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Mein Kampf
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 Customer Reviews
an informative, dark read, 27 Sep 2008
I read Mein Kampf in the hope of understanding some of the madness of Hitler's actions and wasn't disappointed. Although written in the 1920s what can be found here is a sort of blue print for World war Two.Through the book Hitler exposes the dark side of the human race and tries to manipulate the reader into agreeing with him. Unlike the German people of the time the reader has the luxury of knowing the evil of his plan. An informative and dark book that gives history a slightly different slant
RRRRR-----ZZZZZZZ------RRRRR-----ZZZZZ, 08 Aug 2008
Well, may be I m going against the flow here, but this book, is one of the most boring, poorly written, waste of money and paper i ve ever read for ages.. Its full of hate, written by a guy who throw up his bitterness and hate of everything non German during pages after pages after pages..., like you would throw up when You re drunk....
It s brilliant to put you to sleep if you ve got insomnia though...
we all know about the context in which it was written and what it lead to. so, no need to make some fuss about it and call it a must read. when it s an absolute piece of human junk.and fuel for hate...
well. i read it.. did not like it, .. but that s my personal opinion.
ay-dolf : bad writer, decent fascist. (if there is such a thing), 30 Jun 2008
i stopped reading this book about a quarter of the way into it. i got extremely tired of the repetitive points..i know this is a way to emphasise something, but they seem a tad unneccesary if you know what hitler was all about already (obviously when this book was written, not so much). i also got tired of how poorly written it was...it seems like very often his point becomes lost, as if his attention span is that of a hyperactive child (which makes sense in re-iterating my last point.)
obviously this book is intersting just as prying into the mind of jeffrey dahmer is interesting, but these writings, like his paintings, are just plain artless. his inability to write well, combined with his inability to paint were quite likely part reasons as to why he had such an enormous inferiority complex.
A paranoid book by a fiercely intelligent man, 23 Jun 2008
As you read 'Mein Kampf', there is no doubt as to Hitler's intelligence: it smacks you in the face. He clearly was not the clownish buffoon he is usually presented as. He tackles many issues cleverly if not clearly: his opinions on parliamentary democracy, reading, and propaganda are particularly interesting.
As Golo Mann famously remarked, Hitler was a man who simply couldn't understand moderation, and 'Mein Kampf' furnishes plenty of examples. Parliamentary democracy is bad for Germany? Have the politicians strung up, then. A colonial policy won't secure Germany's status for the future? Conquer eastern Europe, work its inhabitants to death, and plant Germans there. His answers to problems (as he seems them) are shockingly radical and indicative of a disturbing amorality. 'Mein Kampf' speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the tortured workings of a paranoid mind. That, really, is my second point: rather than believing in accident, Hitler sees gigantic conspiracies at work in the world (read Richard Hofstadter's excellent essay 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics' on this).
Hitler's logic is frequently circular and flawed, his style questionable (as Stuart Hodgson wrote, with typical British understatement, 'Mein Kampf' is written in 'by no means irreproachable German') and his arrangement of the material confusing. Nonetheless he provides a fascinating commentary on his times - the 1920s. I am highly sceptical of attempts to see all of Hitler's future decisions in the pages of 'Mein Kampf'. The mere fact that he envisaged a future war to be between Britain, Germany and Italy on the one hand and France on the other must show us that he was no Cassandra.
Fascinating Beyond Words, 22 Aug 2007
History is enraging in the way it always tends to pander to current prejudice and contemporary political need. We are all so wise and good at this point in history and can pretend that we are far too well-educated and morally pure, that nothing so bad is going to be done in our name, on our watch. We are so frantic in our wish to be distanced from the sustained and systematic evils of history, that we condemn the guilty as geniuses, or more remarkably, fools. Those who cling to their denial would prefer that books like this should be banned, as they bear witness to not only Hitler's evil but the pan-European common-denominator, he aspired to tap into.
It is morally convenient to believe that Hitler invented the evil aims laid out in this book. Hitler did not invent racism or anti-Semitism, he merely exploited what was already there and was actually voted into power by those who shared those views - many still do.
Published in 1925 & 1926, the two parts of the book gave fair warning of his aims and his fanatical hatreds. Across the world, many read his words and had their own feelings and hatreds confirmed. These people ranged across every class in most societies, and definitely from top to the bottom of the British social strata. It must be noted that even having been aware of Hitler's promises and even in the knowledge of seeing him carry them out, the country was willing to look the other way. It was just total chance that Churchill became leader and not Halifax - our moral superiority is based on mere luck not natural goodness. Our jingoistic pride, a deluded vanity.
Hitler's ranting coalescence of the hatreds and prejudices still bears witness to the heart of darkness of humanity, which shows no sign of going away.
Let this book be read and stand as a warning of what still continues to inspire many people, beneath the veneer of our "civilization".
Once you have read Hitler's poisonous rantings, you are forever aware that the same raving appeal to the common denominator, can still be heard or read, in the words of those who likewise wish to make us the sponsors of the contemporary fantatic's road to historical immortality.
Knowing who said it all before, might guard us against such folly.
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Customer Reviews
an informative, dark read, 27 Sep 2008
I read Mein Kampf in the hope of understanding some of the madness of Hitler's actions and wasn't disappointed. Although written in the 1920s what can be found here is a sort of blue print for World war Two.Through the book Hitler exposes the dark side of the human race and tries to manipulate the reader into agreeing with him. Unlike the German people of the time the reader has the luxury of knowing the evil of his plan. An informative and dark book that gives history a slightly different slant
RRRRR-----ZZZZZZZ------RRRRR-----ZZZZZ, 08 Aug 2008
Well, may be I m going against the flow here, but this book, is one of the most boring, poorly written, waste of money and paper i ve ever read for ages.. Its full of hate, written by a guy who throw up his bitterness and hate of everything non German during pages after pages after pages..., like you would throw up when You re drunk....
It s brilliant to put you to sleep if you ve got insomnia though...
we all know about the context in which it was written and what it lead to. so, no need to make some fuss about it and call it a must read. when it s an absolute piece of human junk.and fuel for hate...
well. i read it.. did not like it, .. but that s my personal opinion.
ay-dolf : bad writer, decent fascist. (if there is such a thing), 30 Jun 2008
i stopped reading this book about a quarter of the way into it. i got extremely tired of the repetitive points..i know this is a way to emphasise something, but they seem a tad unneccesary if you know what hitler was all about already (obviously when this book was written, not so much). i also got tired of how poorly written it was...it seems like very often his point becomes lost, as if his attention span is that of a hyperactive child (which makes sense in re-iterating my last point.)
obviously this book is intersting just as prying into the mind of jeffrey dahmer is interesting, but these writings, like his paintings, are just plain artless. his inability to write well, combined with his inability to paint were quite likely part reasons as to why he had such an enormous inferiority complex.
A paranoid book by a fiercely intelligent man, 23 Jun 2008
As you read 'Mein Kampf', there is no doubt as to Hitler's intelligence: it smacks you in the face. He clearly was not the clownish buffoon he is usually presented as. He tackles many issues cleverly if not clearly: his opinions on parliamentary democracy, reading, and propaganda are particularly interesting.
As Golo Mann famously remarked, Hitler was a man who simply couldn't understand moderation, and 'Mein Kampf' furnishes plenty of examples. Parliamentary democracy is bad for Germany? Have the politicians strung up, then. A colonial policy won't secure Germany's status for the future? Conquer eastern Europe, work its inhabitants to death, and plant Germans there. His answers to problems (as he seems them) are shockingly radical and indicative of a disturbing amorality. 'Mein Kampf' speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the tortured workings of a paranoid mind. That, really, is my second point: rather than believing in accident, Hitler sees gigantic conspiracies at work in the world (read Richard Hofstadter's excellent essay 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics' on this).
Hitler's logic is frequently circular and flawed, his style questionable (as Stuart Hodgson wrote, with typical British understatement, 'Mein Kampf' is written in 'by no means irreproachable German') and his arrangement of the material confusing. Nonetheless he provides a fascinating commentary on his times - the 1920s. I am highly sceptical of attempts to see all of Hitler's future decisions in the pages of 'Mein Kampf'. The mere fact that he envisaged a future war to be between Britain, Germany and Italy on the one hand and France on the other must show us that he was no Cassandra.
Fascinating Beyond Words, 22 Aug 2007
History is enraging in the way it always tends to pander to current prejudice and contemporary political need. We are all so wise and good at this point in history and can pretend that we are far too well-educated and morally pure, that nothing so bad is going to be done in our name, on our watch. We are so frantic in our wish to be distanced from the sustained and systematic evils of history, that we condemn the guilty as geniuses, or more remarkably, fools. Those who cling to their denial would prefer that books like this should be banned, as they bear witness to not only Hitler's evil but the pan-European common-denominator, he aspired to tap into.
It is morally convenient to believe that Hitler invented the evil aims laid out in this book. Hitler did not invent racism or anti-Semitism, he merely exploited what was already there and was actually voted into power by those who shared those views - many still do.
Published in 1925 & 1926, the two parts of the book gave fair warning of his aims and his fanatical hatreds. Across the world, many read his words and had their own feelings and hatreds confirmed. These people ranged across every class in most societies, and definitely from top to the bottom of the British social strata. It must be noted that even having been aware of Hitler's promises and even in the knowledge of seeing him carry them out, the country was willing to look the other way. It was just total chance that Churchill became leader and not Halifax - our moral superiority is based on mere luck not natural goodness. Our jingoistic pride, a deluded vanity.
Hitler's ranting coalescence of the hatreds and prejudices still bears witness to the heart of darkness of humanity, which shows no sign of going away.
Let this book be read and stand as a warning of what still continues to inspire many people, beneath the veneer of our "civilization".
