Tigger On The Couch

- The Neuroses, Psychoses, Maladies and Disorders of Our Favourite Children's Characters

I love this book. OK, that makes me a bit suspicious...but yes, I loved "being on the couch" to find out if I can identify myself with any of my favourite childhood characters, and as it turns I can. I happen to have the same issues as my favourite cartoon...Ha, won't tell!

This book by Laura James, is a highly amusing take on self-help and psychological disorders providing an insightful and acute analysis of children's favourite characters' mental health. Tigger is diagnosed with hyperactivity, Winnie Pooh clearly has addiction issues and the Wizard of Oz was undoubtedly a narcissist...

If you'd like to know if you're Peter Pan, Piglet or perhaps Alice in Wonderland, or perhaps someone else, click here to buy this book.

Don't bin your old socks!

An endearing and delightful guide to making soft toys from cast-off socks and gloves. It includes thirteen projects that are quick to make with step-by-step illustrations and instructions. With appeal to both adults and children the creations include monkeys, elephants, piglets, bunnies and fish from a world expert in the craft.

Buy here

Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult -- Book Trailer

I love technology...you can now even watch book trailers! I found this one by Jodi Picoult, one my favourite authors, so I thought of sharing and perhaps entice you to read this one.

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Every single one of our customers who purchased "The Kite Runner" ,by the same author of "A Thousand Splendid Suns" ,told me it was the best book they had ever read, and that I must read it too!

I must admit I was a little bit put off by the subject matter. It was obvious it wasn't going to be a cheerful read. We have all been inundated with images of war and death in Afghanistan in the last few years, so it wasn't difficult to recoil at the thought of reading in detail about what went on in that country, that led to recent events.

Eventually, I decided to give "The Kite Runner" a go and it was one of the very few books I've read that grabbed my attention from page one.

Today I finished reading "A Thousand Splendid Suns". If it's in any way possible, Hosseini's second novel is even better than the first. Whereas "The Kite Runner" tells the story of Afghanistan from men's perspective, "A Thousand Splendid Suns" tells it from women's point of view. Khaled Hosseini is a storyteller. One that grips you emotionally. There aren't any dull pages.

It's through the eyes of Mariam and Laila, and their life tragedies, that we learn about life in a country torn by war. And it is amidst this climate of violence, loss and religious fundamentalism that we discover, as we read on, that in the end most of us dream about the very same things: peace, love and freedom. It is impossible, as we turn the last page on the book, not to spare a special thought to women who have endured the hurt of not being able to simple being...

I am choosing to tell you more about my feelings about the book than about the plot itself. I don't want to give more away than you need to know. And all you need to know is that this an excellent book, one to keep, one whose characters will remain with you long after the book is put away on the shelf.

Susana

A SHORT VISIT TO THE PHILIPPINES

Dr. Michael S. Gerber, author of Sweet Teeth and Loose Bowels: The Adventures of an International Aid Worker and a resident of Portimao recently returned from a visit to the Philippines. Following are some of his comments about the trip:

“I just returned from a short one-week visit to the Philippines. Since 1999, I have been a member of the Board of Trustees of an international charity, IIRR, the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction and for the past five years, have served as Chairman of its Board. IIRR is headquartered on a beautiful 54-acre campus in Silang, Cavite Province, about a one-hour drive south of Manila.

It has been said that getting there is half the fun. Well, that doesn’t work if you live in southern Portugal and have to travel half way around the world. Reaching Manila means catching a 6:15 am flight from Faro airport to Lisbon, then connecting to London’s Heathrow, followed by a third flight of 12-13 hours from London to Hong Kong, and finally getting on the fourth plane for the last leg to Manila. About 30 hours after leaving home, you touch down in the Philippines. Fortunately, the connections are convenient – no more than about two and a half hours between each flight. Even more fortunate, my suitcase arrived at the same time I did, also having made all four connections.

Returning to the Philippines is always a happy occasion, having first served there with my family as Peace Corps volunteers in the early 1970s. The purpose of this trip was to participate in an international conference that IIRR was hosting on the subject of rural enterprise development. It was my privilege as Chair to make the opening remarks and introduce the keynote speaker, former President of the Philippines, Corazon Aquino. After her husband, Senator Benigno Aquino, was assassinated in 1983, Mrs. Aquino led the opposition that eventually ended the dictatorship of then President Ferdinand E. Marcos . She was elected as Asia’s first woman President and served from 1986-1992.

The only sad note was that with the close of these meetings, my term as Chairman of IIRR’s Board came to an end. I will, however, remain involved with the organization as a Special Advisor for Africa. I have also agreed to take on another project, helping a group of bright young people from Mexico start a new NGO that will try to help alleviate poverty among the rural poor in that country.

Seven days later, at about two o’clock in the morning, I was home in Portimao. With delays and bad weather, the 30-hour trip turned into 37 hours. But I was back on the tennis court by 10:00 am the same morning. The only problem is that with jet lag, you usually see three tennis balls instead of one and it is a real challenge to figure out which one to hit.”

Just before midnight...

