we are in the moment with our animals, our dogs have new possibilities with their behaviors, living a balanced life.

To live in harmony with my family's pet and other animals, I have to find harmony within myself. As Cesar Milan is the "Dog Whisperer", I see author's Ariel & Shya Kane as "The People Whisperers". I highly suggest reading their award winning books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. The less I work on myself, the more presently I live my life. It's great for my relationships with people and dogs!

interesting but nothing new, 06 Sep 2008
As said before if you watch his show most of what is in the book will be nothing new, if you are looking for advice on specific problems and how to cure them this is not for you.
It really just goes over Cesar's attitude towards dealing with your dog rather than any specifics.
It is nicely written and I did enjoy reading it and it did give me a push to be more confident around my dogs to help influence them which I do feel helps, although I'm not into alpha rolls or choke chains.
If you are looking for the miracle cures you see him do on TV, look somewhere else, like a trainer/behaviourist, but if you already have a dog and don't feel totally incontrol this may give you a bit of a lift to be more confident in their handling.

Not what I thought, 29 Aug 2008
This book is well written for the most part and almost appears to be an autobiography in places which is a plus for Milan fans.

However...

Having tried the techniques on my own dog I realised that they are not for everyone and should not be touted as such.

I also found the book to be more than enlightening on what these techniques ACTUALLY involve, which you dont get to see on the TV.

Unfortunately (and as an ex-fan I mean this whole-heartedly) it did not meet my expectations as a book for training advice, although it is still a good buy if you are looking for life advice or to know more about Cesar himself.

Doggie Style, 14 Aug 2008
I've been an avid watcher of "The Dog Whisper" on The Discovery Cannel for a while, so I was thrilled to read a book by one of my hero's, Cesar Milan. As the proud owner of a pitbull (Topper) I have a vested interest in Ceasr's magic. I used to feel guilty making Topper surrender to my commands. But as pack animals, dogs need and love having boundaries. My dog is not a person. He is a D-O-G who will take the lead, if I don't. I've noticed a shift in my dog's energy since he has started listening to my "calm and assertive" nature. Cesar states that "Dogs live in the moment". My dog has been doing naturally what I've been striving to do all my life.

I've found an easy way to access the moment by reading "How To Create A Magical Relationship" by Ariel and Shya Kane. This engaging and inspiring book effortlessly dropped me into the moment by simply listening. Hey, if my dog can listen, so can I. Enjoy!

Of no practical use, 29 Jul 2008
I was so disappointed by this book that I have given it away to charity. I wouldn't have given it to anyone I know who has an interest in dogs, and I wouldn't recommend it. The information that I was looking for - Cesar's take on how to have your dogs behave as you'd like them to while providing them with a happy and secure life - simply wasn't there. For the few snippets of rather loose and outdated info that were buried in the text, I had to wade through pages of Cesar's self-congratulatory 'look how clever I am and see how well I've done' autobiography, with far too many crass references to his wealthy celebrity clients (does the size of Oprah Winfrey's ranch with its ocean view really matter in a book that I thought was about dog behaviour? I don't think so).

I came away from reading this book with the impression that I - along with every other dog owner - must have unlimited energy, unlimited time and be prepared (just for starters) to get up at the crack of dawn to take my dogs out for a minimum of an hour's exercise (having learned to rollerblade first, of course). The way the book was written made me feel that, as I don't have the energy or think the same way that Cesar does, I may as well forget about being a dog owner as, in his eyes, I'm not up to it. I found that all rather disheartening, but then I realised something - Cesar Milan's views don't apply.

I would recommend 'Think Dog' by John Fisher instead, and I have made a note of the authors recommended by other reviewers for my own further reading (Jean Donaldson and Karen Pryor in particular).

