Biography: general Books

Book SynopsisFrom a twenty-year police veteran and former Trump supporter who nearly lost his life during the insurrection of January 6th, this instant New York Times bestseller is also an urgent warning that ?offers a stark message for this uncertain moment, making crystal clear the urgency and importance of defending our precious democracy? (Nancy Pelosi).When Michael Fanone self-deployed to the Capitol on January 6, 2021, he had no idea his life was about to change. When he got to the front of the line, he urged his fellow officers to hold it against the growing crowd of insurrectionists?until he found himself pulled into the mob, tased until he had a heart attack, and viciously beaten with a Blue Lives Matter flag as shouts to kill him rang out. Now, Fanone is ready to tell the full story of that infamous day, along with exploring our country?s most critical issues as someone who has had firsthand experience with many of them. A self-described redneck who voted for Trump in 2016, Fanone?s closest friend was an informant?a Black, transgender, HIV-positive woman who has helped him mature and rethink his methods as a police officer. With his unique insight as an undercover detective and intense desire to do the right thing no matter the cost, Fanone provides a nuanced look into everything from policing to race to politics in a way that is accessible across all party lines. Determined to make sure no one forgets what happened at the Capitol on January 6th, Fanone has written a timely and ?important? (Kirkus Reviews) call to action for anyone who wants to preserve our democracy for future generations.

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Book SynopsisAn expansive and revelatory study of Robert Smithson’s life and the hidden influences on his iconic creations This first biography of the major American artist Robert Smithson, famous as the creator of the Spiral Jetty, deepens understanding of his art by addressing the potent forces in his life that were shrouded by his success, including his suppressed early history as a painter; his affiliation with Christianity, astrology, and alchemy; and his sexual fluidity. Integrating extensive investigation and acuity, Suzaan Boettger uncovers Smithson’s story and, with it, symbolic meanings across the span of his painted and drawn images, sculptures, essays, and earthworks up to the Spiral Jetty and beyond, to the circumstances leading to what became his final work, Amarillo Ramp.While Smithson is widely known for his monumental earthwork at the edge of the Great Salt Lake, Inside the Spiral delves into the arc of his artistic production, recognizing it as a response to his family’s history of loss, which prompted his birth and shaped his strange intelligence. Smithson configured his personal conflicts within painterly depictions of Christ’s passion, the rhetoric of science fiction, imagery from occult systems, and the impersonal posture of conceptual sculpture. Aiming to achieve renown, he veiled his personal passions and transmuted his professional persona, becoming an acclaimed innovator and fierce voice in the New York art scene.Featuring copious illustrations never before published of early work that eluded Smithson’s destruction, as well as photographs of Smithson and his wife, the noted sculptor Nancy Holt, and recollections from nearly all those who knew him throughout his life, Inside the Spiral offers unprecedented insight into the hidden impulses of one of modern art’s most enigmatic figures. With great sensitivity to the experiences of loss and existential strife that defined his distinct artistic language, this biographical analysis provides an expanded view of Smithson’s iconic art pilgrimage site and the experiences and works that brought him to its peculiar blood red water.Trade Review "Only someone who has immersed themselves in the life and art of Robert Smithson for forty years could have written a biography as deep and engaging as Inside the Spiral. Suzaan Boettger illuminates the artist’s religious thought, examines the complexities of his gender identity, and takes a psychoanalytic lens to his sources and esoteric symbolism, bringing coherence to our understanding of this remarkably complicated artist, his body of work, and his writings. A monumental achievement."—Jonathan Fineberg, University of the Arts, author of Modern Art at the Border of Mind and Brain "Suzaan Boettger’s long-awaited Inside the Spiral: The Passions of Robert Smithson is the first biography of this 'enantiomorphic' artist, whose oeuvre encompassed geological and sacred time alongside the moment of the snapshot, the 'dematerialized' theorizing and mapping of the non-site alongside the absolute site-specificity—viewable from outer space—of the Great Salt Lake. Boettger reveals fascinating and hitherto unexplored aspects of Smithson’s earliest formation, including his status as a 'replacement child' for a dead older brother, while her fearless exploration of the artist’s Christological bent, his hermeticism, and his difficult navigation of sexuality yields nuanced psychological insight. Unburdened by academic jargon, the work is supported by extensive reference to Smithson’s writings, notes, interviews, library, and other records, of which Boettger has long been recognized as the foremost scholar."—Judith Rodenbeck, University of California, Riverside "This book sheds important new light on Robert Smithson. Meticulously researched and wide-ranging in scope, it explores the intricate connections between Smithson’s personal history and his art. While revealing a great deal of new information about Smithson’s life and psychology, Suzaan Boettger also engages with his art in a focused and detailed way and writes about individual works with great perceptiveness. Readers will come away from this book with a fresh and enlarged understanding of Smithson’s life and art."—Jack Flam, editor of Robert Smithson: The Collected Writings"[An] extensive biography of an artist I have stood by for some fifty years which is impossible not to consider definitive, particularly in its investigation of the artist’s unconscious as well as conscious motives."—Joseph Masheck, The Brooklyn Rail "That his art appears larger after reading Inside the Spiral is as much credit to his own capacious imagination as it is to Boettger’s ingenious attempts to contain it."—Artforum"Inside the Spiral is one of the most informative and well written biographies I have ever had the pleasure of reading. To use the American vernacular, Suzaan Boettger can write like 'hot-damn'!" —Robert Maddox-Harle, Leonardo Reviews

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Book SynopsisSomaly Mam was abandoned as a baby and looked after by her grandmother until she disappeared. She was then taken into the care of a man she called 'grandfather', but was treated no better than an unpaid servant. sold. Raped at twelve, Somaly was forced to marry at fifteen and then sold to a brothel. She endured years of abuse before managing to escape. The Road of Lost Innocence is a moving account of a traumatic childhood and also the inspirational story of a determined and courageous woman devoted to helping other girls caught up in the illegal sex trade and violent underworld in Cambodia.In 1997 Somaly Mam co-founded AFESIP to combat trafficking in women and children for sexual slavery.Trade Review** 'Sold into prostitution in Cambodia as a small child, Mam has survived a trauma that is almost beyond the imaginative reach of memoir ... driven by a sense of purpose greater than the self, and related with a haunting directness * GUARDIAN *** 'Somaly Mam is my candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize. She is living proof that one woman can change the fate of others * AYAAN HIRSI ALI *** 'Written deftly and sparely, this story easily transcends the current rash of 'misery * life-stories. Somaly Mam has no truck with sensationalism or self pity: action for change is patently what she is all about.’ *GOOD HOUSEKEEPING * ** 'This is a book about how one person's courage can make a difference’ *

