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Christiansburg (Images of America)
by M. Anna Fariello Kate RubickImages of America: Christiansburg is a finely tuned compilation of photographs depicting the growth and character of a rural, southwestern Virginia community. Christiansburg proper is situated along the edge of a verdant plateau that rises between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains and is incorporated into the New River watershed. Early settlers were attracted to the region's rich alluvial soil and tempered climates. By the mid-18th century, permanent homesteads began to dot the gentle landscape and the town was officially incorporated in 1792. These photographs follow Christiansburg from its beginnings as a popular stagecoach stop to the 20th century, documenting progress in education, industry, and commerce.
The Christmas Holiday: The perfect heart-warming read full of festive magic
by Sophie Claire'A cosy and heart-warming Christmas read - the perfect festive treat' Heidi Swain'A fun and festive read' Trisha Ashley***Can a trip away lead you home?After a bad break-up, eternal optimist Evie Miller has moved to the small village of Willowbrook to finally pursue her dream of opening a craft shop. Unfortunately, with money worries and an ex-boyfriend determined to track her down, her fresh start isn't going entirely to plan.Jake Hartwood is also looking to escape his past. Haunted by the loss of his wife, he's determined not to get close to anyone again - and the last thing he wants is to be celebrating this December.Hoping to avoid the festivities, Evie and Jake arrange to escape Christmas together as friends in Provence. But will the magic of the season change things between them?And what happens if one of them starts to feel something more?*****Readers are loving The Christmas Holiday!'This was a wonderful festive story full of intrigue, drama and romance.' Five stars'A lovely heart warming story. Loved it.' Five stars'This is definitely a book to curl up with of an evening, a book to make you smile and feel happy. The characters are so lovely, the writing so warm.' Five stars'I loved this book, and read it in one sitting.' Five stars'A lovely heart-warming book that I could not put down. I really strongly recommend and can't wait to see what's next from this author!' Five stars(P)2019 Hodder & Stoughton Limited
The Christmas Holiday: The perfect heart-warming read full of festive magic
by Sophie Claire'A sumptuous Christmas romance' Woman & Home magazine'A cosy and heart-warming Christmas read - the perfect festive treat' Heidi Swain'A fun and festive read' Trisha Ashley***Can a trip away lead you home?After a bad break-up, eternal optimist Evie Miller has moved to the small village of Willowbrook to finally pursue her dream of opening a craft shop. Unfortunately, with money worries and an ex-boyfriend determined to track her down, her fresh start isn't going entirely to plan.Jake Hartwood is also looking to escape his past. Haunted by the loss of his wife, he's determined not to get close to anyone again - and the last thing he wants is to be celebrating this December.Hoping to avoid the festivities, Evie and Jake arrange to escape Christmas together as friends in Provence. But will the magic of the season change things between them?And what happens if one of them starts to feel something more?*****Readers are loving The Christmas Holiday!'This was a wonderful festive story full of intrigue, drama and romance.' Five stars'A lovely heart warming story. Loved it.' Five stars'This is definitely a book to curl up with of an evening, a book to make you smile and feel happy. The characters are so lovely, the writing so warm.' Five stars'I loved this book, and read it in one sitting.' Five stars'A lovely heart-warming book that I could not put down. I really strongly recommend and can't wait to see what's next from this author!' Five stars
The Christmas Holiday: The perfect heart-warming read full of festive magic