Me Very Impressed!, 11 Nov 2008
This is that rarity, a work of genius that's also accessible in all the right ways: hilarious, touching, cutting, thought-provoking and beautifully written, breathtakingly so at times. But fear not: the romance is constantly sauced with the simian hero's outrageous, turd-slinging wise-cracks and put-downs. Cheeta speaks in a lovely blend of street wisdom and naïve poetry that makes you want to listen to him for much longer than the book lasts. And his racy, piquant subject matter is utterly intriguing!

The brilliance here lies in several layers, beginning with the very idea of a celebrity chimp telling his tale in a mind-boggling combination of natural history (Cheeta's self-awareness leads to many "you'll know this from National Geographic" type references) and "urban jungle" adventure. Add in the period glamour of Hollywood and Manhattan, amongst others, for further seduction. Then there's the constant insider scandal and sly digs at various cinematic egos: if you're looking for scurrilous iconoclasm, just seek out Rooney and Chaplin wherever they appear. The same subtlety informs the dissection of "swimming star" Esther Williams, done in part by having the chapter on her "removed on legal advice" but with frequent sarcastic sneers elsewhere and some nudging clues in the index - yes, even the index is worth reading! And watch out for the deflations of some more contemporary posturers towards the end, during Cheeta's "Oscar acceptance" sequence - scalpel-sharp stuff.

The heart of the book, though, is the enduring friendship with cinema's greatest Tarzan, Johnny Weissmuller, here portrayed with an ultimate poignancy that is genuinely heart-wrenching. Their earlier exploits constitute a most original "romance," the bond between a bright animal and a child-like man (initially idolised but increasingly worn down and out by his fellow humans, especially his wives) very affectingly realised. It's particularly touching during their separations, when time, especially for Cheeta, becomes a blank despair completely opposite to the "dreams" (films) the pair create when they're together; the ape's innocence of the man's oblivion during these periods is truly poignant.

The sleazy "reunion" eventually orchestrated by a trashy magazine is all the more distressing in this regard. Whilst the lowest aspects of it go thankfully over the innocent heads of the pair, the once-godlike Weissmuller's decrepitude and Cheeta's desperation for his company and urge to "rescue" the human from exploitation tug our heart-strings in several directions and raise all sorts of thoughts about captivity, dependence and consciousness. The whole thing can be read, in fact, as a love story between man and chimp, with this book the latter's celebration of, and love-letter to, a human he sees as the best of his species and whom he worshipfully considers to be his son (ape-rescued and reared), father (jungle-king, protector) and brother ("keeper" and friend) - a moving and thought-provoking trinity.

It must be said, though, that the imaginative empathy of the "ghost writer" goes beyond anthropomorphism and achieves plausibility without liberties, emotion without sentiment: descriptions of the jungle life "of infanticide and cannibalism" from which his beloved humans rescue Cheeta are lyrical, realistic, violent, sad and laugh-out-loud comical. And when he reaches America it gets even better! The early escape (orchestrated by the macaques) from a Manhattan animal dealer (Cheeta thinks of it as "rehab") into the exotic setting of Depression-ridden New York leads to one of the funniest sequences I've read for ages - and Kong makes an "appearance" you won't forget!

This is such an original premise that you might fear for its actual fulfilment: how could anyone sustain this level of invention! But the execution is so wonderful that Cheeta becomes, and remains, completely engaging, whilst his adventures and reminiscences more than fulfil the promise of the book's concept - indeed, they transcend it. The mischievous suggestion that Cheeta has "accidentally" typed all this out (in the manner of those infinite Shakespearian monkeys and with appropriate Shakespeare references around the text) is typical of the sly wit at work here.

Our hero is, of course, affectionate and scathing in turns on human nature; and he tells us, in the most entertaining way, what is to be respected and despised in our behaviour, along with what we can learn from our primate cousins. Loving, forgiving and always fascinating, Cheeta's unique story gives us many deep insights into our own lives - and has us frequently weeping with laughter as he does it. This is not to diminish the beautifully-imagined primate psychology; indeed, I'm amazed at how well such profound ideas as Cheeta's non-concept of death, his oblique knowledge of animal cruelty and his ultimately, well, existential take on it all sit alongside the barbs and ironies.