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Book SynopsisDonna Williams was a child with more labels than a jam-jar: deaf, wild disturbed, stupid insane... She lived within herself, her own world her foreground, ours a background she only visited. Isolated from her self and from the outside world, Donna was, in her words, a Nobody Nowhere. She swung violently between these two worlds, battling to join our world and, simultaneously, to keep it out. Abandoned from all connection to the self within her, she lived as a ghost with a body, a patchwork of the images which bombarded her. Intact but detached from the seemingly incomprehensible world around her, she lived in what she called 'a world under glass`.After twenty-five years of being misunderstood, and unable to understand herself, Donna stumbled upon the word 'autism': a label, but one which held up a mirror and made sense of her life and struggles, and gave her a chance to finally forgive both herself and those around her.Nobody Nowhere is disturbing, eloquent and ticklishly funny: it is an account of the soul of someone who lived the word 'autism' and survived in an unsympathetic environment despite intense inner chaos and incomprehension. It describes how, against the odds, Donna came to live independently, achieve a place at university, and write this remarkable autobiography. It is now an international bestseller, sold in over 14 languages throughout the world. This is a book that will stay with you as one of the most exceptional works you will ever read.Trade ReviewNobody Nowhere tears aside the veil that conceals the mind of the autistic person. Donna Williams' account has the magnetic and unrivalled power of authenticity... this book is absorbing, disturbing, enriching and it will cause many to substantially revise their views of what it is that constitutes psychological normality. -- Professor Anthony ClareThis was an interesting account of Donna's life and how she dealt with the outside world and intertwined her three personalities to cope. I feel this is a worthwhile read for any parent or relative of an autistic person. Teachers and psychologists as well as therapists would better understand how an autistic person sees themselves. -- BellaOnline ReviewsDonna Williams isn't just teaching us what it is like to be autistic, she is teaching us what it is like to be human. -- The New York Times Book ReviewIt really is an amazing, engaging autobiography of a fascinating individual. Whether you are familiar with autism first-hand or not, you will have a difficult time putting this book down, I can assure you. -- Autism Café.

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Book Synopsis'Suddently, at about one o'clock in the morning, there was a sharp, unbearably explicit knock on the door. 'They've come for Osip', I said'.In 1933 the poet Osip Mandelstam- friend to Boris Pasternak and Anna Akhmatova- wrote a spirited satire denouncing Josef Stalin. It proved to be a sixteen-line death sentence. For his one act of defiance he was arrested by the Cheka, the secret police, interrogated, exiled and eventually re-arrested. He died en route to one of Stalin's labour camps. His wife, Nadezhda (1899-1980) was with him on both occasions when he was arrested, and she loyally accompanied him into exile in the Urals, where he wrote his last great poems. Although his mind had been unbalanced by his ordeal in prison, his spirit remained unbroken. Eager to solve 'the Mandelstam problem', the Soviet authorities invited the couple to stay in a rest home near Moscow. Nadezhda saw it as an opportunity for her husband to mend his shattered life, but it was a trap and he was arrested for the last time.'My case will never be closed', Osip once said, and it is mostly through the courageous efforts of Nadezhda that his memory has been preserved. Hope against Hope, her first volume of memoirs, is a vivid and disturbing account of her last four years with her husband, the efforts she made to secure his release, to rescue his manuscripts from oblivion, and later, tragically, to discover the truth about his mysterious death. It is also a harrowing, first-hand account of how Stalin and his henchmen persecuted Russia's literary intelligentsia in the 1930s and beyond.Nadezhda Mandelstam spent most of the Second World War in Tashkent, living with her friend Akhmatova. Only in 1964 was she at last granted permission to return to Moscow. Here she began Hope against Hope, and later Hope Abandoned, the two memoirs of her life.Trade ReviewNo other work conveys as well the atmosphere of the 1930s terror, nor how Russian people survived it by listening to their great poets -- Orlando Figes * The Week *A superb memoir... A reminder that it is only a genuine work of art which is capable of communicating a reality so appalling as the Stalinist terror * Philip Toynbee *Not only a vivid account of persecution during Stalin's terror, it is also one of the few convincing descriptions of how a genius writes poetry -- A. AlvarezA Day of Judgement on earth for her age and its literature -- Joseph BrodskySurely the most luminous account we have- or are likely to get- of life in the Soviet Union during the purges of the 1930's * New York Review of Books *

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Book SynopsisThis is the true story of Totò Riina, the Cosa Nostra boss who rose from nothing to become the most powerful man in Sicily. The picture emerges of a bloodthirsty, power-hungry monster who, despite his lowly beginnings, is able to outmanoeuvre the other Mafia chiefs and take control of the organisation. However, the story is not just that of Riina, but also of Sicily itself. D''Avanzo and Bolzoni have transformed a complex series of events spanning several decades into a gripping narrative.In prison for 18 years now, Totò Riina still remains the dictator of the Cosa Nostra. This book tells the haunting and disturbing tale, with thorough investigation and testimony of the Sicilian Corleone.Trade ReviewForget the Sopranos because this is the real thing; the full and true story of the Life and Times of Toto Riina, the Cosa Nostra boss who terrorised Sicily... Not a glamorous life and not one to envy, but one that shows an addiction to power and violence can be the most fateful of all * NORTHERN ECHO *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Illuminating ... Modern specialists dismiss [Banks] as a jack of all trades, but Musgrave's claim that he changed our world is not an exaggeration.”—John Carey, Sunday Times“Multifarious he [Mr. Banks] was indeed, and Mr. Musgrave treats us to an extensive, admiring account of his subject’s circuitous route to fame and power.”—Wall Street Journal"Charismatic Sir Joseph Banks discovered hundreds of new plants, but was much more than just an explorer.”—Peter Sheridan, Daily Express“[An] enthusiastic admiration of its subject and commitment to repairing a calumny-damaged reputation”—Steven Shapin, London Review of Books“Readers will get a good idea of the range of Banks' scientific and administrative activities in this book, handled with a light touch and tinctured with wit.”—Brent Elliott, The Garden“It is evident that the author knows a great deal about all aspects of Banks’ life and about contemporaneous affairs...One is left with a clear, rounded picture of Banks as a person...I have no doubt the author will achieve his aim to return Banks to his rightful place in our history.”—Patrick Kaye, Sir Joseph Banks Society Magazine “Musgrave’s book is an engaging picture of how a love of plants can lead to many things, even ‘shaping the world’.”—Sandra Knapp, Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland“An enjoyable and informative text to read, it gives a clear picture of the many-sided interests of [Banks], his networks of power and communication and their outcomes. The author addresses issues such as Banks’s character faults, for example, his egotism, his informal relationships with women, or his colonial aspirations.”—Gina Douglas, Archives of Natural History“In this entertaining biography, Musgrave presents a massive amount of information, as well as drawing widely on Banks’s writings, to illustrate the long-held passion for natural history which Banks pursued from a very young age.”—WSG Bulletin CHOICE 2021 Outstanding Academic Title“Sir Joseph Banks was perhaps the greatest scientist of his age and this book is an inspiration to all as we start to re-examine our relationship with nature.”—Robin Hanbury-Tenison OBE, author of The Great Explorers“Combines depth of research with concise exposition of Banks’s remarkable career.”—John Gascoigne, author of Joseph Banks and the English Enlightenment“At long last - a book that shines new light on such a key figure in history! From botanical gardens to Botany Bay, Joseph Banks’s brilliance radiates throughout this important and highly-readable new biography.”—Vanessa Collingridge, author of Captain Cook"In the inimitable prose of garden historian Toby Musgrave, Banks is brought alive as a key figure in facilitating, among many other things, scientific - particularly botanical - endeavour, as part of the global positioning of Georgian England.”—David Mabberly, author of Botanical Revelation“This well-researched and even-handed biography of Banks confirms his importance as a pioneering scientist, philanthropist and explorer.”—Graham Seal, author of The Savage Shore

