Anthony Arblaster

Advantages: Clear; Easy-to-follow
Disadvantages: Repetitive; Limited in scope

...Arblaster is clearly an intelligent man. He seeks to explain the meaning of ‘democracy’ – to this end, he analyses the way the word (and concept) has historically been used and regarded. He concludes that until relatively recently, ‘democracy’ was what we now refer to as ‘direct democracy’ (as practiced, up to a point, in Ancient Athens); The idea of ‘representative democracy’ was anathema to many who called themselves democrats. This exercise consumes the 1st half of this thankfully brief book. In the 2nd half, Arblaster examines modern day ‘democracies’, arguing that there is vast scope for further implementation of ‘direct democracy’ (especially in light of recent technological advances making communication in real-time) in today’s representative democracies, such as Britain. The above is fine but, as with so many of these kind... Read review

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Advantages: Packed full of honest and mindblowing stories
Disadvantages: It was too short!

...Scar Tissue - A Biography written by Anthony Kiedis and Larry Sloman. This book without a doubt has been one of the best books i have ever read. It is a brutally honest and emotive representation of one of the most famous singer/ songwriters of the last 3 decades and the front man of one of the worlds greatest bands, The Red Hot Chili Peppers. The book gives an extreamly detailed description of the ups and downs throughout Anthony Kiedis' life and of those around him. The book gives us a clear image of how drugs have effected the lives of Anthony and those around him. He is not afraid to show the world how vulnerable he can be and how even the smallest things can effect so many others. Upon reading the book, one thing i noticed was how highly he spoke of the many women in his life and how these women have played a major part in his... Read review

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Advantages: Suitable for all ages and not to graphic
Disadvantages: could maybe be a bit longer.

...Most school boys want to be spys, this spy just wants to be a school boy, but Alex Rider has no choice. In the 5th instalment to the alex rider series a boring school trip changes into a life changing experiance for Alex. Alex's newest asseignment crosses over into a school trip to venice where me must track down the shadowy Scorpia organisation. Alex finds out more than he bargined for.. about Scorpia and himself. This is an action packed books that will keep you wanting more but you may need to read the other books in the series to understand some of the plots. Anthony Horowitz researched all the stunts, places and made the story and characters 100% believeable its like James bond but in teenage form.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful