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Becoming Billie Holiday
by Carole Boston Weatherford Floyd CooperBefore the legend of Billie Holiday, there was a girl named Eleanora. In 1915, Sadie Fagan gave birth to a daughter she named Eleanora. The world, however, would know her as Billie Holiday, possibly the greatest jazz singer of all time. <p><p>Eleanora's journey into legend took her through pain, poverty, and run-ins with the law. By the time she was fifteen, she knew she possessed something that could possibly change her life--a voice. Eleanora could sing. <p><p>Her remarkable voice led her to a place in the spotlight with some of the era's hottest big bands. Billie Holiday sang as if she had lived each lyric, and in many ways she had. <p><p>Through a sequence of raw and poignant poems, award-winning poet Carole Boston Weatherford chronicles Eleanora Fagan's metamorphosis into Billie Holiday. The author examines the singer's young life, her fight for survival, and the dream she pursued with passion in this Coretta Scott King Author Honor winner. With stunning art by Floyd Cooper, this book provides a revealing look at a cultural icon.
Becoming Biosubjects
by Priscilla Walton Rebecca Sullivan Neil Gerlach Sheryl HamiltonBecoming Biosubjects examines the ways in which the Canadian government, media, courts, and everyday Canadians are making sense of the challenges being posed by biotechnologies. The authors argue that the human body is now being understood as something that is fluid and without fixed meaning. This has significant implications both for how we understand ourselves and how we see our relationships with other forms of life.Focusing on four major issues, the authors examine the ways in which genetic technologies are shaping criminal justice practices, how policies on reproductive technologies have shifted in response to biotechnologies, the debates surrounding the patenting of higher life forms, and the Canadian (and global) response to bioterrorism. Regulatory strategies in government and the courts are continually evolving and are affected by changing public perceptions of scientific knowledge. The legal and cultural shifts outlined in Becoming Biosubjects call into question what it means to be a Canadian, a citizen, and a human being.
Becoming Black: Creating Identity in the African Diaspora
by Michelle M. WrightBecoming Black is a powerful theorization of Black subjectivity throughout the African diaspora. In this unique comparative study, Michelle M. Wright discusses the commonalties and differences in how Black writers and thinkers from the United States, the Caribbean, Africa, France, Great Britain, and Germany have responded to white European and American claims about Black consciousness. As Wright traces more than a century of debate on Black subjectivity between intellectuals of African descent and white philosophers, she also highlights how feminist writers have challenged patriarchal theories of Black identity. Wright argues that three nineteenth-century American and European works addressing race--Thomas Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia, G. W. F. Hegel's Philosophy of History, and Count Arthur de Gobineau's Essay on the Inequality of the Human Races--were particularly influential in shaping twentieth-century ideas about Black subjectivity. She considers these treatises in depth and describes how the revolutionary Black thinkers W. E. B. Du Bois, Aim Csaire, Lopold Sdar Senghor, and Frantz Fanon countered the theories they promulgated. She explains that while Du Bois, Csaire, Senghor, and Fanon rejected the racist ideologies of Jefferson, Hegel, and Gobineau, for the most part they did so within what remained a nationalist, patriarchal framework. Such persistent nationalist and sexist ideologies were later subverted, Wright shows, in the work of Black women writers including Carolyn Rodgers and Audre Lorde and, more recently, the British novelists Joan Riley, Naomi King, Jo Hodges, and Andrea Levy. By considering diasporic writing ranging from Du Bois to Lorde to the contemporary African novelists Simon Njami and Daniel Biyaoula, Wright reveals Black subjectivity as rich, varied, and always evolving.
Becoming Black Political Subjects: Movements and Ethno-Racial Rights in Colombia and Brazil
by Tianna S. PaschelAfter decades of denying racism and underplaying cultural diversity, Latin American states began adopting transformative ethno-racial legislation in the late 1980s. In addition to symbolic recognition of indigenous peoples and black populations, governments in the region created a more pluralistic model of citizenship and made significant reforms in the areas of land, health, education, and development policy. Becoming Black Political Subjects explores this shift from color blindness to ethno-racial legislation in two of the most important cases in the region: Colombia and Brazil. Drawing on archival and ethnographic research, Tianna Paschel shows how, over a short period, black movements and their claims went from being marginalized to become institutionalized into the law, state bureaucracies, and mainstream politics. The strategic actions of a small group of black activists--working in the context of domestic unrest and the international community's growing interest in ethno-racial issues--successfully brought about change. Paschel also examines the consequences of these reforms, including the institutionalization of certain ideas of blackness, the reconfiguration of black movement organizations, and the unmaking of black rights in the face of reactionary movements. Becoming Black Political Subjects offers important insights into the changing landscape of race and Latin American politics and provokes readers to adopt a more transnational and flexible understanding of social movements.