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Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER FROM PABLO ESCOBAR’S SONUntil now, we believed that everything had been said about the rise and fall of the most infamous drug lord of all time, Pablo Escobar – from books to film to the cult series ‘Narcos’. But these versions have always been told from the outside, only capturing half the truth, and never from the intimacy of his own home. Now, more than two decades after the full-fledged manhunt finally caught up with Escobar, his son brings us the dramatic truth as never before.Here we find a man of contradictions – generosity and infinite love for his family; yet capable of the most extreme acts of cruelty and violence. In a deeply personal exploration of his father, we see the inner world of a man who was celebrated by some as a benevolent Robin Hood figure and by others, as a dangerous leader of the most ruthless mafia organisation in human history, reaping vengeance and death on anyone that might stand in his way. When Escobar died, his then teenage son vowed revenge. But Escobar Jr. quickly recognised that meant following in his father's footsteps—something neither of them had ever wanted. With his change of heart, he denounced the Pablo Escobar legacy. This is far from the story of a child seeking redemption, but a shocking look at the consequences of violence and his attempt to come to terms with it.

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Book SynopsisArtemisia Gentileschi is by far the most famous woman artist of the pre-modern era. Her art addresses issues that resonate today, such as sexual violence and women's problematic access to political power. Her forceful paintings with their vigorous female protagonists have excited modern audiences, especially feminists. This book breaks new ground by placing the artist in the context of women's political history, and the feminist protest that was bubbling in early modern Europe. Mary D. Garrard discusses recently discovered paintings, offers fresh perspectives on known works and examines the artist anew in the context of early modern feminism. This beautifully illustrated book, now in paperback, gives a full portrait of a strong woman and a great artist who fought back through her art.Trade Review'Artemesia Gentileschi deserves a place in the canon of art history not merely because she was a successful artist in a man's world, but also because she was an exceptionally good painter. This book is more about her place in women's political history than about her art per se, but her art inevitably illuminates her status, life, and career.' - The Art Newspaper; 'The full-scale rediscovery of the artist began with Garrard's monograph of 1989, Artemisia Gentileschi: The Image of the Female Hero in Italian Baroque Art. In the three decades that have followed, Artemisia's reputation has continued to grow. In a new book, Artemisia Gentileschi and Feminism in Early Modern Europe, Garrard says it's perfectly legitimate to refer to the artist by her first name, partly to distinguish her from her artist father, Orazio Gentileschi, and partly because we have no qualms in speaking familiarly of Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael or Titian . . . Did Artemisia ever think of herself as a 'feminist?' In her new book Garrard has addressed this question directly. She argues that feminism, like science, should be seen as 'a continuum that has evolved over time, from the fourteenth century to the present.' - Sydney Morning Herald; 'Compelling . . . There's not a little irony in reading Garrard's lively account of a seventeenth-century artist's life wherein plague is plentiful - Artemisia likely died of it - when a plague (or at least pandemic) is back on the table. How strange that a book about the late Renaissance and Baroque would now prove so very much of our time. It's timely in the sense of the aforementioned deadly and contagious illness, but also features tyranny, religious persecution and reaction. And it is timely in its exploration of feminist outrage at patriarchal power, of men's control over women's bodies, and in the exploration of an art of anger, accusation, and even great wit. It's a lot and it's awesome . . . Much more than an exploration of a singular female artist of the Italian Baroque, it's a map of interconnected traditions, intellectual conversations, inspirations and leapfrogging, a whole network of early modern European feminists in conversation with one another, and with us, across time.' - Hyperallergic; 'No in-depth study of Artemisia's artistic achievements can ignore the fact that Artemisia was a woman in a man's world. Placing Artemisia's life and work in the context of early modern feminism, Garrard's handy-sized book builds on her groundbreaking study Artemisia Gentileschi: The Image of the Female Hero in Italian Baroque Art . . . Her feminist perspective frequently offers considerable food for thought.' - 'Five must-read books about Artemisia Gentileschi', The Art Newspaper; 'Garrard's strategy of situating Gentileschi's paintings within the contemporary writing and patronage of women avoids the shallows, contextualising the paintings within a broad and lively field of female authorship, creativity and crucially, feminism avant-la-lettre. This does not render the emotion in Gentileschi's paintings insubstantial, but rather rebalances it against a feminist intellectual ballast, recuperating this extraordinary artist's richness and range. It reframes Gentileschi's work as a deliberate intervention in public debate.' - Women's Studies Group; 'an important study that furthers our understanding of the Italian Baroque painter . . . As well as being informative and extending Garrard's previous theories about feminism in Early Modern Europe, the book is visually stunning with sixty-nine illustrations, sixty-five of them in color.' - Religion and the Arts; 'Garrard artfully contextualizes Artemisia's life and works into a facet of early modern cultural consciousness that was full of gendered struggles and misogynistic presumptions . . . should be read, felt, and loved by many.' - Comitatus; 'Mary Garrard's return to the great Artemisia Gentileschi is uniquely rich in knowledge and reflection. It is not only an authoritative study of the historical Artemisia and the ways - whether openly brutal, subtly injurious or beneficial - in which her art and life were affected by her sex. It also places her in the "transhistorical community of women" that Garrard brings to life. The book is moreover a heartfelt appeal to writers and readers of art history to account for their own attitudes and experiences. And with all that, it is a pleasure to read.' - Gary Schwartz, art historian; 'Mary Garrard's exciting new book on the Italian painter Artemisia Gentileschi marks another formidable contribution to the field by this ground-breaking scholar. Garrard weaves a rich tapestry of women's voices, arguing that the shared vision of remarkable women of the period reflects a pervasive and influential feminist phenomenon in Europe. This book will provide a provocative source for understanding the pan-European phenomenon of what Garrard aptly terms the "woman on top."' - Babette Bohn, professor of art history, Texas Christian University and author of Women Artists, Their Patrons, and Their Publics in Early Modern BolognaTable of ContentsPreface 1 Artemisia and the Writers: Feminism in Early Modern Europe 2 Sexuality and Sexual Violation: Susanna and Lucretia 3 The Fictive Self: Musicians and Magdalenes 4 Women and Political Power: Judith 5 Battle of the Sexes: Women on Top 6 The Divided Self: Allegorical and Real 7 Matriarchal Succession: The Greenwich Ceiling References select Bibliography Acknowledgements Photo Acknowledgements Index

