Monday, June 30, 2008

Writing about publishing books was indeed a spontaneous decision on my part. I solemnly hope that this was a wise decision that I had made.

A Featured publishing books Article
Titles (and Subtitles) Sell Books!


Titles (and Subtitles) Sell Books!

 by: Joni Hamilton

Does a title really sell a book? The short answer is, yes. If a book does not attract a reader initially, it will be overlooked and not purchased. The book title is the element that creates the initial attraction to the book.

Watch people who are browsing in a bookstore. A catchy title grabs their interest and makes them reach for the book out of curiosity. A great title makes browsers think, Really? or What does THAT mean? or Thats what I need. Think long and hard when choosing your books title. The title must give some clues about the books contents in a snappy one-liner.

Many authors struggle fiercely with the title choice, not realizing that the title is there somewhere in the books contents. They just havent recognized it because they are too close to the project. Sometimes it helps to talk to impartial, unbiased persons. Tell them what your book is about, and then listen to their feedback.

Alternately, on the tongue-in-cheek advice of one publishing professional, open a bottle of wine and start writing. Make a list of everything that comes to mind about what you have written in your book. Nothing is too silly, but do try to strike on the central theme or message.

When your list is complete (and the wine is all gone), group your notes into categories. Choose the snappiest, most intriguing words that say something about your book without sounding like a boring explanation.

Perhaps these titles will help you:

  • Woman-Sense Rules!

  • Fit to Cook

  • Climb Your Stairway to Heaven

  • Light the Fire

  • Spell Success in Your Life

If you are planning on a series, your title should be your brand. Then as you make your brand into a household word, you ensure future sales. As each title in the series is published, you know that people will buy the latest book to complete the series. Think Harry Potter or Nancy Drew.

The subtitle of your book is a great way to increase sales. The subtitle gets to the heart of the book and convinces the reader of the books benefits. It lets people know that the book is unique and that they really cant live without it. It makes the reader believe that he or she just cant live without it and that is your objective.

Check the following subtitles:

  • Woman-Sense Rules! The Spiritual Womans Guide to Finding Yourself When You Didnt Know You Were Missing

  • Fit to Cook Why Waist Time in the Kitchen?

  • Climb Your Stairway to Heaven the 9 habits of maximum happiness

  • Light the Fire Fiery Food with a Light New Attitude!

  • Spell Success in Your Life - A road map for achieving your goals and surviving success

In the title and in the subtitle, you can use humor or emotions to sell your book, but avoid clichs and corny expressions, or overly common sayings. They soon become stale and annoying. Keep your title unique, catchy and relevant.

Before making the final decision on your title, conduct a title search (see our home study course, Idea to Bookto Success the fast, easy, simple way! for instructions on title searches). Although you cannot copyright a title, duplicating titles only leads to confusion, and you want people to buy your book, not a competitors book. Make your title one that increases the likelihood of increasing your book sales.

About The Author

© Copyright 2004 Ink Tree Ltd.

Ink Tree Ltd. helps authors publish, market and sell books. From "101 Things You Need to Know About Publishing" to our Ultimate Book Marketing Kit, we will help you make your book a success. http://www.inktreemarketing.com


info@inktreemarketing.com



publishing books Items For Viewing
Cookbook Holder - (Clear)



Cookbook Holder - (Clear)
This handy cookbook stand helps you read recipes while you cook. Clear, easy to clean acrylic page protector keeps book or magazine pages visible while preventing spills and splatters from damaging the recipe you're testing. Designed to sit on your kitchen counter so you can keep an eye on the new dish you're preparing as you follow the cooking instructions. This hands-free bookstand is also useful for holding reading materials while you eat or work on any project requiring both hands. Sized to accommodate most books and magazines: 12"w x 8 1/2"h x 3"d..

Customer Review: Great Gift Idea

I got this for my mom for christmas, she loves it and says it works great.

Customer Review: not good for bindings

I bought this clear cookbook holder to replace a similar one that broke after years of daily use. This new one really squashes down the pages and it is very difficult to use for thicker cookbooks. I'm worried that it will eventually lead to unnecessary wear and tear on the bindings.



Black Contact Paper, 18" x 75'



Black Contact Paper, 18" x 75'
Adds decorative accents to any horizontal or vertical surface. Each roll features an easy-to-peel liner and an adhesive that allows it to be repositioned during installation without leaving a sticky residue. It’s easy to apply, easy to remove, and easy to keep clean. Simply cut to length and shape for a custom application.