Becoming Bodhisattvas: A Guidebook for Compassionate Action
by Pema ChodronBest-selling American Buddhist nun Pema Chödrön presents a friendly and encouraging guide to spiritual practice for all those who want to take up the path of the bodhisattva--one who aspires to live life with courage, generosity, patience, fearlessness, and compassion.The Way of the Bodhisattva has long been treasured as an indispensable guide to enlightened living, offering a window into the greatest potential within us all. Written in the eighth century by the scholar and saint Shantideva, it presents a comprehensive view of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition’s highest ideal—to commit oneself to the life of a bodhisattva warrior, a person who is wholeheartedly dedicated to the freedom and common good of all beings. And it has inspired many of the tradition’s greatest teachers, providing a remarkable source of insight on the means by which we may heal ourselves and our troubled world. These essential teachings present the core of the Buddhist path, from cultivating deep-seated confidence to infusing one’s life with selflessness, joyfulness, kindness, and compassion. Pema Chödrön here invites you to journey more deeply into this liberating way of life, presenting Shantideva’s text verse-by-verse and offering both illuminating stories and practical exercises to enrich the text and bring its timeless teachings to life in our world today.
Becoming Bonnie: A Novel
by Jenni L. WalshFrom debut historical novelist Jenni L. Walsh--and just in time for the 50th anniversary of the Oscar award-winning film, Bonnie and Clyde--Becoming Bonnie is the untold story of how wholesome Bonnelyn Parker became half of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo!The summer of 1927 might be the height of the Roaring Twenties, but Bonnelyn Parker is more likely to belt out a church hymn than sling drinks at an illicit juice joint. She’s a sharp girl with plans to overcome her family's poverty, provide for herself, and maybe someday marry her boyfriend, Roy Thornton. But when Roy springs a proposal on her, and financial woes jeopardize her ambitions, Bonnelyn finds salvation in an unlikely place: Dallas's newest speakeasy, Doc's.Living the life of a moll at night, Bonnie remains a wholesome girl by day, engaged to Roy, attending school, and working toward a steady future. When Roy discovers her secret life, he embraces it—perhaps too much, especially when it comes to booze and gambling—she tries to make the pieces fit. Maybe she can have it all: the American Dream, the husband, and the intoxicating allure of jazz music. But her life—like her country—is headed for a crash.Bonnie Parker is about to meet Clyde Barrow.“A compelling account of a nation and a life in disarray—readers will feel for Bonnelyn as she finds herself scrabbling for survival in a world turned upside down.”—New York Times bestselling author Lauren WilligAt the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
Becoming Boston Strong: One Woman's Race to Run and Conquer the World's Greatest Marathon
by Amy Noelle RoeNamed One of the "Best Nonfiction Books to Read in 2019" by Woman's Day It’s 2004 and twentysomething Amy Noelle Roe is living by herself in Portland, Oregon, with few friends, little money, and no job. It’s not her year. With lots of free time on her hands, she remembers watching the Boston Marathon years ago and, inspired by that memory, decides to join a marathon training group, hoping that running 26.2 miles will give her something show for an otherwise entirely unproductive time in her life. A few months later, she crosses the finish line but is far from a Boston qualifying-time. But Amy has caught the marathon bug, and is determined to qualify for Boston, even if it’s just as a squeaker, a runner who just manages a BQ time. Eleven marathons later, and Amy finally squeaks by, signing up for the 2011 Boston Marathon. She completes it, qualifying again for the following year, and then again for 2013, the fated year of the Boston Marathon Bombing. Due to an injury, Amy crosses the 2013 finish line in a little over four hours, minutes before the bombs goes off. Her world is forever changed as she is shaken to her core.Becoming Boston Strong is Amy’s journey of falling in love with the Boston Marathon and its community, for better or for worse. It chronicles the ups and downs of her training, delving into the mystical appeal of the greatest marathon in the world and how it attracts those who return to it year after year. Hilarious and heartfelt, Becoming Boston Strong is for every person who ever dreamed of belonging to something bigger than themselves.