If you love films, animals, movie stars, gossip, satire, scandal and, above all, inspired writing, you will take this marvellous book and its innocent, wise, witty, perceptive and irreverent author straight to your heart. And this is right at the top of my gift list for the humans I care about: I can't imagine a better compliment to anyone's intelligence, sense of humour and literary taste. Absolutely fantastic!

Scurrilous gossip and a glimpse of a long gone Hollywood, 31 Oct 2008
An autobiography by an acting chimp, does on the surface, seem like a ridiculous concept. Have no fear though; this is not what it seems!

It is a beautifully crafted, funny, cathartic, sleazy and gossipy look at 30's Hollywood in the form of a memoir. Me Cheeta has been fantastically ghost written by an author of some considerable talent, blessed with biting wit and an endless catalogue of sleaze on Cheeta's co stars of the day

This book is part tell all, part shocking indictment of the treatment of animals in the name of entertainment and part love poem to Johnny Weissmuller - Cheeta's co star in the Tarzan pics. Cheeta leaves no stone unturned and the frankly litigious slander doled out is worth the price of this book alone. Chaplin, Bogey, Mikey Rooney, Rex Harrison and many more are given the Cheeta treatment, making for some of the funniest lines in the book.

Cheeta's voice to me, had a touch of Stewie from Family Guy, a little of Ignatius P. Reilly from a Confederacy of Dunces and a touch of David Niven. His rakish asides and backbiting make it infinitely more entertaining than any contemporary Autobiography you'll read this year, or maybe ever.




Stunning, 04 Nov 2008
Wow,this is a book that you will look at time and time again. The photographs are stunning and beautiful at the same time. What will Tim be photographing next?

Equus, 30 Oct 2008
This is a beautiful book by photographer Tim Flach with stunning and unusual photographs of horses (and some other animals in the equus family). Everyone who has seen my book has loved it. It would make a very good present for people who are interested in horses or photography. It is a large book approximately 37cm wide x
29cm. It has photographs of everything from an embryo to horses photographed all over the world. It seems very good value for a book of this quality and size.

Stunning, 15 Oct 2008
Stunning photographic images of the horse whether in their natural environment or under human influence. A true masterpiece which will last a lifetime.

Disappointed, 21 Nov 2008
I was very disappointed with this book as it is merely a greatly reduced precis of each tv episode. Not much help if you have a problem dog looking for the solution or training

Excellent resource for learning 'pack leadership', 17 May 2008
For those who want to expand their knowledge and abilities with dog leadership skills this book provides valuable tools for achieving that goal. Every episode from Cesar Millan's first 3 series of 'The Dog Whisperer' is reviewed and analysed. This in depth analysis helps to make very real the method which Cesar uses.

Unlike 'dog training' Cesar and others who follow the 'pack system' focus on creating harmony and balance in our dogs. We use our dog's natural and hard wired instincts to create change which allow them to 'be themselves'. This method helps to meet our dogs needs rather than us just getting our needs met when we get love and affection from our dogs.

This book allows us to get a much deeper understanding of the way Cesar uses the 'power of pack leadership' to help create happy balanced dogs. The book also gives follow ups which help to see that even with Cesar's help some dogs and their owners are unable to make the desired changes.

This book provides a valuable guide that is well written and very concise. Whatever breed of dog you have, whatever age and whatever your dogs problems you will find help in the pages of this book.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Russia was by the end of the war occupying much of Eastern Europe, too bad for those millions and millions of tragic people who had to suffer another 50 years of dictatorial communist rule! Churchill and Roosavelt do not come out of this that well though their positions were completely untenable, they more or less had no option but to agree with the psycopathic Stalin who had helped them out.
I was however quite impressed by De Gaulle who refused to recognise the puppet government of Poland at the end of the war and the ever devious Stalin was also much impressed by De Gaulles
suspicions. Stalin respected the French leader for his insight, but told that the interpreter at the meeting that he would be sent to Siberia for knowing too much!

