Book Description
Set amid the sweet blossoms of a southern mansion, this timeless classic delves in to the heart of Elsie - by all accounts, an extraordinary little girl. Share in Elsie's quest for love from her earthly father as it leads to a mature understanding of the love of her Father in Heaven. Join Elsie as she suffers through endless hours of scrutiny from Miss Day, her mean-spirited school teacher, taunting from her mischievous young Uncle Arthur, and scoldings from a cold-hearted father she desires to please - all with the peace and quiet countenance that comes from knowing she is God's child. This, the first of the heart-warming Elsie books, will both challenge and inspire you.
Customer Reviews:
Worthless, wretched book.......2007-03-05
This is quite possibly the WORST children's book ever written. Why?
1) The heroine is saccharine sweet and endlessly willing to let everyone in her family trample all over her. In fact, she seems to take some martyr-like glee in accepting every kind of scorn and injustice her family heaps on her with nary a complaint. Yeah, way to be a role model for today's girls, Elsie - unless you think the proper social role for women is a sacrificial victim for...
2) ...emotionally and physically abusive men. Yes, that would be her crazy father. The one who insists that his every irrational demand be met instantly and who also doesn't see the value in showing any love whatsoever towards his (incredibly needy) daughter. This relationship plays out like a bad Lifetime movie. He's the King of the Castle, and isn't content to just let Elsie crucify herself in every chapter - he wants to tell her what kind of hammer to drive the nails in with. My bet: poor, sweet Elsie grows up and finds another domineering tyrant to marry (undoubtably a man chosen carefully for her by her father), which will allow her to be suitably emotionally abused the rest of her life. And let's not forget the subtle eroticism between father and daughter (and other male friends of the family). It was very creepy in places. I found myself wondering several times while reading this book if he was going to start sexually abusing her when she got into her teenage years. And that's not the right thing to be thinking about when you're reading a children's book. Ick, ick, ick.
3) Her disgusting, spoiled, racist, classist, sexist family. In one of the very first chapters, we find Elsie's sweet "Mammie" discussing how even though she's not white, she still can get to heaven. Well, isn't that nice. But do you suppose Jesus will make her come in through the servant's entrance? And every single one of her relatives is dreadfully spoiled and treats her abominably in every chapter (lucky for Elsie-Please-Make-Me-A-Martyr). Really, not suitable in any way for modern sensiblities. I wouldn't let my daughter read this book just because of the racism alone. Yes, it was written in 1850 something. But that's no excuse.
4) The over-the-top Christianity. Half this book is a religious tract. I found myself skipping entire pages just to try to find the plot again amidst the saccharine preaching.
5) Meekly accepting evil or injust behavior from others is NOT a good thing. That's another message I would never want my daughter to learn. Regardless of one's religious beliefs, the right thing to do in this world is to stand up for what one believes in, and stand up against injustice and unrighteousness, whether those acts are perpetuated against you or others. Frankly, the only admirable thing Elsie ever did in this book was to stand firm in her religious convictions against the disapproval of her family (falling off the piano stool and all that). On Sundays she was a heroine worthy of emulation. Too bad she was a meek little abused mouse the other 6 days of the week.
One more note to all the people who gave this book glowing reviews: You people are scary. Call me a sinner, or whatever you want, but I know in my heart of hearts (as a Christian myself, believe it or not), that the message this book sends about the relationship between young girls and men isn't right. I certainly hope you aren't raising your daughters this way or we're all in trouble.
Literary Child Abuse.......2006-08-22
I read this book because a friend said it was her favorite in childhood. I was horrified. In brief, it is the story of a child who is taught to be the worst kind of martyr, abused physically and mentally by her hideous father, and who never contradicts nor stands up for herself. THE PERFECT CHRISTIAN CHILD? No. A little insufferable masochistic prig.
Anyone who encourages his/her child to read these Elsie books has a screw loose.
Does not circulate.......2006-02-25
Our small Christian school library received a donation of an entire set of the Elsie Dinsmore books 5 years ago. They take up a lot of shelf space. As the librarian, I can tell you NOT ONE of them has ever been checked out. Our girls LOVE historical fiction, they LOVE finding an author who has written a bunch of books and whip through series with glee . . . but these books are just collecting dust.
I personally find Elsie to be obnoxiously saccharine. I thought it was just me, but apparently the girls in my school think the same. I've never said anything against the books to the kids, and have even suggested them on occasion to girls who want to find something "totally new to me". But they just KNOW!
Great book, but definately read the sequals!.......2006-02-18
I first read this book when I was about 12. I can understand why some people would not like it. It is very Christian, Elsie is very weepy, and the story is somewhat melodramatic. However, taken along with the next 3 or 4 books, it is a wonderful series.
