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What Is the Grass: Walt Whitman In My Life
by Mark DotyNamed a Most Anticipated Book of 2020 by Buzzfeed, Library Journal, The Millions, and The Rumpus Effortlessly blending biography, criticism, and memoir, National Book Award–winning poet and best-selling memoirist Mark Doty explores his personal quest for Walt Whitman. Mark Doty has always felt haunted by Walt Whitman’s bold, perennially new American voice, and by his equally radical claims about body and soul and what it means to be a self. In What Is the Grass, Doty—a poet, a New Yorker, and an American—keeps company with Whitman and his Leaves of Grass, tracing the resonances between his own experience and the legendary poet’s life and work. What is it then between us? Whitman asks. In search of an answer, Doty explores spaces—both external and internal—where he finds the poet’s ghost. He meditates on desire, love, and the mysterious wellsprings of the poet’s enduring work: a radical experience of transformation and enlightenment, queer sexuality, and an obsession with death, as well as unabashed love for a great city and for the fresh, rowdy character of American speech. In riveting close readings threaded with personal memoir and illuminated by awe, Doty reveals the power of Whitman’s persistent presence in his life and in the American imagination at large. How does a voice survive death? What Is the Grass is a conversation across time and space, a study of the astonishment one poet finds in the accomplishment of another, and an attempt to grasp Whitman’s deeply hopeful vision of human possibility.
What Is the Story of Alice in Wonderland? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Dana M. Rau Who HQWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most beloved characters of our time.Find out how Alice in Wonderland became a children's classic.Published in 1865 by British author Lewis Carroll, this fantasy adventure story introduced the world to Alice and introduced Alice to some very strange but beloved creatures, including The White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, and The Queen of Hearts.This silly tale that started out as a collection of stories written for one little girl became so popular that even Queen Victoria, the British monarch, couldn't put it down! Lewis Carroll, whose real name was Charles L. Dodgson, went on to write several sequels and other books, but Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Alice through the Looking-Glass are by far his most famous stories. Author Dana Meachen Rau takes readers through the book's history--from Carroll's initial inspiration--Alice Liddell--all the way to the movies, plays, and other adaptations that are entertaining fans today.
What Is the Story of Anne of Green Gables? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Ellen Labrecque Who HQJourney to Avonlea and meet Anne Shirley -- the imaginative and bold star of the beloved Anne of Green Gables series -- in this addition to the What Is the Story Of? series.Author L. M. Montgomery first brought Anne Shirley onto the page in 1908, and this independent and inspiring character has been capturing readers' hearts ever since. The story of an orphaned girl who is sent to Avonlea on Prince Edward Island to live with the Cuthbert family includes adventure, romance, and an ensemble of iconic characters like Diana Barry and Gilbert Blythe. Today, fans enjoy Anne on page, on screen, and even on stage as the popular series continues to draw audiences. Learn about the history of this iconic literary character, Anne with an &“e&” – in this exciting biography.
What Is the Story of Batman? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Michael Burgan Who HQ Jake MurrayWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most beloved characters of our time.His aliases include the Caped Crusader, the Dark Knight, and World's Greatest Detective, but he's best known as Batman, and he's leaping from the night sky onto the page in this fun biography.Bruce Wayne, a wealthy American philanthropist and business owner, and Batman, his crime-fighting alter ego, have been entertaining audiences since 1939. The character was so popular after appearing in Detective Comics that DC Comics decided to give Batman a comic book of his own. In doing so, they created one of the company's most successful franchises.Author Michael Burgan details the history of Batman--from his tragic origin story and his infamous arch enemies--to his iconic depictions in television and movies throughout the years. This book shows readers why this superhero with no superpowers is so beloved around the world.
What Is the Story of Captain Kirk? (What Is the Story Of?)
by M. D. Payne Who HQYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library!Journey to deep space and learn how James Tiberius Kirk became one of the greatest space heroes in the Star Trek universe in this addition to the New York Times bestselling series.From appearances in live action and animated television shows, a series of films, comics, video games, and more, James T. Kirk is an established space captain in pop culture. Star Trek remains one of the most popular science-fiction series of all time, and Captain Kirk is one of the most famous and highly decorated captains in the history of Starfleet. As the commanding officer of starships like the U.S.S. Enterprise, viewers follow his adventures through space. But did you know that Kirk wasn't even the show's first Captain? And that the Star Trek series almost didn't happen? Author M. D. Payne takes readers aboard Starfleet starships as Kirk explores new worlds, encounters new villains, and "boldly goes where no man has gone before."