Customer Review: contact paper has a zillion uses!

I have always liked the simplicity of using contact paper to "clean up" otherwise old or messy looking spaces. I am not saying that I would use contact paper to cover furniture in the home if you are wanting a classy or "rich" look! But, as a school teacher teaching in a very old building with very old tables that are dull and mismatched and have little finish left on them to clean them properly...a little contact paper really can pull together the "look" and it is very easy to clean! I have used contact paper to cover gross looking tiles on classroom walls, to dress up my old chipped desk, dented file cabinet and even to cover containers such as margarine tubs or juice cans - there is such a variety of colors and patterns out there that you can coordinate both to come up with a solution to a drab decor! It sticks smoothly and evenly, takes a short time to complete the job, wears well over time (as long as you are careful not to purposely abuse the area or put it on something that will obviously get mistreated!)



Children appreciate a classroom that is fresh and interesting and "fun" to work in....contact paper has always come through for me in these 16 years of teaching and one more thing....you can change it out inexpensively as you wish.











Live in Atlanta



Live in Atlanta
Four track EP, captured LIVE, at The Tabernacle, Atlanta, Ga, July 31, 2003. TRACKS; 1.Whole Lotta Love/Ramble On/Walk On The Wild Side:7:20(Medley) 2.Dream On-4:11 3.My Private Nation-3:54 4.When I Look To The Sky-4:43(Acoustic Version) / Extremely limited, issued in a flat, generic slipcase, with a sticker on the back.



LightWedge Paperback



LightWedge Paperback
PB100 LightWedge Paperback - The LightWedge is a reading aid that combines eye-friendly LED illumination with an acrylic lens that's bright, and unobtrusive to those near you. Here's how it works. A handle is connected to a rectangular acrylic lens, and with the push of a button, LED light shines through the acrylic to illuminate the page. Perfect for traveling at night or enjoying a ripping good yarn while lying next to that special someone at home. Energy efficient LEDs give you a whopping 40 hours of light on just 4 AAA batteries! (not included)

Customer Review: Very Pleased

I am very happy with my reading light,it is everything I hoped,I use it all the time.

Customer Review: very good reading light

This is a really good reading light. My sister got one for Christmas and I thought it would be really cool to have one. It's a lot better than a flashlight because you don't have to hold it, you just set it on the page. The only thing that I didn't like about it is that the batteries were a little tough getting in the cartridge and the light isn't distributed as evenly as I would like across the page, but both of those can easily be compromised. Even so, I recommend buying it, it's a great product.



Mulan (1998)



Mulan (1998)
Solid entertainment from a new group of Disney animators. The story source is a Chinese fable about a young girl who disguises herself as a man to help her family and her country. When the Huns attack China, a call to arms goes out to every village, and Mulan's father, being the only man in the family, accepts the call. Mulan (voiced by Ming-Na Wen, sung by Lea Salonga) has just made a disastrous appearance at the Matchmaker and decides to challenge society's expectations (being a bride). She steals her father's conscription notice, cuts her hair, and impersonates a man to join the army. She goes to boot camp, learning to fit in with the other soldiers with some help from her sidekick, Mushu, a wise-cracking dragon (voiced by Eddie Murphy). She trains, and soon faces the Huns eye-to-eye to protect her Emperor.

The film is gorgeous to look at, with a superior blend of classic and computer-generated animation. Directors Tony Bancroft and Barry Cook make the best of it: a battle in the snowy mountains is as thrilling as the best Hollywood action films. The menacing Huns are not cute but simple and bad. The wickedness is subtle, not disturbing. The film is not a full-fledged musical, as it has only five songs (the best, "Be a Man," is sung during boot camp). Eddie Murphy is an inspired choice for the comic-relief dragon, but his lines are not as clever as Robin Williams's in Aladdin. These are minor quibbles, though. The story is strong, and Mulan goes right to the top of Disney animated heroines; she has the right stuff. --Doug Thomas

Customer Review: Real classic, Everyone should keep a copy of this

this movie is a cross-cultural classic, the story is great, the songs are wonderful, everyone should have one of this

Customer Review: Good

This product was in the exact condition I was told it would be in, and it arrived in good time. I enjoy buying products from Amazon, becuase I know that the quatily is always above average, and that if there was a problem, Amazon would take action!