Becoming Bourgeois: Love, Kinship, and Power in Provincial France, 1670–1880
by Christopher H. JohnsonBecoming Bourgeois traces the fortunes of three French families in the municipality of Vannes, in Brittany—Galles, Jollivet, and Le Ridant—who rose to prominence in publishing, law, the military, public administration, and intellectual pursuits over the course of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Revisiting complex issues of bourgeois class formation from the perspective of the interior lives of families, Christopher H. Johnson argues that the most durable and socially advantageous links forging bourgeois ascent were those of kinship. Economic success, though certainly derived from the virtues of hard work and intelligent management, was always underpinned by marriage strategies and the diligent intervention of influential family members. Johnson's examination of hundreds of personal letters opens up a whole world: the vicissitudes of courtship; the centrality of marriage; the depths of conjugal love; the routines of pregnancy and the drama of childbirth; the practices of child rearing and education; the powerful place of siblings; the role of kin in advancing the next generation; tragedy and deaths; the enormous contributions of women in all aspects of becoming bourgeois; and the pleasures of gathering together in intimate soirées, grand balls, country houses, and civic and political organizations. Family love bound it all together, and this is ultimately what this book is about, as four generations of rather ordinary provincial people capture our hearts.
Becoming Brave: A sassy woman’s guide to turning fear into bravery
by Katie DeanIn this motivating, powerful and incredibly relatable book, Katie Dean provides the practical tools to nudge you out of your comfort zone, befriend your fear and let go of the feelings that were never yours to carry. Becoming Brave puts you back in the driver’s seat of your life and encourages a life lived on your terms, filled with confidence, the occasional cuss word and the ability to turn things around when the chips are down.Becoming Brave is an honest snapshot into a world where it’s possible to thrive with Anxiety.A book that encourages the courageousness to be both brave and vulnerable and celebrates sensitivity as a superpower.Katie Dean is the founder of YOUR WILD LIFE and not your typical motivational coach or a typical anything. She’s written Becoming Brave for other women like her: sassy women pursuing a path to creativity, spirituality and a life-loved even when that path is wildly messy.
Becoming Brave: How to Think Big, Dream Wildly, and Live Fear-Free
by Tracey MitchellA courageous life is not stumbled upon—it is cultivated.A brave life is the result of choosing to be bold and fearless when everything in you wants to cower in defeat. Tracey Mitchell offers afresh, innovative approach to intentionally living a meaningful, courageous life. Each chapter contains insightful wisdom, real-life stories, and illustrations of how to transform fear and anxiety into confidence and courage and become truly brave.“A modern-day field guide for the woman who wants to overcome.”—Jan Greenwood, author of Women at War; Equip Pastor, Gateway Church“Becoming Brave will light the pathway of ending the crippling stronghold of fear.”—Julie A. Nolan, president, TCT network“Becoming Brave is a challenge to entertain the impossible. . . . Get this book. You’ll never look at life the same way again.”—Kathleen Cooke, cofounder of Cooke Pictures and The Influence Lab; author of Hope 4 Today“Tracey’s wisdom is motivating and will add value to the lives of all who read this anointed book.”—Deborah Smith Pegues, TV host; bestselling author, 30 Days to Taming Your Tongue
Becoming Brianna (Emmie & Friends)
by Terri LibensonNew York Times bestseller! Terri Libenson returns with another endearing, relatable story of friendship and finding confidence. Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jennifer L. Holm. Middle school is full of challenges. Everyone knows how much brainy Bri likes the spotlight (not). So why did she ever agree to something that forces her to learn a new language, give a speech, help organize a party, and juggle drama at school and home?! As the big event inches closer, Bri wonders if it’s all worth it. . . . Told in alternating past and present chapters, Bri’s heartwarming story unfolds over the eight months leading up to her bat mitzvah—as well as over the course of the big day itself.Plus don't miss Terri Libenson's Invisible Emmie, Positively Izzy, and Just Jaime! <P><P><i>Advisory: Bookshare has learned that this book offers only partial accessibility. We have kept it in the collection because it is useful for some of our members. Benetech is actively working on projects to improve accessibility issues such as these.</i> (edited)
Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us About Raising Successful Children