At around 11:30pm we decided to open the door to let some cool air into the shop. Instead we had a rush of people coming in. The road outside is poorly lit so it looked as if a crowd suddenly materialised before our eyes.

Kids, of course, were impatient and with half an hour to go I was happy I printed the "Harry Potter: puzzles & quizzes" from Bloomsbury's web site. This kept them busy until 00:01.

I managed to take pictures while everyone was waiting but didn't get the chance to get any of the crowd with their much waited "Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows" copies . As you can imagine, after midnight it was hard to keep up...but more photos will follow from the "Witches & Wizards Breakfast" at the Hotel Garbe.

***

If you purchased your copy of "Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows" from our shop while on holiday in the Algarve, please send us your photos holding your book to: info@magnacartabookshop.com Photos will be published in our blog.

Witches & Wizards Breakfast

Join us at the Hotel Garbe, Bar Boa Vista on July 21st, from 9am - 1pm

Buy your "Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows" and treat yourself to a wicked breakfast

==Special Breakfast Menu ==

Buterbeer Milkshakes - 3,50€

Liquorice Wands - 0,50€

Calming Teas - 2,00€

Cauldron Cake - 1,50€

Pumpkin Pasties - 2,00€

Coffee with milk - 2,00€

Fresh Orange Juice - 2,80€

Toast with butter - 2,50€

Hot chocolate - 2,00€

Pancake with honey or lemon and sugar - 2,50€

**Be among the first 20 people to buy your copy of the seventh Harry Potter book and win a Genuine Feather Quill.

**Participate in the Harry Potter Look-alike contest - the best will win a Harry Potter Replica Wand.

**Book also available at 00:01, July 21st, from the shop and during the day from 10am.

Harry Potter Party!

To celebrate the release of the seventh Harry Potter book Magna Carta Book Shop in Alvor is holding a Wizards and Witches Breakfast on the 21st July from 9,00 am to 1.00pm in the Bar Boa Vista of the Hotel Garbe. As well as buying your edition of this much awaited book, you will be able to enjoy a breakfast fit for Wizards. Dress up– prize for the best Harry Potter look-alike. Also we will be anouncing the winners of the Portugal Resident competition. Please contact Susana at Magna Carta to reserve your copy of the book now (for collection on 21st July). Tel/Fax: (+351) 282 496 001

WIN! WIN! WIN!
WOULD YOU like to read the most anticipated book of the year for free?The Resident, in association with Magna Carta in Alvor, is offering two students a copy of Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows.

Tells us, in no more than 150 words (English or Portuguese), who is your favourite character and why, and the best two entries will win a copy of the seventh Harry Potter book. Entries will only be accepted from students aged between eight and 16.

Submit your work to The Resident/Harry Potter Competition, at Rua Visconde de Lagoa, nº2 e 3, 8400-329 Lagoa, at email news@portugalresident.com or fax 282 342 939, no later than June 22. Watch this space to find out if you are a winner and to know more about the big Harry Potter day on July 21!

**********

PARTICIPA E GANHA!

GOSTAVAS DE GANHAR uma cópia do livro mais esperado do ano?

O jornal “The Resident”, em associação com a livraria Magna Carta em Alvor, está a oferecer a dois estudantes uma cópia do “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”.
Diz-nos em não mais de 150 palavras (em Inglês ou Português), quem é a tua personagem preferida e porquê. As duas melhores respostas vão receber o 7º e último livro na série do Harry Potter completamente grátis. Aceitam-se participações de alunos entre os 8 e os 16 anos.

Enviem o vosso trabalho para The Resident/Harry Potter Competition, Rua Visconde de Lagoa nº2 e 3, 8400-329 Lagoa ou por e-mail para news@portugalresident.com , ou ainda pelo fax nº 282 342 939, até ao dia 22 de Junho. Fica atento(a) ao The Resident para mais novidades sobre o lançamento do livro Harry Potter e descobre se foste um(a) dos felizes contemplados.

Book Signing, this Saturday May 26!

As a relief to the sombre academic literature on issues related to developing countries in Africa and Asia, this book takes a critical but light-hearted look at the international aid industry. It follows the author’s career from a youthful “do-gooder” in the Philippines to Director General of the Kenya based African Medical & Research Foundation (AMREF) and its renowned Flying Doctor Service.

Topics covered include the Peace Corps, debt relief, the aid business, health, food and cultural practices, among many other subjects. Tales from Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Philippines, India and additional countries form the backdrop to this entertaining, critical and eye-opening book.

The author will be donating all royalties he receives from sales of this book to a charity - The International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR).

If you’re unable to make it on Saturday you may still purchase the book online (click here) or reserve a copy by telephone or e-mail. (Please let us know if you’d like it signed by the author).

Budapest book launch, by Dr. John Piper

The Budapest Launch of my novel Motherkillers was held in the Library of the University Institute on the West bank (Buda) of the River Danube. The room is a magnificent high ceilinged elegant nineteenth century venue lined by beautiful carved wooden cupboards containing treasured volumes, some of which are over 500 years old.