Expansion Pak For Nintendo 64



Expansion Pak For Nintendo 64
The Expansion Pak allows the random access memory (RAM) of the Nintendo 64 console to increase from 4 megabytes (MB) to 8 MB of contiguous main memory. With the help of an included key, the Expansion Pak fits into the slot that is below a removable panel on the top of the N64 console. Game developers can take advantage of the increased memory in several ways, including making games that are more visually appealing. Some games will allow players to choose a "high-resolution" option, increasing the screen resolution from 320 by 240 pixels to as much as 640 by 480 pixels--creating crisp, high-definition graphics. The Expansion Pak utilizes Nintendo 64's capability for 32-bit, 16.7-million-color display with 256 levels of transparency (alpha)--bringing your games to a new level of realism. Instead of reusing texture data, games can buffer a larger number of textures for a more distinct look.

Other ways for developers to utilize the larger memory is by setting a higher frame rate, longer replays, and more animations. Games also can have more sophisticated artificial intelligence, which allows computer-controlled characters to be smarter, literally. Games can offer more characters and vehicles, and contain larger, more complex levels and worlds. Some games like The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask require the Expansion Pak, while others such as Perfect Dark require it for access to all of the game's levels and features. See our list of Nintendo 64 games that take advantage of the Expansion Pak's extra power.

Customer Review: A nice inexpensive way to enhance visual clarity on an aged console

The Nintendo 64 memory expansion pak upgrade is not vital for the most part, in terms of plugging up and playing many of the great titles already released for this console. But there are a few titles that absolutely require this upgrade. The Legend of Zelda Majora's Mask and Donkey Kong 64 are two such titles for example, that cannot be accessed without this upgrade. Perfect Dark is one such title which offers minimal gameplay and locks players out of many of it's richer features due to the lack of available memory to run all of it's features properly. But I think you'll find that even if Donkey kong 64, Perfect dark, or Zelda Majora's Mask isn't your thing, you'll still be wanting to consider purchasing this Ram expansion for a few key reasons.



1)Improved gameplay details. A lot of games weather you know this or not offer very fine gameplay oriented details not available without extended memory. Most games are capable of improved framerate (improves quality of onscreen action. Prevents slow down effects when a lot of on screen action is occuring for example.) Programers can implement more textures and details to environments and characters making things look more lively or life like. AI (artificial intelligence) can be improved and become "smarter".



2) The second drastic improvement is audio/visual quality. Most people that don't understand how computer games really work or don't know all the technical terms, have a commen misconception that this expansion pak is supposed to improve the graphics in a way that might take the console beyond it's 64 bit capabilities. This isn't true. Rather, the expansion pak improves color quality and helps to reduce the blurry effect of the colors in most games, creating better visual clarity. Much of the blocky character sprites (but not all of course) will appear smooth and less blockish or choppy. With the improved framerate you may even notice how the environment in some games can pan out further while maintaining a smooth look, allowing the player to see further away from the character than they could with the jumper pak.



...The memory expansion for N64 is relatively cheap now that the console itself is two generations removed behind Gamecube and Wii. And if your still into retro gaming or just enjoy playing the Nintendo 64 even after all these years I would certainly recommend this buy. Even if you never play the games which require the upgrade, I would consider this because of it's ability to enhance visual clarity. Couple the memory expansion up with a Video-S cable, and you will still find an appeal to the outdated graphics of a system of yore.

Customer Review: Poor

The product received isn't even what is pictured. What was received is an aftermarket version.



Leonidas Belgian Chocolates Dark Chocolates Assortment - Truffles, Pralinés, Fresh Butter Creams - Signature Ballotin



Leonidas Belgian Chocolates Dark Chocolates Assortment - Truffles, Pralinés, Fresh Butter Creams - Signature Ballotin
Leonidas Dark Chocolate Assortment...with a well balanced and representative selection of Leonidas' fresh butter creams, sinfully smooth truffles and delectable pralines, all covered in rich dark chocolate, guaranteed to tantalize even the most discerning palates. Introduce a grateful friend to Leonidas today, or give in to temptation and indulge yourself...Leonidas Famous Belgian Chocolates...a great tradition of quality and freshness, since 1913.

Customer Review: Heavenly!

This was a Christmas gift for my husband. He says its one of his best gifts ever; every evening he looks forward to "rewarding" himself with one of these chocolates.

Customer Review: Makes a great present!