There is lots to interest in this new book with some fantastic details, first hand witness reports and new information that makes this book a really good historical read.

Doggone fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
Love Martin Clunes, love dogs, loved his recent documentary about dogs - so all good. This book does tally with the tv programme about history of dogs but the bits I actually enjoyed best are his own personal history with dogs and his present day trials, tribulations and joys with them. Just one thing - I'd love to know how Mary is these days.

The Dambuster raid comes alive, 11 Nov 2008
There are many histories written about the Dams raid where you can glean the clinical facts - and there was the film ... but there's nothing like oral history to engage the imagination and bring you close to the people who were there. The Dambusters, far from being 'gung-ho' come over as men of enormous skill, courage and resourcefulness, with a strong camaraderie among the crews. Their own words ring true - some readily admit that Gibson wasn't universally popular - but none doubted his resolve and courage. The crews trained to the increasingly exacting demands by the designer of the new bomb - they recall hair-raising flying at just 60 feet, honing their bombing accuracy - and their accounts build the tension until, on the day of the raid, they learn their night's target and recall their emotions. The accounts of the flight out and the bomb runs on the dams are riveting as some aircraft and crews go down in flames - and as an added bonus, there are detailed recollections from Germans who found themselves under the breaking dams. It's a brilliant read and a great tribute to all involved in the raid, from Barnes Wallis and his work to develop the bomb, to Gibson and all his crews and ground crews of 617 Squadron. Can't recommend it enough.

Cesar's Way is the Magic Way!, 18 Nov 2008
"Cesar's Way" is truly a bible for us who love and have dogs. Growing up, my family always had two dogs. We always gave affection first, then discipline, and then exercise. No wonder we always had unbalanced pets who ran the household - it was opposite of what Cesar Milan teaches. Cesar suggests a simple formula in order to have a balanced dog. Exercise, discipline, and affection... in that order! Who knew?!

Cesar writes that dogs live in the moment and that they communicate using energy, constantly. We can learn a lot from our dogs. If we are lost in thought and neurotic in our behavior, our dogs will mirror our energy. When we are in the moment with our animals, our dogs have new possibilities with their behaviors, living a balanced life.

To live in harmony with my family's pet and other animals, I have to find harmony within myself. As Cesar Milan is the "Dog Whisperer", I see author's Ariel & Shya Kane as "The People Whisperers". I highly suggest reading their award winning books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. The less I work on myself, the more presently I live my life. It's great for my relationships with people and dogs!

interesting but nothing new, 06 Sep 2008
As said before if you watch his show most of what is in the book will be nothing new, if you are looking for advice on specific problems and how to cure them this is not for you.
It really just goes over Cesar's attitude towards dealing with your dog rather than any specifics.
It is nicely written and I did enjoy reading it and it did give me a push to be more confident around my dogs to help influence them which I do feel helps, although I'm not into alpha rolls or choke chains.
If you are looking for the miracle cures you see him do on TV, look somewhere else, like a trainer/behaviourist, but if you already have a dog and don't feel totally incontrol this may give you a bit of a lift to be more confident in their handling.

Not what I thought, 29 Aug 2008
This book is well written for the most part and almost appears to be an autobiography in places which is a plus for Milan fans.

However...

Having tried the techniques on my own dog I realised that they are not for everyone and should not be touted as such.

I also found the book to be more than enlightening on what these techniques ACTUALLY involve, which you dont get to see on the TV.

Unfortunately (and as an ex-fan I mean this whole-heartedly) it did not meet my expectations as a book for training advice, although it is still a good buy if you are looking for life advice or to know more about Cesar himself.