by Sophie Claire'A sumptuous Christmas romance' Woman & Home magazine'A cosy and heart-warming Christmas read - the perfect festive treat' Heidi Swain'A fun and festive read' Trisha Ashley***Can a trip away lead you home?After a bad break-up, eternal optimist Evie Miller has moved to the small village of Willowbrook to finally pursue her dream of opening a craft shop. Unfortunately, with money worries and an ex-boyfriend determined to track her down, her fresh start isn't going entirely to plan.Jake Hartwood is also looking to escape his past. Haunted by the loss of his wife, he's determined not to get close to anyone again - and the last thing he wants is to be celebrating this December.Hoping to avoid the festivities, Evie and Jake arrange to escape Christmas together as friends in Provence. But will the magic of the season change things between them?And what happens if one of them starts to feel something more?*****Readers are loving The Christmas Holiday!'This was a wonderful festive story full of intrigue, drama and romance.' Five stars'A lovely heart warming story. Loved it.' Five stars'This is definitely a book to curl up with of an evening, a book to make you smile and feel happy. The characters are so lovely, the writing so warm.' Five stars'I loved this book, and read it in one sitting.' Five stars'A lovely heart-warming book that I could not put down. I really strongly recommend and can't wait to see what's next from this author!' Five stars
Christmas in America: A Photographic Celebration of the Holiday Season
by Peter GuttmanNothing reminds us of the good things in life-family, friendship, food, and good cheer-more than Christmas. With stunning images and illuminating text, award-winning photographer Peter Guttman offers a dazzling overview of the wintry landscapes, traditions, ceremonies, spectacles, and pastimes of the holiday season throughout the United States. Delve into the landscapes and streetscapes of Christmas in America and you can almost smell the frosted scent of snow-covered pines, of chestnuts roasting, and of family meals being shared.In the East, we find the spirit of the season in a cozy Vermont country inn, or an "army of elves” in a Philadelphia parade, or the sweeping grace of the sugar plum fairies in the Nutcracker Suite. In our heartland, we dogsled through a crystal wilderness in Minnesota, discover blazing bonfires in Louisiana, and explore regal plantations aglow in Mississippi. The snowy cliffs of the Grand Canyon, steam trains weaving high amongst the Rockies, the textured pueblos of New Mexico, the almost heavenly night sky of Utah’s Monument Valley, and the indescribable glazed beauty of Yosemite reflect the West. With these vistas, and more, Peter Guttman captures what is so magical about us and our land. Like the holiday season itself, Christmas in America is a treasure.
Christmas in America: A Photographic Celebration of the Holiday Season
by Peter GuttmanA New Edition of Peter Guttman's Dazzling Photographic Treasury of Holiday Lights and Celebrations Nothing reminds us of the good things in life—family, friendship, food, and good cheer—more than Christmas. With stunning images and illuminating text, award-winning photographer Peter Guttman offers a dazzling overview of the wintry landscapes, traditions, ceremonies, spectacles, and pastimes of the holiday season throughout the United States. Delve into the landscapes and streetscapes of Christmas in America and you can almost smell the frosted scent of snow-covered pines, of chestnuts roasting, and of family meals being shared. In the East, we find the spirit of the season in a cozy Vermont country inn, or an &“army of elves&” in a Philadelphia parade, or the sweeping grace of the sugar plum fairies in the Nutcracker Suite. In the heartland, we dogsled through a crystal wilderness in Minnesota and discover blazing bonfires in Louisiana. The snowy cliffs of the Grand Canyon, steam trains weaving high amongst the Rockies, the textured pueblos of New Mexico, the almost heavenly night sky of Utah&’s Monument Valley, and the indescribable glazed beauty of Yosemite reflect the West. Like the holiday season itself, Christmas in America is a treasure.
Christmas In New York
by Daniel PoolNew York is seemingly the center of the universe during the Christmas season, beginning with Santa's arrival in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and culminating with the dropping of the ball in Times Square on New Year's Eve. And why not? After all, New York is the birthplace of electric Christmas tree lights, Lionel trains, F. A. O. Schwarz, "White Christmas," and, of course, Santa Claus. In Christmas in New York, Daniel Pool takes the reader on a tour of present-day New York Christmas attractions (the Rockefeller Center Tree, the store windows, the shows, the songs, the smells.) He tells little-known facts and stories about the history of Christmas in New York (how Maurice Sendak's career started designing F. A. O. Schwarz windows; how Guy Lombardo's "Auld Lang Syne" became the official New Year's song; a complete "Santology"). And finally, there is a section on "The Ghosts of Christmas Past"--long-time New York Christmas traditions that have fallen by the wayside. A marvelous mingling of the now and then, Pool's book, with fifty unique photographs and a characteristic biting wit, conveys the true New York Christmas spirit.
