Hali : the International Journal of Oriental Carptes and Tex

This magazine is downright gorgeous and you will find that sometimes the ads themselves to be almost as interesting as the articles.

Hali spares no expense in the high quality color photos of textiles shown in both the advertisements and the articles.

The primary focus of the magazine is on antique rugs and sometimes some of the oldest types, such as classical carpets, are spotlighted. The articles can sometimes be uneven in quality some being written by the leading experts in their fields on some occasions while on other occasions being written by aspiring scholars. From time to time you will run into articles that are actually tailored to sell the author's own rug (!) but those are few and far between. Most of the articles are high quality and some of them actually add to what we already know about the field of rug history. In that way Hali is like a book on oriental rugs that is constantly updated. Many times we will see in the magazine rugs that have been newly discovered that add to our knowledge of the history and aesthetics of the oriental carpet.

The magazine gives good insight to the novice collector about both the rugs and the hobby whereas for the hard-core collector and dealer of antique textiles it is a must have.

Included in the magazine a reviews of rug shows as well as an auction section spotlighting rugs from recent rug auctions and the prices they fetched. If you are a rug collector you will find that information extremely important.

And you will learn that as with many antiques there are collecting trends and with those trends prices can and do fluctuate. This is important information not only for the rug buyer but for anyone that has an heirloom to sell.

You will also learn of something about the personalities of the worldwide rug community by reading this magazine.

If you can't afford to collect antique rugs but enjoy their beauty having a subscription to Hali is the next best thing to collecting rugs. I strongly recommend it for anyone who has just been bitten by the "rug bug" to get themselves a subscription to Hali first before you start going on a rug buying spree.

I also recommend this magazine for antique dealers for although antique dealers can price a variety of antiques very well they sometimes have a blind spot when it comes to oriental rugs. Anyone that has a good sized antique business should be subscribing to this magazine.

The novice will learn from this magazine that their are certain rugs that even though are in such horrible shape that they are just a part of a rug and one that is worn and full of holes (although these cases are few and far between) can command astronomical prices.

One should not be too concerned of the price of the subscription. The magazine itself is highly collectable and in a few years you might find yourself selling your old issues and actually making money.

Highly recommended

Jim Connell "Hallstatt Prince"

Aviation Consumer

Like the other Belvior aviation publications, this is one you should certainly consider subscribing to. Its heart is in the right place as it tries well, but because aviators aren't as unbiased and ubiquitous as those who buy small kitchen appliances, the results are worth only a few grains of salt.

[For an opinion on their airplane reviews, please see my review of their book publication.]

In an older article, they took on the challenge of a vendor who claimed their oil additive would make an engine last longer. (This is the aviator's equivalent of: "Lose 30lbs in one month ask me how!") The article was hilarious in its razor-sharp dicing of the claims and vendor's avoidance of an unbiased test.

This is where AC really shines.

On the other hand, a lot of what they try to do is hurt by the sample size available. For example, in a recent issue they considered the merits of overhauling an engine at a big name shop (Mattituck, Victor, Penn Yan, etc) versus versus local shop. With only a few dozen responses -overhauling an engine is something few pilots are familiar with -the confidence interval on the big names was extremely wide.

In the article, it was noted that one particular big name shop that fared poorly in previous surveys did much better this time around, it was suggested, because it made some of its happier customers aware of the survey. (In other words, ballot stuffing.)

The results would be even wilder for your local shop, thus their advice that you ask around locally if that's the option you want to pursue.

At its best, Aviation Consumer is a tool for considering planes and equipment and learning some of the general nuances. Once you've narrowed your choice down, get the full monty from a local user's group or someone who'se owned it for a while.

Men of Integrity

Imagine "Our Daily Bread," written in a more contemporary tone, slanted for a male audience. Then add stiff subscription ads. That's "Men of Integrity."

"Men of Integrity" is an anecdotal, vignette-driven daily devotional magazine. Like "Our Daily Bread," it takes the reader into a Scripture with some challenges. It is not as deep as "My Utmost for His Highest," or as spiritually pushing, but it does serve a good purpose.

Topics in the issue in my hand include racism, reconciliation, marital infidelity, corruption, children and fatherhood, profanity, commitment to attending church, and temptation. A weekly roundup sums up each week with questions to remind the reader.

For the man on the go, the one who is not ready or willing to read Scripture at length, this is perfect. It is small, slipping easily into a pocket for lunchtime or train-ride reading. It is bimonthly, and supplies two months worth of devotionals.

A thoughtful man could spend 30 minutes on each day's chapter, reading through the biblical passages and thinking through the questions. A casual reader will finish it in five minutes.

Cobranded by "Promises Keepers," Christianity Today holds true to its mission, "To engage, encourage, and equip the church worldwide, sharing the depth and transforming power of the Gospel as it permeates all spheres of life."

The only real negative is the ad cards stitched in. Those can be ripped out, and tossed away.

I fully recommend subscribing to "Men of Integrity."

