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Hold Your Fire: Stories Celebrating the Creative Spark
by Kevin J. Anderson Neil Peart Mary Pletsch M. Elizabeth Ticknor October K. Santerelli Lisa Mangum Melissa Koons Mike Jack Stoumbos Raphyel M. Jordan Rebecca E. Treasure Shannon Fox Tanya Hales Alicia Cay Wayland Smith Brian Corley C. J. Erick Jace Killan Kat Kellermeyer Kitty Sarkozy Kristen BickerstaffCreativity comes from many places, but often the initial spark of inspiration can be traced to something or someone who challenged us to first put pen to paper or brush to canvas, to pick up a camera, to look at the world with new eyes. Maybe it was the lyrics of a favorite album. Maybe it was the encouragement from a beloved teacher. Maybe it was seeing a wonder of the natural world. Maybe it was just a feeling deep down inside that demanded to be set free, a voice ready to be heard, a story begging to be told. Hold Your Fire is a collection of nineteen short stories celebrating the power and influence of inspiration in all its forms—art, literature, music, astronomy, science, inventions, epiphanies.Here you will find stories of people being inspired as well as stories of people inspiring someone else. Stories not only of artistic inspiration but of scientific discoveries. The “Eureka!” moments that change the whole world and the small moments when someone dares to fight one more day. From a romance about a teenager’s attempts to win over his first crush with poetry to musicians and artists harnessing the inspiration of unexpected muses to a fairy tale princess seeking for happiness, every story in this anthology shines brightly. And since every fire casts a shadow, there are also a few horror stories that thrive in the dark. Hold Your Fire: Stories Celebrating the Creative Spark is the sixth anthology edited by Lisa Mangum and published by WordFire Press in support of the Don Hodge Memorial Scholarship fund for the Superstars Writing Seminars.
Standard Deviations: Flawed Assumptions, Tortured Data, and Other Ways to Lie with Statistics
by Gary SmithHow statistical data is used, misused, and abused every day to fool us: “A very entertaining book about a very serious problem.” —Robert J. Shiller, winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics and author of Irrational ExuberanceDid you know that baseball players whose names begin with “D” are more likely to die young? That Asian Americans are most susceptible to heart attacks on the fourth day of the month? That drinking a full pot of coffee every morning adds years to your life, but one cup a day increases your pancreatic cancer risk? These “facts” have been argued with a straight face by credentialed researchers and backed up with reams of data and convincing statistics. As Nobel Prize–winning economist Ronald Coase cynically observed, “If you torture data long enough, it will confess.” Lying with statistics is a time-honored con. In Standard Deviations, economics professor Gary Smith walks us through the various tricks and traps that people use to back up their own crackpot theories. Sometimes, the unscrupulous deliberately try to mislead us. Other times, the well-intentioned are blissfully unaware of the mischief they are committing. Today, data is so plentiful that researchers spend precious little time distinguishing between good, meaningful indicators and total rubbish. Not only do others use data to fool us, we fool ourselves. Drawing on breakthrough research in behavioral economics and using clear examples, Standard Deviations demystifies the science behind statistics and makes it easy to spot the fraud all around us.“An entertaining primer . . . packed with figures, tables, graphs and ludicrous examples from people who know better (academics, scientists) and those who don’t (political candidates, advertisers).” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
A Daily Creativity Journal
by Noah ScalinThis inspiring journal featuring hundreds of project prompts will help you unlock your creativity with a year of daily artmaking!The concept of Noah Scalin’s “365 method” is simple but inspired: Choose a theme or medium, then make something with it every day for a year. Noah made 365 skull-themed projects . . . now he invites you to choose your obsession and get creative!A Daily Creative Journal offers 365 project prompts to kick start your creativity. It offers tips on how to choose your subject and document your work, plus examples from other artists and crafters who took the 365 challenge. It also introduces new techniques to incorporate into your projects, including quilling, clay-making, paper pop-up engineering, and more. With 365: A Daily Creativity Journal you’ll see how making something every day can change your creative process—and your life—forever!
The Indisputable Existence of Santa Claus: The Mathematics of Christmas
by Dr. Hannah Fry Thomas Oléron EvansTwo merry mathematicians explore the geometry of gift-wrapping, board game theory, and much more in this hilarious holiday treat.How do you apply game theory to select who should be on your Christmas shopping list? What equations should you use to decorate the Christmas tree? Will calculations show Santa is getting steadily thinner—shimmying up and down chimneys for a whole night—or fatter—as he munches on cookies and milk in billions of houses across the world?In The Indisputable Existence of Santa Claus, distinguished mathematicians Hannah Fry and Thomas Oléron Evans demonstrate, with eminently readable clarity, how applied mathematics are so thoroughly interwoven throughout our everyday lives by explaining mathematical concepts through one very merry motif: Christmas. In their quest to provide mathematical proof for the existence of Santa, the authors take readers on a festive journey through a traditional holiday season, wherein every activity, from wrapping presents to playing board games to cooking the perfect turkey, is painstakingly and hilariously analyzed. Because who hasn’t always wondered how to set up a mathematically perfect Secret Santa? Lighthearted and diverting with Christmasy diagrams, sketches and graphs, equations, Markov chains, and matrices, The Indisputable Existence of Santa Claus brightens up the bleak midwinter with a stockingful of mathematical marvels.
True Blood (And Other Creatures of Satan): A Field Guide to Vampires
by Gianna Sobol Michael McMillianA hilarious handbook by Bon Temps&’s famed anti-vampire activist—with photos, letters, and some snark in the margins from Pam and Eric . . . The vampires, werewolves, faeries, and other supernatural creatures that call Bon Temps, Louisiana home aren&’t universally accepted around town—and sweet-talking, bible-thumping Steve Newlin is their self-appointed nemesis. In his demented field guide, Steve has recorded all he knows about these Creatures of Satan, and that&’s a lot: their strengths, their weaknesses, their bylaws, and, of course, how to kill them. Sadly for Steve—but luckily for True Blood fans everywhere—his journal was stolen by Fangtasia vampires Pam and Eric, who have defaced it in a most disrespectful and snarky manner. From an associate producer of the show and the actor who played Steve, Steve Newlin&’s Field Guide to Vampires is packed with untold insight into these compelling characters, along with photos, letters, postcards, handwritten notes, and Steve&’s own idle doodles, perfectly capturing the tongue-in-cheek camp that made True Blood a major HBO hit and a genuine TV classic.
Of Orcas and Men: What Killer Whales Can Teach Us
by David NeiwertA journalist &“convincingly spells out the threats to their survival, their misery in captivity, and what scientists can learn by studying them&” (Kirkus). The orca—otherwise known as the killer whale—is one of earth&’s most intelligent animals. Remarkably sophisticated, orcas have languages and cultures and even long-term memories, and their capacity for echolocation is nothing short of a sixth sense. They are also benign and gentle, which makes the story of the captive-orca industry—and the endangerment of their population in Puget Sound—that much more damning. In Of Orcas and Men, a marvelously compelling mix of cultural history, environmental reporting, and scientific research, David Neiwert explores an extraordinary species and its occasionally fraught relationship with human beings. Beginning with their role in myth and contemporary culture, Neiwert shows how killer whales came to capture our imaginations, and brings to life the often catastrophic environmental consequences of that appeal. In the tradition of Barry Lopez&’s classic Of Wolves and Men, David Neiwert&’s book is a triumph of reporting, observation, and research, and a powerful tribute to one of the animal kingdom&’s most remarkable members.Praise for Of Orcas and Men &“Human beings need to learn from and understand the cooperative nature of orca society. Everyone who is interested in both animal and human behavior should read this remarkable book.&” —Temple Grandin, New York Times–bestselling author of Animals in Translation and Animals Make Us Human &“Powerful and beautifully written.&” —Jane Goodall &“Humans and killer whales have a long and complicated history, one that David Neiwert describes forcefully and eloquently in this fascinating and highly readable book.&” —David Kirby, New York Times–bestselling author of Death at SeaWorld &“[A] breathtaking survey of orca science, folklore, and mystery.&” —The Stranger
The Filmmaker Says: Quotes, Quips, and Words of Wisdom (Quotes, Quips, And Words Of Wisdom Ser.)
by Jamie Thompson Stern&“Compelling and sometimes controversial words from the visionaries behind the camera . . . from Charlie Chaplin to Kathryn Bigelow to Akira Kurosawa.&” —Cool Hunting No saint, no pope, no general, no sultan, has ever had the power that a filmmaker has; the power to talk to hundreds of millions of people for two hours in the dark. —Frank Capra Inspiring everything from pop culture earthquakes to popular revolutions, filmmakers have demonstrated an uncanny ability to move the masses. But the drama they project on screen is only half the picture. Stretching from its earliest days of two-reel silent films to the latest 3D digital blockbusters, film history provides a cast of characters ready to spill witty bon mots, outrageous pronouncements, and heartfelt reflections. The Filmmaker Says is a colorful compendium of quotations from more than one hundred of history&’s most influential and opinionated creators of filmed entertainment. Paired like guests at the ultimate film geek dinner party, a celebrated filmmaker of today might sit next to a silent-era giant as this raucous crew argues, compliments, and disagrees with each other about every step of the moviemaking process.
Dead on Course: A Contemporary Horse Racing Mystery (The Harry Radcliffe Mysteries #2)
by Glenis WilsonA fast-paced mystery set in the cut-throat world of horse-racing: second in the new Harry Radcliffe series.Back in the saddle and race riding again after weeks recuperating from a serious accident, champion jockey Harry Radcliffe reckons his life is back on course. That’s before local gangster Jake Smith, newly released from gaol, makes contact. Knowing of Harry’s success in finding out who killed his brother, Jake now wants him to discover who murdered his sister, Jo-Jo. Refusing to accept the official verdict of accidental death, Jake is prepared to use whatever violence necessary to uncover the truth. He’s determined that somebody pays the price for his sister’s death – and if Harry doesn’t find out who’s responsible, it’ll be him.Once again forced to turn detective, Harry is about to enter a world of greed, corruption and treachery in order to unmask a ruthless killer.
The Devil Tree II: The Calling (Devil Tree Ser. #2)
by Keith RommelDarkness reigns under the shadow of an ancient oak tree in this grisly thriller inspired by horrific crimes—and a haunting legend—in Port St. Lucie, Florida . . . Convicted killer Gerard John Schaefer wreaked havoc along the Treasure Coast and Hutchinson Island in the 1970s. His reign of terror included unspeakable acts of torture, rape, and murder in the shadow of an ancient oak tree. He hanged people there, buried their bodies, and came back often to pillage what remained. It is believed that Schaefer&’s evil seeped into the tree and surrounding area, leaving a blemish on the otherwise beautiful nature walk in Oak Hammock Park. When night descends around the tree, the atmosphere changes completely; hundreds of stories are offered up about personal experiences of a true-life haunting . . . This follow-up to The Devil Tree follows the legend into the present day, as Satanists commune by the tree in honor of their fallen idol. Terrible things happen around the tree, which seems to have a certain allure to it . . . making people commit unimaginable acts. What drives someone to kill? Is it something within them, or an outside force that influences them? This sick and grisly legend is so deep, so convoluted and wicked, you won&’t believe what you read. Whatever you do, don&’t visit the Devil Tree after dusk. You will never be the same. That is the warning of many people—including uniformed officers who have come forth to share their experiences at the tree . . .
Cocktail Food: 50 Finger Foods with Attitude
by Mary Corpening Barber Sara Corpening Whiteford Lori Lyn NarlockYour guide to throwing a great get-together, with fifty finger food recipes, plus drink-pairings and party theme ideas.With Cocktail Food, you can kiss those baby carrots and tired old bowls of chips good-bye. Instead, treat yourself to bit-sized delights from one of San Franicsco’s favorite catering teams, the bestselling authors of Smoothies and Wraps.Offering fifty fabulous finger foods, Cocktail Food spans the globe to find deliciously different hors d’oeuvres that will brighten any happy hour. From Puff the Magic Mushroom (puff pastry stuffed with cremini mushrooms) to Figs in a Blanket (fresh figs with Gorgonzola and prosciutto), these recipes are specifically designed to make the perfect cocktail even better. Each chapter pairs great party-planning ideas (how about a Martini Soiree? Or a Beer Tasting?) with a series of recipes made to match up with a particular style of drink. Whether your tastes run to Big and Bold or Light and Delicate, you’ll find plenty of ways to tease and tantalize taste buds while the cocktails flow. And using the authors’ helpful do-ahead tips, you might just find yourself having a blast at your very own party.
Legends of the Samurai
by Hiroaki SatoThis authoritative history of Japan’s elite warrior class separates fact from myth as it chronicles centuries of samurai combat, culture, and legend.In Legends of the Samurai, Hiroaki Sato examines the history of these medieval Japanese warriors, as well as the many long-standing myths that surround them. In doing so, he presents an authentic and revealing picture of these men and their world. Sato’s masterful translations of original samurai tales, laws, dicta, reports, and arguments are accompanied by insightful commentary. With incisive historical research, this volume chronicles the changing ethos of the Japanese warrior from the samurai's historical origins to his rise to political power. A fascinating look at Japanese history as seen through the evolution of the samurai, Legends of the Samurai stands as the ultimate authority on its subject.
My First Hundred Years in Show Business: A Memoir
by Mary Louise WilsonThis Tony winner&’s memoir is &“a riot of characters met and characters played . . . a funny, frank, and savvy chronicle of a wonderful life.&” —David Hyde Pierce Mary Louise Wilson became a star at age sixty with her smash one-woman play Full Gallop, portraying legendary Vogue editor Diana Vreeland. But before and since, her life and career—including the Tony Award for her portrayal of Big Edie in Grey Gardens—have been celebrated and varied. Raised in New Orleans with a social climbing, alcoholic mother, Mary Louise moved to New York City in the late 1950s; lived with her gay brother in the Village; entered the nightclub scene in a legendary revue; and rubbed shoulders with every famous person of that era and since. My First Hundred Years in Show Business gets it all down. Yet as delicious as the anecdotes are, the heart of this book is in its unblinkingly honest depiction of the life of a working actor. In her inimitable voice—wry, admirably unsentimental, mordantly funny—Mary Louise Wilson has crafted a work that is at once a teeming social history of the New York theatre scene and a thoroughly revealing, superbly entertaining memoir of the life of an extraordinary woman and actor. &“Brims with anecdotes . . . plenty of laughs [and] plenty of candor, too.&” —Nola.com
The Trials of Thomas Morton: An Anglican Lawyer, His Puritan Foes, and the Battle for a New England
by Peter C. MancallThis &“magisterial history&” presents a new perspective on Thomas Morton, his colonial philosophy, and his lengthy feud with the Puritans (Wall Street Journal). Adding new depth to our understanding of early New England society, this riveting account of Thomas Morton explores the tensions that arose from competing colonial visions. A lawyer and fur trader, Thomas Morton dreamed of a society where Algonquian peoples and English colonists could coexist. Infamous for dancing around a maypole in defiance of his Pilgrim neighbors, Morton was reviled by the Puritans for selling guns to the Natives. Colonial authorities exiled him three separate times from New England, but Morton kept returning to fight for his beliefs. This compelling counter-narrative to the familiar story of the Puritans combines a rich understanding of the period with a close reading of early texts to bring the contentious Morton to life. This volume sheds new light on the tumultuous formative decades of the American experience.
Into the Woods: A Five-Act Journey Into Story
by John YorkeAn analysis of the fundamental narrative structure, why it works, the meanings of stories, and why we tell them in the first place.The idea of Into the Woods is not to supplant works by Aristotle, Lajos Egri, Robert McKee, David Mamet, or any other writers of guides for screenwriters and playwrights, but to pick up on their cues and take the reader on a historical, philosophical, scientific, and psychological journey to the heart of all storytelling. In this exciting and wholly original book, John Yorke not only shows that there is truly a unifying shape to narrative—one that echoes the great fairytale journey into the woods, and one, like any great art, that comes from deep within—he explains why, too. With examples ranging from The Godfather to True Detective, Mad Men to Macbeth, and fairy tales to Forbrydelsen (The Killing), Yorke utilizes Shakespearean five-act structure as a key to analyzing all storytelling in all narrative forms, from film and television to theatre and novel-writing—a big step from the usual three-act approach. Into the Woods: A Five-Act Journey into Story is destined to sit alongside David Mamet’s Three Uses of the Knife, Robert McKee’s Story, Syd Field’s Screenplay, and Lajos Egri’s The Art of Dramatic Writing as one of the most original, useful, and inspiring books ever on dramatic writing.Praise for Into the Woods“Love storytelling? You need this inspiring book. John Yorke dissects the structure of stories with a joyous enthusiasm allied to precise, encyclopedic knowledge. Guaranteed to send you back to your writing desk with newfound excitement and drive.” —Chris Chibnall, creator/writer, Broadchurch and Gracepoint“Outrageously good and by far and away the best book of its kind I’ve ever read. I recognized so much truth in it. But more than that, I learned a great deal. Time and again, Yorke articulates things I’ve always felt but have never been able to describe. . . . This is a love story to story—erudite, witty and full of practical magic. I struggle to think of the writer who wouldn’t benefit from reading it—even if they don’t notice because they’re too busy enjoying every page.” —Neil Cross, creator/writer, Luther and Crossbones“Part ‘how-to’ manual, part ‘why-to’ celebration, Into the Woods is a wide-reaching and infectiously passionate exploration of storytelling in all its guises . . . exciting and thought-provoking.” —Emma Frost, screenwriter, The White Queen and Shameless
Alexander's Path: A Travel Memoir
by Freya StarkA memoir of a woman’s trek through rural Turkey and its ancient history: “A sharp-eyed, thoughtful, and knowledgeable traveler.” —The New York TimesIn 1956, Freya Stark traveled through back-country Turkey by truck and horseback, often alone. She reached places little visited and never written about. The country people welcomed her with generosity despite their meager resources. She was traveling in time as well, and found significance in recalling the life of Alexander the Great as she retraced his journey in reverse. Twenty-two centuries earlier he was the first to dream of a united world—and Stark’s observations reflect not just this land’s physical connections to antiquity but the human longings that persist through millennia.“One of the finest travel writers of [the twentieth] century.” —The New Yorker“Stark’s forte is the ability to take the reader to an ancient site and, through the scanty remains that are left today, evoke the past of which they were a part.” —The New York Times“Describing a Jeep-and-mule trek she undertook in 1956 through the back country of Anatolia, Stark retraces (in reverse) the progress of Alexander the Great more than two millennia before . . . Stark has a wonderfully understated sense of humor.” —Kirkus Reviews
Marathon: How One Battle Changed Western Civilization
by Richard A. BillowsThis lively ancient history demonstrates how the Athenian victory against Persian invaders was critical to the development of Western society. The Battle of Marathon in 490 B.C. is widely considered the most decisive event in the struggle between the Greeks and the Persians. In Marathon, historian Richard Billows goes further, arguing that it was also the most significant moment in our collective history. As 10,000 Athenian citizens faced a Persian military force of more than 25,000, Greek victory appeared impossible. But the men of Athens were tenacious and the Persians were defeated. Following the battle, the Athenian hoplite army ran 26.5 miles from Marathon to Athens to defend their port from the Persian navy. Greek freedom ensued and the achievements of the culture became much of the basis for Western civilization.
The Public Library: A Photographic Essay
by Robert Dawson Ann Patchett Isaac Asimov Barbara Kingsolver Anne Lamott Philip Levine Theodor Seuss Geisel Charles Simic Amy Tan E. B. WhiteA &“beautifully crafted&” visual celebration with 150 photos and essays by Barbara Kingsolver, Bill Moyers, Ann Patchett, Anne Lamott, Amy Tan, and more (Publishers Weekly). Many of us have vivid recollections of childhood visits to a public library: the unmistakable musty scent, the excitement of checking out a stack of newly discovered books. Today, the more than 17,000 libraries in America also function as de facto community centers offering free access to the internet, job-hunting assistance, or a warm place to take shelter. And yet, across the country, cities large and small are closing public libraries or curtailing their hours of operation. Over eighteen years, photographer Robert Dawson crisscrossed the country documenting hundreds of these endangered institutions. The Public Library presents a wide selection of his photographs—from the majestic reading room at the New York Public Library to Allensworth, California&’s one-room Tulare County Free Library, built by former slaves. Accompanying them are essays, letters, and poetry by some of America&’s most celebrated writers. &“For book lovers, library denizens, and fans of architecture or Americana, The Public Library is a delight.&” —The Christian Science Monitor &“If you think all public libraries look pretty much the same, well, you need to take a look at this book. Oh, sure, there are plenty of grand ones, such as Philadelphia&’s own Central Library on the Parkway. But we also have the Fishtown Community Branch, featured in this volume, which used to be a firehouse and, before that, a stable. There&’s also the log cabin library in Cable, Wis. And many, many more, both grand and humble.&” —Philadelphia Inquirer &“An irrefutable argument for the preservation of public libraries . . . profound and heartbreakingly beautiful.&” —Toni Morrison
The Detective Stories of Edgar Allan Poe
by Edgar Allan PoeFrom the father of modern mystery, three classic detective stories featuring one of the literary world&’s first amateur gentleman sleuths. Meet C. Auguste Dupin, the first literary example of a brilliant detective created by Edgar Allan Poe, undisputed master of chills and suspense. Follow Dupin&’s genius skill at problem solving through three detective cases, Poe&’s only three tales with his seminal character. In these fundamental works of detective fiction, explore the idea that objects can be hidden in plain sight, that the murderer is not who or what you&’d think. Contains: &“The Murders in the Rue Morgue&” &“The Mystery of Marie Roget&” &“The Purloined Letter&”
First Americans: U.S. Patriotism in Indian Country after World War I
by Thomas GrillotThe little-known story of how army veterans returning to reservation life after World War I transformed Native American identity. Drawing from archival sources and oral histories, Thomas Grillot demonstrates how the relationship between Native American tribes and the United States was reinvented in the years following World War I. During that conflict, twelve thousand Native American soldiers served in the U.S. Army. They returned home to their reservations with newfound patriotism, leveraging their veteran cachet for political power and claiming all the benefits of citizenship—even supporting the termination policy that ended the U.S. government&’s recognition of tribal sovereignty.
This Is Ridiculous, This Is Amazing: Parenthood in 71 Lists
by Jason Good&“Hands down, the best humor book about family life I have ever read.&” —Nikki Knepper, author of Moms Who Drink and Swear Comedian/blogger/family man Jason Good delivers a laugh-out-loud reminder that everything is easier and more fun when approached with a sense of humor—especially parenting. Each list in this book captures a perfect (or perfectly terrible) aspect of parenthood while at the same time wholeheartedly embracing every moment: &“You Deserve a Break&” offers ideas for downtime, such as giving blood and untangling cords, while &“Self-Help from a Three-Year-Old&” collects such wisdom as &“If you fall down, stay down. Someone will pick you up eventually.&” Sweet, sincere, and painfully funny, This is Ridiculous, This is Amazing is ideal for parents who could use a laugh—and isn&’t that every single one of them? &“His blog is great, but his first book is even better.&” —Parade &“Parents will appreciate Good&’s offbeat outlook and quirky one-liners.&” —Publishers Weekly
Mood Crystals: A Hands-on Guide to Managing your Emotional Wellbeing with Crystals
by Christel Alberez Nerissa AlbertsA beginner’s guide to crystals that helps you identify your feelings and make crystal choices to enhance your mental wellbeing.As human beings, our emotions have a profound effect on how we live our everyday lives. Awareness of our emotions, or emotional intelligence, is an important skill to cultivate as it is inevitably connected to personal wellbeing and the vitality of all relationships in life.Crystals and minerals are teachers who can guide us through their specific energetic signatures to maintain, enhance, or alter our moods. When we work consciously with crystals, we can find practical yet deep practices to help evolve our emotional wellbeing. This guide to crystals for beginners and beyond, will give you practical exercises for engaging with the right stones at the right time and in the most effective way. Perhaps you need to give yourself courage? Or reduce your anxiety levels? Or make yourself more open to feeling compassion? Crystals are a powerful tool to help regulate your frame of mind.With information on how to choose the most appropriate stones, Mood Crystals also contains details on practices that can help you unlock the stones’ power using meditation, movement, sound and touch, journalling exercises and conscious crystal dreaming, which activates the sensory and medicinal qualities of support you associate with dream time.Organized by emotional states, Mood Crystals will help you to cultivate your emotional intelligence and maintain mental wellness by practicing consciously with crystals.
Artistic Circles: The Inspiring Connections Between the World's Greatest Artists
by Susie HodgeDiscover the fascinating connections between the world's greatest artists. Artistic Circles introduces some of the most inspirational stories of friendship, love, creativity and shared passions in the world of art. Whether through teaching, as in the case of Paul Klee and Anni Albers; a mutual muse, as seen in the flowers of Georgia O&’Keeffe and Takashi Murakami; or an inspirational romantic coupling like that of Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock. In telling the tales of these creatives lives and achievements – each extraordinary and oftentimes ground-breaking – Susie Hodge exposes the fascinating web of connections that have fostered some of the world&’s art masterpieces. Some are well-known, whereas others span both time and place, linking pioneers in art in fascinating and unexpected ways. Illustrated in colourful tribute to each artists&’ unique style, Artistic Circles is an illuminating and celebratory account of some of the art world&’s most compelling visionaries. A perfect introduction for students, and a source of new and surprising stories for art lovers.
War of Attrition: Fighting the First World War
by William PhilpottA history of World War I and an analysis of its causes & effects, plus how the conflict was fought.The Great War of 1914–1918 was the first mass conflict to fully mobilize the resources of industrial powers against one another, resulting in a brutal, bloody, protracted war of attrition between the world’s great economies. Now, one hundred years after the first guns of August rang out on the Western front, historian William Philpott reexamines the causes and lingering effects of the first truly modern war.Drawing on the experience of front line soldiers, munitions workers, politicians, and diplomats, War of Attrition explains for the first time why and how this new type of conflict was fought as it was fought; and how the attitudes and actions of political and military leaders, and the willing responses of their peoples, stamped the twentieth century with unprecedented carnage on—and behind—the battlefield.War of Attrition also establishes link between the bloody ground war in Europe and political situation in the wider world, particularly the United States. America did not enter the war until 1917, but, as Philpott demonstrates, the war came to America as early as 1914. By 1916, long before the Woodrow Wilson’s impassioned speech to Congress advocating for war, the United States was firmly aligned with the Allies, lending dollars, selling guns, and opposing German attempts to spread submarine warfare. War of Attrition skillfully argues that the emergence of the United States on the world stage is directly related to her support for the conflagration that consumed so many European lives and livelihoods. In short, the war that ruined Europe enabled the rise of America.Praise for War of AttritionA Wall Street Journal Best Non-Fiction Book of 2014“An incisive, colorful book. . . . War of Attrition succeeds both as an argument and a gripping narrative.” —Geoffrey Wawro, author of A Mad Catastrophe“Philpott argues persuasively that the stunning victories of the last hundred days of the war were the result of a steep learning curve necessitated by earlier bloodbaths.” —The Wall Street Journal“An astute examination by an expert war historian that sifts through the collective theatres of attrition in this unprecedented slaughter.” —Kirkus Reviews
Greetings from Route 66: The Ultimate Road Trip Back Through Time Along America's Main Street
by Voyageur PressTake the scenic route with this colorful collection of vintage art, photos, history, and trivia celebrating the historic highway.John Steinbeck famously christened Route 66 America’s “Mother Road” in The Grapes of Wrath, and that chapter about Tom Joad’s exodus is just one of the classic pieces collected in this wide-ranging anthology. You’ll find history, roadside attractions, pop culture, ghost stories—even recipes from famous greasy spoons. And it’s all illustrated with the largest collection of vintage art, postcards, travel decals, collectibles, and other Route 66 memorabilia ever amassed. This is truly a worthy tribute to the Main Street of America.
Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry (Caucasus World: Peoples Of The Caucasus Ser.)
by Peter Nasmyth&“Elegiac, quirky, readable, deeply knowledgeable . . . The best cultural-historical introduction to that tempestuous land,&” the Georgian republic. (Simon Sebag Montefiore, author of The Romanovs) Georgia has been called the world&’s most beautiful country, yet little is known about it beyond its borders. This topical and vital book by Peter Nasmyth, the &“ideal chronicler&” (Literary Review) is the much-celebrated introduction to Georgia&’s remarkable people, landscape, and culture. Over its 3,000-year-old history, Georgia has been ruled by everyone from the Greeks to the Ottomans, became a coveted part of the Russian Empire for a hundred years, and was incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1921. Since gaining independence in 1991, Georgia has undergone a dramatic socioeconomical and political transformation, and although its political situation remains precarious, Georgia&’s strong sense of nationhood has reinvigorated the country. Vivid and comprehensive, Nasmyth&’s Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry is a unique eyewitness account of Georgia&’s rebirth and creates an unforgettable portrait of its remarkable landscape, history, people and culture. Offering fascinating insights into the life of ordinary and high profile Georgians, it is essential reading for anyone who wants to know more of this astonishing place. &“The best book on post-Soviet Georgia . . . Nasmyth is prepared to take risks―hanging out with mafiosi and walking through minefields to reach that part of western Georgia that has bloodily seceded . . . a riveting portrait . . . powerfully evocative.&” —Independent &“It would be difficult to read Nasmyth's quirky, entertaining, informative, sometimes surreal book without having an impulse to ring a travel agent and ask for flights to Tblisi.&” —LiteraryReview