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Book Synopsis'Inspirational ... I can't recommend this book highly enough' Bill Gates Profound and powerful, Mountains Beyond Mountains takes us from Harvard to Haiti, Peru, Cuba and Russia, as the charismatic but flawed genius Dr Paul Farmer challenges widely-held preconceptions about poverty and healthcare. As a medical student, Farmer found his life's calling: to cure infectious diseases and to bring the lifesaving tools of modern medicine - so readily available in the developed world - to those who need them most. Beginning in Haiti, he tackles the conditions that contribute to so many unnecessary deaths with his trademark combination of world-class expertise, unlimited compassion, and the unstinting dedication of friends and colleagues. Tracy Kidder's magnificent and moving account shows how, from achieving this modest dream, one person can make a difference in solving global problems through a clear-eyed understanding of the interaction of politics, wealth, social systems and medicine.Trade ReviewThere aren't many real heroes, where the purity of their commitment and the way they articulate those values inspires millions of people ... I can't recommend this book highly enough -- Bill GatesAffecting...at one the story of an epic battle against poverty and a finely balanced character study -- Wendell Steavenson * Sunday Times *Quite simply, Mountains Beyond Mountains is a book you should read. It's not smug and self-satisfied, it's not poverty and suffering porn, it's not predictable. It's genuinely touching, inspiring and excellently written. Highly recommended -- Keith Dudhnath * The Bookbag *An absorbing read -- Julian Fleming * Sunday Business Post *Inspiring, disturbing, daring and completely absorbing * New York Times Book Review *A masterpiece that will leave you questioning your own life and political views. It's the perfect testament to a man who continues to reshape medicine and who has become, undoubtedly, an uncommon saviour to a country that desperately needed one * USA Today *A true-to-life fairytale ... Its stark sense of reality comes as much from the grit between the pages as from the pure gold those pages spin * Boston Sunday Globe *It'll fill you equally with wonder and hope * People *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“[A] rollicking narrative…[An] absorbing and original book…Superb”—Ben Wilson, Times“There is much in Taylor’s book. It is interesting to see how pragmatically humane the navy could be, particularly in peacetime.”—David Mills, Sunday Times“[A]n accessible, humanistic portrait of a life characterised by hardship and comradeship.”— History Revealed“Episodes [are] gripping to read and fascinating in their particulars”—Ian Garrick Mason, Spectator“Taylor's research, skilful exposition, and elegant integration of text, archive and image has produced a compelling account of the men who made modern Britain, one that supplants all those that has gone before. Essential reading for sailors of the open ocean and the armchair.”—Andrew Lambert, BBC History Magazine“If most of these men's names have seeped into oblivion like so much sea froth, Taylor has brought their experiences back to vivid and exhilarating life: he stitches together the brutality and wonder of their lives with intelligence, judgement and compassion.”—Mathew Lyons, Literary Review“Sons of the Waves is the heir apparent to [John] Masefield's book as the best introduction for the general reader to the lives of eighteenth-century British seamen…Using the full range of available sources, Taylor has brought out the authentic, rarely heard, voice of Jack Tar.”—John B. Hattendorf, Times Literary Supplement“A vivid and engaging 'history from below' which provides a rich and readable demonstration of the ways in which the skills and experiences of seafarers helped to shape our society”—Nautilus Telegraph ‘Book of the Month’“The best introduction for the general reader to the lives of 18th century British seamen … Taylor has brought out the authentic, rarely heard voice of Jack Tar.” —John B. Hattedorff, Times Literary Supplement“Engrossing … suffused with a dark Dickensian melancholy.” —Roger Lewis, Daily Mail,Book of the Week“Fascinating and satisfying … A kaleidoscope of individual personalities and adventures” — N.A.M. Rodger, London Review of Books “Taylor’s experience as a writer of maritime history is evident in his adroit crafting of narrative, vivid portrayal of his characters and clear familiarity with his archival sources.” —Global Maritime History Certificate of Merit, Mounbatten Book Prize awards, 2020"An excellent book, combining an original approach to the subject with original research. Jack Tar, the quintessential British hero, emerges from this collective biography as a self-confident fellow, part of the collective body that sustained national prosperity, security and power.”—Andrew Lambert, author of Nelson"This enthusiastic account gives a vivid picture of life below decks in the era of the sailing navy. It is a classic of its kind, brimful with riotous episodes and gripping anecdotes anchored in detailed research."—Margarette Lincoln, author of Trading in War"The Royal Navy had some great leaders but what made their achievements possible was the thousands of unknown and unheard-from seamen who manned these vessels. This book starts the exploration of those fascinating lives."—Sir Robin Knox-Johnston

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Book SynopsisDrawing on a vast array of sources, from writings of the poet himself to the latest scholarly literature, this new anniversary edition of the award-winning work examines the background, the legacy, and the continuing significance of Jalâl al-Din Rumi, today’s bestselling poet in the United States. With new translations of over fifty of Rumi’s poems and including never before seen prose, this landmark study celebrates the astounding appeal of Rumi, still as strong as ever, 800 years after his birth.Trade Review"Excellent. A comprehensive overview of the Sufi poet-philosopher and his influence. Highly recommended for all collections." * Library Journal *"This book is a major contribution to the study of the great Sufi poet, and it should be on the bookshelf of anyone drawn to Rumi." * New York Review of Books *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 Part 1 Rumi's Fathers in Spirit Part 2 Rumi's Children and Brethren in Spirit Part3 The Texts and the teachings Part 4 Rumi and the Mevlevis in the Muslim world Part 5 Rumi in the West, Rumi around the world Epilogue, the fruit of translation

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Book Synopsis'Hitchens presents a George Orwell fit for the twenty-first century.' --Boston Globe In this widely acclaimed biographical essay, the masterful polemicist Christopher Hitchens assesses the life, the achievements, and the myth of the great political writer and participant George Orwell. True to his contrarian style, Hitchens is both admiring and aggressive, sympathetic yet critical, taking true measure of his subject as hero and problem. Answering both the detractors and the false claimants, Hitchens tears down the façade of sainthood erected by the hagiographers and rebuts the critics point by point. He examines Orwell and his perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America, a country and culture toward which he exhibited much ambivalence. Whether thinking about empires or dictators, race or class, nationalism or popular culture, Orwell's moral outlook remains indispensable in a world that has undergone vast changes in the seven decades since his death. Combining the best of Hitchens' polemical punch and intellectual elegance in a tightly woven and subtle argument, this book addresses not only why Orwell matters today, but how he will continue to matter in a future, uncertain world.