What Is the Story of Captain Picard? (What Is the Story Of?)
by David Stabler Who HQYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library! Climb aboard the starship USS Enterprise and learn how Jean-Luc Picard became one of the most beloved Starfleet members in the Star Trek universe.Star Trek stands as one of the most popular science-fiction series of all time, and Captain Picard is one of its fan-favorite characters thanks to his inspiring quotes and brilliant leadership. As the captain of the starship USS Enterprise, Picard has taken viewers with him on adventures through space for decades. Now, young fans can learn even more about the famous character, including details about his obsessions with Earl Grey tea and Shakespeare.From appearances in live-action and animated television shows, a series of films, comics, video games, and more, Jean-Luc Picard is an established icon in the Star Trek universe and a beloved character across pop-culture channels.Author David Stabler takes readers aboard Starfleet starships as Picard adventures through space, defeats great evils, and inspires hope in us all to believe that "things are only impossible until they're not."
What Is the Story of Doctor Who? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Gabriel P. Cooper Who HQWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most beloved characters of our time.This What Is the Story of? title is out of this universe! Learn the history of the Time Lord, the TARDIS, and the epic battles they've faced across time and space.When Doctor Who began airing on the BBC in 1963, British audiences were introduced to the rogue Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey. Now, viewers from all over the world are glued to their screens for the mysterious Doctor's intergalactic adventures. But how did this time traveler became such a beloved character? Author Gabriel P. Cooper provides readers with the inside scoop on the Doctor's unique time machine, loyal companions, and diabolical foes. This book, just like the show, is sure to intrigue a new generation of fans.
What Is the Story of Dracula? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Who Hq Michael BurganWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most beloved--and frightening!--characters of our time. Find out how Dracula--a smooth-talking count with a dark secret--became the infamous creature we all know and fear. From appearances in films and animated features to interpretations as a Muppet and breakfast cereal mascot, Dracula has been the inspiration for many other fictional vampires and is now an established figure in pop culture. Created by Bram Stoker in his 1897 Gothic horror novel, Count Dracula is a nobleman who uses his powers as a vampire to dominate his victims. Even though Dracula didn't succeed in the novel, the fictional character has lived on to dominate the real world as one of its most popular supernatural villains. Author Michael Burgan explores Dracula's mysterious origins in the historical figures who might have shaped the character, as well as the films and actors that cemented Dracula's place in cinematic history.
What Is the Story of Ebenezer Scrooge? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Sheila Keenan Who HQWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most beloved characters of our time.Bah humbug! Get to know the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformation from miser to hero in this addition to the What Is the Story Of? series.When Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843, he likely had no idea that the story and its main character, Ebenezer Scrooge, would remain so popular nearly two centuries later. Today, readers still find themselves entertained by the story of a grumpy, selfish man who becomes a holiday hero after he learns generosity through the help of three spirits in Victorian-era England. Whether a Dickens fan or someone in love with all things "Christmas," readers will enjoy learning the history of this memorable character and his many appearances on the page, the screen, and the stage in What Is the Story of Ebenezer Scrooge?
What Is the Story of Frankenstein? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Sheila Keenan Who HQYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library!One of the most iconic monsters of all time comes to life in our What Is the Story Of? series.From his origins in Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, through his many movie portrayals in the twentieth century, Frankenstein is one of the most recognizable characters in the world. His iconic look is a go-to Halloween costume for kids and adults alike. But how did the mad scientist and his creation become so popular? Author Sheila Keenan explains his spooky origin story, the history of the movies, and what lies ahead for this monstrous creature.
What Is the Story of Godzilla? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Sheila Keenan Who HQWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most well-known characters of our time. In this addition to the What Is the Story Of? series, young readers will discover the exciting story of one of the world's favorite monsters...Godzilla!In 1954, Godzilla appeared on screen for the first time in a Japanese film directed by Ishirō Honda. Awakened by nuclear radiation, the enormous sea monster has appeared in over thirty other films, making Godzilla the longest-running film franchise in history. Known as the "King of the Monsters," Godzilla has earned a huge fanbase worldwide. The dinosaur-like amphibian has been featured alongside friends and foes such as Mothra and Mechagodzilla, in TV shows, books, video games, and more. There is even a Godzilla star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Learn about the lasting legacy of this iconic character in this nonfiction book for young readers.
What Is the Story of Hello Kitty? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Kirsten Anderson Who Hq Jill WeberYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library! Say hello to the premier title in the What Is the Story Of? series. Hello Kitty!This cute cartoon character who's shaped like a bobtail cat and wears a bow in her hair has become an icon of our times. Hello Kitty, as she is known, is a piano-playing, cookie-baking darling from London with a heart of gold. Readers will learn all about Kitty, who was first created in Japan, but has since gone on to capture the imagination of people all around the world. Super fans of the super-fashionable Kitty will be thrilled to see her debut in the Who HQ brand.
