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God in Public: How the Bible Speaks Truth to Power Today
by N. T. WrightDrawing on a collection of lectures that N. T. Wright delivered from 1999 to 2015, God in Public brings together the message of Jesus--in its larger biblical context--and the challenges of the contemporary public and political worlds.In this book, Wright challenges the West's response to 9/11 and then expands to discuss a more Jesus inspired way of approaching the public problems we find ourselves in, based on the following Jesus' life and teachings.Questions such as: What has Christianity to do with power? Why must the church remind those in authority of their responsibilities? And What can Christians do to act as the voice of the voiceless? Are central in this book as Wright demonstrates the many ways in which faithful exegesis of scripture can throw fresh light--God's light--on the great philosophical and ethical problems of our day.
An Untroubled Heart: Calming Anxiety and Finding God's Peace (A 30-Day Morning and Evening Devotional)
by Kara StoutBegin your day in God's comforting presence and end your day in His calming embrace. This unique 30-day devotional reminds you that God is greater than your troubled heart and more present than your anxious thoughts.Whether you are stressed in the morning about the day ahead or desperate to calm your mind in the evening before bed, peace often feels elusive—and sometimes God does too. But even in the midst of life's uncertainties, God is ever present and ready to offer His comfort, if only you seek Him.In An Untroubled Heart, author Kara Stout offers 30 morning devotions to carry you through the day and 30 companion evening devotions to settle your heart at night. Let your soul breathe in peace as you…Bookend your day with bite-sized reflections and prayers that meet you where you are.Grow in your relationship with God and build a habit of coming to Him in prayer.Realize you are not alone in your feelings of worry and overwhelm.Strengthen your faith day by day as you immerse yourself in God's truth. The deep peace you crave is available, no matter what your anxious thoughts are telling you. Come experience the truth of Scripture, the comfort of the Spirit, and the kind of rest that only a good and perfect Father can give.
Creation, Power, and Truth: The Gospel in a World of Cultural Confusion
by N. T. WrightIn Creation, Power and Truth, N. T. Wright invites readers to consider the crucial ways in which the Christian gospel challenges and subverts the intellectual, moral and political values that pervade contemporary culture. In doing so, he asks searching questions about three defining characteristics of our time: neo-gnosticism, neo-imperialism and postmodernity. Employing a robust Trinitarian framework, Wright looks afresh at key elements of the biblical story while drawing out new and unexpected connections between ancient and modern worldviews. The result is a vigorous critique of common cultural assumptions and controlling narratives, past and present, and a compelling read for all who want to hear, speak and live the gospel of Christ in a world of cultural confusion.
Every Thought Captive Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video: How Renewing Your Mind Can Change Your Life
by Kyle IdlemanLearn the Biblical Path to Transforming How You Think.Are your thoughts drawing you closer to God or pulling you away? Are they building you up or tearing you down? Like molten glass, our lives are constantly being shaped and molded by our thoughts.Join Kyle Idleman in this five-session video Bible study (video access included) as he forges a path through the world's distractions and lies and gets to the heart of true spiritual growth: the renewing of your mind.This isn't a study on the power of positive thinking but about learning how God made your brain. Learn how setting your thoughts on Christ can create new patterns of thought that will change your life.This study guide has everything you need for a full Bible study experience, including:The study guide itself—with discussion and personal reflection questions, video notes, and Scripture exercises.An individual access code to stream all five video sessions online (DVD also available separately). Sessions and video run times:Conformed or Transformed (19:00)The Pattern of Distraction (19:00)The Pattern of Offense (18:30)Say It Out Loud (19:00)Win the Morning (18:00) Streaming video access included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2029. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.
Spiritual and Religious: The Gospel in an Age of Paganism
by N. T. Wright"I'm spiritual but not religious." It's a phrase that's often used to explain why, although they don't go to church, people still feel that life must have some kind of transcendent meaning.But what does this "spirituality" consist of? In Spiritual and Religious N. T. Wright argues that, whether people realize it or not, they are often simply reverting to forms of ancient paganism that are very similar to those that confronted the earliest Christians.With his characteristic verve and incisiveness, Wright traces the parallels between the worldviews of the first and twenty-first centuries, and shows how a better understanding of God as Trinity can breathe fresh life into our understanding and preaching of the gospel today.He concludes this prophetic book with a call to contemporary Christians to make a clear choice:"Are we to compromise with paganism, to assimilate, to water down the distinctives of Christian faith in order to make it more palatable? Are we to retreat into dualism, into a private 'spiritual' religion which will assure us of an other-worldly salvation but which will leave the powers of the present world unchallenged. . . ? Or are we to worship the God who is Father, Son and Spirit, and to find in that worship a renewed courage, a renewed sense of direction, and a renewed hope for the future?"
A Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone
by A. J. SwobodaBeing a know-it-all isn't a fruit of the Spirit. But the ancient call of Jesus beckons us to "love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength" (Matt. 22:37). How do we love God with our mind? In A Teachable Spirit, A.J. Swoboda helps followers of Jesus develop the discipline of teachability.In a world marked by distraction, mind-numbing entertainment, endless content, polarization, and a decreasing desire to humbly learn from those we dislike, the way we engage sources of information like news media, science, and social media content could not be more important. Thankfully, the Christian faith provides sharp tools and rich traditions for learning how to be the best learners. By drawing on his experiences as a professor, theologian, and lay pastor, Swoboda explores the potency of seeing learning as a part of one's spiritual formation to Jesus.With the right posture, Christians can learn from even the most unexpected places.
Anything
by Rebecca Stead"An unforgettable story about change with a loving father-daughter bond at its heart."—Matt de la Peña, Newbery Medal–winning author of Last Stop on Market Street Newbery Medalist Rebecca Stead’s first picture book is a transporting tale about the power of an honest wish, the courage to speak it out loud, and the imagination to bring it to life.What’s more powerful than a secret wish? A wish you say out loud. Anything paints a tender picture of a father and daughter moving into a new home. Dad brings a birthday cake for the new apartment to celebrate their new beginning and tells his daughter she can wish for anything (or, more precisely, "three Anythings"). Over the course of the day, she wishes for some of her favorite things, including a rainbow and "the biggest slice of pizza in the whole world." But she keeps some of her wishes inside. Because what she really wants is to go back home to their old apartment, with its big blue bathtub and space in the closet for hide-and-seek. When she finally admits this last wish, her dad takes her on a journey, and by the book’s final pages, she is home . . . in every way that matters. Pairing an enchanting story from Rebecca Stead (author of the Newbery Medal-winning When You Reach Me) with delightful artwork from Gracey Zhang (illustrator of the Caldecott Honor-winning Noodles on a Bicycle), Anything is pure magic. A story that will resonate with every young reader, it is a powerful reminder that sometimes making a wish is a way of telling ourselves we're ready for something new.BIG FEELINGS: Change can feel hard or even scary. This book about moving is for anyone facing new beginnings or uncertainty and the emotions that come with navigating the unknown, from fear and anxiety to excitement and hope. It’s a reassuring and uplifting read that shows a child—and her dad—using their imaginations and emotional connection to make room for something new. FATHER-DAUGHTER LOVE: This is a heartwarming portrait of a beautiful father-daughter relationship built on love and trust. By the end of the story, she follows his example of generosity and is able to grant his wish, however small. This pitch-perfect ending will stay with readers long after the last page turns.Perfect for: Kids facing change, new beginnings, or uncertainty Parents seeking a comforting, uplifting book to share with children Educators and therapists looking for resources to coach young readers through challenges and change Father’s Day or birthday gift for dad Fans of Rebecca Stead books, including When You Reach Me, The List of Things That Will Not Change, and The Lost Library Fans of Gracey Zhang books, including Noodles on a Bicycle, Lala’s Words, and The Upside Down Hat
The Story of Gumluck and the Heroes: Book Three
by Adam RexThe story of Gumluck continues! From New York Times bestselling author Adam Rex, this acclaimed, laugh-out-loud series is perfect for young fans of magic, wizardry, and the special alchemy of friendship.A hero fights for what is right! A hero's aim is true! Is the hero of this story like that? I don’t know. He is the kind of person who might turn you into a donut if he's thinking too hard about donuts. His name is Gumluck the Wizard, and he is on a Quest. Along the way he’ll discover singing goblins, unicorn magic, a possible ostrich that breathes definite fire, and three companions who are pretty sure they’re heroes already.With delightful illustrations and a lighthearted mix of fantasy and fairytale elements, this third installment in the chapter book series starring Gumluck the Wizard is a hilarious tale for the reluctant hero in all of us.FIVE STARRED REVIEWS FOR BOOK ONE!"Adorable."