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Book SynopsisFROM THE MASTER STORYTELLER WHOSE BOOKS HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF OVER 40 MILLION READERS''Mitch Albom sees the magical in the ordinary'' Cecilia Ahern__________Will you do my eulogy?With those words, Mitch Albom begins a remarkable eight-year journey to honour the request of a beloved rabbi.Feeling unworthy of such a responsibility, Albom sets out to know the man better and unexpectedly finds himself drawn to two seemingly disparate worlds: Christian and Jewish, African-American and white, impoverished and well-to-do. Over the course of his exploration, he is compelled to consider life''s biggest questions.On Albom''s voyage of discovery he explores forgiveness, doubt and how to endure when the unimaginable happens. Have a Little Faith is the result: a book about the indominable strength of the human spirit and the power of genuine connection.__________WHAT READERS SAY ABOUT HAVE A LITTLE FAITrade ReviewMitch Albom sees the magical in the ordinary -- Cecilia AhernPowerful . . . Albom has touched the lives of a lot of people he never even knew * Time *Compelling and uplifting * Independent *A writer with soul * Los Angeles Times *Albom breaks hearts with his stories * Mirror *

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Book SynopsisThe minutes and hours following 11th September terror attacks on the World Trade Center posed the greatest challenge to governance in New York City''s history. Mayor Rudoph Giuliani had barely escaped with his life in the collapse of the first tower. Fires burned furiously near the site as the other buildings verged on collapse. Air Force fighter jets criss-crossed the sky to ward off other attacks. And yet in those moments after the calamity, and in the following days and months, Mayor Giuliani not only steered the city through the crisis, but did so with an assurance and authority that was hailed around the world as a model of courageous leadership.In LEADERSHIP, Giuliani describes vividly the chaos and horror of the twin-towers catastrophe, and explains how the rules of management he enforced as Mayor enabled him to gain control of the emergency. These are also the rules, Giuliani makes clear, that anyone in a leadership position - from the head of a large corporation toTrade ReviewA hero to many.....the greatest mayor in the city's history. * TIME *Like the man, [the book] also shines when dealing with the disaster and the terrible days that followed. * FINANCIAL TIMES *...entertaining...marked by an obvious passion for the city he led. * BUSINESS WEEKLY *On 11/9/01, the world learned to love Giuliani....the description of that time is an engrossing part of (Leadership).... * BUSINESS AM *

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Book SynopsisTake a firsthand journey into a time, society and world full of intrigue. In the tenth century, Japan stood physically and culturally isolated from the rest of the world. Sei Shonagon—a young courtesan of the Heian period—kept a diary, which provides a highly personal account of the intrigues, dalliances, quirks, and habits of Japan's late tenth-century elite. She was a contemporary and acquaintance of the well-known courtesan Murasaki Shikibu, author of the Japanese masterpiece The Tale of Genji. A perfect companion to that work, The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon brings an added dimension to Murasaki's timeless and seminal novel and further illuminates Japanese court life in all its ritualistic glory. Through his elegant and readable abridged translation, Arthur Waley perfectly conveys Sei Shonagon's girlish temperament and quirky personality. In a place and time where poetry was as important as knowledge and beauty was highly revered, Sei Shonagon's private writings offer a charming, intimate glimpse into a world of innocence and pale beauty. A new introduction by respected Japanese literary scholar Dennis Washburn provides historical insight into Japanese culture, Sei Shonagon's world, and Waley's translation.Trade Review"His [Waley's] is the most appealing version for the general reader." --Michael Dirda, Pulitzer-prize winning columnist"In a small diary, a young courtesan of the Heian period gives her account of the Japanese courts of the day, providing perspective on a unique time in Japanese history. A contemporary of Murasaki Shikibu, the author of The Tale of Genji, Sei Shonagon's commentary brings an added dimension to that timeless and seminal work." --Svetlana's Reads and Views blog

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Book SynopsisSince its first publication in 1984, Night Falls in Ardnamurchan has become a classic account of the life and death of a Highland community. The author weaves his own humorous and perceptive account of crofting with extracts from his father's journal - a terse, factual and down to earth vision of the day-to-day tasks of crofting life. It is an unusual and memorable story that also illuminates the shifting, often tortuous relationships between children and their parents. Alasdair Maclean reveals his own struggle to come to terms with his background and the isolated community he left so often and to which he returned again and again. In this isolated community is seen a microcosm of something central to Scottish identity - the need to escape against the tug of home.Trade Review'Funny, moving, and full of intriguing factual knowledge' * Scots Magazine *