Once you have read Hitler's poisonous rantings, you are forever aware that the same raving appeal to the common denominator, can still be heard or read, in the words of those who likewise wish to make us the sponsors of the contemporary fantatic's road to historical immortality.
Knowing who said it all before, might guard us against such folly.
I'm Impressed!, 16 Sep 2008
Morrie was mentally strong, though he suffered from the terminal disease, ALS(=amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), I'd say. He was eager to tell the meaning of life to his ex-student, Mitch Albom, who is also the author of Tuesday's With Morrie. I would only worry about my terminal disease,if I were in Morrie's shoes. I mean, all I could do would be to be apathetic or pessimistic about my future. " The truth is once you learn how to die, you learn how to live." - that'd be the last thing I could say.
Certainly, it WAS sad that Morrie passed away because he was respected by lots of his students and graduates. However, every Tuesday when Morrie told Mitch the meaning of life must be very precious memories for Mitch, that's for sure!
For when you need to change pace a little., 31 Jul 2008
Although this book doesn't tell us anything we don't already know, it never does any harm to be reminded from time to time. It's a heartwarming and truthful account of a friendship between an older man in the last months of his life and a younger man who has always been inspired by him.
We're reminded of the importance of caring for one another in a world where we simply don't take time often enough (sometimes never!) to tell people how much we love and appreciate them.
It doesn't shy away from the 'ugly' side of illness and death which people wonder and worry about but hardly ever discuss. It's only human to be scared and to have self pity but we learn how Morrie turned his negative emotions into positive ones, and fear into acceptance and inner peace.
I found 'Tuesdays With Morrie' a refreshingly honest account of illness. Instead of being depressing it was insightful and moving.
One of my favorite "Alboms", 20 Jun 2008
Face it: this book is never going to be a classic, but it does have some immediate appeal to the world at large mainly because people are looking for hope, especially today. It's a quick read and I enjoyed it. If you've seen the movie, you've pretty much seen the book. I do have to say that it inspired me to get out and do more in the community I live in--sometimes this worked out, sometimes it did not. The point was, I learned for "doing" and the book helped me get into that frame of mind. I've read the other Albom books and this is by far his best. Second on my list would be "The Five People You Meet in Heaven."
Another great book from Albom!, 17 Jun 2008
I picked this book up after reading Five People You Meet in Heaven and I must say I really enjoyed both immensely! Mitch Albom has an amazing talent in projecting his characters and messges through his personable writing skills. This book will give you little gems on how to love and live life and will make you appreciate things that you may take for granted. A really, really great book that I highky recommend.
An excellant book, 22 May 2008
Mitch Albom has delivered yet another interesting and enjoyable book. I must admit, I do prefer "For one more day" and "the five people you meet" but this was never the less a great book which kept me interested right the way to the end.
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Customer Reviews
an informative, dark read, 27 Sep 2008
I read Mein Kampf in the hope of understanding some of the madness of Hitler's actions and wasn't disappointed. Although written in the 1920s what can be found here is a sort of blue print for World war Two.Through the book Hitler exposes the dark side of the human race and tries to manipulate the reader into agreeing with him. Unlike the German people of the time the reader has the luxury of knowing the evil of his plan. An informative and dark book that gives history a slightly different slant
RRRRR-----ZZZZZZZ------RRRRR-----ZZZZZ, 08 Aug 2008
Well, may be I m going against the flow here, but this book, is one of the most boring, poorly written, waste of money and paper i ve ever read for ages.. Its full of hate, written by a guy who throw up his bitterness and hate of everything non German during pages after pages after pages..., like you would throw up when You re drunk....
It s brilliant to put you to sleep if you ve got insomnia though...
we all know about the context in which it was written and what it lead to. so, no need to make some fuss about it and call it a must read. when it s an absolute piece of human junk.and fuel for hate...
well. i read it.. did not like it, .. but that s my personal opinion.
ay-dolf : bad writer, decent fascist. (if there is such a thing), 30 Jun 2008
i stopped reading this book about a quarter of the way into it. i got extremely tired of the repetitive points..i know this is a way to emphasise something, but they seem a tad unneccesary if you know what hitler was all about already (obviously when this book was written, not so much). i also got tired of how poorly written it was...it seems like very often his point becomes lost, as if his attention span is that of a hyperactive child (which makes sense in re-iterating my last point.)
obviously this book is intersting just as prying into the mind of jeffrey dahmer is interesting, but these writings, like his paintings, are just plain artless. his inability to write well, combined with his inability to paint were quite likely part reasons as to why he had such an enormous inferiority complex.
A paranoid book by a fiercely intelligent man, 23 Jun 2008
As you read 'Mein Kampf', there is no doubt as to Hitler's intelligence: it smacks you in the face. He clearly was not the clownish buffoon he is usually presented as. He tackles many issues cleverly if not clearly: his opinions on parliamentary democracy, reading, and propaganda are particularly interesting.
As Golo Mann famously remarked, Hitler was a man who simply couldn't understand moderation, and 'Mein Kampf' furnishes plenty of examples. Parliamentary democracy is bad for Germany? Have the politicians strung up, then. A colonial policy won't secure Germany's status for the future? Conquer eastern Europe, work its inhabitants to death, and plant Germans there. His answers to problems (as he seems them) are shockingly radical and indicative of a disturbing amorality. 'Mein Kampf' speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the tortured workings of a paranoid mind. That, really, is my second point: rather than believing in accident, Hitler sees gigantic conspiracies at work in the world (read Richard Hofstadter's excellent essay 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics' on this).
Hitler's logic is frequently circular and flawed, his style questionable (as Stuart Hodgson wrote, with typical British understatement, 'Mein Kampf' is written in 'by no means irreproachable German') and his arrangement of the material confusing. Nonetheless he provides a fascinating commentary on his times - the 1920s. I am highly sceptical of attempts to see all of Hitler's future decisions in the pages of 'Mein Kampf'. The mere fact that he envisaged a future war to be between Britain, Germany and Italy on the one hand and France on the other must show us that he was no Cassandra.
Fascinating Beyond Words, 22 Aug 2007
History is enraging in the way it always tends to pander to current prejudice and contemporary political need. We are all so wise and good at this point in history and can pretend that we are far too well-educated and morally pure, that nothing so bad is going to be done in our name, on our watch. We are so frantic in our wish to be distanced from the sustained and systematic evils of history, that we condemn the guilty as geniuses, or more remarkably, fools. Those who cling to their denial would prefer that books like this should be banned, as they bear witness to not only Hitler's evil but the pan-European common-denominator, he aspired to tap into.
It is morally convenient to believe that Hitler invented the evil aims laid out in this book. Hitler did not invent racism or anti-Semitism, he merely exploited what was already there and was actually voted into power by those who shared those views - many still do.
Published in 1925 & 1926, the two parts of the book gave fair warning of his aims and his fanatical hatreds. Across the world, many read his words and had their own feelings and hatreds confirmed. These people ranged across every class in most societies, and definitely from top to the bottom of the British social strata. It must be noted that even having been aware of Hitler's promises and even in the knowledge of seeing him carry them out, the country was willing to look the other way. It was just total chance that Churchill became leader and not Halifax - our moral superiority is based on mere luck not natural goodness. Our jingoistic pride, a deluded vanity.
Hitler's ranting coalescence of the hatreds and prejudices still bears witness to the heart of darkness of humanity, which shows no sign of going away.
Let this book be read and stand as a warning of what still continues to inspire many people, beneath the veneer of our "civilization".
Once you have read Hitler's poisonous rantings, you are forever aware that the same raving appeal to the common denominator, can still be heard or read, in the words of those who likewise wish to make us the sponsors of the contemporary fantatic's road to historical immortality.
Knowing who said it all before, might guard us against such folly.
I'm Impressed!, 16 Sep 2008
Morrie was mentally strong, though he suffered from the terminal disease, ALS(=amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), I'd say. He was eager to tell the meaning of life to his ex-student, Mitch Albom, who is also the author of Tuesday's With Morrie. I would only worry about my terminal disease,if I were in Morrie's shoes. I mean, all I could do would be to be apathetic or pessimistic about my future. " The truth is once you learn how to die, you learn how to live." - that'd be the last thing I could say.
Certainly, it WAS sad that Morrie passed away because he was respected by lots of his students and graduates. However, every Tuesday when Morrie told Mitch the meaning of life must be very precious memories for Mitch, that's for sure!
For when you need to change pace a little., 31 Jul 2008
Although this book doesn't tell us anything we don't already know, it never does any harm to be reminded from time to time. It's a heartwarming and truthful account of a friendship between an older man in the last months of his life and a younger man who has always been inspired by him.
We're reminded of the importance of caring for one another in a world where we simply don't take time often enough (sometimes never!) to tell people how much we love and appreciate them.
It doesn't shy away from the 'ugly' side of illness and death which people wonder and worry about but hardly ever discuss. It's only human to be scared and to have self pity but we learn how Morrie turned his negative emotions into positive ones, and fear into acceptance and inner peace.
I found 'Tuesdays With Morrie' a refreshingly honest account of illness. Instead of being depressing it was insightful and moving.
One of my favorite "Alboms", 20 Jun 2008
Face it: this book is never going to be a classic, but it does have some immediate appeal to the world at large mainly because people are looking for hope, especially today. It's a quick read and I enjoyed it. If you've seen the movie, you've pretty much seen the book. I do have to say that it inspired me to get out and do more in the community I live in--sometimes this worked out, sometimes it did not. The point was, I learned for "doing" and the book helped me get into that frame of mind. I've read the other Albom books and this is by far his best. Second on my list would be "The Five People You Meet in Heaven."