by Roberta Golinkoff Kathy Hirsh-Pasek<P>In just a few years, today's children and teens will forge careers that look nothing like those their parents and grandparents knew. Even the definition of ""career"" and ""job"" are changing as more people build their own teams to create new businesses, apps, and services. Although these changes are well underway, most systems lag behind. Most education systems still subscribe to the idea that content is king. The exclusive focus on content is reflected in what is tested and taught, and even in the toys that we offer our children at home. Employers want to hire excellent communicators, critical thinkers, and innovators - in short, they want brilliant people. But they are often disappointed. So what can we do, as parents, to help our children be brilliant and successful? <P>Stories about the failures of our educational systems abound, but most of them stop after pointing out the problems. Becoming Brilliant goes beyond complaining to offer solutions that parents can apply right now. Authors Roberta Michnick Golinkoff and Kathy Hirsh-Pasek provide a science-based framework for how we should be educating children in and outside school. Parents become agents of change for children's success when they nurture six critical skills. <P>Constructed from the latest scientific evidence and presented in an accessible way rich with examples, this book introduces the 6Cs - collaboration, communication, content, critical thinking, creative innovation, and confidence - along with tips to optimise children's development in each area. Taken together, these are the skills that will make up the straight-A report card for success in the 21st century.</P>
Becoming Buddha
by Robert SachsTo "Become Buddha" is to AWAKE. We need to awake to our personal responsibility-not only for our own lives but for the world around us. Individual efforts can change the world. This book does not promise enlightenment but it will provide a path-a path that, if you follow it, will transform your life. Buddhist masters say that we are in a "Dark Age". Terrorist attacks, wars, economic failures, and natural disasters have created an atmosphere of fear. Tibetan masters encourage us not to lose heart-catastrophes have happened before and we have overcome them. Robert Sachs shows how Tibetan Buddhist teachings can have a real influence on our personal lived and equally on contemporary politics. He presents the four thoughts that revolutionize the mind, and demonstrates how we must take personal responsibility for the future. The Four Noble Truths show us there is no need to despair; and the four components of action will change our attitude to life and give us practical instruction on how to act. Using the power of meditation to make a difference, we can turn the inherent goodness of the human race into positive energy to help transform the world. The Venerable Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche used to say, "A mind that is transformed, free and cheerful can help create peace and happiness. Let us start down the path from this very moment."
Becoming Bulletproof: Protect Yourself, Read People, Influence Situations, and Live Fearlessly
by Evy PoumpourasFormer Secret Service agent and star of Bravo&’s Spy Games Evy Poumpouras shares lessons learned from protecting presidents, as well insights and skills from the oldest and most elite security force in the world to help you prepare for stressful situations, instantly read people, influence how you are perceived, and live a more fearless life.Becoming Bulletproof means transforming yourself into a stronger, more confident, and more powerful person. Evy Poumpouras—former Secret Service agent to three presidents and one of only five women to receive the Medal of Valor—demonstrates how we can overcome our everyday fears, have difficult conversations, know who to trust and who might not have our best interests at heart, influence situations, and prepare for the unexpected. When you have become bulletproof, you are your best, most courageous, and most powerful version of you. Poumpouras shows us that ultimately true strength is found in the mind, not the body. Courage involves facing our fears, but it is also about resilience, grit, and having a built-in BS detector and knowing how to use it. In Becoming Bulletproof, Poumpouras demonstrates how to heighten our natural instincts to employ all these qualities and move from fear to fearlessness.
Becoming Buoyant: Helping Teachers and Students Cope with the Day to Day
by Marc SmithBecoming Buoyant shows teachers how they can help students to bounce back from daily setbacks and challenges. Drawing on the five main principles of academic buoyancy – confidence, coordination, control, composure and commitment – it investigates the evidence base from which the techniques are drawn and offers practical guidance on applying them in the classroom. Emphasising the role played by internal and external factors, as well as wider school and community influences, the book offers practical guidance on: Choosing and pursuing personal goals Overcoming procrastination Recognising and dealing with anxiety How to use motivation, anxiety and stress management as ways to encourage and nurture self-efficacy. Written by an experienced teacher and chartered psychologist, Becoming Buoyant is essential reading for all teachers that want their students to be resilient and flourish in the classroom.