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Book Synopsis'An unmissable insight into the true lives behind the county lines gangs. You should read this.' Pippa Crerar, Daily Mirror Top Girl is the tell-all, true story of a grammar school girl turned county lines drug dealer. Danielle has a safe, happy childhood growing up in West London, but her bright future fades as she turns her back on school for gang life and crime. Betrayed by the police after a brutal gang rape, she finds protection under the wing of organised criminals and falls in love with the local ‘top boy’. However, her allegiances bring terror to her doorstep when gun-toting rivals target her flat – and the authorities answer by taking away her baby. Heartbroken, Danielle spirals deeper into gang life and becomes a key player in a sprawling county lines operation, running drugs to satellite towns all over the UK from the gang’s London HQ. The Harrods shopping sprees, designer handbags and hedonistic lifestyle are the envy of her friends, but the good times and cash mask the grim realities of her life. A turning point comes when Danielle is arrested and – with the help of a probation officer – she begins to question whether she really is ‘top girl’ after all. But after five years deep in the high-earning street hustle, can she really leave it all behind? Danielle’s gritty, emotional, no-holds-barred memoir lays bare the reality of a county lines insider and reveals the truth about life on the frontline of Britain’s biggest drug threat for a generation.Trade Review"I finished Top Girl last night. Whoa! Incredible read and had to remind myself that this isn’t Crime fiction but Crime fact. Harrowing but also inspiring." * Joy Kluver, author of Last Seen, Broken Girls, Left for Dead *"Myth busting and destroying the stereotypes of who and what a drug dealer looks like and where they come from. You don't sign up for a gang, they are your friends. An eye opening account of how involved Danielle was in the start of the county lines operation. The ripple effect of one decision. I found the book fascinating and illuminating, a brutally honest account that does not hold anyone else responsible for the decisions that Danielle made. An important book for the younger generation." * Netgalley *"Danielle Marin's memoir lays bare the underworld of drug 'trapping.' I devoured this book in a few days, each page, turning quickly one after another. The tales laid out on the pages are at times incomprehensible and the events 'D' gets involved with are really quite hard to come to terms with. The writing is raw, gritty and so very honest." * Netgalley *"Top Girl is a non-fiction, candid account of Danielle Marin, a grammar school girl turned county lines drug dealer. Danielle gives a powerful, raw, no holds barred account of life as a gang member and drug dealer. It isn’t a glamorous story, in fact it’s an ugly one, but it’s also an important one, as it shows how bad choices, mixing with the wrong crowd can lead someone down a dark and dangerous path where violence is the everyday norm. Groomed by a gang member from the young age of twelve, it doesn’t take much imagination to see how a young girl could be manipulated and get caught up in the gang life. I really liked the fact that Danielle doesn’t paint herself as a victim. She takes ownership of the path she chose. Danielle is very honest and admits that money was her motivation for drug selling, but she highlights the actual dangers associated with selling drugs, and gives a brutal insight into how and why kids get involved in drugs and drug dealing. I was in awe of Danielle’s strength of character, and that she could make a conscious decision to turn her life round. Top Girl is a powerful story that applies to today’s younger generation. I think every school-age child should read this book as it’s a lesson in the consequences of making bad choices. Highly recommend." * Netgalley *'An unmissable insight into the true lives behind the county lines gangs. You should read this.' * Pippa Crerar, Daily Mirror Political Editor *"I have a feeling this is going to be one of THE books of 2022" * Linda Hill, blogger *"I'm forever grateful to Mardle Books for giving me the opportunity to read some amazing books and this one is quite possibly my most favourite yet. It packs a punch and left me feeling every emotion under the sun. I felt sad, happy, proud and broken but what a journey I went on. Thank you Danielle for allowing us to learn about your life so far." * Karen and her Books, Blogger *'This was a gritty and revealing tell all about a girl’s insidious drift into gangs. Growing up on council estate, academically able Danielle leaves her peers behind and goes to grammar school, where she never quite fits. Attracted always to the naughty kids, aged 12 Danielle meets a cool older guy who is a drug dealer. Through him she meets others and gradually becomes embroiled into a normality involving drugs and ganglife. Old before her years, Danielle has a plethora of experiences while still a child and I had to constantly remind myself how young she was, she also reminded us but aspects of the book were truly shocking and more so when reflecting that this was a school girl. The brutal attack mentioned in the description was graphically described and difficult to read about. The response of police was equally shocking and the depressingly familiar tale of ‘slut shaming’ and implications that ‘she asked for it’ were made all the more disappointing when recollecting how lod those involved were. Interestingly Danielle repeatedly mentioned the notion of gangs being an external concept and not the view held by those involved. This was curious and got me thinking about the criminalisation and stigmatisation of certain groups – yes this group were absolutely breaking the law, but for Danielle they were also looking out for each other, affording her some protection and earning a living. The story was fascinating and I felt offered a strong insight into what we call, ‘gang life’ and the establishment of county lines. I was impressed with the author’s honesty and her ability later to turn her experiences into something positive. I was equally impressed by her resilience as so many aspects of her story were sad and traumatic. I think this would be a useful read for those working with young people, if nothing else but to remind that despite appearances and behaviours, children are children. If I was to raise a criticism it would be that at times found some of the language used, the dialect a bit jarring and I think often ‘slang’ talks struggles to be translated to the written word, but this was a minor point and at times this served to give voice to the author. Thank you to the publisher for the gifted proof copy of Top Girl. I do enjoy memoirs and am very interested in books such as this one, and I was glad that this did not disappoint. Would I recommend this one? Absolutely, it offers a remarkable insight into experiences of children on the margins, vulnerable children and anything that helps them to be better understood and thus helped is invaluable in my opinion.' * I Loved Reading This, blogger *'I absolutely loved this book and read it in one day cos I just couldn't put it down. 'D' gives a true insight into what life as a gang member/drug dealer is like and she tells it in her own words. Its raw and honest. It isn't a glamorous or a pretty story but I really liked 'D' and the honesty with which she told her story. I liked that she took responsibility for her own actions and didn't try to play the pity card and even though in a lot of ways she was a victim she didn't play the victim either. I was born and raised in South London, Brixton to be exact so her story is familiar to me, I'm just glad that I didn't get drawn into that lifestyle. I'm glad that 'D' found her way out and is now helping other girls and young women, I hope that she has managed to heal from all the trauma in her past and that one day she manages to reconnect with her son.' * Netgalley *'I was gripped to Danielle's story from page one. I felt every emotion possible reading this story of a highly intelligent girl who had everything going for her falling into a different path and making some bad life choices. Some parts were hard to read and deeply upsetting as a mother and a woman, and in honesty I was frustrated with her priorities on a few occasions; that said it is easy to judge when you're looking in. By the end I was rooting for Danielle. This book is a prime example of how one bad decision or traumatic event can effect your life so dramatically, and a remainder to never judge or label someone. A truly fantastic story. Honest and raw. You deserve every success Danielle, you done your boy proud.' * Netgalley *‘There are some books that stay with you forever and Top Girl will be one of those for me. Vivid, insightful and extremely powerful, I have thought about this book every day since reading it. Danielle has opened my eyes to a world on my doorstep that I have never seen before. And I feel that I am coming away from it a more informed person. It is truly a must-read for everyone.’ * Jenny Proudfoot, Marie Claire UK Features Editor *'I found Top Girl to be a heart-breaking tale of how some bad choices or difficult periods in a childhood can snowball and derail a promising child's life. Should be required reading for those making decisions about the futures of young people, many of whom have little understanding of what these lives are truly like. I suspect in the end Danielle will get every success and bit of happiness she deserves - she just took a slightly longer route to get there.' * Linda Boa, blogger Crime Worm *'Top girl is a factual book about a young girl groomed to become a county lines drug dealer. Manipulated and groomed at the age of twelve Danielle is soon drawn into the seedy underworld of drugs. 8 years and up should be offered this book to read as it can show how easily they can be pulled into this world by a few kind words and treats. It is extremely well written, dangerous, and explicit. What a brave lady she is for giving us an insight into the daily life of drugs, the power people have over others the violence they dish out and the strength of Danielle to overcome her ordeal and write a very strong story. I really enjoyed this book and thoroughly recommend it. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. xx' * Netgalley *'A harrowing read. A good girl gone bad memoir and it definitely shocked me! Danielle is a smart student who attends a grammar school but quickly goes awry. I read this very quickly. Would recommend.' * Netgalley *'Top Girl is the true story of how Danielle Marin went from Grammar School girl, to County Lines drug dealer. Danielle, with her working class background, feels like a fish out water at her school and is literally seduced by the apparent glamour of gangs, drugs and easy money. Finding out the hard way that she's swimming with Sharks, Danielle's life is one of turmoil and constant clashes as she finds the reality of violence within the gang culture, comes to the attention of the police and finds herself alone with a baby after her family move overseas without her. Hooking up with one of the local "Top Boys" Danielle finds herself heavily involved in the dangerous but highly lucrative world of drugs, guns and dealers. Danielle doesn't pull any punches, this is raw and often quite shocking as a true story of life for many of London's young people, beatings, stabbings, shootings, theft, drugs and quite horrific violence casually meted out for what most people would see as very little reason. It is quite a frustrating book as the reader sees Danielle building up to yet another bad choice and shaking their head thinking, “don’t do it", which is exactly why it's such an important book. The supposed glamour of the gangs and easy drug money is shown to be a squalid, dirty and dangerous business, not least for impressionable and naïve young girls. A great read, and a book that should be widely available to teenagers to show the reality of life choices that might seem attractive but really, really aren't.' * Netgalley *'This was a deeply raw, honest and moving memoir of a young girl who grew up in a loving home, had a good childhood, was well educated ended up as East London’s top girl of drug dealing. It showed me how easy it is to get involved with that lifestyle and how quickly things can turn. There were times when I was conflicted in how I felt about Danielle and her life choices however this book shows how not everything in life is black and white and there are many shades of grey in between. This is a particularly poignant tale especially with everything that is happening concerning county lines and gang culture right now.' * Netgalley *'I don't normally read autobiographies but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could relate to life growing up in London. Danielle was bought up on an estate. A smart girl who went to grammar school but lured into too much too soon. Mixing in a bad crowd, experiencing things from an early age and going down the wrong path. Put into care and then losing her own child. This is a must read.' * Netgalley *'Beautiful. Poignant. Phenomenal. This was a beautify read and I learnt so much. I cried and I smiled and there was nothing more that I wanted from this book. Truly a gem.' * Netgalley *'I genuinely think that this book should be available in comprehensive schools up and down the country. This searing, moving and , at times, gut wrenching memoir pulls literally no punches in the way Danielle describes how she fell into the county lines culture, the drugs and gang lifestyle, and the systems set in place to help her which did the complete opposite, and drove her deeper. It is a twenty first century cautionary tale told with grit, authenticity and a brutal sense of self awareness that honestly humbled me when I read it. This is a woman with integrity looking back, at identifying the key periods in her life where she was failed by societal structures which should have pulled her away from the lifestyle which she was gradually pulled into. I have a daughter the same age as Danielle was when she got involved in the gang lifestyle. And I had to stop reading several times because it was so very brutal and there is a dignity in how Danielle describes her traumas, it is not something exploitative or graphic which makes what happened to her all the more powerful. It is an incredibly moving , powerful testimony to a woman who has lived a life. She has lived, survived, and sets out her experiences without flinching, without pity, just putting it out there which accentuates how courageous she is, to this reader’s mind. I finished this book in tears, and in awe, wanting to applaud this woman for her strength and the way that she continues to use her experiences to contribute to a justice system which is deeply flawed and not fit for purpose.' * Rachel Read It, blogger *'The intensity of the narration and the emotional trauma the author must have suffered made this book a gut wrenching experience. You really do need to read “Top Girl” for yourself and encourage your teenage family members also, especially if London based - it’s as much educational as anything else. Gritty, explosive and darkly emotional, this factual true crime memoir needs as much publicity as it can, to raise awareness of ‘gang’ life and drug crime and I’d happily recommend to any reader who isn’t easily upset or offended.' * A Mother's Musings, blogger *'I read Top Girl with fraught nerves and such investment in Danielle’s story that several events hit me like an emotional gut punch. The writing style is informal and conversational throughout which helps to make Danielle’s account not only immensely readable but accessible and relatable to a younger audience. It’s a propulsive and pacy read too. Danielle does not look for excuses and I found it impossible not to empathise with her. That Danielle came through her experiences is testament to her strength of character and her story is full of insight and lessons for not just teenagers, parents and teachers but anyone who that wants to understand why so many young people pursue this path and how we can ever hope to change that.' * Netgalley *'Top Girl was a bit of a different read for me. My usual memoir tends to be of the celebrity variety but Danielle’s story really appealed to me. Her narrative was raw and fascinating. This is one very interesting memoir.' * A Knight's Reads, blogger *'I was gripped by Danielle's story from page one. I felt every emotion possible reading this truly fantastic story. Honest and raw.' * Netgalley *'Top Girl is the ideal read for anyone who wants to understand what leads so many vulnerable children and teenagers to be sucked into this culture - and how to give them a stable, positive future. It is a difficult read but it's also an important one - for teenagers, parents, teachers, social workers and anyone trying to change children's lives for the better.' * Victoria Goldman, expert reviewer *"Gripping. Enlightening and surprisingly emotional. I couldn't put it down, I found myself thinking about it long after I had finished it too." * Clemmie Telford, author *'Top Girl absolutely captivated me. Crucial and eloquent, it's an incredible new book that you definitely need to read. It is like no other insight you can possibly get into the drug trade.' * Jason Reed, Stop and Search Podcast host *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“A revelation, a powerhouse, a thing of beauty, and—OK, I’ll say it—a knockout. Joe Frazier is one of the most compelling figures ever to step in a boxing ring, and Mark Kram, Jr. has written a biography worthy in every way of the champ’s greatness.” — Jonathan Eig, bestselling author of Ali: A Life “Mark Kram, Jr. much, much more than splendidly gets to the strange anomaly that was Smokin’ Joe: you’d have thought the guy didn’t get no respect. Only he did. Lots...His life is a story worth reading.” — Richard Ford “Mark Kram, Jr.’s sympathetic and thoroughly researched Smokin’ Joe is a worthy introduction to an under-appreciated American athlete.” — Joyce Carol Oates “An exquisite biography that depicts Frazier as he really was: not just fearless and ferocious but soulful, compassionate, loyal, impulsive, capable of powerful hatred and even more powerful love. You can feel the gospel truth of Smokin’ Joe deep in your bones.” — John Schulian, winner of the PEN/ESPN Lifetime Achievement Award for Literary Sports Writing “Mark Kram Jr.’s landmark book about Joe Frazier...at last remedies a grave wrong, lifting the indomitable Frazier out of the crypt of creeping obscurity and into the exalted place he deserves in America’s annals...[A] sublime exploration.” — Michael Leahy, aof the Casey Award-winning The Last Innocents: The Collision of the Turbulent Sixties and the Los Angeles Dodgers “Bookish fans of the sweet science will flock to this biography.” — Kirkus Reviews “A comprehensive knockout of a biography...[A] beautiful book.” — Wall Street Journal "Kram...writes with the intensity that Frazier fought with...Unlike his subject, Kram knows when to take a step back and reflect, revealing a Frazier far removed from the enduring portrayal of him as 'an angry and unforgiving man so incapable of letting go of the hatred he harbored for Ali.'" — The National Book Review