Another great book from Albom!, 17 Jun 2008
I picked this book up after reading Five People You Meet in Heaven and I must say I really enjoyed both immensely! Mitch Albom has an amazing talent in projecting his characters and messges through his personable writing skills. This book will give you little gems on how to love and live life and will make you appreciate things that you may take for granted. A really, really great book that I highky recommend.
An excellant book, 22 May 2008
Mitch Albom has delivered yet another interesting and enjoyable book. I must admit, I do prefer "For one more day" and "the five people you meet" but this was never the less a great book which kept me interested right the way to the end.
Ex District Midwife, 04 Sep 2008
This book is excellent, not only is it very funny but very illuminating as to how the NHS works now.
As a Conservative Councillor it grieves me to say where Labour have got it right but pulls no punches on where it has gone wrong.
I'd recommend every politician or who people who need to use the A& E department to read this book.
I happily recommend for anyone who enjoys a good read but wants to learn something as well.
Little has changed... J.S. South Africa, 12 Aug 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which evoked many memories both sad and humorous, having trained and worked in the NHS for over 20 years. The sad factor is that I have been living abroad for 14 years now and it seems little has changed despite the numerous promises from a variety of politicians . The same problems and frustrations are highlighted such as bed management , abuse of the ambulance service etc. It is time the general public knew what really goes on and despite all the problems you certainly appreciate the NHS from a distance. It should be compulsory reading before any further damage can be done to this great institution.
Every politician should have to read this book, 14 May 2008
This is such an important book, despite its light-hearted and readable tone. It made me laugh, it made me cry. It was real and it was worrying. It set out clearly what it's like working in today's NHS. It outlined the problems, it outlined sensible solutions and it highlighted the madness of the current government's schemes. which should make us all fear for our future health provision. And it also told us about comedy items stuck up patients' bottoms. What more could you ask for in a book about A&E?
Seriously though, this book should be required reading for all politicians and it should have been reviewed and discussed by the broadsheet newspapers.
Hilariously frank, 07 May 2008
I have just read this book in 3 days - mostly on trains and buses - and had to try very hard not to make a spectacle of myself by laughing too much. Dr Nick paints a heart-warmingly honest portrait of life as an A and E doctor, its ups and downs, celebrations and frustrations, but best of all are the quirky characters he meets. His accounts are hilariously frank whilst still insightful, and compell the reader to a greater understanding of how hospitals work. A brilliant book.
V realistic view on today's NHS, 28 Apr 2008
I loved this book. It was the sort of book that is so accurate it is scary. I am not a doctor, but it reminded me of working in A+E as a radiographer many moons ago. I have never nodded in agreement and exclaimed "yes! that is really how it is!!" aloud when reading a book on the bus. I agree with the ideas that stem from the book such as the NHS being placed into the hands of the professionals and the patients that use it, and reducing the amount of Governmental control.
To those saying that the book is too political, well that is what it is like in today's NHS, too many targets, poor workforce planning etc is something that health professionals have to deal with on an everyday basis. Dr Edwards clearly loves the NHS for what it stands for, but his frustration with how it is managed is justified.
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Customer Reviews
an informative, dark read, 27 Sep 2008
I read Mein Kampf in the hope of understanding some of the madness of Hitler's actions and wasn't disappointed. Although written in the 1920s what can be found here is a sort of blue print for World war Two.Through the book Hitler exposes the dark side of the human race and tries to manipulate the reader into agreeing with him. Unlike the German people of the time the reader has the luxury of knowing the evil of his plan. An informative and dark book that gives history a slightly different slant
RRRRR-----ZZZZZZZ------RRRRR-----ZZZZZ, 08 Aug 2008
Well, may be I m going against the flow here, but this book, is one of the most boring, poorly written, waste of money and paper i ve ever read for ages.. Its full of hate, written by a guy who throw up his bitterness and hate of everything non German during pages after pages after pages..., like you would throw up when You re drunk....
It s brilliant to put you to sleep if you ve got insomnia though...
we all know about the context in which it was written and what it lead to. so, no need to make some fuss about it and call it a must read. when it s an absolute piece of human junk.and fuel for hate...
well. i read it.. did not like it, .. but that s my personal opinion.
ay-dolf : bad writer, decent fascist. (if there is such a thing), 30 Jun 2008
i stopped reading this book about a quarter of the way into it. i got extremely tired of the repetitive points..i know this is a way to emphasise something, but they seem a tad unneccesary if you know what hitler was all about already (obviously when this book was written, not so much). i also got tired of how poorly written it was...it seems like very often his point becomes lost, as if his attention span is that of a hyperactive child (which makes sense in re-iterating my last point.)
obviously this book is intersting just as prying into the mind of jeffrey dahmer is interesting, but these writings, like his paintings, are just plain artless. his inability to write well, combined with his inability to paint were quite likely part reasons as to why he had such an enormous inferiority complex.
A paranoid book by a fiercely intelligent man, 23 Jun 2008
As you read 'Mein Kampf', there is no doubt as to Hitler's intelligence: it smacks you in the face. He clearly was not the clownish buffoon he is usually presented as. He tackles many issues cleverly if not clearly: his opinions on parliamentary democracy, reading, and propaganda are particularly interesting.
As Golo Mann famously remarked, Hitler was a man who simply couldn't understand moderation, and 'Mein Kampf' furnishes plenty of examples. Parliamentary democracy is bad for Germany? Have the politicians strung up, then. A colonial policy won't secure Germany's status for the future? Conquer eastern Europe, work its inhabitants to death, and plant Germans there. His answers to problems (as he seems them) are shockingly radical and indicative of a disturbing amorality. 'Mein Kampf' speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the tortured workings of a paranoid mind. That, really, is my second point: rather than believing in accident, Hitler sees gigantic conspiracies at work in the world (read Richard Hofstadter's excellent essay 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics' on this).
Hitler's logic is frequently circular and flawed, his style questionable (as Stuart Hodgson wrote, with typical British understatement, 'Mein Kampf' is written in 'by no means irreproachable German') and his arrangement of the material confusing. Nonetheless he provides a fascinating commentary on his times - the 1920s. I am highly sceptical of attempts to see all of Hitler's future decisions in the pages of 'Mein Kampf'. The mere fact that he envisaged a future war to be between Britain, Germany and Italy on the one hand and France on the other must show us that he was no Cassandra.
Fascinating Beyond Words, 22 Aug 2007
History is enraging in the way it always tends to pander to current prejudice and contemporary political need. We are all so wise and good at this point in history and can pretend that we are far too well-educated and morally pure, that nothing so bad is going to be done in our name, on our watch. We are so frantic in our wish to be distanced from the sustained and systematic evils of history, that we condemn the guilty as geniuses, or more remarkably, fools. Those who cling to their denial would prefer that books like this should be banned, as they bear witness to not only Hitler's evil but the pan-European common-denominator, he aspired to tap into.
It is morally convenient to believe that Hitler invented the evil aims laid out in this book. Hitler did not invent racism or anti-Semitism, he merely exploited what was already there and was actually voted into power by those who shared those views - many still do.
Published in 1925 & 1926, the two parts of the book gave fair warning of his aims and his fanatical hatreds. Across the world, many read his words and had their own feelings and hatreds confirmed. These people ranged across every class in most societies, and definitely from top to the bottom of the British social strata. It must be noted that even having been aware of Hitler's promises and even in the knowledge of seeing him carry them out, the country was willing to look the other way. It was just total chance that Churchill became leader and not Halifax - our moral superiority is based on mere luck not natural goodness. Our jingoistic pride, a deluded vanity.
Hitler's ranting coalescence of the hatreds and prejudices still bears witness to the heart of darkness of humanity, which shows no sign of going away.
Let this book be read and stand as a warning of what still continues to inspire many people, beneath the veneer of our "civilization".
Once you have read Hitler's poisonous rantings, you are forever aware that the same raving appeal to the common denominator, can still be heard or read, in the words of those who likewise wish to make us the sponsors of the contemporary fantatic's road to historical immortality.
Knowing who said it all before, might guard us against such folly.
I'm Impressed!, 16 Sep 2008
Morrie was mentally strong, though he suffered from the terminal disease, ALS(=amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), I'd say. He was eager to tell the meaning of life to his ex-student, Mitch Albom, who is also the author of Tuesday's With Morrie. I would only worry about my terminal disease,if I were in Morrie's shoes. I mean, all I could do would be to be apathetic or pessimistic about my future. " The truth is once you learn how to die, you learn how to live." - that'd be the last thing I could say.
Certainly, it WAS sad that Morrie passed away because he was respected by lots of his students and graduates. However, every Tuesday when Morrie told Mitch the meaning of life must be very precious memories for Mitch, that's for sure!
For when you need to change pace a little., 31 Jul 2008
Although this book doesn't tell us anything we don't already know, it never does any harm to be reminded from time to time. It's a heartwarming and truthful account of a friendship between an older man in the last months of his life and a younger man who has always been inspired by him.
We're reminded of the importance of caring for one another in a world where we simply don't take time often enough (sometimes never!) to tell people how much we love and appreciate them.
It doesn't shy away from the 'ugly' side of illness and death which people wonder and worry about but hardly ever discuss. It's only human to be scared and to have self pity but we learn how Morrie turned his negative emotions into positive ones, and fear into acceptance and inner peace.
I found 'Tuesdays With Morrie' a refreshingly honest account of illness. Instead of being depressing it was insightful and moving.
One of my favorite "Alboms", 20 Jun 2008
Face it: this book is never going to be a classic, but it does have some immediate appeal to the world at large mainly because people are looking for hope, especially today. It's a quick read and I enjoyed it. If you've seen the movie, you've pretty much seen the book. I do have to say that it inspired me to get out and do more in the community I live in--sometimes this worked out, sometimes it did not. The point was, I learned for "doing" and the book helped me get into that frame of mind. I've read the other Albom books and this is by far his best. Second on my list would be "The Five People You Meet in Heaven."