As a Catholic I do not agree with some of Elsie's beliefs, but I still enjoyed reading, and re-reading this book. Elsie's Christian faith is the essential ingredient in the plot of this and many of the following books.
In the first book, many of the extraneous characters are not well developed, not even Elsie's father, if memory serves. But the need to know the outcome of poor Elsie's fate drove me on. Over the course of the next three books, many of the characters are fleshed out. Especially, Mr. Travillia, Ms. Adelaide, Elsie's father, her cousins Arthur and Edward, as well as Elsie herself. The characters grow and the plot flourishes along with them. Many of the seemingly minor characters take on much more prominent roles, and many relationships are deepened and broadened.
These books must also be taken in historical, and social, context. Elsie is a wealthy white girl living in the pre-Civil War South. Again, in later books, Elsie's world develops, and is especially influenced by the War, as one will discover if one keeps reading.
This series is quite extensive, and although I loved the first four or five, books, I petered out after the books began to focus more on Elsie's children.
Overall, I would recommend this book, along with its sequels, to anyone looking for a good read (and cry). :)
elsie dinsmore.......2006-01-30
This is one of the best books ive ever hold in my hands. it is really sad and touching and especially good for parents who want their children to grow spiritually and to teach them how to treat their parents, and its also good for parents......let me put it this way: everyone can read this book, it is good for everyone, doesnt matter what age, it will teach in many different ways.
and all of you people who put 1 star for this book, ya dont know nothing about life, you dont like it cuz ya dont wanna face the truth and admit the your all sinners.
Customer Reviews:
Too Boring........2003-02-20
Elsie and Cousin Ronald discover a long-lost cousin, Marian McAlpine, and Harold and Herbert Travilla graduate from Princeton and begin their mefical apprenticeships with Cousin Arthur. Edward, Zoe, and their twins narrowly escape being crushed by a falling tree and learn more about trusting in God's protective care. Lone-time bachelors Calhoun and Arthur Conly both find brides.
After Max Raymond's visit home from the Naval Academy, the family enjoys another get together at the shore. And Cousin Arthur sames a family friend from drowning.
That justs about sums up the whole book. I can read these books in 30 mn. flat because they are sooooo boring.
Books 1-14 is ok, but after that it is entierly boring. They even have Cp. Raymond reading out of a history book!
Book Description
Elsie Dinsmore, the beloved nineteenth-century fictional role model, comes to life in this exquisite paper doll collection.
Book Description
Full of familial ups and downs! Elsie's New Relations finds a houseful at Ion. Rosie, Lester and Elsie Leland, Edward and Zoe Travilla, and Violet Raymond with her husband's three children - Max, Lulu, and Gracie - are living under one roof with Grandma Elsie and Grandpa Dinsmore. Edward and Zoe undergo their share of trials in their young marriage. The beautiful Miss Deanne causes trouble for Zoe and ensuing struggles with jealousy. Life is full for the Raymond children; lessons and plenty of outdoor exercise make each day busy. But not quite busy enough...for each struggles to live up to the expectations for their obedience. Max is unduly influenced by his older cousin Ralph, who introduces him to gambling and smoking. Lulu and Gracie have their own trials as well. But through these difficulties all the characters draw closer to one another and to their Savior. And the ending adds a new relation to the clan!
Book Description
God has added two children - Rosie and Walter - and will take a father. Despite troubles and adversity, Elsie is thankful for her family and keeps looking to an ever-sustaining God for all her needs. She continues to mold the lives she touches for the Master whom she loves and serves. Meanwhile, Cousin Molly matures in a successful writer, and young Elsie faces a long and distant engagement to her Lester. During a winter visit to Viamede, Cousins Molly and Isa begin to find their places in God's plan. An interlude at the Jersey shore provides an opportunity for Edward and Violet to grow and mature in ther faith.
Customer Reviews:
Another good book in a wonderful series.......2000-04-17
A continuation of the Elsie Dinsmore series, Elsie's Widowhood is another beautiful book. It tells about Elsie's faith even after her husband dies. If you like the other books in the series, this is a definite must read. Even though the title sounds depressing, many other love stories and things happen in the book. I found it unfortunate that the author chose to have Elsie's husband die this soon. I have loved every book in this series. These books are good examples of Christianity and are positive influences on children.
Product Description
Sixteen year old Mildred Keith moves with her father, mother, and seven brothers and sisters from their home in Landsdale, Ohio, to the small riverside town of Pleasant Plains, Indiana. Mildred's maiden great aunt, Wealthy Stanhope, travels with them.
A life very different from the one they had known awaits them on this new frontier. It is a plain and simple life with hard work, but visits from Indians keep thing lively. Read the entire series to see how Mildred grows up.
Titles included in this collection are:
Mildred Keith #1
Mildred at Roselands #2
Mildred and Elsie #3
Mildred's Married Life #4
Mildred at Home #5
Mildred's Boys and Girls #6
Mildred's New Daughter #7
Recommended for girls ages 11-14.