Odete and I were greeted by the Chief of the Library Dr Laszlo Magyar who showed us some of his treasures while the guests were arriving. Copies of the book were on sale and sold well, among those present were the Hungarian contributors acknowledged at the beginning of the novel. They had already received signed copies and had read them.

The Meeting was chaired by Dr Benedek Varga deputy director of the Semmelweis museum and he also did the translating for those who did not speak English. Most of the discussion focussed around Semmelweis’ mental condition and my views expressed in the book were supported. I read that portion of the book in which Semmelweis and Kolletchka discussed hand washing. The Professor of the history of medicine spoke at length on this subject. The novel was well received.

We were presented with a signed portrait of Semmelweis in later life, some beautiful pottery and a miniature 1861 copy of Semmelweis book on childbed fever written in German. Dr. Susan Turi, the head of Obstetrics at the Saint Rochus Hospital gave me a card in which she wrote “ I feel this masterpiece covers a wide gap which should have been done much before; anyway at last we have it”

(pictured above: Ignaz Semmelweis, 1/7/1818 - 13/8/1865)

Buy Motherkillers by Dr. John Piper

Look into my eyes!

Missing since 3rd May 2007. Can you help?

Madeleine McCann was last seen in Praia da Luz (Algarve, Portugal) on thursday May 3rd while she was on holiday with her parents.

If you have any information about her whereabouts please contact Polícia Judiciária (PJ) in Portugal on (+351) 282 405 400 or (+351) 289 884 500.

And here is our brand NEW shop...

It's only next door from where we were before, you can't miss us...

Our e-mail is OK again. Thank you.

**IMPORTANT**

We are currently experiencing problems with our main e-mail address. Until further notice please use magnacartabookshop@hotmail.com

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Sweet Teeth and Loose Bowels by Michael S Gerber

Against a backdrop set in countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia, it is packed with humourous and sceptical accounts of topics including life as a 'do-gooder' in the Peace Corps, corruption, debt relief, African governments, refugees, transportation, food and disparities between extreme wealth and poverty.

In the 1970's Dr. Michael S Gerber was selected to serve as a Peace Corps volunteer, living in the Philippines with his wife and three young sons and surviving on £110 a month. Twenty eight years later, having lived and worked in many of the poorest countries in Africa and Asia, he retired as a Director General of the Kenya-based African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) - the largest non-governmental health organisation on the African Continent. It also operates the world famous Flying Doctors.

One morning, on the outskirts of Nairobi, a Kenyan policeman stopped a driver at the side of the road. "Sir, you committed a crime. When you passed that lorry, your vehicle crossed a solid white line." The road in question was a single carriageway full of pot holes, with no markings on it, white or otherwise. The poorly paid police would receive wages at the end of the month, if at all. Invisible white lines were a good way to shake down motorists for extra cash. One should have known better than to cross an invisible white line, as the month was coming to a close.

About the author: Since 1968, Dr. Michael S Gerber has been involved in some of the least developed countries around the world. Now retired, he donates his time as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR), a non-governmental organisation working in Asia, Africa and Latin America. He lives in Portugal with his wife.


**A book signing session will take place at Magna Carta Bookshop on Sat May 26, between 11AM-1PM.**

The author will be donating all royalties he receives from sales of this book to a charity - The International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR).

Price: 13,50€ (Publication date 9th May 2007)

Author of "On Chesil Beach" faces heavy fine after "borrowing" some pebbles off the beach he used as background for his new novel of the same name. Read more here...

Happy Easter Everyone!

Half of a Yellow Sun by by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Buy here

Top Islands of the World (Various Authors)

It's like browsing photos of paradise and then find out that the glorious eden can be found, here on earth! This beautifully illustrated book, contains photographs of paradisiacal islands throughout the world, including Europe and the Mediterranean, Africa and the Indian Ocean, Asia and the Pacific, and the Caribbean and North America.

Far from being a tourist guide, this large format book is more suitable for your coffee table, where it can be easily reached and browsed (and you'll never tire of turning the pages on this one!). Every island is described with visual and text detail, including its history, the atmosphere (including the smells, the sounds, the people), what to expect in terms of tourism (is it busy or is it relatively unexplored) and of course, whereabouts it can be found on the planet (with the help of a map).

Unsuprisingly, the beautiful island of Madeira here in Portugal is one of the many chosen by the various authors who compiled this book. "Portugal may have owned Madeira for the best part of five centuries, but the British have been residents for three and have been such a weighty presence that, at times, Westminster viewed Madeira more as a colony than as foreign territory", says Rodney Bolt regarding this Portuguese island.

Another interesting fact regarding Madeira is that "A glass of Madeira sealed the signing of the American Declaration of Independence, it was the favourite tipple of Shakespeare's cherry drunkard Falstaff, and is still used to toast anyone offered the Freedom of the City of London", also according to the same author.

On the last pages of "Top Islands of the World" you will find a directory with what there is to do in each of the 27 islands presented, and the official tourism boards contact and web sites.

If you're stuck for ideas on what to buy for someone special, or if indeed what you're looking for is a perfect holiday, this book will not disappoint.