Another great book from Albom!, 17 Jun 2008
I picked this book up after reading Five People You Meet in Heaven and I must say I really enjoyed both immensely! Mitch Albom has an amazing talent in projecting his characters and messges through his personable writing skills. This book will give you little gems on how to love and live life and will make you appreciate things that you may take for granted. A really, really great book that I highky recommend.
An excellant book, 22 May 2008
Mitch Albom has delivered yet another interesting and enjoyable book. I must admit, I do prefer "For one more day" and "the five people you meet" but this was never the less a great book which kept me interested right the way to the end.
Ex District Midwife, 04 Sep 2008
This book is excellent, not only is it very funny but very illuminating as to how the NHS works now.
As a Conservative Councillor it grieves me to say where Labour have got it right but pulls no punches on where it has gone wrong.
I'd recommend every politician or who people who need to use the A& E department to read this book.
I happily recommend for anyone who enjoys a good read but wants to learn something as well.
Little has changed... J.S. South Africa, 12 Aug 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which evoked many memories both sad and humorous, having trained and worked in the NHS for over 20 years. The sad factor is that I have been living abroad for 14 years now and it seems little has changed despite the numerous promises from a variety of politicians . The same problems and frustrations are highlighted such as bed management , abuse of the ambulance service etc. It is time the general public knew what really goes on and despite all the problems you certainly appreciate the NHS from a distance. It should be compulsory reading before any further damage can be done to this great institution.
Every politician should have to read this book, 14 May 2008
This is such an important book, despite its light-hearted and readable tone. It made me laugh, it made me cry. It was real and it was worrying. It set out clearly what it's like working in today's NHS. It outlined the problems, it outlined sensible solutions and it highlighted the madness of the current government's schemes. which should make us all fear for our future health provision. And it also told us about comedy items stuck up patients' bottoms. What more could you ask for in a book about A&E?
Seriously though, this book should be required reading for all politicians and it should have been reviewed and discussed by the broadsheet newspapers.
Hilariously frank, 07 May 2008
I have just read this book in 3 days - mostly on trains and buses - and had to try very hard not to make a spectacle of myself by laughing too much. Dr Nick paints a heart-warmingly honest portrait of life as an A and E doctor, its ups and downs, celebrations and frustrations, but best of all are the quirky characters he meets. His accounts are hilariously frank whilst still insightful, and compell the reader to a greater understanding of how hospitals work. A brilliant book.
V realistic view on today's NHS, 28 Apr 2008
I loved this book. It was the sort of book that is so accurate it is scary. I am not a doctor, but it reminded me of working in A+E as a radiographer many moons ago. I have never nodded in agreement and exclaimed "yes! that is really how it is!!" aloud when reading a book on the bus. I agree with the ideas that stem from the book such as the NHS being placed into the hands of the professionals and the patients that use it, and reducing the amount of Governmental control.
To those saying that the book is too political, well that is what it is like in today's NHS, too many targets, poor workforce planning etc is something that health professionals have to deal with on an everyday basis. Dr Edwards clearly loves the NHS for what it stands for, but his frustration with how it is managed is justified.
a call to reckless generosity and selfless love, 03 Oct 2008
Shane Claiborne has found a different Jesus in the gospels than the mainstream church. He's found a Jesus who is homeless, a friend of the poor, who rails against authority and undermines the empire, who tells a rich man to sell everything he owns and give the money away. This is Claiborne's model, and he has done his best to find it, live it and prove such a life is possible.
The book follows his journey, from the disillusionment with the church of his youth, and the ambitious and wealthy `megachurches' where he trained. He talks about how he came to bond with the poor in Philadelphia, and then travelled to Calcutta to see if Mother Theresa offered a better demonstration of Christ than the ones around him. He visits Iraq in the middle of the war, testing Jesus' call to be a peacemaker. He helps stage a `re-distribution' on Wall Street and heckles George W Bush at the Republican conference. He is, in his own words, an `ordinary radical' - radically different, but rooted in real people and real situations.
Claiborne rejects the idea that Christianity has nothing more to offer than some distant and otherworldly heaven. It's a great reminder that the church is a missionary agency: we're meant to go to the poor and the hungry, not wait for them to come to us. There's loads of good stuff about power, simplicity, and community, that's worth coming back to. It's a call to reckless generosity and selfless love in a world of "big beasts and little prophets." It is hopeful, expectant, uncompromising.
'The Irresistable Revolution'is a provocative book, raising more issues than it answers. That's not an approach that everyone will appreciate, but for those ready to ask difficult questions of themselves and their faith, this is a challenge you'll want to take seriously.
An absolutely essential read, 17 Sep 2008
If Shane Claiborne keeps writing books like this he is going to get himself assasinated. I can think of no greater accolade then that.
refreshing, 07 Sep 2008
I found this book really encouraging. It gave me a lot to think about and reminded me of lots of things I believe are important in terms of the two principle commandments of the Bible "Love God with all your heart, mind and soul. Love your neighbour as yourself" 15 to 20 years ago I had read books by Jim Wallis, Ron Sider and Tony Campolo which seemed to call many Western Christians to thinking about justice and a simpler lifestyle.
Shane Claiborne starts to understand what God says about the poor and loving others almost by accident when he is studying theology at a US Bible school - one that I guess would be described as liberal rather than conservative in US terms. Some friends invite him to come and hang out with some of their friends who happen to be homeless.
The book is SC's story and the story of some of the people he meets along the way with whom he shares part of his life. It includes much of his struggles as he evaluates Scripture trying to see it afresh and not within all the confines of his background in church culture. He works a few months with Mother Theresa, was involved in living with the homeless, lives in a poor community in Philadelphia, went to Iraq with a group promoting peace and is astonished by the love and risks that Iraqi Christians would take to protect their American brothers.
It reminded me of the community that followers of Christ should be developing and not just with one another. It made me go back and read Matt 25 when Jesus talks about God's judgement involving the way we treat the poor, the sick, the foreigner, the criminal etc. It is uncomfortable.
I did not think SC was proposing everyone do what he does. He is not trying to recruit followers. He is prompting us to think about how we live as followers of Christ an to be more open to those marginalised in society, accepting people unlike us in our homes and lives.
There were parts of the book which annoyed me and I felt that he perhaps did some things just to provoke a reaction. I felt it possibly could have
been 100 pages shorter and still got the same message over. The style with frequent asides in parenthesis, which work if you are giving a speech, but are irritating when used over and over in a written work got a bit wearing. The style seemed written for students and early twenties, although the content should actually be for all ages.
However overall I found it deeply encouraging and challenging. I am reminded of how community with the poor is not just about justice or improving their situation, it is also about the rich getting the opportunity to know God more in profound ways through individuals who come into our lives. That seemed to be the way Mother Theresa saw it and I remember one incident in my own life of seeing God's image more clearly through a severly disabled, poor beggar who sat patiently waiting for gifts. He apalled me at first, until I saw the loving way some other interacted with him and despite the fact he could not speek his openess to others.
Community in the love of God is not a duty, it is a gift for all, but requires a lot of work.
Serious about being the change you want to see ? Read this., 08 Jul 2008
One of the most powerful and engaging autobiographical works from a `frontline' Christian activist I've read in a long time. It's impossible not to like Shane Claiborne, whose infectious love for Jesus and total commitment to bringing his love to all, whether North Philadelphia's poor or the bombed citizens of Iraq, is plain to see. Claiborne is someone all Christians (and others) could learn from for sheer breadth of sympathy across the Christian traditions, sense of vocation, and depth of theological understanding blended with sassy political commitment to bringing about change. A must-read.
Where is the gospel?, 23 Feb 2008
I should say at the outset, I think I'm out on a limb here. Everyone else seems to raving about this book. But I'm not so sure.
First, the good stuff. I think Shane Claiborne (SC) writes boldly and strikingly about various topics. Much of the book is a wake-up call for those who have got used to dull, timid, worldly, 'big', Christianity. He is immensely quotable: "Most of the time when I see Christian superstars like Jerry Falwell or Al Sharpton, I feel I'm watching professional wrestling. There's a lot of shouting and sweating, but the people seem too superhuman, and I'm not convinced all the moves are real." (p27)
He has some excellent material on the value of singleness. (p109-111) That's humbled me, and reminded me that I need to try to promote that in a Biblical way. Then there's some good stuff about the worthlessness of "cool": "...we must be either hot or cold, because if we are lukewarm (an old-school way of saying "cool"), we will be spit out of God's mouth"! (p230) There are lots of other helpful areas too, mostly only a few pages at a time.
He has lots of great stories, many of which would be excellent sermon-illustration material!
Now the bad stuff:
1) It's *very* Ameri-centric. Big chunks of the book are spent critiquing the Christian Right. Most of that didn't resonate with my experience of the Church in the UK. We don't do flags on the platform, singing anthems, rallying our troups into war or party politics. All that felt a bit meaningless to me as a Brit - who am I to criticise Christians living in another country and culture?
2) Because it's the experiences of a single guy, living in community, doing some wild and crazy things, I just don't see how much of what he says relates to me. I mean, I have a wife and 3 kids. I can't exactly move to Iraq for a while, or open up my house as a homeless shelter (not that I think there's nearly so much need here anyway - see point 1!). What he has effectively done is to abandon his entire culture. Now that's great for him, because he was in a position to do it. But the huge, vast, majority simply aren't. I'm not prepared to because I don't see that there's anything inherently wrong with having a house, or a car, or a job, or food. Parts of our culture are good (schools, hospitals, homes). If you want to live outside popular culture, fine. But I'd rather live out the Christ-life within it. Which is equally as difficult, and arguably more so. He's advocating a form of monastic asceticism that I'm not convinced is Biblical.