Christmas With You: Curl up for a feel-good Christmas treat with No. 1 bestseller Sheila O'Flanagan
by Sheila O'FlanaganThe Sugar Loaf Lodge welcomes you in to warm yourself by the fire as the snow falls softly down. You'll find yourself immediately at home, bathed in the magic of this romantic hotel as it reveals the secrets and dreams of its guests. Sheila O'Flanagan's Christmas With You - originally published as A Season to Remember - is ideal festive reading for fans of Veronica Henry, Carole Matthews and Marian Keyes. These enchanting linked stories from the No. 1 bestselling author bring to life one unforgettable Christmas full of surprise twists, life-changing moments... and love.Christmas With You was previously published as A Season to Remember. Now with two poignant new stories added.Tucked away in the Irish countryside, the Sugar Loaf Lodge is opening its door for the festive season. With snow falling on the mountains outside and warm fires roaring inside, it's the perfect place for guests to celebrate the happiest time of the year. But what if you've just had your heart broken? Or discovered that the man you're married to has lied to you? What if a secret from your past has finally come back to haunt you?For some of the guests arriving at the Sugar Loaf Lodge, Christmas is looking far from tranquil. But can they find the magic and romance of the season within the walls of this beautiful hotel?Reviewers love Sheila's books: 'An exciting love story with a deliciously romantic denouement' Sunday ExpressWhat readers are saying about Christmas With You: 'A wonderful short story collection; it captures the magic of Christmas, love and family perfectly, and is a really superb read. Definitely recommend!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'What a sweet lovely read... Absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more by Sheila O'Flanagan' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'Absolutely brilliant!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'The different stories will make you laugh and cry as all their lives come together in the Sugar Loaf Lodge and remind us about the true meaning of Christmas' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars'I really enjoyed every single page of this book, and would highly recommend it, especially as a festive story!' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars'From the very start to the very end Sheila O'Flanagan keeps you entwined with all the characters. A simply perfect book' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'Ms O'Flanagan weaves her magic again' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars
Christmas With You: A heart-warming Christmas read from the No. 1 bestselling author
by Sheila O'FlanaganThe Sugar Loaf Lodge welcomes you in to warm yourself by the fire as the snow falls softly down. You'll find yourself immediately at home, bathed in the magic of this romantic hotel as it reveals the secrets and dreams of its guests. Sheila O'Flanagan's Christmas With You - originally published as A Season to Remember - is ideal festive reading for fans of Veronica Henry, Carole Matthews and Marian Keyes. These enchanting linked stories from the No. 1 bestselling author bring to life one unforgettable Christmas full of surprise twists, life-changing moments... and love.Christmas With You was previously published as A Season to Remember. Now with two poignant new stories added.Tucked away in the Irish countryside, the Sugar Loaf Lodge is opening its door for the festive season. With snow falling on the mountains outside and warm fires roaring inside, it's the perfect place for guests to celebrate the happiest time of the year. But what if you've just had your heart broken? Or discovered that the man you're married to has lied to you? What if a secret from your past has finally come back to haunt you?For some of the guests arriving at the Sugar Loaf Lodge, Christmas is looking far from tranquil. But can they find the magic and romance of the season within the walls of this beautiful hotel?Reviewers love Sheila's books: 'An exciting love story with a deliciously romantic denouement' Sunday ExpressWhat readers are saying about Christmas With You: 'A wonderful short story collection; it captures the magic of Christmas, love and family perfectly, and is a really superb read. Definitely recommend!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'What a sweet lovely read... Absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more by Sheila O'Flanagan' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'Absolutely brilliant!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'The different stories will make you laugh and cry as all their lives come together in the Sugar Loaf Lodge and remind us about the true meaning of Christmas' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars'I really enjoyed every single page of this book, and would highly recommend it, especially as a festive story!' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars'From the very start to the very end Sheila O'Flanagan keeps you entwined with all the characters. A simply perfect book' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'Ms O'Flanagan weaves her magic again' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars
Christmas With You: A heart-warming Christmas read from the No. 1 bestselling author
by Sheila O'FlanaganThe Sugar Loaf Lodge welcomes you in to warm yourself by the fire as the snow falls softly down. You'll find yourself immediately at home, bathed in the magic of this romantic hotel as it reveals the secrets and dreams of its guests. Sheila O'Flanagan's Christmas With You - originally published as A Season to Remember - is ideal festive reading for fans of Veronica Henry, Carole Matthews and Marian Keyes. These enchanting linked stories from the No. 1 bestselling author bring to life one unforgettable Christmas full of surprise twists, life-changing moments... and love.Christmas With You was previously published as A Season to Remember. Now with two poignant new stories added.Tucked away in the Irish countryside, the Sugar Loaf Lodge is opening its door for the festive season. With snow falling on the mountains outside and warm fires roaring inside, it's the perfect place for guests to celebrate the happiest time of the year. But what if you've just had your heart broken? Or discovered that the man you're married to has lied to you? What if a secret from your past has finally come back to haunt you?For some of the guests arriving at the Sugar Loaf Lodge, Christmas is looking far from tranquil. But can they find the magic and romance of the season within the walls of this beautiful hotel?Reviewers love Sheila's books: 'An exciting love story with a deliciously romantic denouement' Sunday ExpressWhat readers are saying about Christmas With You: 'A wonderful short story collection; it captures the magic of Christmas, love and family perfectly, and is a really superb read. Definitely recommend!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'What a sweet lovely read... Absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more by Sheila O'Flanagan' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'Absolutely brilliant!' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'The different stories will make you laugh and cry as all their lives come together in the Sugar Loaf Lodge and remind us about the true meaning of Christmas' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars'I really enjoyed every single page of this book, and would highly recommend it, especially as a festive story!' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars'From the very start to the very end Sheila O'Flanagan keeps you entwined with all the characters. A simply perfect book' Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars'Ms O'Flanagan weaves her magic again' Amazon reviewer, 5 stars(P)2018 Headline Publishing Group Ltd
Christopher Columbus
by Ernle BradfordThe &“outstanding&” biography of the Italian navigator and explorer from the bestselling author of The Great Siege (The New York Times). Christopher Columbus, credited with discovering America in 1492, was a great explorer who forever changed the world—but his iconic image obscures a far more complex and fascinating life story. Born Cristoforo Colombo, the son of a weaver from Genoa, he renounced his father&’s trade early in life and took to sailing. Though he began in the Mediterranean, Columbus soon found employment sailing the Atlantic Ocean, where he experienced shipwreck, inclement weather, and perhaps the Norse legends of uncharted lands to the west. With the help of Florentine astronomer Paolo Toscanelli, who in turn based his theories on the works of Marco Polo, Columbus devised a plan to find a western passage to the Indies. Though he achieved something far greater—the discovery of a hemisphere previously unknown to Europeans—Columbus insisted to the end of his days that he had succeeded. In this engrossing and deeply researched biography, historian Ernle Bradford portrays Columbus&’s stubbornness and greed, as well as his genius, bravery, and masterly navigation skills.
Christopher Columbus
by Struan ReidWhy did Columbus sail under the flag of Spain instead that of Italy? What did he hope to find when he sailed west across Atlantic Ocean? Why isn't America named after him? The 'Groundbreakers' series explores the lives of pioneering men and women-people whose achievements and discoveries have had a lasting impact on our world. Each book tells about the experiences that inspired these amazing individuals to think in new ways and discusses how the environment they lived in affected their work. Information on their supporters, colleagues, and rivals adds to the story. Finally, a look at the person's legacy shows how their achievements and discoveries continue to affect people today.
Christopher Columbus and the Age of Exploration for Kids: With 21 Activities
by Ronald A. ReisTaking a comprehensive, nuanced, and inclusive approach to Christopher Columbus, this illuminating biography with activities for young readers places him in the context of the explorations that came before, during, and after his lifetime. It portrays the "Admiral of the Ocean Seas" neither as hero nor heel, but as a flawed and complex man whose significance is undeniably monumental. Providing kids, parents, and teachers with a fuller picture of the seafaring life and the dangers and thrills of exploration, author Ronald Reis details all four of Columbus's voyages to the New World, not just his first, and describes the year that Columbus spent stranded on the island of Jamaica without hope of rescue. A full chapter is devoted to painting a more complete and complex portrait of the indigenous peoples of the New World and another to the consequences of Columbus's voyages--the exchange of diseases, ideas, crops, and populations between the New World and the Old. Engaging cross-curricular activities, such as taking nautical measurements, simulating a hurricane, making an ancient globe, and conducting silent trade, elucidate nautical concepts introduced and the times in which Columbus lived.
Chronicle of the Narvaez Expedition
by Ilan Stavans Harold Augenbraun Alvar Nunez de Vaca Fanny BandelierThis riveting true story is the first major narrative detailing the exploration of North America by Spanish conquistadors (1528-1536). The author, Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, was a fortune-seeking Spanish nobleman and the treasurer of an expedition sent to claim for Spain a vast area of today's southern United States. In simple, straightforward prose, Cabeza de Vaca chronicles the nine-year odyssey endured by the men after a shipwreck forced them to make a westward journey on foot from present-day Florida through Louisiana and Texas into California. In thirty-eight brief chapters, Cabeza de Vaca describes the scores of natural and human obstacles they encountered as they made their way across an unknown land. Cabeza de Vaca's gripping account offers a trove of ethnographic information, including descriptions and interpretations of native cultures, making it a powerful precursor to modern anthropology. .
Chronicles of Barrington, Illinois (American Chronicles)
by Diane P. Kostick Karen Darch Mort LubyNestled in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago, Barrington offers a treasure-trove of fascinating history and area lore. Meet the passionate guardians of this bucolic landscape who embody the pioneering midwestern spirit. While the community maintains a proud tradition of civic improvement and conservation, its citizens ably represent Barrington in the national arena. The town's record of military service and veteran care dates back to the Civil War. Floyd Bateman helped organize the 1933 World's Fair, while Christine O'Malley won acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival for her crossword documentary. Three members of the 1985 Bears championship squad called the enclave home. Author Diane Kostick paints a portrait of those whose vision, resourcefulness and dedication contributed to the strength and character of this proud community.
Chronicles of Historic Brooklyn (American Chronicles)
by John B ManbeckBrooklyn has always been a place of diversity and distinction. These qualities are everywhere across the borough, from its people to its events, landmarks, and more. In Chronicles of historic Brooklyn, Borough Historian John Manbeck has collected the stories that reveal the history and spirit of this ever-growing metropolis. From stories of murderous pirates who once besieged Sheepshead Bay to tales of the still-beloved Brooklyn Dodgers who played at Ebbets Field, Manbeck traces the long and colorful history. Explore the forgotten neighborhoods, iconic parks, vanishing waterfront and other attractions that show how and why Brooklyn has endured.
Chronicles Of Old Boston: Exploring New England's Historic Capital
by Charles BahneDiscover one of America's most historic cities through 30 dramatic true stories spanning Boston's 400-year history, and then visit the places where history happened on walking tours of the city's historic neighborhoods. Boston expert Charles Bahne reveals some of the city's most shocking moments, from a murder mystery on the Harvard campus to the mistake that sent two million gallons of molasses pouring down Commerce Street. Other essays explore major historic events including the Boston Tea Party and the ride of Paul Revere to the establishment of the Red Sox and Fenway Park. The book also contains stories about John Hancock, Charles Bulfinch, Fredrick Law Olmsted, Alexander Graham Bell, Isabella Stewart Gardner, the Kennedys, and more.
Chronicles of Old Las Vegas: Exposing Sin City's High-stakes History (Chronicles Series)
by James RomanDiscover one of America’s most fascinating cities through 30 dramatic true stories spanning Las Vegas’s 150-year history. James Roman takes readers on a tour through the glamorous and sometimes sordid history of Las Vegas and explains how a railroad town transformed itself into “the Entertainment Capital of the World.” <P><P>Essays explore the major historic events from the founding of Sin City and the building of the Hoover Dam to the rise of the Rat Pack at the Sands and the establishment of the Mafia-controlled casinos. Also included are intriguing tales of Vegas celebrities from Frank Sinatra and Liberace to Siegfried and Roy, as well as numerous historical photos and full-color maps.
Chula Vista (Images of America)
by Frank M. Roseman Peter J. Watry Jr.In 1868, Frank Kimball and his brothers purchased a 26,000-acre Mexican land grant rancho in the San Diego area. The area comprised the present-day communities of National City, Bonita, and the western half of Chula Vista. Kimball developed National City first and secured a branch of the Santa Fe Railway. The railroad company financed the building of nearby Sweetwater Dam, thus allowing the development of Chula Vista in 1888 as a planned agricultural community. Chula Vista remained as planned until World War II when the arrival of Rohr Aircraft Corporation caused a population boom that would continue even after the war, creating the desirable "bedroom community" that Chula Vista is today.
Chula Vista (Then and Now)
by Frank M. Roseman Peter J. WatryAfter many decades of being an agricultural community and lemon capital, an aircraft-parts manufacturer moved to Chula Vista. In 1940, Rohr Aircraft Corporation arrived and, due to the demand for workers and housing for them, the agricultural town was on its way to becoming a bedroom community. The city grew rapidly due to the development of a large ranch and the construction of 25,000 homes.
The CIA World Factbook 2014
by Central Intelligence AgencyFrom Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, The CIA World Factbook 2014 offers complete and up-to-date information on the world’s nations. This comprehensive guide is packed with detailed information on the politics, populations, military expenditures, and economics of 2014.For each country, The CIA World Factbook 2014 includes: Detailed maps with new geopolitical data Statistics on the population of each country, with details on literacy rates, HIV prevalence, and age structure New data on military expenditures and capabilities Information on each country’s climate and natural hazards Details on prominent political parties, and contact information for diplomatic consultation Facts on transportation and communication infrastructure And much more!Also included are appendixes with useful abbreviations, international environmental agreements, international organizations and groups, weight and measure conversions, and more. Originally intended for use by government officials, this is a must-have resource for students, travelers, journalists, and businesspeople with a desire to know more about their world.