Doggie Style, 14 Aug 2008
I've been an avid watcher of "The Dog Whisper" on The Discovery Cannel for a while, so I was thrilled to read a book by one of my hero's, Cesar Milan. As the proud owner of a pitbull (Topper) I have a vested interest in Ceasr's magic. I used to feel guilty making Topper surrender to my commands. But as pack animals, dogs need and love having boundaries. My dog is not a person. He is a D-O-G who will take the lead, if I don't. I've noticed a shift in my dog's energy since he has started listening to my "calm and assertive" nature. Cesar states that "Dogs live in the moment". My dog has been doing naturally what I've been striving to do all my life.

I've found an easy way to access the moment by reading "How To Create A Magical Relationship" by Ariel and Shya Kane. This engaging and inspiring book effortlessly dropped me into the moment by simply listening. Hey, if my dog can listen, so can I. Enjoy!

Of no practical use, 29 Jul 2008
I was so disappointed by this book that I have given it away to charity. I wouldn't have given it to anyone I know who has an interest in dogs, and I wouldn't recommend it. The information that I was looking for - Cesar's take on how to have your dogs behave as you'd like them to while providing them with a happy and secure life - simply wasn't there. For the few snippets of rather loose and outdated info that were buried in the text, I had to wade through pages of Cesar's self-congratulatory 'look how clever I am and see how well I've done' autobiography, with far too many crass references to his wealthy celebrity clients (does the size of Oprah Winfrey's ranch with its ocean view really matter in a book that I thought was about dog behaviour? I don't think so).

I came away from reading this book with the impression that I - along with every other dog owner - must have unlimited energy, unlimited time and be prepared (just for starters) to get up at the crack of dawn to take my dogs out for a minimum of an hour's exercise (having learned to rollerblade first, of course). The way the book was written made me feel that, as I don't have the energy or think the same way that Cesar does, I may as well forget about being a dog owner as, in his eyes, I'm not up to it. I found that all rather disheartening, but then I realised something - Cesar Milan's views don't apply.

I would recommend 'Think Dog' by John Fisher instead, and I have made a note of the authors recommended by other reviewers for my own further reading (Jean Donaldson and Karen Pryor in particular).

Me Very Impressed!, 11 Nov 2008
This is that rarity, a work of genius that's also accessible in all the right ways: hilarious, touching, cutting, thought-provoking and beautifully written, breathtakingly so at times. But fear not: the romance is constantly sauced with the simian hero's outrageous, turd-slinging wise-cracks and put-downs. Cheeta speaks in a lovely blend of street wisdom and naïve poetry that makes you want to listen to him for much longer than the book lasts. And his racy, piquant subject matter is utterly intriguing!

The brilliance here lies in several layers, beginning with the very idea of a celebrity chimp telling his tale in a mind-boggling combination of natural history (Cheeta's self-awareness leads to many "you'll know this from National Geographic" type references) and "urban jungle" adventure. Add in the period glamour of Hollywood and Manhattan, amongst others, for further seduction. Then there's the constant insider scandal and sly digs at various cinematic egos: if you're looking for scurrilous iconoclasm, just seek out Rooney and Chaplin wherever they appear. The same subtlety informs the dissection of "swimming star" Esther Williams, done in part by having the chapter on her "removed on legal advice" but with frequent sarcastic sneers elsewhere and some nudging clues in the index - yes, even the index is worth reading! And watch out for the deflations of some more contemporary posturers towards the end, during Cheeta's "Oscar acceptance" sequence - scalpel-sharp stuff.

The heart of the book, though, is the enduring friendship with cinema's greatest Tarzan, Johnny Weissmuller, here portrayed with an ultimate poignancy that is genuinely heart-wrenching. Their earlier exploits constitute a most original "romance," the bond between a bright animal and a child-like man (initially idolised but increasingly worn down and out by his fellow humans, especially his wives) very affectingly realised. It's particularly touching during their separations, when time, especially for Cheeta, becomes a blank despair completely opposite to the "dreams" (films) the pair create when they're together; the ape's innocence of the man's oblivion during these periods is truly poignant.

