Most Popular Books by Bruce Wood

Illuminates the sometimes shadowy figure of Henry Purcell, evoking the atmosphere of 17th-century England - full of intrigues and plots. By interweaving the events during an unparalleled period of social and political change with the life and music of Purcell, this book creates an account ofthis elusive English genius that is hard to put down.

Originally published in 1976, this book examines how and why local government reforms came about and what influences, pressures and compromises were involved. At the time of publication it provided the most detailed account so far of the process by which the 1972 Local Government Act was approved by Parliament following the Redcliffe-Maud report and two White Papers. At the same time, as a case study of the British policy-making process, it examines more general issues about the political manoeuvring of groups in conflict, the concept of ‘government by Commission’ and the range of strategies which were open to Government decision makers. The book will prove essential reading for students of the history of British Government policy-making and political processes, and of administrative change and innovation.

Are they truly independent organizations or have they been ''colonized'' by the big vested interests in health? Are they a signal of a more assertive patient or consumer? Do they actually influence what health care people receive?" "This study will be important reading for scholars, students and professionals and, in particular, for those involved in running patient organizations."--Jacket.

First published in 1983, this textbook is now published in a completely revised and updated form to take full account of changes in policy-making in the second half of Mrs Thatcher′s first decade in power.

The Darker Side of Life is a collection of poems from over twenty years of my life. I have been down the roads of drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and several painful relationships that left me full of anger and with an unforgiving heart. These poems tell of my pain, as well of my dealings with the demons that have haunted my life. Many times I have overheard conversations from the youth that have touched me in a way that I found myself having to write about them. I once knew Christ as a child and fell out of the religious scene at about fourteen years old. I have now found Christ again in my life and find that I rely upon him more and more each day, and that too reflects in my writings, since thatas what makes up who I am.

Author describes a hate crime committed against the First United Methodist Church of Glendale, California and the local church''s and denomination''s response to it. He concludes with some suggestive paradigms for more tolerant and just behavior.