—Shelf Awareness, starred review"Readers will fall in love with [Gumluck]."—School Library Journal, starred review "Silly and heartfelt."—Publishers Weekly, starred review"[A] spellbinding read."—Booklist, starred review"Here's a tale to treasure."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review JUST RIGHT FOR NEW READERS: With simple sentences, engaging illustrations, and big themes explored with humor and heart, this series is the perfect choice for newly independent readers who love magical tales.DYNAMIC DUO: This hapless wizard and his lovingly critical friend Helvetica the Raven are memorable characters young readers will love rooting for.FAVORITE AUTHOR: Acclaimed children's book creator Adam Rex is known for his funny and smart stories. The winner of countless state list awards, Rex is the author of beloved books including, On Account of the Gum, Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich, School's First Day of School, and many more.Perfect for:Fans of Adam RexParents and grandparents seeking funny early chapter book seriesTeachers and librarians looking for engaging fantasy and magic books for emerging readersAnyone looking for funny, fantasy chapter booksReaders who enjoy Chris Colfer's A Tale of Magic, the Unicorn Academy series, and Magic Tree House books
Star Wars Dad Jokes: The Best Worst Jokes and Puns from a Galaxy Far, Far Away . . . . (Star Wars)
by Kelly KnoxA charmingly corny book of Star Wars-inspired dad jokes, perfect for geeky fathers, pun lovers, and sci-fi fans of any age.What kind of stories do Wookiee parents tell at bedtime? Hairy tales.Why do the warriors of Mandalore leave their helmets on? It's Mandator-ian.A Jedi Master fights with a lightsaber, but a Jedi father wields the most powerful weapon of all: comedy. Fight the Sith with the knee-slapping, groan-inducing power of these Star Wars-inspired dad jokes or join the dark side and terrorize your family and friends with an army of bad puns. The perfect balance of hokey and wholesome, Star Wars: Dad Jokes is sure to slip through any defenses and have even the most serious of Padawans rolling their eyes.As Master Yoda might say: Laugh, you must!© & ™ 2023 Lucasfilm Ltd.FAMILY FUN: Star Wars is nothing if not a family drama—after all, it boasts one of the most famous dads in movie history. This wholesome, light-hearted book taps into the same family-friendly appeal as Jeffrey Brown’s Vader and Son series, with jokes that will delight parents and Star Wars fans of all ages.UNIVERSAL HUMOR: Like your old man’s trusty baseball cap, dad jokes never go out of style. Jokes and puns continue to be a universal crowd-pleaser. This unique blend of corny and groan-inducing humor is guaranteed to make anyone laugh or, at the very least, shake their head in intergalactic wonder.STAR WARS GIFTS: Star Wars is the fandom that never sleeps. With frequent releases on Disney+ and a full calendar of social media holidays, including the annual "May the 4th Be With You" and "I am Your Father’s Day" celebrations, you don’t have to travel to a galaxy far, far away to find the perfect gifting moment for a Star Wars fan in your life.Perfect for:Fans of Star Wars movies, books, and giftsJokesters and pun loversFather's Day gifts for dads, granddads, uncles, and parental figuresBaby shower or new baby gift
Star Wars Women of the Galaxy Updated and Expanded (Star Wars)
by Amy RatcliffeNow in paperback, fully revised and updated with characters from Disney+ shows including The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and The Acolyte, as well as The High Republic, Jedi: Fallen Order, and more, this is the essential celebration of the powerful female characters of Star Wars.They are heroes and villains, Sith and Jedi, senators and scoundrels, mothers, mercenaries, artists, and pilots. The women of the Star Wars galaxy drive its stories and saga forward at every level. This beautifully illustrated, fully authorized book profiles fascinating Star Wars women from across films, fiction, comics, animation, and games. Each character is explored through key story beats, fresh insights, and behind-the-scenes details by author Amy Ratcliffe. Also showcasing more than 130 illustrations by a dynamic range of female and non-binary artists, here is an inspiring celebration of the Star Wars characters that help create a galaxy far, far away.