The sleazy "reunion" eventually orchestrated by a trashy magazine is all the more distressing in this regard. Whilst the lowest aspects of it go thankfully over the innocent heads of the pair, the once-godlike Weissmuller's decrepitude and Cheeta's desperation for his company and urge to "rescue" the human from exploitation tug our heart-strings in several directions and raise all sorts of thoughts about captivity, dependence and consciousness. The whole thing can be read, in fact, as a love story between man and chimp, with this book the latter's celebration of, and love-letter to, a human he sees as the best of his species and whom he worshipfully considers to be his son (ape-rescued and reared), father (jungle-king, protector) and brother ("keeper" and friend) - a moving and thought-provoking trinity.

It must be said, though, that the imaginative empathy of the "ghost writer" goes beyond anthropomorphism and achieves plausibility without liberties, emotion without sentiment: descriptions of the jungle life "of infanticide and cannibalism" from which his beloved humans rescue Cheeta are lyrical, realistic, violent, sad and laugh-out-loud comical. And when he reaches America it gets even better! The early escape (orchestrated by the macaques) from a Manhattan animal dealer (Cheeta thinks of it as "rehab") into the exotic setting of Depression-ridden New York leads to one of the funniest sequences I've read for ages - and Kong makes an "appearance" you won't forget!

This is such an original premise that you might fear for its actual fulfilment: how could anyone sustain this level of invention! But the execution is so wonderful that Cheeta becomes, and remains, completely engaging, whilst his adventures and reminiscences more than fulfil the promise of the book's concept - indeed, they transcend it. The mischievous suggestion that Cheeta has "accidentally" typed all this out (in the manner of those infinite Shakespearian monkeys and with appropriate Shakespeare references around the text) is typical of the sly wit at work here.

Our hero is, of course, affectionate and scathing in turns on human nature; and he tells us, in the most entertaining way, what is to be respected and despised in our behaviour, along with what we can learn from our primate cousins. Loving, forgiving and always fascinating, Cheeta's unique story gives us many deep insights into our own lives - and has us frequently weeping with laughter as he does it. This is not to diminish the beautifully-imagined primate psychology; indeed, I'm amazed at how well such profound ideas as Cheeta's non-concept of death, his oblique knowledge of animal cruelty and his ultimately, well, existential take on it all sit alongside the barbs and ironies.

If you love films, animals, movie stars, gossip, satire, scandal and, above all, inspired writing, you will take this marvellous book and its innocent, wise, witty, perceptive and irreverent author straight to your heart. And this is right at the top of my gift list for the humans I care about: I can't imagine a better compliment to anyone's intelligence, sense of humour and literary taste. Absolutely fantastic!

Scurrilous gossip and a glimpse of a long gone Hollywood, 31 Oct 2008
An autobiography by an acting chimp, does on the surface, seem like a ridiculous concept. Have no fear though; this is not what it seems!

It is a beautifully crafted, funny, cathartic, sleazy and gossipy look at 30's Hollywood in the form of a memoir. Me Cheeta has been fantastically ghost written by an author of some considerable talent, blessed with biting wit and an endless catalogue of sleaze on Cheeta's co stars of the day

This book is part tell all, part shocking indictment of the treatment of animals in the name of entertainment and part love poem to Johnny Weissmuller - Cheeta's co star in the Tarzan pics. Cheeta leaves no stone unturned and the frankly litigious slander doled out is worth the price of this book alone. Chaplin, Bogey, Mikey Rooney, Rex Harrison and many more are given the Cheeta treatment, making for some of the funniest lines in the book.

Cheeta's voice to me, had a touch of Stewie from Family Guy, a little of Ignatius P. Reilly from a Confederacy of Dunces and a touch of David Niven. His rakish asides and backbiting make it infinitely more entertaining than any contemporary Autobiography you'll read this year, or maybe ever.