Becoming Bureaucrats
by Zachary W. OberfieldBureaucrats are important symbols of the governments that employ them. Contrary to popular stereotypes, they determine much about the way policy is ultimately enacted and experienced by citizens. While we know a great deal about bureaucrats and their actions, we know little about their development. Are particular types of people drawn to government work, or are government workers forged by the agencies they work in? Put simply, are bureaucrats born, or are they made?In Becoming Bureaucrats, Zachary W. Oberfield traces the paths of two sets of public servants--police officers and welfare caseworkers--from their first day on the job through the end of their second year. Examining original data derived from surveys and in-depth interviews, along with ethnographic observations from the author's year of training and work as a welfare caseworker, Becoming Bureaucrats charts how public-sector entrants develop their bureaucratic identities, motivations, and attitudes. Ranging from individual stories to population-wide statistical analysis, Oberfield's study complicates the long-standing cliché that bureaucracies churn out bureaucrats with mechanical efficiency. He demonstrates that entrants' bureaucratic personalities evolved but remained strongly tied to the views, identities, and motives that they articulated at the outset of their service. As such, he argues that who bureaucrats become and, as a result, how bureaucracies function, depends strongly on patterns of self-selection and recruitment.Becoming Bureaucrats not only enriches our theoretical understanding of bureaucratic behavior but also provides practical advice to elected officials and public managers on building responsive, accountable workforces.
Becoming Cajun, Becoming American: The Acadian in American Literature from Longfellow to James Lee Burke (Southern Literary Studies)
by Maria Hebert-LeiterFrom antebellum times, Louisiana's unique multipartite society included a legal and social space for intermediary racial groups such as Acadians, Creoles, and Creoles of Color. In Becoming Cajun, Becoming American, Maria Hebert-Leiter explores how American writers have portrayed Acadian culture over the past 150 years. Combining a study of Acadian literary history with an examination of Acadian ethnic history in light of recent social theories, she offers insight into the Americanization process experienced by Acadians -- who over time came to be known as Cajuns -- during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.Hebert-Leiter examines the entire history of the Acadian, or Cajun, in American literature, beginning with Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem Evangeline and the writings of George Washington Cable, including his novel Bonaventure. The cultural complexity of Acadian and Creole identities led many writers to rely on stereotypes in Acadian characters, but as Hebert-Leiter shows, the ambiguity of Louisiana's class and racial divisions also allowed writers to address complex and controversial -- and sometimes taboo -- subjects. She emphasizes the fiction of Kate Chopin, whose short stories contain Acadian characters accepted as white Americans during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Representations of the Acadian in literature reflect the Acadians' path towards assimilation, as they celebrated their differences while still adopting an all-American notion of self. In twentieth-century writing, Acadian figures came to be more often called Cajun, and increasingly outsiders perceived them not simply as exotic or mythic beings but as complex persons who fit into traditional American society while reflecting its cultural diversity. Hebert-Leiter explores this transition in Ernest Gaines's novel A Gathering of Old Men and James Lee Burke's detective novels featuring Dave Robicheaux. She also discusses the works of Ada Jack Carver, Elma Godchaux, Shirley Ann Grau, and other writers.From Longfellow through Tim Gautreaux, Acadian and Cajun literature captures the stages of this fascinating cultural dynamism, making it a pivotal part of any history of American ethnicity and of Cajun culture in particular. Concise and accessible, Becoming Cajun, Becoming American provides an excellent introduction to American Acadian and Cajun literature.
Becoming Calder (Acadia Duology #1)
by Mia SheridanThe first book in the Acadia Duology, a forbidden friends-to-lovers romance, from the New York Times bestselling author of Archer's Voice.The light of love has always found its way into even the darkest of places, from the beginning of time to the end of the world.There is a place in today's America with no electricity, no plumbing, and no modern conveniences. In this place, there is no room for dreams, no space for self-expression, and no tolerance for ambition.In the community of Acadia lives a boy named Calder with the body of a god and the heart of a warrior. He serves his family with faith and honor, but he dares to dream of more…especially when an angel-faced girl his age is brought to their community. To Acadia, Eden is obedient perfection, prophesized to lead them to eternal peace, but to Calder, even at first glance, she is so much more.Calder and Eden were never meant to be friends. Certainly never meant to fall in love. After all, Eden is betrothed to Acadia's leader, secluded until the day of her destiny. But as she and Calder steal fleeting moments and forbidden kisses, their hearts grow dangerously tangled, and it's too late to heed the warnings.In Acadia, they can never be together. But Acadia is all they know. If they want any chance at a future, they must risk everything to choose between the life they were taught to live and the dream their hearts want to follow.