Anthony Trendl

editor, HungarianBookstore.com

Like the other reviewer mentioned, this is a small devotional style publication. It is similar in nature to the "Daily Bread" devotional booklets, perhaps 4x6 inches in size. The content was fine, but we were not looking for a devotional, but an actual Mens Magazine.

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I sent this to my nephew who has been sitting in prison for awhile. He wrote me a letter and thanked me profusely.

I love it that Amazon has the approval to deliver to the prisons, it makes it so easy to reach out to loved ones who are hurting and need to be healed, before they get back out in the world.

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This book is a great help for men who have made some poor choices and want to become better fathers, husbands, and citizens.

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Conde Nast Traveler (1-year auto-renewal)

I have subscribed to Traveler for a while now. Before I picked up that subscription, I was already subscribing to National Geographic Traveler and Budget Travel. I have to say that for the average, middle-class person, Budget Travel is the most practical. I enjoy reading it the most because I want to know how to get a great deal . . . not how to get the most for your dollar in First Class. This magazine is definitely geared toward the more affluent traveler. It is also geared toward the sophisticated, chic traveler--not the average traveler. While it is interesting to read about places the wealthy are able to afford and dream about going there, I would rather a magazine cater more to my tastes and more toward the tastes of its general subscription population.

When I subscribed to this magazine, I was already receiving National Geographic Traveller. I was helping with a fundraiser, but I mainly wanted to see if it was as good or better travel magazine than others I've seen.

Well, it was definitly thicker than N.G.Traveller, but that was because the majority of it was crammed with advertisements. The articles that it did have were typically short, and would often have more to do with fashion than travel. I was hoping for travel-related stories and photos, but instead I could hardly turn a page without seeing scantily clad women, as if that was the appeal of the destinations being written about. In one issue, the main story was supposed to be about ski resorts, but it actually focused on a particular woman's clothing brands, and just contained photos of her wearing a bikini in the snow.

I wouldn't consider myself sophisticated, but I would much rather read a magazine that is more informative and entertaining, with content more related to travel. I'm tired of reading lists of the top 100 hotels, resorts, cruises, or whatever, and do not enjoy having to search to find actual articles. If you don't mind spending your money to read advertisements, than go ahead and subscribe. I'll stick with National Geographic Traveler.

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I think that in terms of overall content presented, 'Conde Nast Traveler' is the best travel magazine currently on the market. Some other reviewers have raised some valid points concerning article length, and bias toward upscale properties. I think that there are other magazines that might be more suitable for others, including 'Budget Travel' and 'National Geographic Traveler', both of which I also subscribe to and enjoy, though they both have their limitations and issues as well.

So what sets 'Conde Nast' apart? I think it is the willingness to find new and exciting vacation destinations that are still reasonable enough to get to as to make them worthwhile to a large audience. Some of the more exotic magazines have great articles on hiking in Tibet and the like, but how many people are really able to do that (or can afford to do it?) My point is that although it is by no means perfect, I think the editors and writers do consciously strike a balance between the too mundane and too exotic (and expensive) and attempt to focus the majority of the magazine in that area.

This is just too good of a magazine to pass up. The 'Deals of the Month' section alone justifies the price. Of all the travel magazines I read on a monthly basis (currently four) 'Conde Nast Traveler' is my favorite and I highly recommend it.

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I'm a consummate world traveler but have to be budget minded. This magazine seems more tailored for the wealthier travelers of the world and doesn't necessarily suit my needs. However, I understand this and still get the magazine for the following reasons: beautiful photos, interesting world stories, great ideas on travel, great itineraries, and it looks great on my coffee table!

I wish there were more articles as I often wade through more advertisements than I care for, but I also understand this is how they make their money. Still, this is enough coupled with the higher scale clientele that stops me from giving it a full 5 stars.

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I felt this magazine focused to much on advertising, I work part time as a travel agent and I'm able to give my clients more tips and insight with National Geographic's travel magazine and Budget travel

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History Ireland

I have previously had a subscription to History Ireland. The articles are always topical, thought provoking and, sometimes, controversial. A great source magazine for anyone interested in Irish hsitory and culture. An absolute must read!

I love this mag. It has wonderful articles that go deep into the subject not fluff pieces. Anyone who is into Ireland and history will enjoy this mag.

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Phantom of the Movies Videoscope

The Phantom of the Movie's VideoScope Magazine (Fall 2006, Issue 60) Editor/ Publisher The Phantom of the Movies

Website:

Email: phanmedia@aol.com

The glossy covers usually feature cult icons and Hammer horror monsters. The pages inside have a similar feel to a newspaper. At first glance this may dissuade you from buying it, but you would be missing out on the wide variety of reviews it features.

What comes standard in every issue are "The Phantom Speaks" (Editor's Note),"Phantom Pheedback" (Letters from Readers), and "Phantom Phlashes" (one column of upcoming horror movies/ news).

But it is the wide variety of movie reviews that VideoScope is best known for. There are new DVD release reviews spawning 80 total covering horror and other genres complete with a Review Index at the back for reference. There is something here for everyone whether you like horror, cult, underground, imported, sci-fi, Westerns, animation, or documentaries. There are also the self-explanatory sections such as "Arthouse Video", "Nazi Business", "Asian Invasion", "Mondo Retro", "Cult Corner", "Best of Anime", "TV Terrors", and more! And a "Phantom Bookshelf" is included which covers a few new genre books that hit the market.