What Is the Story of Romeo and Juliet? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Max Bisantz Who HQWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most well-known characters of our time. Discover the origins of one of literature's most famous couples, Romeo and Juliet, and their creator, William Shakespeare, in this fun and informative addition to the What Is the Story Of? series.In 1597, Shakespeare debuted his newest play, a tragedy about a young Italian couple whose families were sworn enemies. Romeo and Juliet quickly became one of the most famous couples in literary history, and this play became one of Shakespeare's most performed shows. But did you know that much of Romeo and Juliet's story was adapted from tales by other writers? Learn all about how William Shakespeare's dynamic and romantic teenage duo sprouted from the Italian story of The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet in 1562 and grew into adaptions like West Side Story and even Gnomeo & Juliet in this nonfiction book for young readers.
What Is the Story of Scooby-Doo? (What Is the Story Of?)
by M. D. Payne Who HQYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library! Nothing mysterious about it! Learn all about how Scooby and his friends took over Saturday mornings--and then the world--in this debut title in the What Is the Story Of? series.Most kids are familiar with the always-hungry, scaredy-cat Great Dane called Scooby-Doo and his true-blue friends of Mystery Inc. But how did Scooby and the gang make it onto the silver screen? Author M. D. Payne lays out the whole groovy tale in this book that's sure to have readers shouting, "Zoinks!"
What Is the Story of the Headless Horseman? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Sheila Keenan Who HQWho HQ brings you the stories behind the most well-known characters of our time.Discover the haunting story of the Headless Horseman, his chilling adventures in Sleepy Hollow, New York, and his historical backstory in this addition to the What Is the Story Of? series.Washington Irving published The Legend of Sleepy Hollow in 1820, introducing the eerie Headless Horseman character to readers worldwide. Readers were both scared and intrigued by the horrific character, who is the ghost of a soldier who had been decapitated during the American Revolution. Now, the character is an American classic, featured in movies, television shows, cartoons, comic books, and even video games, thanks to his chilling story of a lone horseman seeking revenge. Perfect for Halloween, but an enduring year-round favorite, the Headless Horseman rides forward in this exciting new nonfiction title.
What Is the Story of the Mummy? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Sheila Keenan Who HQYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library!The Mummy joins other classic horror characters Dracula and Frankenstein in our What Is the Story Of? series.Unlike the other classic Universal horror movie monsters of their time, the Mummy's origins can't be found in the pages of a book. His story was inspired by the opening of King Tut's tomb in 1922. The world fell in love with all things Egyptian and was enthralled with stories of ancient mummies. The film producers of the early Dracula and Frankenstein films wasted no time creating a character who's been creeping out of his coffin and entertaining audiences since 1932. Author Sheila Keenan explains the history of the movie and its remakes, the legendary curse of King Tut's mummy, and what lies ahead for this monstrous creature.
What Is the Story of Willy Wonka? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Steve Korte Who HQ#1 New York Times bestselling Who HQ series brings you the stories behind the most beloved characters of our time.Grab your golden ticket and learn how Willy Wonka became an internationally popular figure in literature and film.The whimsical, wacky, and wondrous character of Willy Wonka made his first appearance in Roald Dahl's 1964 children's novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. When the fictional factory owner opened up the doors of his company, readers were welcomed into his world of pure imagination...and chocolate! Wonka went on to dazzle a whole new set of fans in the 1971 film that brought Dahl's characters to life. Since then, there have been other movie adaptations, books, musicals, and even theme park rides that bring the world just a little bit closer to this fantastic chocolatier. Learn about the legacy of Wonka in this new book from the #1 New York Times bestselling series.
What Is the Story of Wonder Woman? (What Is the Story Of?)
by Steve Korte Who HQYour favorite characters are now part of the Who HQ library!Wonder Woman--DC Comics' greatest female superhero--flies onto our What Is the Story Of? list. She is a founding member of the Justice League, a goddess, and an ambassador of the Amazonian people. Wonder Woman burst onto the comic book scene during World War II. For more than seventy years, she has been fighting for equality, power, and truth with her lasso of truth in one hand and her sword in the other. Author Steve Korté shares the story of how one of the first and foremost superheroines was created, and how she came to be such a powerful feminist icon.
What Is the Super Bowl? (What Was?)
by David Groff Dina Anastasio Kevin McveighWith over 110 million viewers every year, the Super Bowl is one of the most watched television events in the United States. The final showdown between the two best football teams in the NFL attracts some of the biggest musicians to perform at the half-time show. But the Super Bowl is more than just a spectacle - it's a high-stakes game to win the championship and claim a place in history. Go back in time and relive all the magic from years past - from excruciating fumbles to game winning plays.
What Is the What: The Autobiography of Valentino Achak Deng
by Dave EggersWhat Is the What is the epic novel based on the life of Valentino Achak Deng who, along with thousands of other children--the so-called Lost Boys--was forced to leave his village in Sudan at the age of seven and trek hundreds of miles by foot, pursued by militias, government bombers, and wild animals, crossing the deserts of three countries to find freedom. When he finally is resettled in the United States, he finds a life full of promise, but also heartache and myriad new challenges. Moving, suspenseful, and unexpectedly funny, What Is the What is an astonishing novel that illuminates the lives of millions through one extraordinary man.
What Is the Women's World Cup? (What Was?)
by Gina Shaw Who HQGooaal! Soccer fans, get your game on with this book about one of the biggest tournaments in women&’s sports.The first international women's soccer match was in 1881, but the Women's World Cup didn't become official until 1991 -- 110 years later! Read about the courageous, soccer-loving women who worked hard to have a World Cup of their own in this addition to the Who HQ series. Young readers will learn about the history of women's soccer, star players, and iconic wins! From Team USA's record-breaking four championships to Japan's inspiring win in 2011, this book is full of heartwarming and exciting stories about incredible athletes across decades!
What Is the World Cup? (What Was?)
by Stephen Marchesi Who Hq Bonnie BaderGOOOAAAAAL! Get ready for a front-row seat at the world's most-watched sporting event--the World Cup. <P><P>Every four years, thirty-two of the best men's soccer teams from across the globe compete for the title of FIFA World Cup winner. Over one billion people tuned in worldwide to watch the final game of the 2014 competition, making the World Cup the most widely viewed sporting event in the world, exceeding even the Summer Olympics! <P>This book takes a look back at what has changed since the first tournament in 1930 and what lies ahead for the most popular sport in the world.
What Isabella Wanted: Isabella Stewart Gardner Builds a Museum
by Candace FlemingFrom multiple award-winning author Candace Fleming and Caldecott Medalist Matthew Cordell comes the true story of a woman who always got what she wanted: Isabella Stewart Gardner.A New England Book Award FinalistFor years, the indomitable Isabella Stewart Gardner searched the world for magnificent artwork and filled her home with a truly unique collection, with the aim of turning it into a museum, which she established in 1903.Isabella always did things her own way. One day she'd wear baseball gear to the symphony, the next, she'd be seen strolling down the street with zoo lions. It was no surprised that she was very particular about how she arranged her exhibits. They were not organized historically, stylistically, or by artist. Instead, they were arranged based on the connections Isabella felt toward the art, a connection she hoped to encourage in her visitors.For years, her museum delighted generations of Bostonians and visitors with the collections arranged exactly as she wanted. But in 1990, a spectacular burglary occurred when two thieves disguised as police officers stole thirteen paintings, valued at $500 million, including a Rembrandt and a Vermeer. They have yet to be recovered, though a $10 million reward is still being offered for their safe return.Author Candace Fleming perfectly captures Isabella's inimitable personality and drive, accompanied by exuberant illustrations by Matthew Cordell.A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard SelectionA CCBC Choice
What It Is: Race, Family, and One Thinking Black Man's Blues
by Clifford ThompsonAn African-American writer's concise, heartfelt take on the state of his nation, exploring the war between the values he has always held and the reality with which he is confronted in twenty-first-century America.In the tradition of James Baldwin's The Fire Next Time and Ta-Nehisi Coates's Between the World and Me comes Clifford Thompson's What It Is. Thompson was raised to believe in treating every person of every color as an individual, and he decided as a young man that America, despite its history of racial oppression, was his home as much as anyone else's. As a middle-aged, happily married father of biracial children, Thompson finds himself questioning his most deeply held convictions when the race-baiting Donald Trump ascends to the presidency—elected by whites, whom Thompson had refused to judge as a group, and who make up the majority in this country Thompson had called his own. In the grip of contradictory emotions, Thompson turns for guidance to the wisdom of writers he admires while knowing that the answers to his questions about America ultimately lie in America itself. Through interviews with a small but varied group of Americans he hears sharply divergent opinions about what is happening in the country while trying to find his own answers—conclusions based not on conventional wisdom or on what he would like to believe, but on what he sees.
What It Is Like to Go to War
by Karl Marlantes"What It Is Like To Go To War" is about the experience of combat and how inadequately we prepare our young men and women for the psychological and spiritual stresses of war.