Becoming Calder: A forbidden friends-to-lovers romance (Acadia Doulogy)
by Mia SheridanThe first book in the Acadia Duology, a forbidden friends-to-lovers romance, from the New York Times bestselling author of the TikTok sensation ARCHER'S VOICE.....................The light of love has always found its way into even the darkest of places, from the beginning of time to the end of the world.There is a place in today's America with no electricity, no plumbing, and no modern conveniences. In this place, there is no room for dreams, no space for self-expression, and no tolerance for ambition.In the community of Acadia lives a boy named Calder with the body of a god and the heart of a warrior. He serves his family with faith and honour, but he dares to dream of more . . . especially when an angel-faced girl his age is brought to their community. To Acadia, Eden is obedient perfection, prophesized to lead them to eternal peace, but to Calder, even at first glance, she is so much more.Calder and Eden were never meant to be friends. Certainly never meant to fall in love. After all, Eden is betrothed to Acadia's leader, secluded until the day of her destiny. But as she and Calder steal fleeting moments and forbidden kisses, their hearts grow dangerously tangled, and it's too late to heed the warnings.In Acadia, they can never be together. But Acadia is all they know. If they want any chance at a future, they must risk everything to choose between the life they were taught to live and the dream their hearts want to follow.....................Praise for Mia Sheridan:'The bible to how to write a good, convincing love story' L.J. Shen'There is no love story like a Mia Sheridan love story' A.L. Jackson
Becoming Canada
by Ken DrydenIn this passionate, thought-provoking vision for Canada, Ken Dryden argues that we have paid a price for having the wrong sense of ourselves as a country. The old definition of Canada - genial but sometimes too self-deprecating and ambition-killing - is no longer the real story. Through recent global events such as Barack Obama's election and first year in office; the climate conference in Copenhagen; and even the 2010 Winter Olympics, Dryden explores the clash between politics and story, and the importance of a nation finding its true narrative in order to thrive. By tracing the ups and downs in contemporary Canadian politics, from the Liberal leadership race to Stephen Harper's Conservative minority governments, Michael Ignatieff's appointment as Opposition leader, and prorogation, Ken Dryden presciently identifies the obstacles facing Canada. He observes a sea change taking place among Canadians, who want something more for their country. The ambition of Canada's policies and the nature of our politics will not change, Dryden says, until we conceive of a new story for the nation. Becoming Canada is at once a celebration of Canada and a timely, ardent rallying cry to all Canadians to build upon Canada's unique place in the world. It is certain to inspire new conversations about our Canada's identity at home and abroad.From the Hardcover edition.
Becoming Carly Klein: A Novel
by Elizabeth HarlanFans of contemporary coming-of-age young adult fiction will root for Carly Klein as she fights to find her place in the world—even if she has to lie to everyone in her life to get there.Neglected by self-absorbed parents who wind up divorcing by the time she&’s sixteen, Carly Klein is sustained by her best friend, Lauren. But when Lauren and her family move away, Carly is forced to find new ways to entertain herself. It doesn&’t take her long to locate the perfect subject: her therapist mother&’s patients. Carly soon becomes obsessed with one patient in particular—Daniel, a blind junior at Columbia College—and, desperate to become part of his life and knowing he&’ll never go for a high school girl, gets close to him by pretending to be a student at neighboring Barnard College. Becoming Carly Klein follows Carly on a roller coaster romp through the exhilaration and disappointment of first love—and the unintended consequences of disguise, deception, and discovery.
