I like to get just a few really good books on a particular topic. Friends frequently end up ordering these, so here's a place for me to list them, and post reviews. For now it's just a few links to amazon for recommended books. I will eventually expand on this a lot.
Since it's mostly my friends checking out this site, I'll mention that if you order books on-line, please consider getting them from here. I'll get a small commission. The price for you doesn't change, except for usually being cheapest at amazon. For books not listed here: ( amazon.ca | amazon.com )
For years I've been looking for a good book on graphic design that I could apply to web design in particular. There are thousands of (mostly expensive) books out there, and they're all useless for this. Then along comes this new one. It's perfect (and inexpensive!) and I can't wait to start applying what I've learned.
This is the only book I've seen that covers all the different aspects of graphic design. The book itself is a great example of all the demonstrated principles, which makes it a fun and informative read. Despite the great breadth and depth of what is covered here, each particular concept is presented clearly, concisely, and always in a way that inspires. Not only is this incredibly useful, but but it totally gets you going creatively. For web designers who are not artists, there is surprising little out there that will help us learn what we need to know about the graphic art side of web design. While it's not specifically about that, this book will do the trick, I think, and well.Buy from amazon ( CA | USA )
By the editors of climbing magazine. Comprehensive, detailed, well-written, easy to understand, inexpensive... What more do you want? This is a great book covering the gamut of outdoor rock-climbing technique and equipment. It doesn't include ice or aid, but it's got everything else from beginner's technique and basic anchors, to more advanced moves, technique, and equipment, including great information for beginning leaders. If you only get one book on climbing, this is it. 148 pages.Buy from amazon ( CA | USA )
This book assumes you know the basics, and focuses on understanding and manipulating the underlying physiological and psychological processes to improve your climbing. Useful to climbers at all levels of ability, but especially those who have mastered the basics and want to get serious. 208 pages.Buy from amazon ( CA | USA )
When you've gotten to fairly hard climbs but have reached a plateau this book can get you to the next level. Taking a different approach from Performance Rock Climbing but covering some of the same things from a different angle, this is a great complement. Between the two you will find a lot to help you advance quickly in your climbing regardless of your current level.Buy from amazon ( CA | USA )
A practical guide to all aspects of performing early music, including much that is fascinating, yet useful. The best all-round guide I've found.Buy from amazon ( CA | USA )
My Sea Shanty and Renaissance Dance sites have lots of books and CDs on those topics, as well as related ones like tall ships, costuming, etc.
I've got a list of my favourite Science Fiction books which I'll put here eventually as well.