Book Description
Happiness seems illusive when nine-year-old Elsie Dinsmore faces danger at the hands of a jealous family member--and worse, the loss of her father's affection. Will she have the courage to choose between her beloved Papa and a life that promises only loneliness and grief?
Customer Reviews:
wonderful character building series.......2007-03-18
My 9 yr old D. is just embarking on the Elsie journey. It is a wonderful series of character building books. I debated on whether to get the original books or the updated version. I ended up choosing the updated version. The character life lessons are still there but with a little more ease in reading them.
Average customer rating:
- The Masterharper of Pern
- Finally, background on the Masterharper
- Great if you like Sci Fiction
- If you love Robinton...
- Favorite
|
MasterHarper of Pern (Dragonriders of Pern)
Anne Mccaffrey
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 United States | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books | 18th Century | 19th Century | 20th Century | African American | Asian American | Classics | Collections & Readers | Drama | General | Hispanic | History & Criticism | Humor | Jewish American | Letters & Correspondence | Native American | Poetry | Short Stories | Women Writers
General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | McCaffrey, Anne | ( M ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Hardcover | McCaffrey, Anne | ( M ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
The Skies of Pern
-
Dragonseye
-
The Chronicles of Pern: First Fall (The Dragonriders of Pern)
-
The Renegades of Pern (Dragonriders of Pern Series)
-
The Dolphins of Pern (Dragonriders of Pern)
ASIN: 0345388232
Release Date: 1998-01-12 |
Book Description
Pern: a beautiful world colonized by humans, terrorized by the deadly spores called Thread, and defended by magnificent flying dragons. Anne McCaffrey's bestselling tales of this planet have yielded a multitude of unforgettable characters. And now, after years of urging by devoted readers, one of the most popular denizens of Pern takes center stage in a novel that chronicles his extraordinary life.
Along with the dragonriders, perhaps none are so revered on Pern as the harpers, whose songs record history, warn of the coming of Thread, and prepare Pern's people for the future. And no one is more influential than the Masterharper of Pern. The son of renowned composer Petiron and gifted singer Merelan, Robinton is a prodigy from birth and enjoys a special rapport with the telepathic dragons. But it is a time when Thread has not been a threat for centuries, the harpers have fallen into disfavor, and one despotic man is plotting to take over Pern. In this climate of unrest, Robinton will come into his own . . . driven by his belief in music, in the dragons, and in the salvation of his beloved Pern.
Download Description
In a time when the deadly scourge Thread has not fallen on Pern forcenturies -- and many dare to hope that Thread will never fall again --a boy is born to Harper Hall. A musical prodigy who has the ability tospeak with the dragons, he is called Robinton, and he is destined to beone of the most famous and beloved leaders Pern has ever known.
It is a perilous time for the harpers who sing of Thread -- they arebeing turned away from holds, derided, attacked, even beaten. In thisclimate of unrest, Robinton will come into his own. But despite thetragedies that beset his own life, he continues to believe in music andin the dragons, and he is determined to save his beloved Pern fromitself -- so that the dragonriders can be ready to fly against thedreaded Thread when at last it returns.
"At last, Robinton has his own book... McCaffrey adds another absorbingchapter to dragon lore... Readers will revel in this compellingcharacterstudy of a fascinating personality."
ROMANTIC TIMES
"The story takes wing... when McCaffrey's beloved dragons roar and theirriders soar upon the beasts' mighty backs... Fans of Pern will likely beenthralled."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"McCaffrey succeeds again in depicting the serenity and beauty ofdragons in their symbiotic relationship with humanity on a world calledPern."
BOOKPAGE
Cover art by Brom
Customer Reviews:
The Masterharper of Pern.......2007-10-02
Very enjoyable. Not a book easily put down even if you are not a Pern fan.
Finally, background on the Masterharper.......2007-05-23
I found this history of Masterharper Robinton to be interesting, although some of it seemed contrived (the last chapter). It does fill in many of "the blanks" that we had about the Masterharper, and it explains some of Sebell's background as well.
Overall, I liked it. It is a great addition to the Pern series.
Great if you like Sci Fiction.......2007-05-13
The Pern series of books from Anne McCaffery are great. Better if you read them in order, (look online at her website for recommendations). This is futuristic science fiction, but if you liked Aregon, you would probably like this series too
If you love Robinton..........2007-04-26
There are so many good reviews of this book already. I will only say this: if you love Robinton as so many Pern fans do, this is his long-wished for background story. As well as one of the best Pern books, IMHO.