I recently bought this item for a friend whom I rarely get to see because we live far away from one another. Her birthday was coming right up, and I found out from another friend that she loved dark chocolate. Amazon.com shipped the item very quickly. I had been contemplating sending the item with expedited service, but ended up assuming my friend wouldn't care one way or the other if the item arrived on time for her birthday. In fact, the item showed up just two days later, ON TIME for her birthday, when I had just paid for standard delivery. My friend immediately sent me a very excited e-mail thanking me for the present, and said that she loved it. Thanks, amazon!



Western Digital WDG1C5000N My Book Premium Edition 500 GB USB 2.0/Firewire External Hard Drive



Western Digital WDG1C5000N My Book Premium Edition 500 GB USB 2.0/Firewire External Hard Drive
Is your computer loaded with photos, music, video, and all sorts of important files? If so, you should make extra room, back them up, and keep them safe on Western Digital's WDG1C5000 My Book Premium Edition 500 GB Hard Drive. This reliable, easy-to-use external hard drive is the perfect storage solution for all your precious digital assets.


Save and back up all your digital assets with the My Book Premium Edition Hard Drive. View larger.

Simple, easy-to-use design.

Hard drive features dual interface connectivity (FireWire 400 and USB 2.0). View larger.


The elegant case takes up very little space.
Installation is a breeze because you don't really "install" anything -- just plug it in and it's ready to use. There is not even an installation CD because all the included software loads automatically from the hard drive the first time you plug it in. For cream-of-the-crop, high-speed performance, use My Book Premium's FireWire 400 interface. However, if FireWire 400 isn't convenient, Western Digital has you covered -- the My Book Premium hard drive is also compatible with USB 2.0 connectivity. Best of all, you don't have to choose between one or the other because both interfaces are built into every drive.

Western Digital provides software (WD Backup) that makes backing up your data as easy as possible. With a few simple steps you can back up all your data files, or just save your picture and music files. You can also schedule routine backups so you don't have to worry about it ever again. Built for ease of use, this drive is equipped with a capacity gauge that shows how much space is left on your drive. The My Book Premium also includes intelligent drive management features. For example, the drive turns itself on and off with your computer, and Safe Shutdown prevents the drive from being powered down until all your data has been written.

But that's not all. Western Digital uses a smart design to make the My Book Premium look as good as it performs. The elegant case resembles a book and takes up very little space on your desk. Plus, it stacks horizontally and allows two or more drives to nestle neatly together like encyclopedias on a shelf. Inside the stylish exterior is an exceptionally fast, ultra-quiet, cool-running hard drive. Last but not least, the My Book Premium is equipped with free Google software that searches your drives, manages your photos, and simplifies Web searches.

My Book Premium Edition Hard Drives are ideal for:

  • High-speed backup of important documents and images
  • Extra storage for your computer
  • Automatic backups of your existing hard drive
  • Archiving the music stored on your MP3 player
  • Adding plenty of space for digital video capture and editing
  • Saving and organizing your digital photo collection
Note: For basic, less expensive storage option without automatic backup software, consider the My Book Essential Edition 500 GB Hard Drive.


What's in the Box
My Book Premium 500 GB USB 2.0/FireWire external hard drive, USB cable, FireWire cable (six-pin to six-pin), AC adapter with power cord, and quick install guide.

Customer Review: Great!

It is a great product. I mostly use it to back up information. I even used it to back up my videogame data from my Playstation3.

Customer Review: It died a week after the warranty expired

My WD 500Gb "Premium Edition" just died a week after the warranty expired. This hard drive has been a piece of junk since day one, all I have now is piece of garbage that makes annoying clicks when you turn it on; boy you talk about trowing $$$.$$ down the drain. DO NOT waste your money on any of these external drives made by Western Digital.



publishing books in the news
Book signing at Bestsellers - Bexhill Observer

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:35:26 GMT

Book signing at Bestsellers
Bexhill Observer, UK - 2 hours ago
Writing and publishing her first novel is a dream come true for Monica and she already has two other books in the pipeline. She said: "I always loved ...


Books and beyond (The Telegraph)

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 21:06:46 GMT
When foreign publishing houses like Random House, Routledge, Hatchettes, Simon Schuster are “discovering” the Great Indian Market and setting up shop in India, one Indian publisher is doing exactly the reverse.

Under new state law, students may save big on books - St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:19:23 GMT

Under new state law, students may save big on books
St. Louis Post-Dispatch, United States - 1 hour ago
"Publishing companies make the pitch on the books that they will make the most money from." The wholesale price of college textbooks has increased 32.8 ...