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Book SynopsisDiscover the definitive biography of Marcus Garvey ''Grant is an accomplished storyteller and writes with an elegance leavened by wit and cynicism that makes this book eminently readable'' Guardian At one time during the first half of the twentieth century, Marcus Garvey was the most famous black man on the planet. Hailed as both the ''black Moses'' and merely ''a Negro with a hat'', he masterminded the first International Convention of the Negro Peoples of the World, began the Universal Negro Improvement Association and captivated audiences with his powerful speeches and audacious ''Back to Africa'' prograTrade ReviewA brisk and well-researched biography... A splendidly colourful book * Daily Telegraph *Gripping and sympathetic...monumental...Grant writes with the quiet authority of a historian who has done a colossal amount of research... and knows the smells and tastes of this period as if he had lived through it. He is slow to pass judgement, but when he does so, the verdict carries real weight... His history reads like a first-rate novel... Grant's book is a fine and valuable monument to [Garvey's] memory -- Kevin Jackson * New Statesman *Grant is an accomplished storyteller and writes with an elegance leavened by wit and cynicism that makes this book eminently readable -- Margaret Busby * Guardian *In this superb new biography, Colin Grant portrays Garvey as a showman-ideologue [and] is to be congratulated on this scholarly, well-written account * Sunday Telegraph *Engrossing...Writing in a concise, expressive style...drawing on gargantuan research...Grant meticulously chronicles Garvey's eventful odyssey and sheds light on his revolutionary thinking and formidable public speaking...he shows Garvey's heady triumphs and crushing disappointments, his complexity, his paradoxes * Independent on Sunday *

