After almost being expelled from a prestigious Chicago music conservatory for a prank gone wrong, twenty-two-year-old pianist Crawford Paul returns home to Northern California for what he predicts will be another boring summer. Concerned his scholarship is now at risk, Crawford accepts the only job he can find: accompanying a glamorous seven-year-old named Isabella to a community swimming pool for lessons. There, Crawford is befriended by a nanny named Nina, an aspiring fashion designer who finds it difficult to hide her disdain for children. When Crawford meets Armando Leon, a lifeguard and Isabella's swimming instructor, he accepts Armando's offer to help him overcome his fear of water by way of private swimming lessons. As friendship turns into a summer affair, their lust for one another turns to love. When Crawford receives a chance of a lifetime audition, he is torn between returning to Chicago or staying in California to start a new life with Armando. As the end of the summer inches closer, Crawford and Armando fear they will be separated forever.

A lawyer's mind and a news reporter's way with words-none of it stopped Harry Gilbert's brain from having a stroke. Actually, he had three of them. This story chronicles his strokes, recovery, and (mostly) positive attitude. A stroke can happen to anyone, anytime, including to people in the prime of their lives. This revealing memoir tells the story of post-stroke: of the frustration of being unable to say the words you are thinking, or to complete mundane tasks that were previously effortless, like adding simple numbers, writing, telling time or driving a car-but also of hope and persistence. With gentle humor, author Harry Gilbert helps us understand the path of recovery and provides encouragement that post-stroke life can return to normal-even if it is a new normal.

"A true story of triumph over tragedy, this book is a must-have guide for anyone affected by stroke." —William S. Maxfield "Valerie Greene's courage, persistence, and willingness to search for the healing energies within her have shifted her body, mind, and spirit. Her story is an inspiration to all." —Donna Eden Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States today and the leading cause of adult disability. Now Valerie Greene, a stroke survivor whose recovery surpassed even the most optimistic expectations, uses her own dramatic, inspiring, and eye-opening story to illustrate and deliver the important practical information you and your loved ones need to prevent, recognize, minimize, and recover from stroke.

The essential maneuvers for all canoeists, developed at the acclaimed Nantahala Outdoor Center.

2003 National Outdoor Book Award Winner. Step-by-step photos on correct form and essential strokes. Illustrated guide to river maneuvers plus information on gear, safety, choosing a canoe.

The books in this bite-sized new series contain no complicated techniques or tricky materials, making them ideal for the busy, the time-pressured or the merely curious. Baby Massage is a short, simple and to-the-point guide to learning basic massage techniques for your baby in a few short steps. Even if they are completely new to massage, in just 96 pages readers will discover how to master the essential movements and some simple routines to help them bond with their baby.