Labels:

A Featured publishing books Article
Titles (and Subtitles) Sell Books!


Titles (and Subtitles) Sell Books!

 by: Joni Hamilton

Does a title really sell a book? The short answer is, yes. If a book does not attract a reader initially, it will be overlooked and not purchased. The book title is the element that creates the initial attraction to the book.

Watch people who are browsing in a bookstore. A catchy title grabs their interest and makes them reach for the book out of curiosity. A great title makes browsers think, Really? or What does THAT mean? or Thats what I need. Think long and hard when choosing your books title. The title must give some clues about the books contents in a snappy one-liner.

Many authors struggle fiercely with the title choice, not realizing that the title is there somewhere in the books contents. They just havent recognized it because they are too close to the project. Sometimes it helps to talk to impartial, unbiased persons. Tell them what your book is about, and then listen to their feedback.

Alternately, on the tongue-in-cheek advice of one publishing professional, open a bottle of wine and start writing. Make a list of everything that comes to mind about what you have written in your book. Nothing is too silly, but do try to strike on the central theme or message.

When your list is complete (and the wine is all gone), group your notes into categories. Choose the snappiest, most intriguing words that say something about your book without sounding like a boring explanation.

Perhaps these titles will help you:

  • Woman-Sense Rules!

  • Fit to Cook

  • Climb Your Stairway to Heaven

  • Light the Fire

  • Spell Success in Your Life

If you are planning on a series, your title should be your brand. Then as you make your brand into a household word, you ensure future sales. As each title in the series is published, you know that people will buy the latest book to complete the series. Think Harry Potter or Nancy Drew.

The subtitle of your book is a great way to increase sales. The subtitle gets to the heart of the book and convinces the reader of the books benefits. It lets people know that the book is unique and that they really cant live without it. It makes the reader believe that he or she just cant live without it and that is your objective.

Check the following subtitles:

  • Woman-Sense Rules! The Spiritual Womans Guide to Finding Yourself When You Didnt Know You Were Missing

  • Fit to Cook Why Waist Time in the Kitchen?

  • Climb Your Stairway to Heaven the 9 habits of maximum happiness

  • Light the Fire Fiery Food with a Light New Attitude!

  • Spell Success in Your Life - A road map for achieving your goals and surviving success

In the title and in the subtitle, you can use humor or emotions to sell your book, but avoid clichs and corny expressions, or overly common sayings. They soon become stale and annoying. Keep your title unique, catchy and relevant.

Before making the final decision on your title, conduct a title search (see our home study course, Idea to Bookto Success the fast, easy, simple way! for instructions on title searches). Although you cannot copyright a title, duplicating titles only leads to confusion, and you want people to buy your book, not a competitors book. Make your title one that increases the likelihood of increasing your book sales.

About The Author

© Copyright 2004 Ink Tree Ltd.

Ink Tree Ltd. helps authors publish, market and sell books. From "101 Things You Need to Know About Publishing" to our Ultimate Book Marketing Kit, we will help you make your book a success. http://www.inktreemarketing.com


info@inktreemarketing.com



publishing books Items For Viewing
Cookbook Holder - (Clear)



Cookbook Holder - (Clear)
This handy cookbook stand helps you read recipes while you cook. Clear, easy to clean acrylic page protector keeps book or magazine pages visible while preventing spills and splatters from damaging the recipe you're testing. Designed to sit on your kitchen counter so you can keep an eye on the new dish you're preparing as you follow the cooking instructions. This hands-free bookstand is also useful for holding reading materials while you eat or work on any project requiring both hands. Sized to accommodate most books and magazines: 12"w x 8 1/2"h x 3"d..

Customer Review: Great Gift Idea

I got this for my mom for christmas, she loves it and says it works great.

Customer Review: not good for bindings

I bought this clear cookbook holder to replace a similar one that broke after years of daily use. This new one really squashes down the pages and it is very difficult to use for thicker cookbooks. I'm worried that it will eventually lead to unnecessary wear and tear on the bindings.



Black Contact Paper, 18" x 75'



Black Contact Paper, 18" x 75'
Adds decorative accents to any horizontal or vertical surface. Each roll features an easy-to-peel liner and an adhesive that allows it to be repositioned during installation without leaving a sticky residue. It’s easy to apply, easy to remove, and easy to keep clean. Simply cut to length and shape for a custom application.

