Publishers Weekly,Yankoski's parents were right: It was crazy to live as a homeless person in six American cities for five months; fortunately, this crazy idea makes for quite a story. Yankoski, a Christian college student, challenges the reader to learn about faith, identify with the poor and find more forgotten, ruined, beautiful people than we ever imagined existed, and more reason to hope in their redemption. The journey begins at a Denver rescue mission and ends on a California beach. Along the way, Yankoski and a friend learn the perils of poor hygiene and the secrets of panhandling. They meet unfortunates like Andrew, who squanders his musical talent to feed his drug habit, and hustlers like Jake, who gives the pair tips about how to look and sound more pitiful to get more money. Yankoski tends to moralize: If we respond to others based on their outward appearance, haven't we entirely missed the point of the Gospel? Still, the book features fine writing (I awoke, rolled over and saw beads of sweat already forming on my arms. Saturday, early morning, Phoenix) and vivid stories, authentically revealing an underworld of need. (Apr.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
The classic guide that builders, architects, and students have relied on for almost 20 years has been completely updated to cover new materials, construction methods, and the latest building code revisions. The standard reference in its field, Rob Thallons Graphic Guide to Frame Construction is the ultimate visual guide to building with wood. Filled with hundreds of detailed drawings, helpful annotations, and field-tested advice, the guide covers foundations, floors, walls, roofs, and stairs. This third revised edition also offers additional information on advanced framing, engineered and composite materials, and construction in high-wind and seismic areas.