© & ™ 2024 Lucasfilm Ltd.NEW CHARACTERS, UPDATES THROUGHOUT: This new edition adds 20 new characters and updates the 75 characters included in the hardcover edition, expanding key profiles such as Rey, Leia, and Ahsoka.NEW ARTWORK: Each new character is featured in a new full-page illustration by a female or nonbinary artist. Expanded profiles also include new artwork.AN INVITATION FOR EXPLORATION: Delivering character profiles that act as introductions but are also rich with detail and insight, this is a fresh way to dive into Star Wars lore through the lens of characters whose stories may span multiple media, and go deeper into the stories of beloved characters.CHARACTERS FROM ACROSS THE GALAXY AND MEDIA (BOOKS, COMICS, TV, GAMES, FILMS): Leia Organa, Rey, Ahsoka Tano, Fennec Shand, Kay Vess, Jyn Erso, Bo-Katan Kryze, Osha and Mae, Padmé Amidala, Avar Kriss, Maz Kanata, Doctor Aphra, and many more . . .Perfect for:Star Wars fans looking to explore or celebrate the female characters of the galaxyAn entry path for anyone looking for dive deeper into stories of favorite characters in different media, or discover new favorite characters
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: Traveler's Guide to Batuu (Star Wars)
by Cole HortonSet your course for the edge of the galaxy to the planet Batuu, where you’ll be immersed in the alluring offerings of a mysterious outpost and thriving port that is a haven for scoundrels, rogues, and smugglers.This is the official in-world guide to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the themed land at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida and the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, where you can live out your own Star Wars story, fly the Millennium Falcon, and explore a remote outpost full of surprises. Upon arrival to Batuu, you will have access to an authentic, in-world environment unlike anything you have ever experienced before! Whether living your adventure in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge or simply enjoying intergalactic armchair travel, immerse yourself in the pages of this one-of-a-kind Star Wars book to explore:Full-color photos, illustrations, and mapsOriginal content from Lucasfilm Ltd. and Walt Disney ImagineeringBackstories to characters and locations found in Black Spire Outpost This guide is written completely in-world, as if for a visitor from another part of the galaxy looking for recommendations on where to eat, shop, and sightsee while on a trip to this exciting location. An outstanding gift or self-purchase, this in-depth literary and visual companion will delight any Star Wars fan.Perfect for:Star Wars fans and families planning a trip, exploring Batuu, remembering a visit, or looking forward to the next oneDisney and Disney Parks’ fans of all ages
How to Spot a Mermaid
by Jane YolenFrom award-winning and beloved author Jane Yolen, this delightful picture book is a funny and endearing field guide to the unique world of mermaids.Would you like to spot a mermaid? If so, you will need a few supplies and a great deal of patience. As we learn in these informative illustrated pages, mermaids are very shy and do not make friends easily. But if you find a place near the water, sit very still, and are willing to share your Goldfish crackers, you just might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one. And who knows . . . there may even be a mermaid, somewhere, hoping to catch a glimpse of you, too! Mermaid fans and science-minded young readers alike will love the step-by-step guidance in How to Spot a Mermaid, a clever how-to book that celebrates the magic in the world around us and helps us to let our imaginations run wild and swim the line between reality and fiction.FOR IMAGINATIVE EXPLORERS: Binoculars, map, pad, and pen—check. The main character who leads the way on this mermaid search is an engaged young scientist doing exciting fieldwork. She is at the ready for real-world observational science with all the tools she needs—including a sense of curiosity! ENVIRONMENTAL BOOK FOR KIDS: Preservation of our wilderness—and our waterways in particular—is essential, and this book makes a great, upbeat starting point for discussions of the importance and wonder of our world's natural habitats and ecosystems. GORGEOUS UNDERWATER WORLD: This captivating marine life book illuminates the amazing biodiversity and wonder of our world's waterways by telling the story of one curious kid's search for an ever-elusive mermaid. Perfect for: Young readers who love mermaid tales and nature books Parents and grandparents looking for books that spark imagination and curiosity Educators looking for books that model fieldwork, observational science, and STEM themes in a fun way Fans of Jane Yolen books, including the How Do Dinosaurs series, Owl Moon, and What To Do With a Box Fans of books illustrated by Sally Deng, including Warrior Princess: The Story of Khutulun and Jella Lepman and Her Library of Dreams Readers who love How to Catch a Mermaid, The World of Emily Windsnap, and The Little Mermaid Stories