The Top Islands of the World can be purchased for 45,00€ click here to buy

More on "The Secret"

Film “THE SECRET”

If you are not satisfied with your current life,
if you would like to do better but can´t
see any opportunities, if you are worried about
your future security, then you MUST see the Secret.
The Secret can make all the difference to your life

17th of March, 2007 15 h to 17.30 h

Nova Vida, Tunes

Price: 8 €

Please book until 10th of March

Seminar :

„ Law of Attraction“

given by Dr. Veronica Mauvis

14th of April 2007, 10 h to 16 h

at Nova Vida, Tunes

Price : 65,00 € incl. lunch


Have you seen The Secret?
Do you want to use The Secret to get better results in your life?
Have you tried to use it and wonder why it’s not working for you?
Will it help your children to get better results?
What is the correct way to create the Life of Your Dreams?
The Secret is the film that has been spreading round the world like a bush fire because it opens the door to the real secrets of success all over the world.
It is possibly the most powerful, scientifically backed, method of personal development ever discovered. You need this knowledge to get what YOU want in all areas of your life.
If you want changes to your financial status, your relationships, your health you will find answers book for the seminar

Please book until 6th of April 2007

Contact:
Angela Schulz-Henke
OrgaNice Eventmanagement

Apartado 2016, Gil Eanes
P-8501-902 Portimão

tel. +351 282 181 604
fax +351 282 181 606
tm +351 936 384 275
eventmanagement8@aol.com
www.organice-pt.com

Magna Carta's recommended reading list for this theme:

The Law of Attraction by Esther Hicks

Ask and it is Given by Esther Hicks

The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer

You’ll See it When You Believe it by Wayne Dyer

Manifest Your Destiny by Wayne Dyer

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Synchrodestiny by Deepak Chopra

You Can Heal Your Life by Louise L. Hay

"The Secret" Uncovered!

23rd February 2007 Film „ The Secret“ at the CLCC in Portimão.
19.30 h – 22.00 h (organised by Angela Schulz-Henke
OrgaNice Eventmanagement)

If you are not satisfied with your current life, if you would like to do better but can´t see any
opportunities, if you are worried about your future security, then you MUST see the Secret. The Secret can make all the difference to your life …

Veronica Mauvis (English)

Vegetarian Snacks – Claudia + Marisa

Magna Carta will be participating with books concerning the film.

Book Signing with Dr. Piper

Meet Dr. Piper, the author of "Motherkillers" - out 22nd February - at the Hospital Particular in Alvor for 7pm. There will be a cocktail party where you'll have the opportunity to talk to Dr. Piper about his work and have your book signed.

Order your book from Magna Carta Bookshop before the releasing date and pay 22.50€ only (you save 3€).

From a local author...

“In 1845 a killer stalked the great maternity hospitals of Europe and North America … Mothers and babies were slaughtered in great suffering on a monumental scale by this mass murderer. The name given to this assassin was puerperal fever… [or] childbed fever.”


This powerful novel recounts the history of the struggle to control the devastating disease known as “childbed fever” – the horrific disease that killed thousands of women and their babies across Europe and North America.

Set in 19th Century Vienna, John Piper’s book is based on the true story of Ignaz Semmelweis, a young Hungarian obstetrician. Through the eyes of a fictional young woman (Charlotte) who is having her baby in hospital, we witness the squalor and overcrowding – and we feel the terror experienced by the mothers and mothers-to-be. Charlotte, herself, contracts the dreaded disease.

Told with passion and a meticulous eye for historical accuracy, this novel describes the appalling conditions in which doctors and nurses worked in the latter half of the 19th Century and shows how Semmelweis overcame the ignorance and bigotry in the medical profession at the time to find the cause of (and a cure for) this horrendous illness.

Dr John Piper NB, BS, FRCS was born in Essex. He read medicine at the University of London, trained in surgery at the Royal Free Hospital and worked as a consultant surgeon in hospitals in England until 1977 and then in Iran, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and South Africa. In 1985 he created the Department of Surgery in the new Manapo Hospital in the Black South African Homeland of Qwagwa.
Dr Piper now lives in Portugal.

MOTHER KILLERS by John Piper can be pre-ordered at Magna Carta Bookshop for 25.50€ (hardback) and will be available from 22nd February 2007.

Keeping Faity by Jodi Picoult

Reviewed by

Hayley Jones

Unlike the better-known My Sister's Keeper and The Pact, the courtroom doesn't assume a major part in Keeping Faith and even draws itself into question. How many times have you heard something along the lines of "God has no place in a courtroom?" Have you considered how strange that is, considering that witnesses are expected to swear on the Bible?

Jodi Picoult throws up all kinds of religious and spiritual questions in this novel, allowing the reader to muse over and debate them as much as the characters do. Keeping Faith certainly displays Picoult's talent for portraying complex issues without dictating to her audience.

Faith White is a normal seven-year-old girl in many respects - she loves to play on the swings and scribble with crayons - but she becomes a media attraction almost overnight when she starts, apparently, having visions of God and develops wounds that can only currently be explained as stigmata.