The CIA World Factbook 2015
by Central Intelligence AgencyFrom Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, The CIA World Factbook 2015 offers complete and up-to-date information on the world’s nations. This comprehensive guide is packed with detailed information on the politics, populations, military expenditures, and economics of 2015.For each country, The CIA World Factbook 2015 includes:Detailed maps with new geopolitical dataStatistics on the population of each country, with details on literacy rates, HIV prevalence, and age structureNew data on military expenditures and capabilitiesInformation on each country’s climate and natural hazardsDetails on prominent political parties, and contact information for diplomatic consultationFacts on transportation and communication infrastructureAnd much more!Also included are appendixes with useful abbreviations, international environmental agreements, international organizations and groups, weight and measure conversions, and more. Originally intended for use by government officials, this is a must-have resource for students, travelers, journalists, and business people with a desire to know more about their world.
Ciao, America!
by Beppe SevergniniIn the wry but affectionate tradition of Bill Bryson, Ciao, America! is a delightful look at America through the eyes of a fiercely funny guest -- one of Italy's favorite authors who spent a year in Washington, D.C.When Beppe Severgnini and his wife rented a creaky house in Georgetown they were determined to see if they could adapt to a full four seasons in a country obsessed with ice cubes, air-conditioning, recliner chairs, and, of all things, after-dinner cappuccinos. From their first encounters with cryptic rental listings to their back-to-Europe yard sale twelve months later, Beppe explores this foreign land with the self-described patience of a mildly inappropriate beachcomber, holding up a mirror to America's signature manners and mores. Succumbing to his surroundings day by day, he and his wife find themselves developing a taste for Klondike bars and Samuel Adams beer, and even that most peculiar of American institutions -- the pancake house.The realtor who waves a perfect bye-bye, the overzealous mattress salesman who bounces from bed to bed, and the plumber named Marx who deals in illegally powerful showerheads are just a few of the better-than-fiction characters the Severgninis encounter while foraging for clues to the real America. A trip to the computer store proves just as revealing as D.C.'s Fourth of July celebration, as do boisterous waiters angling for tips and no-parking signs crammed with a dozen lines of fine print. By the end of his visit, Severgnini has come to grips with life in these United States -- and written a charming, laugh-out-loud tribute.From the Hardcover edition.
Ciao, America! An Italian Discovers the U.S.
by Beppe SevergniniIn the wry but affectionate tradition of Bill Bryson, "Ciao, America!" is a delightful look at America through the eyes of a fiercely funny guest--one of Italy's favorite authors who spent a year in Washington, D.C.<P>When Beppe Severgnini and his wife rented a creaky house in Georgetown they were determined to see if they could adapt to a full four seasons in a country obsessed with ice cubes, air-conditioning, recliner chairs, and, of all things, after-dinner cappuccinos. From their first encounters with cryptic rental listings to their back-to-Europe yard sale twelve months later, Beppe explores this foreign land with the self-described patience of a mildly inappropriate beachcomber, holding up a mirror to America's signature manners and mores.<P>Succumbing to his surroundings day by day, he and his wife find themselves developing a taste for Klondike bars and Samuel Adams beer, and even that most peculiar of American institutions--the pancake house. The realtor who waves a perfect bye-bye, the overzealous mattress salesman who bounces from bed to bed, and the plumber named Marx who deals in illegally powerful showerheads are just a few of the better-than-fiction characters the Severgninis encounter while foraging for clues to the real America.<P>A trip to the computer store proves just as revealing as D.C.'s Fourth of July celebration, as do boisterous waiters angling for tips and no-parking signs crammed with a dozen lines of fine print. By the end of his visit, Severgnini has come to grips with life in these United States--and written a charming, laugh-out-loud tribute.
Ciao Asmara: A Classic Account Of Contemporary Africa
by Justin HillAsmara is the capital of Eritrea - a surreally Italian city at the centre of an ex-Italian colony that has been at war with its neighbour Ethiopia (who claim sovereignty over Eritrea) for over ten years. Amidst broken palaces (built by the late Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie), nomadic desert encampments and war-torn towns, Hill found a god-fearing people remarkably resistant to everything fate has thrown at them. This book is a tribute to their resilience and will stand beside Philip Gouravitch's Rwandan book, WE WISH TO INFORM YOU THAT TOMORROW YOU WILL BE KILLED WITH YOUR FAMILIES, as a classic account of contemporary Africa.