Mixed in with the many review sections are a few long interviews as well. Scott Voisin's Character Kings" profiles veteran genre actor Ray Wise (Twin Peaks, RoboCop, Jeepers Creepers 2). Verne Langdon is covered in "Monster Star Memories" and speaks fondly of everyone from Vincent Price to a boozy Lon Chaney Jr. to a feisty Mae West. "Jeff Burr: Scare Sequels to Wartime Terror" by Calum Waddell explores Burr's film history from his directorial debut "From a Whisper to a Scream" to his sequels with Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3, Pumpkinhead 2, Stepfather 2 to his current horrific non-horror film "Straight into Darkness". Interviewer Calum then turns his sights on John Hancock, director of "Let's Scare Jessica to Death" and "Mayhem".

Generally speaking, the immense list of reviews and genres covered is great. Not many mags could pull this much off. Unfortunately, there is not much in the way of industry news or previews. No genre music, comic books, and merchandise are covered at all. And the feel of the mag is PG-13 with old school horror icons on the covers, which may not appeal to hardcore Horrorites.

Cost: $24 for 6 Issues through VideoScope, Or $17 for 4 Issues from Amazon.

Bottom Line: If reading genre movie reviews gets you excited, then this is the mag for you. Anyone looking for an all-encompassing genre look, you may want to go elsewhere.

Rating: 7.5/10

Molly Celaschi

Just wanted to say that I used to buy this magazine several years ago but then stopped finding it in the stores in the UK so assumed it had ceased publication. Then I found the latest issue online and ordered a copy...and I'm so glad I did!! It still has the best and most diverse movie reviews around covering horror, sci-fi, drive-in,grindhouse, blaxploitation...all the good fun stuff! Ok, so it's not all glossy and printed in color but I think that adds to the appeal. Buy an issue now and if you love it, grab a subscription!!

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the other gentleman's description of this publication is excellent . my wife and i consider this a perfect bathroom reader . at just 17.00 dollars for four issues , it's about half the cost per issue of the other related magazines on the shelf (which are monthly) "FANGORIA" , "RUE MORGUE" , etc (if you can find them) . those other publications are visually hardcore and mostly contemporary in content and contain infinitely less information as well . thank you JOE KANE (the phantom of the movies) .

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This Magazine is the best resource for any film fan. not just Horror fans.

They cover every thing from new releases to independent films to lost and rare classics. I find several films to ad to my Netflix Que in every issue.

And the writing isn't dry and impersonal. These guys love movies.

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If you are a fan of obscure and bizarre films and actors, this magazine is a must for you. One of the very few zines to last throufgh the great zine collapse of the late 90's early-00's. Must have!

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Fly Tyer (1-year auto-renewal)

I have been subscribing to this mag. for years. There is always at least one article that will teach you something you didn't know before. Photos are alway crisp and clear. Keeps you primed for Spring fishing during the cold winter.

I've been a subscriber for 5 years and the magazine has been a great assistance to my growth as a fly tier.

The magazine has published a long series by John Betts on the history and methodology behind the sport. It has covered the "ultra realistic" school and (for me) every issue has at least 3-5 new flies or techniques (out of an average of 12-15 flies featured in each edition).

It is a quarterly and each of the four issues are much enjoyed by this reviewer.

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If you are looking for a magazine on fly tying Fly Tyer is the one. Filled with information and illustrations on all the new and classic fly tying paterns. Plus stories of intrest about history and people involved in fly tying and fly fishing. Well worth the cost!.

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This magazine is excellent if you are serious fly tier. If you are just looking for some cool patterns to tie and catch a couple of fish, y o u t u b e and g o o g l e should offer you everything you are looking for. But for the serious tier, this magazine is great. Lots of great advanced patterns and techniques. I only wish it were at least bimonthly rather than quarterly.

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I have subscribed to Fly Tyer for many years. Every issue is packed with high quality articles. Subjects range from historical flies to using the newest materials. There are illustrated instructions for tying all types of flies. You will find fly patterns for all locations, fresh water, and salt water. Start your library today! I would recommend Fly Tyer to all Fly Fishers.

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Cavallino: The Journal of Ferrari History

The friend I am giving this magazine subscription to absolutely loves this magazine, and I am sure he will be as happy with the subscription this year, as he was the last. Thank you!!

If you are looking for information about Ferrari automobiles, this magazine is definitely one of the best ones around. Each issue is packed with detailed information on new models, older models, special editions, etc. in addition to racing information, serial number histories, etc. You will also find a wide range of incredible pictures.

Highly recommend this to anyone who has any interest in Ferrari!

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I have been a longtime reader of this mag. Bought it at the local Ferrari dealer for several years and then purchased this subscription. Extremely good quality and very interesting articles with EXCELLENT photography and detailed historical references. Just wish it was monthly rather than bi-monthly.

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