Customer Review: contact paper has a zillion uses!

I have always liked the simplicity of using contact paper to "clean up" otherwise old or messy looking spaces. I am not saying that I would use contact paper to cover furniture in the home if you are wanting a classy or "rich" look! But, as a school teacher teaching in a very old building with very old tables that are dull and mismatched and have little finish left on them to clean them properly...a little contact paper really can pull together the "look" and it is very easy to clean! I have used contact paper to cover gross looking tiles on classroom walls, to dress up my old chipped desk, dented file cabinet and even to cover containers such as margarine tubs or juice cans - there is such a variety of colors and patterns out there that you can coordinate both to come up with a solution to a drab decor! It sticks smoothly and evenly, takes a short time to complete the job, wears well over time (as long as you are careful not to purposely abuse the area or put it on something that will obviously get mistreated!)



Children appreciate a classroom that is fresh and interesting and "fun" to work in....contact paper has always come through for me in these 16 years of teaching and one more thing....you can change it out inexpensively as you wish.











Live in Atlanta



Live in Atlanta
Four track EP, captured LIVE, at The Tabernacle, Atlanta, Ga, July 31, 2003. TRACKS; 1.Whole Lotta Love/Ramble On/Walk On The Wild Side:7:20(Medley) 2.Dream On-4:11 3.My Private Nation-3:54 4.When I Look To The Sky-4:43(Acoustic Version) / Extremely limited, issued in a flat, generic slipcase, with a sticker on the back.



LightWedge Paperback



LightWedge Paperback
PB100 LightWedge Paperback - The LightWedge is a reading aid that combines eye-friendly LED illumination with an acrylic lens that's bright, and unobtrusive to those near you. Here's how it works. A handle is connected to a rectangular acrylic lens, and with the push of a button, LED light shines through the acrylic to illuminate the page. Perfect for traveling at night or enjoying a ripping good yarn while lying next to that special someone at home. Energy efficient LEDs give you a whopping 40 hours of light on just 4 AAA batteries! (not included)

Customer Review: Very Pleased

I am very happy with my reading light,it is everything I hoped,I use it all the time.

Customer Review: very good reading light

This is a really good reading light. My sister got one for Christmas and I thought it would be really cool to have one. It's a lot better than a flashlight because you don't have to hold it, you just set it on the page. The only thing that I didn't like about it is that the batteries were a little tough getting in the cartridge and the light isn't distributed as evenly as I would like across the page, but both of those can easily be compromised. Even so, I recommend buying it, it's a great product.



Mulan (1998)



Mulan (1998)
Solid entertainment from a new group of Disney animators. The story source is a Chinese fable about a young girl who disguises herself as a man to help her family and her country. When the Huns attack China, a call to arms goes out to every village, and Mulan's father, being the only man in the family, accepts the call. Mulan (voiced by Ming-Na Wen, sung by Lea Salonga) has just made a disastrous appearance at the Matchmaker and decides to challenge society's expectations (being a bride). She steals her father's conscription notice, cuts her hair, and impersonates a man to join the army. She goes to boot camp, learning to fit in with the other soldiers with some help from her sidekick, Mushu, a wise-cracking dragon (voiced by Eddie Murphy). She trains, and soon faces the Huns eye-to-eye to protect her Emperor.

The film is gorgeous to look at, with a superior blend of classic and computer-generated animation. Directors Tony Bancroft and Barry Cook make the best of it: a battle in the snowy mountains is as thrilling as the best Hollywood action films. The menacing Huns are not cute but simple and bad. The wickedness is subtle, not disturbing. The film is not a full-fledged musical, as it has only five songs (the best, "Be a Man," is sung during boot camp). Eddie Murphy is an inspired choice for the comic-relief dragon, but his lines are not as clever as Robin Williams's in Aladdin. These are minor quibbles, though. The story is strong, and Mulan goes right to the top of Disney animated heroines; she has the right stuff. --Doug Thomas

Customer Review: Real classic, Everyone should keep a copy of this

this movie is a cross-cultural classic, the story is great, the songs are wonderful, everyone should have one of this

Customer Review: Good

This product was in the exact condition I was told it would be in, and it arrived in good time. I enjoy buying products from Amazon, becuase I know that the quatily is always above average, and that if there was a problem, Amazon would take action!