Stunning, 04 Nov 2008
Wow,this is a book that you will look at time and time again. The photographs are stunning and beautiful at the same time. What will Tim be photographing next?

Equus, 30 Oct 2008
This is a beautiful book by photographer Tim Flach with stunning and unusual photographs of horses (and some other animals in the equus family). Everyone who has seen my book has loved it. It would make a very good present for people who are interested in horses or photography. It is a large book approximately 37cm wide x
29cm. It has photographs of everything from an embryo to horses photographed all over the world. It seems very good value for a book of this quality and size.

Stunning, 15 Oct 2008
Stunning photographic images of the horse whether in their natural environment or under human influence. A true masterpiece which will last a lifetime.

Disappointed, 21 Nov 2008
I was very disappointed with this book as it is merely a greatly reduced precis of each tv episode. Not much help if you have a problem dog looking for the solution or training

Excellent resource for learning 'pack leadership', 17 May 2008
For those who want to expand their knowledge and abilities with dog leadership skills this book provides valuable tools for achieving that goal. Every episode from Cesar Millan's first 3 series of 'The Dog Whisperer' is reviewed and analysed. This in depth analysis helps to make very real the method which Cesar uses.

Unlike 'dog training' Cesar and others who follow the 'pack system' focus on creating harmony and balance in our dogs. We use our dog's natural and hard wired instincts to create change which allow them to 'be themselves'. This method helps to meet our dogs needs rather than us just getting our needs met when we get love and affection from our dogs.

This book allows us to get a much deeper understanding of the way Cesar uses the 'power of pack leadership' to help create happy balanced dogs. The book also gives follow ups which help to see that even with Cesar's help some dogs and their owners are unable to make the desired changes.

This book provides a valuable guide that is well written and very concise. Whatever breed of dog you have, whatever age and whatever your dogs problems you will find help in the pages of this book.

A must have for any cat lover!, 17 Oct 2008
The title of this review is a bit of a cliché, but its true!
I bought this calendar last year for someone as a Christmas present but loved it so much I bought myself one too. The photography is stunning - not just bog standard pictures of cats like you get in most calendars. The pictures are high quality and printed on good quality card. It says "page-a-day" but there is just one picture/page for a weekend (Saturday and Sunday) but that is fine with me. On each page there is a quote, hint, information etc on cats. The stand the cards are held in is very secure and easy to manage. Everyday you move the front card to the back of the pile to reveal the next days picture (you must do this in order daily). You do this for 6 months then you see a page telling you that you have come to the end, then all you do is take all the cards out of the stand and turn them all round at once, put them all back in the stand, then continue like you did before as each card has a picture/date on each side (I hope that makes sense). The calendar comes in a box and the calendar itself is wrapped in cellophane inside the box.

All in all, I think this is a wonderful calendar, much better than the monthly kind as you are getting more for your money! It's good quality and reasonably priced too.

Details about the 2nd WW that have never been told in full before, 14 Nov 2008
A very readable book, which includes photographs, previously unseen. The really interesting parts are of course the relationship between the 3 elderly men who decided on the incredibly unfair divisions following the war at the summit at Yalta + another easily forgotten or not discussed alliance between Stalin and Hitler prior to the war.

I was surprised when reading some of the early chapters that the scandalous invasion of Poland from the Soviet side was more or less allowed to happen and despite the heartfelt pleas from the Polish ambassador the mass killing and deportation of civilians was more or less permitted to go on freely. 'We have no quarrel with the Soviets' the British Government said. Behind the scenes though,a tit for tat conspiracy was being carried out between Hitler and Stalin which left the unfortunate Poles compromised completely. This became a complex political situation that continued right through until the end of the war when it seems that Stalin had to be compensated for losing 27 million troops (27 million compared with only 400 000 each for UK and US. Additionally Rus