What makes her situation even more interesting is that Faith knows nothing about religion, let alone Christianity. Her mother, Mariah, is a non-practicing Jew and her father a non-practicing Episcopalian: Faith has never seen a Bible, yet she quotes verses from it.Mariah can hardly believe this is happening, but she knows her daughter's not a liar and she is extremely concerned about the psychological and physical symptoms that Faith is displaying. Her priority is Faith's safety, which is difficult to take care of when a range of cult members, TV crews and sick people hoping for Faith to cure them are camping on their driveway.

One person particularly determined to prove that Faith is a fraud is Ian Fletcher, a tele-atheist who is determined to prove that all religious 'miracles' are fakes and ends up getting more involved than he means to...Mariah is still reeling from her divorce - initiated by her husband, Colin, after she and Faith catch him in the bedroom with another woman - and insult is added to injury when Colin announces that he wants custody of Faith. Mariah not only has to face criticism from the media, but also a very public trial that sees Colin dragging up darker times in her past in order to prove that she is harming Faith and somehow causing the hallucinations.

Trust is a major issue in Keeping Faith. Particularly poignant for me was seeing how Mariah's past gets thrown up and used against her, even though she's now a very different person, allowing Colin to betray her even further. It questions whether skeptics are objectively in pursuit of the truth or whether they simply can't let themselves trust and have faith. You may even find that you question your own beliefs and opinions - another thing that Picoult is skilled at.

I never thought I'd read a novel that incorporates religious ecstasy, mental illness and potential child abuse, but it actually works really well. It's different from Picoult's other novels and, despite first being published in 1999 in the US (2006 in Britain), it's every bit as accomplished as her later novels. The writing is strong and heartfelt, managing to portray Mariah with both vulnerability and Lioness-style protectiveness.

Although Mariah and her family are extremely 'normal', I think this is necessary, as too flamboyant or unique a character would seem unbelievable. Mariah is certainly more 'human' than a lot of Picoult's female protagonists. Picoult also flirts with the notion of 'unreliable narrator', which creates the opportunity for further debate and is done subtly and cleverly, so it's up to the reader to decide which of the characters - if any - to believe.

I think that Mariah is one of the most fully-formed, realistic characters that Picoult has written and Keeping Faith is certainly refreshingly different. Even if you hate Picoult's other novels, I recommend that you give this a try: it doesn't conform to the formula in several of her other novels and it's not so reminiscent of a courtroom drama. I also think this is the kind of book you will either love or hate and I'm happy that, for me, it's the former. Whether you're an atheist, a militant believer or (like most of the characters) an agnostic, there is little to upset you here as long as you read it with an open mind.

Picoult is careful not to tread on too many toes, although she doesn't sacrifice story for political correctness. Unlike many contemporary authors, who focus on family and relationships and little else, Picoult isn't afraid to study the major issues that dramatically affect these relationships. Stigmata and religious visions are unusual topics to address, but Picoult pulls it off without it seeming too unrealistic and with a lot of flair.

Christmas opening times & holidays

Magna Carta Bookshop will be open as normal until Saturday 23rd December. After that date we will be closed until 3rd January 2007.

During this time we'll still be accepting your book orders, either via our web site or e-mail.

Merry Christmas

Thank you all so much for another great year and for all the support.

APAA Support

We strongly support the animal cause in the Algarve, therefore we have posted the message below hoping there will be someone out there who may contribute to the solution to the problems the "Associação Protecção Animal do Algarve" is currently facing.

Any other charities needing any kind of help are also welcome to use this space. Please contact our bookshop for the effect.

Thank you,
Susana

APAA FACES DIFFICULT CHALLENGE – URGENT NEW PREMISES APPEAL

OVER 800 PEOPLE CELEBRATED AT THE APAA’S (ASSOCIAÇÃO DE PROTECÇÃO ANIMAL DO ALGARGE) RECENT WORLD ANIMAL DAY EVENTS. IN PARTICULAR, THE ANNUAL SCRUFFTS ‘DOG OF THE YEAR’ SHOW. THE ASSOCIATION, WHICH IS ASSOCIATED TO THE UK’S RSPCA (ROYAL SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS), RAISED AN ESTIMATED 3,000 EUROS ON THE DAY WHICH WILL GO TOWARDS THE SNIP (SPAYING AND NEUTERING IN PORTUGAL) CAMPAIGN, TREATMENT AND FOOD FOR THE ABANDONED DOGS AND CATS AT THE KENNELS.

HOWEVER, THIS WILL BE THE LAST TIME THE ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES WORLD ANIMAL DAY IN ITS CURRENT LOCATION. ALTHOUGH THE APAA HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN FOR RESCUING ABANDONED ANIMALS IN THE ALGARVE, IT IS BEING FORCED TO LEAVE ITS CURRENT PREMISES BY MARCH 2007. THE ASSOCIATION’S ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRE IS ON LEASED LAND AND THE LANDLORD HAS INFORMED US THAT HE IS UNABLE TO EXTEND THE LEASE BEYOND MARCH 2007.

AT PRESENT THE ASSOCIATION IS ACTIVE IN VARIOUS AREAS OF ANIMAL PROTECTION, INCLUDING RESCUE, REHOMING, SPAYING AND NEUTERING. ARE THESE ACTIVITIES TO CONTINUE?