3) He redefines well-established theological terms. What he means by words like "evangelical", "conversion" and "gospel" are simply not the same as orthodox, Biblical, Christianity. For example: "Conversion is not an event but a process, a process of slowly tearing ourselves away from the clutches of the culture." No it isn't. Conversion has nothing to do with releasing oneself from the bonds of culture. It's the act of repentance and faith, when we repond to the gospel. Forgive me if I can't see the link between historic conversion and SC's. I suppose "sanctification" would be a more correct word for what he's talking about.
4) He caricatures the church.
"...if someone had a heart-attack on Sunday morning, the paramedics would have to take the pulse of half the congregation before they would find the dead person" (p43) OK, very funny. But certainly not my experience of good, Biblical, modern church. He gives the impression that churches are all navel-gazing, introverted, holy huddles with no interest or ability to communicate with the outside world. Well, again, there are loads of churches that care for the poor, the lonely, the disposessed. In Ipswich, UK, we have "Street Pastors" who are out in the clubs and pubs at the weekend, looking after the drunks and the dropouts; there is a pregnancy crisis centre, a drug rehab centre is soon to open. There's work amongst prostitutes and the homeless. We do care. Perhaps not enough, perhaps we could do with being better resourced. But we *are* trying to live out a life of faith in our culture, and it hurts a bit to be told we aren't.
5) He minimises the importance of theology:
"I learnt more about God from the tears of homeless mothers than a systematic theology ever taught me" (p51) Now, I know the guy is a firm post-modern and that post-moderns like stories more than facts etc etc. But, that kind of statement calls into question the whole value of theology. What did the tears of homeless mothers *actually* teach him? That sharing is good? That we should care for each other? Great - but not much about God. What can those things *possibly* teach us about God? We are made in his likeness, not he in ours. We don't learn about God by looking at fallen sinners (no matter how vulnerable or holy); we learn about God from the Word. SC has it the wrong way around.
Again, "When people ask me if I am Protestant or Catholic, I just answer 'yes.'. And when people ask me if we are evangelicals, I...say, 'Absolutely, we want to spread the kingdom of God like crazy.'" Well, I'm sorry, but the differences between Protestant and Catholic theology *are* important. They espouse completely different ideas about how to relate to God, the authority of the Bible, the meaning of salvation etc etc. They're not just minor tertiary issues, they affect the central tennets of the faith. Theology matters!
6) I'm not sure what his "gospel" is. Throughout the whole book, I could find barely a mention of sin, salvation, or the cross. What there was a lot of is loving our neighbours. Which of course, is good. But surely it's not the whole picture? He seems to see Jesus as an inspirational figure, who showed us how to live and love well. But that's not the gospel of Paul, or of evangelicalism. One story will serve to illustrate the point: It was the time when a bunch of his friends slept on Wall Street, New York, as an act of solidarity with the poor. (p118-119) Then at a certain time, they unfurled banners which read, "Stop terrorism", "Share", "Love", and a quote from Ghandi about greed. They drew pictures on the pavements and blew bubbles, and hugged and laughed. And SC describes it as "bringing God and Mammon together". Forgive me, but, if you look carefully, where is God in that? Where is the Biblical gospel in there? Sure, it's a worthwhile enterprise to stand in solidarity with the poor, and to stand up against corporate greed. But don't make out that this was some sort of outreach with the gospel.
If the church adopted SC's ideas, then we would probably be more happy, more loving, more radical, and probably bigger. We would be nicer people. But would those things lead to more being saved from an eternity without God? I somehow doubt it. What we really need is to be motivated by the truth of the Jesus-filled, Biblical gospel, and to reach out to people with the saving message of the cross.
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Customer Reviews
an informative, dark read, 27 Sep 2008
I read Mein Kampf in the hope of understanding some of the madness of Hitler's actions and wasn't disappointed. Although written in the 1920s what can be found here is a sort of blue print for World war Two.Through the book Hitler exposes the dark side of the human race and tries to manipulate the reader into agreeing with him. Unlike the German people of the time the reader has the luxury of knowing the evil of his plan. An informative and dark book that gives history a slightly different slant
RRRRR-----ZZZZZZZ------RRRRR-----ZZZZZ, 08 Aug 2008
Well, may be I m going against the flow here, but this book, is one of the most boring, poorly written, waste of money and paper i ve ever read for ages.. Its full of hate, written by a guy who throw up his bitterness and hate of everything non German during pages after pages after pages..., like you would throw up when You re drunk....
It s brilliant to put you to sleep if you ve got insomnia though...
we all know about the context in which it was written and what it lead to. so, no need to make some fuss about it and call it a must read. when it s an absolute piece of human junk.and fuel for hate...
well. i read it.. did not like it, .. but that s my personal opinion.
ay-dolf : bad writer, decent fascist. (if there is such a thing), 30 Jun 2008
i stopped reading this book about a quarter of the way into it. i got extremely tired of the repetitive points..i know this is a way to emphasise something, but they seem a tad unneccesary if you know what hitler was all about already (obviously when this book was written, not so much). i also got tired of how poorly written it was...it seems like very often his point becomes lost, as if his attention span is that of a hyperactive child (which makes sense in re-iterating my last point.)
obviously this book is intersting just as prying into the mind of jeffrey dahmer is interesting, but these writings, like his paintings, are just plain artless. his inability to write well, combined with his inability to paint were quite likely part reasons as to why he had such an enormous inferiority complex.
A paranoid book by a fiercely intelligent man, 23 Jun 2008
As you read 'Mein Kampf', there is no doubt as to Hitler's intelligence: it smacks you in the face. He clearly was not the clownish buffoon he is usually presented as. He tackles many issues cleverly if not clearly: his opinions on parliamentary democracy, reading, and propaganda are particularly interesting.
As Golo Mann famously remarked, Hitler was a man who simply couldn't understand moderation, and 'Mein Kampf' furnishes plenty of examples. Parliamentary democracy is bad for Germany? Have the politicians strung up, then. A colonial policy won't secure Germany's status for the future? Conquer eastern Europe, work its inhabitants to death, and plant Germans there. His answers to problems (as he seems them) are shockingly radical and indicative of a disturbing amorality. 'Mein Kampf' speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the tortured workings of a paranoid mind. That, really, is my second point: rather than believing in accident, Hitler sees gigantic conspiracies at work in the world (read Richard Hofstadter's excellent essay 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics' on this).
Hitler's logic is frequently circular and flawed, his style questionable (as Stuart Hodgson wrote, with typical British understatement, 'Mein Kampf' is written in 'by no means irreproachable German') and his arrangement of the material confusing. Nonetheless he provides a fascinating commentary on his times - the 1920s. I am highly sceptical of attempts to see all of Hitler's future decisions in the pages of 'Mein Kampf'. The mere fact that he envisaged a future war to be between Britain, Germany and Italy on the one hand and France on the other must show us that he was no Cassandra.
Fascinating Beyond Words, 22 Aug 2007
History is enraging in the way it always tends to pander to current prejudice and contemporary political need. We are all so wise and good at this point in history and can pretend that we are far too well-educated and morally pure, that nothing so bad is going to be done in our name, on our watch. We are so frantic in our wish to be distanced from the sustained and systematic evils of history, that we condemn the guilty as geniuses, or more remarkably, fools. Those who cling to their denial would prefer that books like this should be banned, as they bear witness to not only Hitler's evil but the pan-European common-denominator, he aspired to tap into.
It is morally convenient to believe that Hitler invented the evil aims laid out in this book. Hitler did not invent racism or anti-Semitism, he merely exploited what was already there and was actually voted into power by those who shared those views - many still do.
Published in 1925 & 1926, the two parts of the book gave fair warning of his aims and his fanatical hatreds. Across the world, many read his words and had their own feelings and hatreds confirmed. These people ranged across every class in most societies, and definitely from top to the bottom of the British social strata. It must be noted that even having been aware of Hitler's promises and even in the knowledge of seeing him carry them out, the country was willing to look the other way. It was just total chance that Churchill became leader and not Halifax - our moral superiority is based on mere luck not natural goodness. Our jingoistic pride, a deluded vanity.
Hitler's ranting coalescence of the hatreds and prejudices still bears witness to the heart of darkness of humanity, which shows no sign of going away.
Let this book be read and stand as a warning of what still continues to inspire many people, beneath the veneer of our "civilization".
Once you have read Hitler's poisonous rantings, you are forever aware that the same raving appeal to the common denominator, can still be heard or read, in the words of those who likewise wish to make us the sponsors of the contemporary fantatic's road to historical immortality.
Knowing who said it all before, might guard us against such folly.
I'm Impressed!, 16 Sep 2008
Morrie was mentally strong, though he suffered from the terminal disease, ALS(=amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), I'd say. He was eager to tell the meaning of life to his ex-student, Mitch Albom, who is also the author of Tuesday's With Morrie. I would only worry about my terminal disease,if I were in Morrie's shoes. I mean, all I could do would be to be apathetic or pessimistic about my future. " The truth is once you learn how to die, you learn how to live." - that'd be the last thing I could say.
Certainly, it WAS sad that Morrie passed away because he was respected by lots of his students and graduates. However, every Tuesday when Morrie told Mitch the meaning of life must be very precious memories for Mitch, that's for sure!
For when you need to change pace a little., 31 Jul 2008
Although this book doesn't tell us anything we don't already know, it never does any harm to be reminded from time to time. It's a heartwarming and truthful account of a friendship between an older man in the last months of his life and a younger man who has always been inspired by him.
We're reminded of the importance of caring for one another in a world where we simply don't take time often enough (sometimes never!) to tell people how much we love and appreciate them.
It doesn't shy away from the 'ugly' side of illness and death which people wonder and worry about but hardly ever discuss. It's only human to be scared and to have self pity but we learn how Morrie turned his negative emotions into positive ones, and fear into acceptance and inner peace.
I found 'Tuesdays With Morrie' a refreshingly honest account of illness. Instead of being depressing it was insightful and moving.
One of my favorite "Alboms", 20 Jun 2008
Face it: this book is never going to be a classic, but it does have some immediate appeal to the world at large mainly because people are looking for hope, especially today. It's a quick read and I enjoyed it. If you've seen the movie, you've pretty much seen the book. I do have to say that it inspired me to get out and do more in the community I live in--sometimes this worked out, sometimes it did not. The point was, I learned for "doing" and the book helped me get into that frame of mind. I've read the other Albom books and this is by far his best. Second on my list would be "The Five People You Meet in Heaven."
Another great book from Albom!, 17 Jun 2008
I picked this book up after reading Five People You Meet in Heaven and I must say I really enjoyed both immensely! Mitch Albom has an amazing talent in projecting his characters and messges through his personable writing skills. This book will give you little gems on how to love and live life and will make you appreciate things that you may take for granted. A really, really great book that I highky recommend.
An excellant book, 22 May 2008
Mitch Albom has delivered yet another interesting and enjoyable book. I must admit, I do prefer "For one more day" and "the five people you meet" but this was never the less a great book which kept me interested right the way to the end.
Ex District Midwife, 04 Sep 2008
This book is excellent, not only is it very funny but very illuminating as to how the NHS works now.
As a Conservative Councillor it grieves me to say where Labour have got it right but pulls no punches on where it has gone wrong.
I'd recommend every politician or who people who need to use the A& E department to read this book.
I happily recommend for anyone who enjoys a good read but wants to learn something as well.
Little has changed... J.S. South Africa, 12 Aug 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which evoked many memories both sad and humorous, having trained and worked in the NHS for over 20 years. The sad factor is that I have been living abroad for 14 years now and it seems little has changed despite the numerous promises from a variety of politicians . The same problems and frustrations are highlighted such as bed management , abuse of the ambulance service etc. It is time the general public knew what really goes on and despite all the problems you certainly appreciate the NHS from a distance. It should be compulsory reading before any further damage can be done to this great institution.
Every politician should have to read this book, 14 May 2008
This is such an important book, despite its light-hearted and readable tone. It made me laugh, it made me cry. It was real and it was worrying. It set out clearly what it's like working in today's NHS. It outlined the problems, it outlined sensible solutions and it highlighted the madness of the current government's schemes. which should make us all fear for our future health provision. And it also told us about comedy items stuck up patients' bottoms. What more could you ask for in a book about A&E?
Seriously though, this book should be required reading for all politicians and it should have been reviewed and discussed by the broadsheet newspapers.
Hilariously frank, 07 May 2008
I have just read this book in 3 days - mostly on trains and buses - and had to try very hard not to make a spectacle of myself by laughing too much. Dr Nick paints a heart-warmingly honest portrait of life as an A and E doctor, its ups and downs, celebrations and frustrations, but best of all are the quirky characters he meets. His accounts are hilariously frank whilst still insightful, and compell the reader to a greater understanding of how hospitals work. A brilliant book.
V realistic view on today's NHS, 28 Apr 2008
I loved this book. It was the sort of book that is so accurate it is scary. I am not a doctor, but it reminded me of working in A+E as a radiographer many moons ago. I have never nodded in agreement and exclaimed "yes! that is really how it is!!" aloud when reading a book on the bus. I agree with the ideas that stem from the book such as the NHS being placed into the hands of the professionals and the patients that use it, and reducing the amount of Governmental control.
To those saying that the book is too political, well that is what it is like in today's NHS, too many targets, poor workforce planning etc is something that health professionals have to deal with on an everyday basis. Dr Edwards clearly loves the NHS for what it stands for, but his frustration with how it is managed is justified.
a call to reckless generosity and selfless love, 03 Oct 2008
Shane Claiborne has found a different Jesus in the gospels than the mainstream church. He's found a Jesus who is homeless, a friend of the poor, who rails against authority and undermines the empire, who tells a rich man to sell everything he owns and give the money away. This is Claiborne's model, and he has done his best to find it, live it and prove such a life is possible.
The book follows his journey, from the disillusionment with the church of his youth, and the ambitious and wealthy `megachurches' where he trained. He talks about how he came to bond with the poor in Philadelphia, and then travelled to Calcutta to see if Mother Theresa offered a better demonstration of Christ than the ones around him. He visits Iraq in the middle of the war, testing Jesus' call to be a peacemaker. He helps stage a `re-distribution' on Wall Street and heckles George W Bush at the Republican conference. He is, in his own words, an `ordinary radical' - radically different, but rooted in real people and real situations.
Claiborne rejects the idea that Christianity has nothing more to offer than some distant and otherworldly heaven. It's a great reminder that the church is a missionary agency: we're meant to go to the poor and the hungry, not wait for them to come to us. There's loads of good stuff about power, simplicity, and community, that's worth coming back to. It's a call to reckless generosity and selfless love in a world of "big beasts and little prophets." It is hopeful, expectant, uncompromising.
'The Irresistable Revolution'is a provocative book, raising more issues than it answers. That's not an approach that everyone will appreciate, but for those ready to ask difficult questions of themselves and their faith, this is a challenge you'll want to take seriously.
An absolutely essential read, 17 Sep 2008
If Shane Claiborne keeps writing books like this he is going to get himself assasinated. I can think of no greater accolade then that.
refreshing, 07 Sep 2008
I found this book really encouraging. It gave me a lot to think about and reminded me of lots of things I believe are important in terms of the two principle commandments of the Bible "Love God with all your heart, mind and soul. Love your neighbour as yourself" 15 to 20 years ago I had read books by Jim Wallis, Ron Sider and Tony Campolo which seemed to call many Western Christians to thinking about justice and a simpler lifestyle.
Shane Claiborne starts to understand what God says about the poor and loving others almost by accident when he is studying theology at a US Bible school - one that I guess would be described as liberal rather than conservative in US terms. Some friends invite him to come and hang out with some of their friends who happen to be homeless.
The book is SC's story and the story of some of the people he meets along the way with whom he shares part of his life. It includes much of his struggles as he evaluates Scripture trying to see it afresh and not within all the confines of his background in church culture. He works a few months with Mother Theresa, was involved in living with the homeless, lives in a poor community in Philadelphia, went to Iraq with a group promoting peace and is astonished by the love and risks that Iraqi Christians would take to protect their American brothers.
It reminded me of the community that followers of Christ should be developing and not just with one another. It made me go back and read Matt 25 when Jesus talks about God's judgement involving the way we treat the poor, the sick, the foreigner, the criminal etc. It is uncomfortable.
I did not think SC was proposing everyone do what he does. He is not trying to recruit followers. He is prompting us to think about how we live as followers of Christ an to be more open to those marginalised in society, accepting people unlike us in our homes and lives.
There were parts of the book which annoyed me and I felt that he perhaps did some things just to provoke a reaction. I felt it possibly could have
been 100 pages shorter and still got the same message over. The style with frequent asides in parenthesis, which work if you are giving a speech, but are irritating when used over and over in a written work got a bit wearing. The style seemed written for students and early twenties, although the content should actually be for all ages.
However overall I found it deeply encouraging and challenging. I am reminded of how community with the poor is not just about justice or improving their situation, it is also about the rich getting the opportunity to know God more in profound ways through individuals who come into our lives. That seemed to be the way Mother Theresa saw it and I remember one incident in my own life of seeing God's image more clearly through a severly disabled, poor beggar who sat patiently waiting for gifts. He apalled me at first, until I saw the loving way some other interacted with him and despite the fact he could not speek his openess to others.
Community in the love of God is not a duty, it is a gift for all, but requires a lot of work.
Serious about being the change you want to see ? Read this., 08 Jul 2008
One of the most powerful and engaging autobiographical works from a `frontline' Christian activist I've read in a long time. It's impossible not to like Shane Claiborne, whose infectious love for Jesus and total commitment to bringing his love to all, whether North Philadelphia's poor or the bombed citizens of Iraq, is plain to see. Claiborne is someone all Christians (and others) could learn from for sheer breadth of sympathy across the Christian traditions, sense of vocation, and depth of theological understanding blended with sassy political commitment to bringing about change. A must-read.
Where is the gospel?, 23 Feb 2008
I should say at the outset, I think I'm out on a limb here. Everyone else seems to raving about this book. But I'm not so sure.
First, the good stuff. I think Shane Claiborne (SC) writes boldly and strikingly about various topics. Much of the book is a wake-up call for those who have got used to dull, timid, worldly, 'big', Christianity. He is immensely quotable: "Most of the time when I see Christian superstars like Jerry Falwell or Al Sharpton, I feel I'm watching professional wrestling. There's a lot of shouting and sweating, but the people seem too superhuman, and I'm not convinced all the moves are real." (p27)
He has some excellent material on the value of singleness. (p109-111) That's humbled me, and reminded me that I need to try to promote that in a Biblical way. Then there's some good stuff about the worthlessness of "cool": "...we must be either hot or cold, because if we are lukewarm (an old-school way of saying "cool"), we will be spit out of God's mouth"! (p230) There are lots of other helpful areas too, mostly only a few pages at a time.
He has lots of great stories, many of which would be excellent sermon-illustration material!
Now the bad stuff:
1) It's *very* Ameri-centric. Big chunks of the book are spent critiquing the Christian Right. Most of that didn't resonate with my experience of the Church in the UK. We don't do flags on the platform, singing anthems, rallying our troups into war or party politics. All that felt a bit meaningless to me as a Brit - who am I to criticise Christians living in another country and culture?