Expansion Pak For Nintendo 64



Expansion Pak For Nintendo 64
The Expansion Pak allows the random access memory (RAM) of the Nintendo 64 console to increase from 4 megabytes (MB) to 8 MB of contiguous main memory. With the help of an included key, the Expansion Pak fits into the slot that is below a removable panel on the top of the N64 console. Game developers can take advantage of the increased memory in several ways, including making games that are more visually appealing. Some games will allow players to choose a "high-resolution" option, increasing the screen resolution from 320 by 240 pixels to as much as 640 by 480 pixels--creating crisp, high-definition graphics. The Expansion Pak utilizes Nintendo 64's capability for 32-bit, 16.7-million-color display with 256 levels of transparency (alpha)--bringing your games to a new level of realism. Instead of reusing texture data, games can buffer a larger number of textures for a more distinct look.

Other ways for developers to utilize the larger memory is by setting a higher frame rate, longer replays, and more animations. Games also can have more sophisticated artificial intelligence, which allows computer-controlled characters to be smarter, literally. Games can offer more characters and vehicles, and contain larger, more complex levels and worlds. Some games like The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask require the Expansion Pak, while others such as Perfect Dark require it for access to all of the game's levels and features. See our list of Nintendo 64 games that take advantage of the Expansion Pak's extra power.

Customer Review: A nice inexpensive way to enhance visual clarity on an aged console

The Nintendo 64 memory expansion pak upgrade is not vital for the most part, in terms of plugging up and playing many of the great titles already released for this console. But there are a few titles that absolutely require this upgrade. The Legend of Zelda Majora's Mask and Donkey Kong 64 are two such titles for example, that cannot be accessed without this upgrade. Perfect Dark is one such title which offers minimal gameplay and locks players out of many of it's richer features due to the lack of available memory to run all of it's features properly. But I think you'll find that even if Donkey kong 64, Perfect dark, or Zelda Majora's Mask isn't your thing, you'll still be wanting to consider purchasing this Ram expansion for a few key reasons.



1)Improved gameplay details. A lot of games weather you know this or not offer very fine gameplay oriented details not available without extended memory. Most games are capable of improved framerate (improves quality of onscreen action. Prevents slow down effects when a lot of on screen action is occuring for example.) Programers can implement more textures and details to environments and characters making things look more lively or life like. AI (artificial intelligence) can be improved and become "smarter".



2) The second drastic improvement is audio/visual quality. Most people that don't understand how computer games really work or don't know all the technical terms, have a commen misconception that this expansion pak is supposed to improve the graphics in a way that might take the console beyond it's 64 bit capabilities. This isn't true. Rather, the expansion pak improves color quality and helps to reduce the blurry effect of the colors in most games, creating better visual clarity. Much of the blocky character sprites (but not all of course) will appear smooth and less blockish or choppy. With the improved framerate you may even notice how the environment in some games can pan out further while maintaining a smooth look, allowing the player to see further away from the character than they could with the jumper pak.



...The memory expansion for N64 is relatively cheap now that the console itself is two generations removed behind Gamecube and Wii. And if your still into retro gaming or just enjoy playing the Nintendo 64 even after all these years I would certainly recommend this buy. Even if you never play the games which require the upgrade, I would consider this because of it's ability to enhance visual clarity. Couple the memory expansion up with a Video-S cable, and you will still find an appeal to the outdated graphics of a system of yore.

Customer Review: Poor

The product received isn't even what is pictured. What was received is an aftermarket version.



Leonidas Belgian Chocolates Dark Chocolates Assortment - Truffles, Pralinés, Fresh Butter Creams - Signature Ballotin



Leonidas Belgian Chocolates Dark Chocolates Assortment - Truffles, Pralinés, Fresh Butter Creams - Signature Ballotin
Leonidas Dark Chocolate Assortment...with a well balanced and representative selection of Leonidas' fresh butter creams, sinfully smooth truffles and delectable pralines, all covered in rich dark chocolate, guaranteed to tantalize even the most discerning palates. Introduce a grateful friend to Leonidas today, or give in to temptation and indulge yourself...Leonidas Famous Belgian Chocolates...a great tradition of quality and freshness, since 1913.

Customer Review: Heavenly!

This was a Christmas gift for my husband. He says its one of his best gifts ever; every evening he looks forward to "rewarding" himself with one of these chocolates.

Customer Review: Makes a great present!