CLEARLY THE ASSOCIATION CAN ONLY CONTINUE AS AT PRESENT IF IT IS ABLE TO ACQUIRE LAND ON WHICH TO ESTABLISH A NEW RESCUE CENTRE. THIS WILL TAKE TIME, TO FIND SUITABLE LAND, AND TO RAISE THE NECESSARY FINANCE TO BUILD SHELTER FOR THE ANIMALS.

APAA HAS VAST EXPERIENCE AT REHOMING AND WE WORK HARD TO FIND NEW HOMES FOR THE MANY RESCUED ANIMALS IN OUR KENNELS.


WE WERE GRATEFUL WHEN SOS STRAYS ORGANISATION OFFERED TO HELP BY FOSTERING SOME OF THE APAA ANIMALS. THE AIM OF SOS STRAYS IS TO IMPROVE THE WELFARE OF STRAY ANIMALS IN COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD. THE DOGS AND CATS ARE FIRST PLACED IN A NETWORK OF FOSTER HOMES AND SOS STRAYS FOLLOW A STRICT ADOPTION PROCEDURE FOR REHOMING. APAA HAS A COLLECTION OF PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE DOGS AND CATS THAT HAVE BEEN REHOMED IN EUROPE.

WORKING CLOSELY WITH SOS STRAYS AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS IN EUROPE AND THE UK PET PASSPORT SCHEME TO FIND HOMES HAS HELPED TO ALLEVIATE SOME OF THE PROBLEMS FACING THE ABANDONED DOGS AND CATS IN PORTUGAL.

SEVERAL DOGS HAVE ALREADY FOUND LOVING HOMES IN GERMANY VIA OUR VETERINARY CLINIC FERREL IN ESPICHE. THE GERMAN VET, HEIKE RAUTERBERG, WHO OWNS THE CLINIC HAS HELPED THE APAA TO FIND NEW HOMES FOR ITS DOGS, GIVING THE ASSOCIATION SEVERAL CONTACTS FOR KENNELS IN GERMANY.

IN THE MEANTIME, THE APAA IS DESPERATELY LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME FOR ITS KENNELS. IT CURRENTLY HAS 82 DOGS AND 24 CATS.

I HOPE THAT I HAVE EXPLAINED AS CLEARLY AS POSSIBLE THE SITUATION FACING THE ASSOCIATION. SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY OTHER IDEAS OR SUGGESTIONS, PLEASE THEY WILL BE VERY WELCOME.

IDEALLY, WE REQUIRE AN AREA OF LAND IN THE ALGARVE REGION WITH WATER AND ELECTRICITY, SOME OUTBUILDINGS WOULD BE USEFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

TIME IS RUNNING OUT FOR THE 82 DOGS AND 24 CATS IN OUR CARE.


PLEASE CONTACT THE APAA BY TEL/FAX 00 351 282 471347 (PLEASE BE PREPARED TO LEAVE A MESSAGE AS WE DO NOT HAVE THE RESOURCES TO ‘MAN’ THE TELEPHONE) OR YOU CAN CALL/TEXT MOBILE 91 9368726 OR E MAIL SAFEHANDSBOARDINGKENNELS@CLIX.PT OR WRITE TO APAA, APARTADO 101, 8501 903 MEXILHOEIRA GRANDE, PORTUGAL.

Thank you,

Linda Pixley

(APAA's President)

The Night Before Christmas

Blue Christmas, Jon Bon Jovi

A nice christmas ballad for you....

I Wish Everyday Could Be Like Christmas
by Bon Jovi

More Christmas gift ideas...

This is a stunning Angel collection that'll add extra Christmassy atmosphere to your room. Prices start at only 3.50€. All angels can be used as candleholders. When you buy two or more Angel figurines you get ONE free (please quote BLOG promotion).

Fiendish Fashion

"The Devil Wears Prada" by Lauren Weisberger

Book Review by Hayley Jones

I gave in to the hype. Being a fan of fiction, film and fashion (in that order), there was no way that The Devil Wears Prada could have passed me by. I wasn't sure what to expect: the last two books I've read that were classified as 'chick lit' (I hate that term) were drastically different, so I was dubious of whether this would be a true hit or a fashion faux pas.

Luckily for my faith in modern fiction, The Devil Wears Prada was far better than I expected.The most hyped-up thing about this novel is the rumour that the fashion editor, Miranda Priestly, is based on the notorious US Vogue editor Anna Wintour. Lauren Weisberger has denied this (well you would, if only to avoid getting sued) and Wintour took it all in good humour by turning up at a screening of the film wearing (yup, you've guessed it!) Prada.

There is something deliciously seductive about the idea of this novel being a woman's way of getting her own back on an evil boss though - anybody who's ever had a nightmare boss (which is pretty much everybody I know) will sympathize with the main character, Andy Sachs. Andy is hired as an assistant to Runway editor Miranda Priestly, despite knowing nothing about fashion, and is frequently reminded that it's a job "a million girls would die for" - despite it becoming obvious from Day One that it's a living hell.