Good Movies as Old Books: Films Reimagined as Vintage Book Covers
by Matt StevensImagine your favorite movies as vintage books! This clever collection features iconic films, cult classics, and box office hits brilliantly designed to look like original book covers—a delight for film fanatics and bibliophiles alike.A good book cover is evocative, emotional, and revealing. It lures readers in and invites them to begin a journey with just a hint of the story that is about to unfold. They are true works of art. Though many great movies are based on books, many more are not. Good Movies as Old Books features more than 200 beloved films reimagined as book covers for the first time, giving readers the distinct pleasure of seeing a favorite film transformed into cover art. Through masterful design, art, and typography, graphic designer Matt Stevens has created original vintage-style covers across film genres and eras of book design. From Braveheart to Parasite, Do the Right Thing to Top Gun, this page-turning assortment of box office hits, acclaimed indies, golden era gems, and cult classics will inspire you to discover new favorites or rethink the films you've seen a thousand times. A whole new way to celebrate the movies we love, this is the perfect gift for bibliophiles and cinephiles.BOOKISH FUN MEETS FILM FANDOM: This art book sits directly in the center of the Venn diagram of book and movie love. It's a fun and fresh appreciation of books and cinema, perfect for both avid readers and movie fanatics. ORIGINAL COLLECTIBLE ART: Matt Stevens is a graphic designer and illustrator whose passion for film shines through his unique works of art. He uses a dazzling variety of styles and graphics that perfectly reflect each film’s tone, visuals, and emotion. MOVIE LOVERS GIFT: The ultimate illustrated statement book for anyone with multiple streaming subscriptions, who loves movies based on books, or who regularly goes to the movie theater, this handsome book features a textured cover and eye-catching foil for an extra-special, luxe feel. COMPANION SET OF ART CARDS: Pair this giftable volume with the Good Movies as Old Books: 100 Postcards, a boxed set of 100 images drawn from the book, to create an irresistible set.Perfect for: Cinephiles and bibliophiles Film students and art students Movie buffs and avid readers Gift-giving for Father's Day, Mother's Day, graduation, or birthday Art book collectors and design enthusiasts Fans of Jane Mount's Bibliophile, 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die, The New York Times Book of Movies, and Accidentally Wes Anderson
Ephemeral City: A People's History of Chicago's Century of Progress World's Fair
by Lindsay FullertonLess celebrated than the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, the 1933–1934 Century of Progress Exposition brought visitors face-to-face with gleaming American consumerism in the midst of the Great Depression. Lindsay Fullerton draws on a wealth of personal photographs, scrapbooks, oral histories, and writings to illuminate the wildly different experiences of fairgoers against the backdrop of a city steeped in poverty and segregation. The Exposition took place amidst massive changes sparked by expansion of mass media, Franklin Roosevelt’s election, the repeal of Prohibition, and the Great Migration. A diverse cross-section of Chicagoans informs Fullerton’s history of the event in the context of the fast-changing America of the interwar era. These personal accounts tell stories of how attendees interpreted their own experiences while being surrounded by whiz-bang products and full-throated evangelism on the benefits of progress. A colorful people’s history, Ephemeral City takes readers inside the other Chicago World’s Fair and how visitors interacted with a pivotal moment in American history.
A Force More Powerful: A Century of Nonviolent Conflict
by Peter Ackerman Jack DuVallThis nationally-acclaimed book shows how popular movements used nonviolent action to overthrow dictators, obstruct military invaders and secure human rights in country after country, over the past century. Peter Ackerman and Jack DuVall depict how nonviolent sanctions--such as protests, strikes and boycotts--separate brutal regimes from their means of control. They tell inside stories--how Danes outmaneuvered the Nazis, Solidarity defeated Polish communism, and mass action removed a Chilean dictator--and also how nonviolent power is changing the world today, from Burma to Serbia.