Favorite.......2007-04-09
I have read all of Mrs. McCaffrey's books and I totally Love them! This one though, The MasterHarper of Pern, is my favorite. It might be just because MasterHarper Robinton is one of my favotite characters, but I think it is the most well written and emotional book out of all of them. If you even partially like her other books I think you will love this one. It is a very good read, especially if you have read or plan on reading all of her other books about Pern.
Book Description
Dragonseye:
Thread: deadly silver strands that fall from the sky like rain, devouring every organic thing in their path - animals, plants, and people alike. Who could believe that such a horrible thing could exist? After all, it's been two hundred years since Thread supposedly fell on Pern. No one alive remembers that first onslaught. There's no sign of it anywhere in the world. Only the dragons, originally created to be a weapon against Thread, are still around to remind people that once before their population was decimated, their hopes and dreams and livelihoods almost destroyed forever.
For two centuries the dragonriders have been practicing and training, passing down from generation to generation the Threadfighting techniques learned on the fly by their besieged ancestors. And most of the Lord Holders are prepared to protect their people, to provide sanctuary, to assemble groundcrews to search out and destroy any Thread that might be missed by the dragons soaring overhead. All but one.
Even now the ominous signs are appearing: the violent winter storms and volcanic eruptions that are said to herald the approach of the Red Star and its lethal spawn. Impossibly, one stubborn Lord Holder, Chalkin of Bitra, refuses to believe - and that disbelief could spell disaster for all of Pern. So while the dragonriders desperately train to face an enemy they've never fought before, they and the other Lord Holders must find a way to deal with Chalkin and protect Bitra.
The Masterharper of Pern:
In a time when no Thread has fallen for centuries - when, indeed, many are beginning to dare to hope that Thread will never fall again - a boy is born to Harper Hall. His name is Robinton, and he is destined to be one of the most famous and beloved leaders Pern has ever known.
It is a perilous time for harpers. They sing of Thread, yet more and more people are beginning to doubt the return of that deadly scourge. They teach reading, writing, history, but Fax - who hates the harpers in general - is determined to keep his growing area of influence free of the learning that might sow unrest. And they extol the dragonriders, whom many view increasingly as a drain on the resources of the Holds. Now harpers are being turned away from the holds; and, worse yet, they are being derided, attacked, even beaten.
It is the climate of unrest that Robinton will come into his own. For despite the tragedies that beset his own life, he continues to believe in music and in the dragons, and is determined to save his beloved Pern from itself . . .so that the dragonriders can be ready to fly against the dreaded Thread when it at last returns!
The Skies of Pern:
Now that Pern can look forward to a future without the threat of Threadfall, the people are free to leave their protective stone holds and spread across more of the planet, as well as improve their lives with the newly discovered ancient technology. Not everyone is happy, though. Some resist the change, and consider anything new to be an "abomination." And the dragonriders are uncertain: without Thread, what will their purpose be in Pernese society?
Then a new danger - again from the skies - looms. Once again, the people must pull together . . . And turn to the only ones who can solve the crisis: the dragonriders of Pern!
Average customer rating:
|
The Masterharper of Pern
Anne McCaffrey
Manufacturer: Bantam Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books | Alternate History | Anthologies | Arthurian | Contemporary | Epic | General | Historical | History & Criticism | Magic & Wizards | Series
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books | Adventure | Alternate History | Anthologies | General | Graphic Novels | High Tech | History & Criticism | Series | Short Stories | Space Opera
ASIN: 0593037766 |
Books:
- Eva's Cousin (Ballantine Reader's Circle)
- Everything in This Country Must: A Novella and Two Stories
- Forbidden Fruit: Love Stories from the Underground Railroad
- GARDENS IN THE DUNES: A Novel
- Gossip Girl #7: Nobody Does It Better: A Gossip Girl Novel (Gossip Girl)
- Heaven: Biblical Answers to Common Questions
- Hellblazer: The Devil You Know (Hellblazer (Graphic Novels))
- Hide and Seek (An Inspector Rebus Novel)
- His Wicked Kiss: A Novel
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Days of Grace
- Windows Vista Inside Out
- The Death of Artemio Cruz: A Novel
- The Creative Arts: A Process Approach for Teachers and Children
- The Digital Filmmaking Handbook
- Tietz Fundamentals of Clinical Chemistry
- Thomas Pynchon's Narratives: Subjectivity and Problems of Knowing
- All-American Girl: The Art of Coles Phillips
- The concise natural history of New Zealand
- Stay Safe Buddy: A Story of Humor and Horror During the Korean War
Elsie's Holidays at Roselands, Book 2 (Original Elsie Classics)
Elsie's Girlhood, Book 3 (Finley, Martha, Elsie Books, Bk. 3.)
Elsie's Womanhood (The Elsie Books: Vol. 4) (The Elsie Books)
Elsie's Motherhood, Book 5 (Original Elsie Classics)
Elsie's Children (Original Elsie Dinsmore Collection)