Becoming Centaur: Eighteenth-Century Masculinity and English Horsemanship (Animalibus: Of Animals and Cultures #9)
by Monica MattfeldIn this study of the relationship between men and their horses in seventeenth- and eighteenth-century England, Monica Mattfeld explores the experience of horsemanship and how it defined one’s gendered and political positions within society.Men of the period used horses to transform themselves, via the image of the centaur, into something other—something powerful, awe-inspiring, and mythical. Focusing on the manuals, memoirs, satires, images, and ephemera produced by some of the period’s most influential equestrians, Mattfeld examines how the concepts and practices of horse husbandry evolved in relation to social, cultural, and political life. She looks closely at the role of horses in the world of Thomas Hobbes and William Cavendish; the changes in human social behavior and horse handling ushered in by elite riding houses such as Angelo’s Academy and Mr. Carter’s; and the public perception of equestrian endeavors, from performances at places such as Astley’s Amphitheatre to the satire of Henry William Bunbury. Throughout, Mattfeld shows how horses aided the performance of idealized masculinity among communities of riders, in turn influencing how men were perceived in regard to status, reputation, and gender.Drawing on human-animal studies, gender studies, and historical studies, Becoming Centaur offers a new account of masculinity that reaches beyond anthropocentrism to consider the role of animals in shaping man.
Becoming Centaur: Eighteenth-Century Masculinity and English Horsemanship (Animalibus)
by Monica MattfeldIn this study of the relationship between men and their horses in seventeenth- and eighteenth-century England, Monica Mattfeld explores the experience of horsemanship and how it defined one’s gendered and political positions within society.Men of the period used horses to transform themselves, via the image of the centaur, into something other—something powerful, awe-inspiring, and mythical. Focusing on the manuals, memoirs, satires, images, and ephemera produced by some of the period’s most influential equestrians, Mattfeld examines how the concepts and practices of horse husbandry evolved in relation to social, cultural, and political life. She looks closely at the role of horses in the world of Thomas Hobbes and William Cavendish; the changes in human social behavior and horse handling ushered in by elite riding houses such as Angelo’s Academy and Mr. Carter’s; and the public perception of equestrian endeavors, from performances at places such as Astley’s Amphitheatre to the satire of Henry William Bunbury. Throughout, Mattfeld shows how horses aided the performance of idealized masculinity among communities of riders, in turn influencing how men were perceived in regard to status, reputation, and gender.Drawing on human-animal studies, gender studies, and historical studies, Becoming Centaur offers a new account of masculinity that reaches beyond anthropocentrism to consider the role of animals in shaping man.
Becoming Charlemagne: Europe, Baghdad, and the Empires of A.D. 800
by Jeff Sypeck“Magnificently chronicles four significant years in the emperor’s life . . . A splendid portrait [with] dazzling glimpses of Charlemagne’s life and times.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)On Christmas morning in the year 800, Pope Leo III placed the crown of imperial Rome on the brow of a Germanic king named Karl. With one gesture, the man later hailed as Charlemagne claimed his empire and forever shaped the destiny of Europe. Becoming Charlemagne tells the story of the international power struggle that led to this world-changing event.“Illuminat[ing] the shadowy corners of an era shrouded in the mists of legend” (Kirkus Reviews), this far-ranging book shows how the Frankish king and his wise counselors built an empire not only through warfare but also by careful diplomacy. With consummate political skill, Charlemagne partnered with a scandal-ridden pope, fended off a ruthless Byzantine empress, nurtured Jewish communities in his empire, and fostered ties with a famous Islamic caliph. For 1,200 years, the deeds of Charlemagne captured the imagination of his descendants, inspiring kings and crusaders, the conquests of Napoléon and Hitler, and the optimistic architects of the European Union.Evoking a long-ago world of kings, caliphs, merchants, and monks, Jeff Sypeck crafts a vivid portrait of Karl, the ruler who became a legend, and transports readers beyond Europe to the glittering palaces of Constantinople and streets of medieval Baghdad, bringing alive an age of empire building that still resonates today.“Vibrant . . . an inspired, instantly readable work of popular history.” —Booklist“Describes in wonderful detail the Byzantine empire and Queen Irene, the Arab world of Harun al-Rashid, and the nation-state headed by Pope Leo III.” —Providence Journal
Becoming Charley
by Kelly DiPucchioA New York Times bestselling author and an award-winning illustrator team up for a striking, modern-day take on The Very Hungry Caterpillar that celebrates staying true to oneself. <p><p>Everyone is trying to teach Charley the right way to become a butterfly: Eat your milkweed! Think black! Think orange!But Charley's busy admiring the many beautiful things in the world. Like the swaying trees, and the tall mountains, and the turquoise sea. . . . Is there really a "right" way for Charley to become a butterfly? <p><p>Young readers will see themselves in Charley--a little caterpillar with an emerging identity--in this dazzling picture book that beautifully explores the nature of self-love.