I recently bought this item for a friend whom I rarely get to see because we live far away from one another. Her birthday was coming right up, and I found out from another friend that she loved dark chocolate. Amazon.com shipped the item very quickly. I had been contemplating sending the item with expedited service, but ended up assuming my friend wouldn't care one way or the other if the item arrived on time for her birthday. In fact, the item showed up just two days later, ON TIME for her birthday, when I had just paid for standard delivery. My friend immediately sent me a very excited e-mail thanking me for the present, and said that she loved it. Thanks, amazon!



Western Digital WDG1C5000N My Book Premium Edition 500 GB USB 2.0/Firewire External Hard Drive



Western Digital WDG1C5000N My Book Premium Edition 500 GB USB 2.0/Firewire External Hard Drive
Is your computer loaded with photos, music, video, and all sorts of important files? If so, you should make extra room, back them up, and keep them safe on Western Digital's WDG1C5000 My Book Premium Edition 500 GB Hard Drive. This reliable, easy-to-use external hard drive is the perfect storage solution for all your precious digital assets.


Save and back up all your digital assets with the My Book Premium Edition Hard Drive. View larger.

Simple, easy-to-use design.

Hard drive features dual interface connectivity (FireWire 400 and USB 2.0). View larger.


The elegant case takes up very little space.
Installation is a breeze because you don't really "install" anything -- just plug it in and it's ready to use. There is not even an installation CD because all the included software loads automatically from the hard drive the first time you plug it in. For cream-of-the-crop, high-speed performance, use My Book Premium's FireWire 400 interface. However, if FireWire 400 isn't convenient, Western Digital has you covered -- the My Book Premium hard drive is also compatible with USB 2.0 connectivity. Best of all, you don't have to choose between one or the other because both interfaces are built into every drive.

Western Digital provides software (WD Backup) that makes backing up your data as easy as possible. With a few simple steps you can back up all your data files, or just save your picture and music files. You can also schedule routine backups so you don't have to worry about it ever again. Built for ease of use, this drive is equipped with a capacity gauge that shows how much space is left on your drive. The My Book Premium also includes intelligent drive management features. For example, the drive turns itself on and off with your computer, and Safe Shutdown prevents the drive from being powered down until all your data has been written.

But that's not all. Western Digital uses a smart design to make the My Book Premium look as good as it performs. The elegant case resembles a book and takes up very little space on your desk. Plus, it stacks horizontally and allows two or more drives to nestle neatly together like encyclopedias on a shelf. Inside the stylish exterior is an exceptionally fast, ultra-quiet, cool-running hard drive. Last but not least, the My Book Premium is equipped with free Google software that searches your drives, manages your photos, and simplifies Web searches.

My Book Premium Edition Hard Drives are ideal for:

  • High-speed backup of important documents and images
  • Extra storage for your computer
  • Automatic backups of your existing hard drive
  • Archiving the music stored on your MP3 player
  • Adding plenty of space for digital video capture and editing
  • Saving and organizing your digital photo collection
Note: For basic, less expensive storage option without automatic backup software, consider the My Book Essential Edition 500 GB Hard Drive.


What's in the Box
My Book Premium 500 GB USB 2.0/FireWire external hard drive, USB cable, FireWire cable (six-pin to six-pin), AC adapter with power cord, and quick install guide.

Customer Review: Great!

It is a great product. I mostly use it to back up information. I even used it to back up my videogame data from my Playstation3.

Customer Review: It died a week after the warranty expired

My WD 500Gb "Premium Edition" just died a week after the warranty expired. This hard drive has been a piece of junk since day one, all I have now is piece of garbage that makes annoying clicks when you turn it on; boy you talk about trowing $$$.$$ down the drain. DO NOT waste your money on any of these external drives made by Western Digital.



publishing books in the news
Book signing at Bestsellers - Bexhill Observer

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:35:26 GMT

Book signing at Bestsellers
Bexhill Observer, UK - 2 hours ago
Writing and publishing her first novel is a dream come true for Monica and she already has two other books in the pipeline. She said: "I always loved ...


Books and beyond (The Telegraph)

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 21:06:46 GMT
When foreign publishing houses like Random House, Routledge, Hatchettes, Simon Schuster are “discovering” the Great Indian Market and setting up shop in India, one Indian publisher is doing exactly the reverse.

Under new state law, students may save big on books - St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:19:23 GMT

Under new state law, students may save big on books
St. Louis Post-Dispatch, United States - 1 hour ago
"Publishing companies make the pitch on the books that they will make the most money from." The wholesale price of college textbooks has increased 32.8 ...


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