Desert Moon
by Jennifer TaylorIrresistible attraction!Natalie knew she should be grateful to Flynn O'Rourke. He'd helped her out of a sticky situation. But it was hard to be indebted to a man who strode into your life and took it over. Besides, Natalie felt she couldn't trust him.Flynn seemed to have something else on his mind-she could only hope that it wasn't what was bothering her. It wouldn't do for both of them to feel this overwhelming attraction when they were all alone in the hot North African sand!Dreams can come true in Jennifer Taylor's spellbinding new trilogy. Look out for TIDES OF LOVE next month!
Don't Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money: The Essential Parenting Guide to the College Years
by Helen E. Johnson Christine Schelhas-MillerThis completely revised and updated edition of Don't Tell Me What To Do, Just Send Money prepares parents for the issues that they will encounter during their children's college years. Since our original publication over ten years ago, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of cell phone and internet technology. The birth of the term ‘helicopter parent' is, in part, due to the instant and frequent connectivity that parents have with their children today. Parents are struggling with the appropriate use of communicative technology and aren't aware of its impact on their child's development, both personally and academically. With straightforward practicality and using humorous and helpful case examples and dialogues, Don't Tell Me What To Do, Just Send Money helps parents lay the groundwork for a new kind of relationship so that they can help their child more effectively handle everything they'll encounter during their college years.
Slow Talkin' Texan (Man of the Month)
by Mary Lynn BaxterMAN of the MonthMR. NOVEMBERThe Problem: Sexy single dad Porter Wyman was a Texan born and bred, but this tycoon's fortune was no help in his current predicament. If he didn't get some assistance with baby Matthew soon, he was going to run for the hills.The Solution: Ellen Sexton. She was silk to his denim. Lace to his leather. And whether she knew it or not, she was the perfect woman to cuddle little Mathew-not to mention his dad!Next Steps: Convince this independent filly that settling down to a ready-made family was the trail to a tried-and-true happily-ever-after.Man of the Month: This Texas tycoon was used to getting what he wanted, and what he wanted now...was Ellen!
That Loving Touch
by Ashley SummersONE WINTER NIGHTShe was pregnant...and he offered shelter from the darkest of nights. In the midst of a snowstorm expectant mother Carrie Loving found herself on the doorstep of CEO Sam Holt. And although Same seemed too good to be true, his offered warmth was guarded, hiding a hurt behind deep blue eyes.As the hours turned into days, Carrie and Sam forged a bond that could not be broken. And Sam could no longer deny the strong feelings Carrie-and her unborn child-awakened in him. But when the snow melted, Sam had to decide whether he should relinquish the solace Carrie promised or risk tearing down the fortress he'd built around his heart....
I Am of Irelaunde: A Novel of Patrick and Osian
by Juilene Osborne-McKnightSt. Patrick of Ireland has been enshrined in myth and history as a benign and beloved figure, a native Irish miracle worker who drove both the snakes and the Druids from his homeland and gently issued in the age of Christianity.Nothing could be further from the truth. Magonus Succatus Patricius ("Paidrig") was of Roman heritage; captured into slavery in Ireland at the age of sixteen, he escaped at the age of twenty-two. I Am of Irelaunde takes the forty-year-old Paidrig back to the site of his shame. He is full of anger, and is determined to bring Christianity to Ireland, even if he has to beat it into the "lazy, loathesome" Irish. But something happens to change Paidrig. Something shrouded in mystery and wonder. Long before Paidrig, Ireland had been guarded by a chivalric brotherhood of warriors known as the Fianna. Osian, a leading poet/warrior of the Fianna, has been dead for 200 years. He has come by magic to Paidrig to show him the wonder of Eire. And the stories that Paidrig hears open doors that will win Paidrig's heart and convert him into the champion of the people he once despised.At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
In the Global Vanguard: Agrarian Development and the Making of Modern Taiwan (Asia Pacific Modern)
by Prof. James LinA free ebook version of this title is available through Luminos, University of California Press’s Open Access publishing program. Visit www.luminosoa.org to learn more. In just half a century, Taiwan transformed from an agricultural colony into an economic power, spurred by efforts of the authoritarian Republic of China government in land reform, farmers associations, and improved crop varieties. Yet overlooked is how Taiwan brought these practices to the developing world. In the Global Vanguard elucidates the history and impact of the "Taiwan model" of agrarian development by incorporating how Taiwanese experts took the country’s agrarian success and exported it throughout rural communities across Africa and Southeast Asia. Driven by the global Cold War and challenges to the Republic of China’s legitimacy, Taiwanese agricultural technicians and scientists shared their practices, which they claimed were better suited for poor, tropical societies in the developing world. These development missions, James Lin argues, were projected in Taiwan as proof of the ruling government’s modernity and technical prowess and were crucial to how the state sought to hold onto its contested position in the international system and its rule by martial law at home.
The Incomparable Countess
by Mary NicholsBETRAYED...For one long, hot summer Frances and Marcus had meant everything to each other. And then he betrayed her by marrying someone else. At seventeen, Frances had possessed an inner fire, a joy of life. Now, years later, Marcus, Duke of Loscoe, is confounded by the ice-cold society hostess she has become.Having learned how to suppress her youthful dreams and desires, Frances, Countess of Carringham, can’t deny she’s pained to hear that Marcus is looking for a new wife to care for his motherless child. Nor can she disguise that she is still susceptible to his charm....
Just Say Nu: Yiddish for Every Occasion (When English Just Won't Do)
by Michael WexA cross between Henry Beard's Latin for All Occasions and Ben Schott's Schott's Original Miscellany, JUST SAY NU is a practical guide to using Yiddish words and expressions in day-to-day situations. Along with enough grammar to enable readers to put together a comprehensible sentence and avoid embarrassing mistakes, Wex also explains the five most useful Yiddish words–shoyn, nu, epes, takeh,and nebakh–what they mean, how and when to use them, and how they can be used to conduct an entire conversation without anybody ever suspecting that the reader doesn't have the vaguest idea of what anyone is actually saying. Readers will learn how to shmooze their way through such activities as meeting and greeting; eating and drinking; praising and finding fault; maintaining personal hygiene; going to the doctor; driving; parenting; getting horoscopes; committing crimes; going to singles bars; having sex; talking politics and talking trash.Now that Stephen Colbert, a Catholic from South Carolina and host of the "Colbert Report," is using Yiddish to wish viewers a bright and happy Chanukah, people have finally started to realize that there's nothing in the world that can't be improved by translating it into Yiddish. Wex's JUST SAY NU is the book that's going to show them how.
Hole in One: A Mystery (Detective Chief Inspector C.D. Sloan)
by Catherine AirdDetective Chief Inspector (D.C.I.) C. D. Sloan works in the deceptively quiet town and county of Calleshire, where for many years he's endured the pressures of his demanding, unreasonable boss and the company of Constable Crosby, Sloan's all too constant but not very helpful sidekick. He's also solved a series of complex murders in Aird's long-running series long praised for it's literate wit, style and charm. In her first new novel in almost two years, Hole in One, a death occurs on the links, a death that is nearly impossible and is, quite improbably, is murder. But improbable is a Calleshire specialty and as far as D. C. I. Sloan is concerned, impossible is merely par for the course.
The Rehearsal: A Novel
by Sarah WillisAn engaging new novel about love, on-stage and offIn the spring of 1971, Will Bartlett, an ambitious director at a small resident theatre, has an idea: he will invite his cast of Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men to his country farm for a month, giving them the opportunity of "becoming" their characters, and enhancing the realistic atmosphere of his next production. Will's family grudgingly agrees to his sudden change of plan, but events and personalities rapidly spiral out of his control. The cast of nine men and one woman is already unevenly balanced, but the situation is made even worse when Melinda--the woman playing the part of Curley's Wife--fails to turn up at the farm as expected. Will's wife, Myra, takes the role, although she has not been on stage since their daughter, Beth, was born. Sixteen-year-old Beth is furious, having already decided that the part should be hers. When the self-obsessed Will remains oblivious to the problems between Myra and Beth, as well as the increasing distance between himself and his wife, Myra finds herself looking at her husband's best friend in a new light. The tension grows between members of Will's family, and the other actors find themselves drawn into a complex tangle of relationships, leading them to question not only how well they know each other, but also how well they know themselves.