Miranda makes all kinds of ludicrous demands (including ordering Andy to collect her car and chauffeur her cat) and has a nasty habit of saying very little, expecting her assistants to guess precisely what she means. She's an evil cow, but everyone kowtows to her because she's the editor and good at her job, so she calls the shots - and not just within the confines of Runway's HQ. This provides a perfect set-up for much comedy and, although it could've been funnier, it's extremely amusing and there are several laugh-out-loud moments. Thankfully though, unlike in other books I've read, Weisberger doesn't strive too hard to be funny and the humour comes off naturally rather than forced.

Andy herself is very endearing and, like me, has a penchant for sarcasm. She's fresh out of college and determined to forge a successful career for herself, hoping to become a writer. Trouble is, her work is so absorbing that she starts to neglect her family, her friends and her ever-understanding boyfriend. But what can she do? Surviving a year as Miranda's assistant without being fired virtually guarantees her any magazine job she wants. Surely everyone understands that?

Things spiral out of control and her roommate, Lily, seems to be heading towards a serious drinking problem, but Andy simply doesn't have the time - she has to be at work at 7am and is often expected to work until after 11pm. She barely has time for sleep, let alone relationships.Whilst The Devil Wears Prada is delightfully sharp and funny, it is also rather sweet.

I thought the end was a little too saccharine but, if I'm honest, I loved it and wouldn't have it any other way. The characters are excellent and the relationships intricate and realistic - I certainly get the impression that they're crafted from observation - from the horror of Miranda to the tense relationship between Andy and Emily, the head assistant. It certainly gives the flavour of working for a fashion magazine, even if I do suspect that a lot of it is exaggerated - at least, I hope it's exaggerated….Don't be put off if you're not into fashion - Andy isn't either.

Whilst the fashion industry provides the perfect cut-throat setting, it's still perfectly enjoyable if you don't know your French Connection from your Fendi. You probably won't learn a lot about fashion from this either, except perhaps never to reply "mine" when someone asks you whose shoes you're wearing.

The plot becomes a little predictable in places, but that's forgivable and the characters more than make up for it - it certainly doesn't suffer for its few slips into sentimental 'made for TV movie' territory. Over all, The Devil Wears Prada is smart, sassy and surprisingly sweet.

Buy it here for 12,00 euros

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a Pinch of Posh

I've had great sympathy for Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen for a while and was greatly surprised and amused with his (and his wife's) book: A Pinch of Posh. I confess I was expecting a "very serious" book on good manners but as it turns out this a well written, witty book, that will make a great Christmas gift... for the Posh Ones and well... for the not so Posh.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE

We'd like to inform our clients that Magna Carta will be closed from the 13th to the 16th October, as we'll be participating in BLIP (Better Living in Portugal) Exhibition.

You may visit us on the 14th & 15th October at stand A72 at ExpoArade in Portimão. Please call us if you need directions or check the Algarve Resident newspaper for more information on the exhibition.

In the meantime you may continue to browse and buy your books at our online shop.

Rhythm of the Dance at Fábrica do Inglês in Silves

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Alentejo Blue by Monica Ali

Presents the story of the Portuguese village of Mamarrosa told through the lives of those who live there and those who are passing through - men and women, children and old people, locals, tourists and expatriates. For some, it is a place from which to escape; for others it is a way of running from trouble (but not eluding it).

Read an excerpt of "Alentejo Blue" in the Guardian newspaper.

ORDER THIS BOOK NOW:

PAPERBACK: 16,00€

HARDBACK: 18,00€ (normal price £14,99 or 22,50€)

Art at Magna Carta!

Artist William David John Haines has been in the Algarve just over eighteen months, but already his feel and interpretation of the region has inspired him to create some of the most striking works of Algarvean trademark-feature art, ever seen. An accomplished artist and sculptor, William has been involved in the world of art from a very young age, having produced his first wooden sculpture at the age of nine, and his first painting at thirteen.

During the 1970's, Haines ran his own studio in the Welsh town of Newport, his paintings even then reaching high demand and being featured around numerous Welsh galleries. His self-taught techniques have been honed into an unmistakable and captivating talent, his biggest inspiration and influence being the unique artist Van Goth, which he has studied intensely for over three decades.

Fluent in Algarvean commercial art, abstract, traditional, modern and fun art, colour plays a large part in Haines's art, using bold, captivating colours freely and on density, giving the pieces texture and life. Painting by means of acrylic and oils, his works are produced on both canvas and wood, following main techniques also favoured by Van Goth.

His work is now creating quite a stir in the Algarve, becoming highly acclaimed and widely sought after.Pieces may also be ordered on commission.

You may now admire and purchase the work of David Haines at Magna Carta Bookshop. Tel: 282 496 001.

Thanks to Judith Fulcher for sending us this.