2) Because it's the experiences of a single guy, living in community, doing some wild and crazy things, I just don't see how much of what he says relates to me. I mean, I have a wife and 3 kids. I can't exactly move to Iraq for a while, or open up my house as a homeless shelter (not that I think there's nearly so much need here anyway - see point 1!). What he has effectively done is to abandon his entire culture. Now that's great for him, because he was in a position to do it. But the huge, vast, majority simply aren't. I'm not prepared to because I don't see that there's anything inherently wrong with having a house, or a car, or a job, or food. Parts of our culture are good (schools, hospitals, homes). If you want to live outside popular culture, fine. But I'd rather live out the Christ-life within it. Which is equally as difficult, and arguably more so. He's advocating a form of monastic asceticism that I'm not convinced is Biblical.
3) He redefines well-established theological terms. What he means by words like "evangelical", "conversion" and "gospel" are simply not the same as orthodox, Biblical, Christianity. For example: "Conversion is not an event but a process, a process of slowly tearing ourselves away from the clutches of the culture." No it isn't. Conversion has nothing to do with releasing oneself from the bonds of culture. It's the act of repentance and faith, when we repond to the gospel. Forgive me if I can't see the link between historic conversion and SC's. I suppose "sanctification" would be a more correct word for what he's talking about.
4) He caricatures the church.
"...if someone had a heart-attack on Sunday morning, the paramedics would have to take the pulse of half the congregation before they would find the dead person" (p43) OK, very funny. But certainly not my experience of good, Biblical, modern church. He gives the impression that churches are all navel-gazing, introverted, holy huddles with no interest or ability to communicate with the outside world. Well, again, there are loads of churches that care for the poor, the lonely, the disposessed. In Ipswich, UK, we have "Street Pastors" who are out in the clubs and pubs at the weekend, looking after the drunks and the dropouts; there is a pregnancy crisis centre, a drug rehab centre is soon to open. There's work amongst prostitutes and the homeless. We do care. Perhaps not enough, perhaps we could do with being better resourced. But we *are* trying to live out a life of faith in our culture, and it hurts a bit to be told we aren't.
5) He minimises the importance of theology:
"I learnt more about God from the tears of homeless mothers than a systematic theology ever taught me" (p51) Now, I know the guy is a firm post-modern and that post-moderns like stories more than facts etc etc. But, that kind of statement calls into question the whole value of theology. What did the tears of homeless mothers *actually* teach him? That sharing is good? That we should care for each other? Great - but not much about God. What can those things *possibly* teach us about God? We are made in his likeness, not he in ours. We don't learn about God by looking at fallen sinners (no matter how vulnerable or holy); we learn about God from the Word. SC has it the wrong way around.
Again, "When people ask me if I am Protestant or Catholic, I just answer 'yes.'. And when people ask me if we are evangelicals, I...say, 'Absolutely, we want to spread the kingdom of God like crazy.'" Well, I'm sorry, but the differences between Protestant and Catholic theology *are* important. They espouse completely different ideas about how to relate to God, the authority of the Bible, the meaning of salvation etc etc. They're not just minor tertiary issues, they affect the central tennets of the faith. Theology matters!
6) I'm not sure what his "gospel" is. Throughout the whole book, I could find barely a mention of sin, salvation, or the cross. What there was a lot of is loving our neighbours. Which of course, is good. But surely it's not the whole picture? He seems to see Jesus as an inspirational figure, who showed us how to live and love well. But that's not the gospel of Paul, or of evangelicalism. One story will serve to illustrate the point: It was the time when a bunch of his friends slept on Wall Street, New York, as an act of solidarity with the poor. (p118-119) Then at a certain time, they unfurled banners which read, "Stop terrorism", "Share", "Love", and a quote from Ghandi about greed. They drew pictures on the pavements and blew bubbles, and hugged and laughed. And SC describes it as "bringing God and Mammon together". Forgive me, but, if you look carefully, where is God in that? Where is the Biblical gospel in there? Sure, it's a worthwhile enterprise to stand in solidarity with the poor, and to stand up against corporate greed. But don't make out that this was some sort of outreach with the gospel.
If the church adopted SC's ideas, then we would probably be more happy, more loving, more radical, and probably bigger. We would be nicer people. But would those things lead to more being saved from an eternity without God? I somehow doubt it. What we really need is to be motivated by the truth of the Jesus-filled, Biblical gospel, and to reach out to people with the saving message of the cross.
A very useful insight, 29 Sep 2008
This book gives a very interesting insight into how people can live with a bi-polar mind. The fact she is very successful and appears to cope with life might surprise some but then when you look below at some of the compulsions the reality of this illness shines through.
Yes the book is a bit over the place but that is how the mind works. This might help anyone who lives or knows anyone with this illness. It also gives a good insight into how difficult it is to medicate and why the patient might rebel from medication.
If you want an introduction to the world of someone whose mind doesn't tick quite the same as most people rather than or before getting medical books then please have a look at this one.
Absolutely fascinating, 27 Apr 2008
This memoir is compelling reading. I have found it to be frank and honest as well as informative. I had a friend, sadly no longer with us, who was manic depressive and I found reading this a way of understanding who he was.
Kay Jamison writes about her life from seventeen - when she had her first attack of manic depression - through to her life now as an adult over twenty years later. It is an extremely well written account and whilst it is factual and often distressing to read I actually enjoyed it. It shows not only her courage but her determination to succeed at life with an illness that almost killed her.
I couldn't actually put this book down and read it in the course of one day, over a series of sittings. This book must be of help for people who don't know how to deal with their own turmoil at the hands of this illness and likewise for those whose lives are affected by it. It doesn't have a text book feel about it but nor does it feel lightweight.
I can't recommend this book enough!
moving account of a talented woman's struggle, 13 Sep 2007
Moving account of a talented woman's struggle to work as a psychologist as well as living with bipolar. As someone with depression, I was moved by her account as well as identifying with her issues with the arrogance prevalent among a segment of the medical community. Highly recommended, laced with poetry; I was particularly moved by her epilogue @ the end where she states that if she had the choice, she would has chosen to be born with bipolar as when high or well, she appreciates the joys and beauties in life more than she would if not manic depressive.
An Unquiet Mind - Must Have for Bipolar Sufferers and those around them, 29 Aug 2007
You will not find any book other than this that explains what bipolar is all about. It is my bible. The book follows Kay's story and if you suffer with bipolar you can definitely relate to everything. This will also be helpful to those around you as it will help them gain a better understanding.
IF YOU SUFFER FROM BIPOLAR YOU WILL FIND THIS VERY HELPFUL
Thought provoking and moving, 22 May 2007
An excellent read, a remarkable account of a journey through manic-depressive illness. Anyone diagnosed with manic-depression or has an interest will find this a moving, eye opening and inspiring book. Kay Jamison's shares her honest heartfelt thoughts and feelings, a lady to be truly admired.
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Customer Reviews
an informative, dark read, 27 Sep 2008
I read Mein Kampf in the hope of understanding some of the madness of Hitler's actions and wasn't disappointed. Although written in the 1920s what can be found here is a sort of blue print for World war Two.Through the book Hitler exposes the dark side of the human race and tries to manipulate the reader into agreeing with him. Unlike the German people of the time the reader has the luxury of knowing the evil of his plan. An informative and dark book that gives history a slightly different slant
RRRRR-----ZZZZZZZ------RRRRR-----ZZZZZ, 08 Aug 2008
Well, may be I m going against the flow here, but this book, is one of the most boring, poorly written, waste of money and paper i ve ever read for ages.. Its full of hate, written by a guy who throw up his bitterness and hate of everything non German during pages after pages after pages..., like you would throw up when You re drunk....
It s brilliant to put you to sleep if you ve got insomnia though...
we all know about the context in which it was written and what it lead to. so, no need to make some fuss about it and call it a must read. when it s an absolute piece of human junk.and fuel for hate...
well. i read it.. did not like it, .. but that s my personal opinion.
ay-dolf : bad writer, decent fascist. (if there is such a thing), 30 Jun 2008
i stopped reading this book about a quarter of the way into it. i got extremely tired of the repetitive points..i know this is a way to emphasise something, but they seem a tad unneccesary if you know what hitler was all about already (obviously when this book was written, not so much). i also got tired of how poorly written it was...it seems like very often his point becomes lost, as if his attention span is that of a hyperactive child (which makes sense in re-iterating my last point.)
obviously this book is intersting just as prying into the mind of jeffrey dahmer is interesting, but these writings, like his paintings, are just plain artless. his inability to write well, combined with his inability to paint were quite likely part reasons as to why he had such an enormous inferiority complex.
A paranoid book by a fiercely intelligent man, 23 Jun 2008
As you read 'Mein Kampf', there is no doubt as to Hitler's intelligence: it smacks you in the face. He clearly was not the clownish buffoon he is usually presented as. He tackles many issues cleverly if not clearly: his opinions on parliamentary democracy, reading, and propaganda are particularly interesting.
As Golo Mann famously remarked, Hitler was a man who simply couldn't understand moderation, and 'Mein Kampf' furnishes plenty of examples. Parliamentary democracy is bad for Germany? Have the politicians strung up, then. A colonial policy won't secure Germany's status for the future? Conquer eastern Europe, work its inhabitants to death, and plant Germans there. His answers to problems (as he seems them) are shockingly radical and indicative of a disturbing amorality. 'Mein Kampf' speaks volumes (no pun intended) about the tortured workings of a paranoid mind. That, really, is my second point: rather than believing in accident, Hitler sees gigantic conspiracies at work in the world (read Richard Hofstadter's excellent essay 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics' on this).
Hitler's logic is frequently circular and flawed, his style questionable (as Stuart Hodgson wrote, with typical British understatement, 'Mein Kampf' is written in 'by no means irreproachable German') and his arrangement of the material confusing. Nonetheless he provides a fascinating commentary on his times - the 1920s. I am highly sceptical of attempts to see all of Hitler's future decisions in the pages of 'Mein Kampf'. The mere fact that he envisaged a future war to be between Britain, Germany and Italy on the one hand and France on the other must show us that he was no Cassandra.