Magna Carta tops British day poll (BBC News Online 30/05/06)

King John signed the Magna Carta on 15 June 1215The anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta has been chosen as the best date to celebrate Britishness.
The charter imposed on King John on 15 June 1215 by rebel barons limited the power of the monarch and gave ordinary people rights under common law.
Its anniversary was picked by 27% of the 5,002 people polled by BBC History magazine, with VE Day, 8 May, taking 21%, and D-Day, 6 June, attracting 14%.
Chancellor Gordon Brown recently called for a new day for national identity.
In an address to the Fabian Society in January, he suggested the UK needed a day to celebrate "who we are and what we stand for".
'Surprising choice'
BBC History magazine editor Dave Musgrove said the choice of the Magna Carta anniversary may indicate the UK is moving on from a "dependence on World War II as the critical point in our island story".
"It's fascinating, and surprising, that an event from medieval history has come out above VE Day, all the more so when you consider that it's a constitutional rather than a militaristic moment that's been chosen," he said.
Dan Snow, the presenter of BBC history programmes, described the Magna Carta as a worthy winner.

"The idea that the will of the king can be bound by law is as important today as it was 800 years ago," he added.

HOW PEOPLE VOTED

Magna Carta: 27%
VE Day: 21%
D-Day: 14%
Armistice Day: 11%
Trafalgar victory: 10%
Slave trade abolished: 6%
Napoleon's defeat: 4%
Churchill's birth: 3%
Cromwellian republic: 2%
Reform Act: 2%

SOURCE: BBC History magazine

"It didn't work in practice but it set a precedent. It advanced the cause of liberty, constitutionalism and parliamentarianism, which Britain in turn has passed on to the world."
But some historians pointed out that the Magna Carta took place before the union of Great Britain.
"The problem with a Magna Carta day is that this was originally very much an English, not a British significant event," said Linda Colley, Professor of history at Princeton University.
"Though to be sure, it acquired in the 18th and 19th centuries a resonance for radicals and constitutionalists across the islands."
Other dates considered in the poll were Armistice Day, 11 November; the abolition of the slave trade, 25 March; Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo, 18 June, and Churchill's birth, 30 November.

1st Language and Culture Fair

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BookTime Magazine

The new consumer magazine is out and is free to all our clients. It contains book reviews, interviews, crosswords and much more. We have a limited number of copies so collect yours from our shop as soon as possible or e-mail us to reserve or post* one for you.

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BARLAVENTO ENGLISH SCHOOL

ESPICHE

EASTER FAYRE

Saturday 1st April

2pm - 5pm

Lots of fun for the whole family

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Books in Luz

Choose from a selection of books for all the family.

Hugo Beaty Bar (Estrela da Luz Resort)

Next Fair: Saturday 15th April

10am - 1pm

For book orders ring Susana on 282 496 001

Everyone welcome

Children of The Tsunami

On 26th December 2004 a massive tsunami struck Khao Lak in Thailand as well as Indonesia, Sri-Lanka, the Maldives, Malaysia, India and many other coastal and island countries around the Indian Ocean. The Tsunami washed away people’s lives, their hopes and dreams.
This book is about how the children (many of whom were orphaned by the Tsunami) coped with their loss. It is a beautiful and sometimes heart wrenching collection of stories, poems, and pictures by the children of Khao Lak, illustrating how they are dealing with their loss and grief. It is also a story of hope, humanity and triumph over despair.The material for the book was compiled by the students of Bangkok Patana School, the British International School in Thailand.All profits from this book go directly to the education of the children of Khao Lak – the "Children of the Tsunami".

Price: 22,50€

Valentine's Cards

Beautiful Valentine's Cards now in stock!

And the winner is...

The Whitbread book awards caused the first stir of the literary year today with their announcement of the five winners of their category awards for best novel, best first novel, poetry collection, biography and children's book. More information here...

Whitbread Novel Award

The Accidental by Ali Smith (0241141907, 22.50€, Hamish Hamilton)
The Accidental pans in on the Norfolk holiday home of the Smart family one hot summer. There, a beguiling stranger called Amber appears at the door bearing all sorts of unexpected gifts, trampling over family boundaries and sending each of the Smarts scurrying from the dark into the light.

Whitbread First Novel Award

Harmony Silk Factory by Tash Aw (0007204515, 12.00€, Harper Perennial)
A brilliant new novel from a genuinely exciting new voice in British fiction. Set in
Malaysia in the 1930s and 40s, with the rumbling of the Second World War in the
background and the Japanese about the invade.

Whitbread Biography Award

Matisse The Master by Hilary Spurling (0241133394, 35.00€, Hamish Hamilton)
This is the second and final volume of the first true biography of Henri Matisse. Hilary
Spurling's biography investigates the secret life of Matisse, whose painting shocked and infuriated his contemporaries while paving the way for modern art. Here she looks at his glory years between 1909 and 1954.

Whitbread Children’s Book Award

The New Policeman by Kate Thompson (037032823X, 16.50€, Random House Children’)

A wonderfully intriguing story going right to the heart of Irish magic, folklore and
music. Readership level: 12+.

Whitbread Poetry Award
Logue’s Homer Cold Calls by Christopher Logue (0571202772, 13.50€, Faber)

The fifth, and penultimate, instalment of Logue's Homeric masterpiece.

Order these books from Magna Carta Bookshop until the 20th January and get 20% off.