Fascinating Beyond Words, 22 Aug 2007
History is enraging in the way it always tends to pander to current prejudice and contemporary political need. We are all so wise and good at this point in history and can pretend that we are far too well-educated and morally pure, that nothing so bad is going to be done in our name, on our watch. We are so frantic in our wish to be distanced from the sustained and systematic evils of history, that we condemn the guilty as geniuses, or more remarkably, fools. Those who cling to their denial would prefer that books like this should be banned, as they bear witness to not only Hitler's evil but the pan-European common-denominator, he aspired to tap into.
It is morally convenient to believe that Hitler invented the evil aims laid out in this book. Hitler did not invent racism or anti-Semitism, he merely exploited what was already there and was actually voted into power by those who shared those views - many still do.
Published in 1925 & 1926, the two parts of the book gave fair warning of his aims and his fanatical hatreds. Across the world, many read his words and had their own feelings and hatreds confirmed. These people ranged across every class in most societies, and definitely from top to the bottom of the British social strata. It must be noted that even having been aware of Hitler's promises and even in the knowledge of seeing him carry them out, the country was willing to look the other way. It was just total chance that Churchill became leader and not Halifax - our moral superiority is based on mere luck not natural goodness. Our jingoistic pride, a deluded vanity.
Hitler's ranting coalescence of the hatreds and prejudices still bears witness to the heart of darkness of humanity, which shows no sign of going away.
Let this book be read and stand as a warning of what still continues to inspire many people, beneath the veneer of our "civilization".
Once you have read Hitler's poisonous rantings, you are forever aware that the same raving appeal to the common denominator, can still be heard or read, in the words of those who likewise wish to make us the sponsors of the contemporary fantatic's road to historical immortality.
Knowing who said it all before, might guard us against such folly.
I'm Impressed!, 16 Sep 2008
Morrie was mentally strong, though he suffered from the terminal disease, ALS(=amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), I'd say. He was eager to tell the meaning of life to his ex-student, Mitch Albom, who is also the author of Tuesday's With Morrie. I would only worry about my terminal disease,if I were in Morrie's shoes. I mean, all I could do would be to be apathetic or pessimistic about my future. " The truth is once you learn how to die, you learn how to live." - that'd be the last thing I could say.
Certainly, it WAS sad that Morrie passed away because he was respected by lots of his students and graduates. However, every Tuesday when Morrie told Mitch the meaning of life must be very precious memories for Mitch, that's for sure!
For when you need to change pace a little., 31 Jul 2008
Although this book doesn't tell us anything we don't already know, it never does any harm to be reminded from time to time. It's a heartwarming and truthful account of a friendship between an older man in the last months of his life and a younger man who has always been inspired by him.
We're reminded of the importance of caring for one another in a world where we simply don't take time often enough (sometimes never!) to tell people how much we love and appreciate them.
It doesn't shy away from the 'ugly' side of illness and death which people wonder and worry about but hardly ever discuss. It's only human to be scared and to have self pity but we learn how Morrie turned his negative emotions into positive ones, and fear into acceptance and inner peace.
I found 'Tuesdays With Morrie' a refreshingly honest account of illness. Instead of being depressing it was insightful and moving.
One of my favorite "Alboms", 20 Jun 2008
Face it: this book is never going to be a classic, but it does have some immediate appeal to the world at large mainly because people are looking for hope, especially today. It's a quick read and I enjoyed it. If you've seen the movie, you've pretty much seen the book. I do have to say that it inspired me to get out and do more in the community I live in--sometimes this worked out, sometimes it did not. The point was, I learned for "doing" and the book helped me get into that frame of mind. I've read the other Albom books and this is by far his best. Second on my list would be "The Five People You Meet in Heaven."
Another great book from Albom!, 17 Jun 2008
I picked this book up after reading Five People You Meet in Heaven and I must say I really enjoyed both immensely! Mitch Albom has an amazing talent in projecting his characters and messges through his personable writing skills. This book will give you little gems on how to love and live life and will make you appreciate things that you may take for granted. A really, really great book that I highky recommend.
An excellant book, 22 May 2008
Mitch Albom has delivered yet another interesting and enjoyable book. I must admit, I do prefer "For one more day" and "the five people you meet" but this was never the less a great book which kept me interested right the way to the end.
Ex District Midwife, 04 Sep 2008
This book is excellent, not only is it very funny but very illuminating as to how the NHS works now.
As a Conservative Councillor it grieves me to say where Labour have got it right but pulls no punches on where it has gone wrong.
I'd recommend every politician or who people who need to use the A& E department to read this book.
I happily recommend for anyone who enjoys a good read but wants to learn something as well.
Little has changed... J.S. South Africa, 12 Aug 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which evoked many memories both sad and humorous, having trained and worked in the NHS for over 20 years. The sad factor is that I have been living abroad for 14 years now and it seems little has changed despite the numerous promises from a variety of politicians . The same problems and frustrations are highlighted such as bed management , abuse of the ambulance service etc. It is time the general public knew what really goes on and despite all the problems you certainly appreciate the NHS from a distance. It should be compulsory reading before any further damage can be done to this great institution.
Every politician should have to read this book, 14 May 2008
This is such an important book, despite its light-hearted and readable tone. It made me laugh, it made me cry. It was real and it was worrying. It set out clearly what it's like working in today's NHS. It outlined the problems, it outlined sensible solutions and it highlighted the madness of the current government's schemes. which should make us all fear for our future health provision. And it also told us about comedy items stuck up patients' bottoms. What more could you ask for in a book about A&E?
Seriously though, this book should be required reading for all politicians and it should have been reviewed and discussed by the broadsheet newspapers.
Hilariously frank, 07 May 2008
I have just read this book in 3 days - mostly on trains and buses - and had to try very hard not to make a spectacle of myself by laughing too much. Dr Nick paints a heart-warmingly honest portrait of life as an A and E doctor, its ups and downs, celebrations and frustrations, but best of all are the quirky characters he meets. His accounts are hilariously frank whilst still insightful, and compell the reader to a greater understanding of how hospitals work. A brilliant book.
V realistic view on today's NHS, 28 Apr 2008
I loved this book. It was the sort of book that is so accurate it is scary. I am not a doctor, but it reminded me of working in A+E as a radiographer many moons ago. I have never nodded in agreement and exclaimed "yes! that is really how it is!!" aloud when reading a book on the bus. I agree with the ideas that stem from the book such as the NHS being placed into the hands of the professionals and the patients that use it, and reducing the amount of Governmental control.
To those saying that the book is too political, well that is what it is like in today's NHS, too many targets, poor workforce planning etc is something that health professionals have to deal with on an everyday basis. Dr Edwards clearly loves the NHS for what it stands for, but his frustration with how it is managed is justified.
a call to reckless generosity and selfless love, 03 Oct 2008
Shane Claiborne has found a different Jesus in the gospels than the mainstream church. He's found a Jesus who is homeless, a friend of the poor, who rails against authority and undermines the empire, who tells a rich man to sell everything he owns and give the money away. This is Claiborne's model, and he has done his best to find it, live it and prove such a life is possible.
The book follows his journey, from the disillusionment with the church of his youth, and the ambitious and wealthy `megachurches' where he trained. He talks about how he came to bond with the poor in Philadelphia, and then travelled to Calcutta to see if Mother Theresa offered a better demonstration of Christ than the ones around him. He visits Iraq in the middle of the war, testing Jesus' call to be a peacemaker. He helps stage a `re-distribution' on Wall Street and heckles George W Bush at the Republican conference. He is, in his own words, an `ordinary radical' - radically different, but rooted in real people and real situations.
Claiborne rejects the idea that Christianity has nothing more to offer than some distant and otherworldly heaven. It's a great reminder that the church is a missionary agency: we're meant to go to the poor and the hungry, not wait for them to come to us. There's loads of good stuff about power, simplicity, and community, that's worth coming back to. It's a call to reckless generosity and selfless love in a world of "big beasts and little prophets." It is hopeful, expectant, uncompromising.
'The Irresistable Revolution'is a provocative book, raising more issues than it answers. That's not an approach that everyone will appreciate, but for those ready to ask difficult questions of themselves and their faith, this is a challenge you'll want to take seriously.
An absolutely essential read, 17 Sep 2008
If Shane Claiborne keeps writing books like this he is going to get himself assasinated. I can think of no greater accolade then that.
refreshing, 07 Sep 2008
I found this book really encouraging. It gave me a lot to think about and reminded me of lots of things I believe are important in terms of the two principle commandments of the Bible "Love God with all your heart, mind and soul. Love your neighbour as yourself" 15 to 20 years ago I had read books by Jim Wallis, Ron Sider and Tony Campolo which seemed to call many Western Christians to thinking about justice and a simpler lifestyle.
Shane Claiborne starts to understand what God says about the poor and loving others almost by accident when he is studying theology at a US Bible school - one that I guess would be described as liberal rather than conservative in US terms. Some friends invite him to come and hang out with some of their friends who happen to be homeless.
The book is SC's story and the story of some of the people he meets along the way with whom he shares part of his life. It includes much of his struggles as he evaluates Scripture trying to see it afresh and not within all the confines of his background in church culture. He works a few months with Mother Theresa, was involved in living with the homeless, lives in a poor community in Philadelphia, went to Iraq with a group promoting peace and is astonished by the love and risks that Iraqi Christians would take to protect their American brothers.
It reminded me of the community that followers of Christ should be developing and not just with one another. It made me go back and read Matt 25 when Jesus talks about God's judgement involving the way we treat the poor, the sick, the foreign | | |