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Book SynopsisNgugi wa Thiong''o was born the fifth child of his father''s third wife, in a family that includes twenty-four children born to four different mothers. He spent his 1930s childhood as the apple of his mother''s eye, before attending school to slake what is considered a bizarre thirst for learning.As he grows up, the wider political and social changes occurring in Kenya begin to impinge on the boy''s life in both inspiring and frightening ways. Through the story of his grandparents and parents, and his brothers'' involvement in the violent Mau Mau uprising, Ngugi deftly etches a tumultuous era, capturing the landscape, the people and their culture, and the social and political vicissitudes of life under colonialism and war.Trade ReviewIn his crowded career and his eventful life, Ngugi has enacted, for all to see, the paradigmatic trials and quandaries of a contemporary African writer caught in sometimes implacable political, social, racial, and linguistic currents -- John Updike * The New Yorker *Delicate, fresh and scrupulously honest...calm and mature * Spectator *Moving, honest and informative, this is a book about the influence of stories, storytelling and storytellers. It is a reminder that every generation, however beleaguered, can dream to change the world * Independent *The work he offers us here is like nothing that's gone before: it is the chronicle of a child's single-minded pursuit of an education.... The picture of Kenya that he presents is admirably free of cant or sentimentality, and yet it is enough to make you weep * Washington Post *Ngugi has returned to his roots to produce something delicate, fresh and scrupulously honest -- Michela Wrong * The Spectator *

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Book Synopsis''REVELATORY'' - DAILY TELEGRAPH *****''FASCINATING'' - OBSERVER''ENGROSSING'' - DAILY MAIL''You'll worry at your hunger to keep on reading, but you won't be able to stop'' - GUARDIAN, Book of the Year David Litvinoff was one of the great mythic characters of 60s London. Flitting between the worlds of music, art and crime, he exerted a hidden influence that helped create the Krays twins' legend, connected the Rolling Stones with London's dark side, shaped the plot of classic film Performance and saw him immortalised in a portrait by Lucian Freud. Litvinoff's determination to live without trace means that his life has always eluded biographers, until now. Intent on unravelling the enigma of Litvinoff, Keiron Pim conducted 100 interviews over five years, speaking to Eric Clapton and Marianne Faithfull, James Fox and Mad' Frankie Fraser. The result is an extraordinary feat of researcTrade ReviewYou’ll worry at your hunger to keep on reading, but you won’t be able to stop. * Guardian, Book of the Year *The rock'n'roll legend of David Litvinoff is given its definitive account. A considerable work of detection and human sympathy unpicking old myths and making them new. -- Iain SinclairThis surely has the most startling beginning of any biography to be published this year… Vivid, engrossing… Pim gives an all too graphic picture of the seedy 1950s… He is compassionate and humane at every moment. His prose is always careful and stylish. -- Richard Davenport-Hines * Guardian *Blending pop culture, social history and interviews with raddled survivors, Pim reconstructs every scene in Litvinoff’s twisted history… Jumpin’ Jack Flash provides the missing piece of Swinging London’s social jigsaw. -- Dominic Green * Literary Review *Blending pop culture, social history and interviews with raddled survivors, Pim reconstructs every scene in Litvinoff’s twisted history… Jumpin’ Jack Flash provides the missing piece of Swinging London’s social jigsaw. -- Dominic Green * Literary Review *

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Book SynopsisBiography is one of the most popular, best-selling, and widely-read of literary genres. But why do certain people and historical events arouse so much interest? How can biographies be compared with history and works of fiction? Does a biography need to be true? Is it acceptable to omit or conceal things? Does the biographer need to personally know the subject? Must a biographer be subjective? In this Very Short Introduction Hermione Lee considers the cultural and historical background of different types of biographies, looking at the factors that affect biographers and whether there are different strategies, ethics, and principles required for writing about one person compared to another. She also considers contemporary biographical publications and considers what kind of ''lives'' are the most popular and in demand. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewIt would be hard to think of anyone better to provide a crisp contribution to OUP's Very Short Introductions. * Kathryn Hughes, The Guardian *A sophisticated overview for the general reader. * Andrew Lycett, Literary Review *Enjoyable book on the subject. * Henry Power, TLS *Table of Contents1. The Biography Channel ; 2. Exemplary Lives ; 3. Warts and All ; 4. National Biography ; 5. Fallen Idols ; 6. Against Biography ; 7. Public Roles ; 8. Telling the Story

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Playing with Fire is a ground-breaking work—a phenomenal biography of a towering human spirit of everlasting relevance.”—Norman Lebrecht, Wall Street Journal“Wilson, a Moscow-trained cellist and biographer of Shostakovich, has found details of, it seems, every concerto, every appearance, every job Yudina did.”—John Lloyd, Financial Times“As this fascinating book shows, the real story of Yudina is more moving and extraordinary than any of the myths.”—Ivan Hewett, Daily Telegraph“The author of biographies of Shostakovich and Rostropovich turns her attention to the great Soviet pianist Maria Yudina (1899–1970), famous for eccentricity and moral courage. Wilson emphasizes Yudina’s passionate intellectual life; a disciple of Bakhtin, . . . she was as interested in philosophy as she was in music.”—New Yorker“Wilson illuminates the life of one of twentieth-century Russia’s most brilliant pianists and uncompromising individuals. . . . Through her meticulous research, Wilson disabuses us of the many legends that surround Yudina’s peculiar character.”—Nadia Beard, Times Literary Supplement“Wilson, a musician and writer who authored a fine book on Dmitri Shostakovich, has now produced the first English-language biography of Maria Yudina, one of Russia’s greatest twentieth-century pianists. Her study gains strength from its vivid reconstruction of the classical music scene under Soviet rule.”—Tony Barber, Financial Times, “Best Summer Books of 2022: History”“The author is extremely well placed to narrate Yudina’s life and provide some insight into her art. . . . Reading a biography of her as thorough and informed as Playing with Fire, one grows ever more incredulous that she survived so long and went on performing until very near the end of her life.”—Michael Tanner, Spectator“An insight into the agony of intellectual life under [Stalin’s] rule”—Sophie Roell, Five Books, “Notable Nonfiction of Early 2022”“An adroit and revealing narrative of [Maria] Yudina’s life”—Michael Prodger, New Statesman“Wilson follows Yudina carefully from her birth in what is now Belarus to her death in Moscow in 1970. The threads of her life interweave to illustrate not only an astonishing career, but also aspects of Russian life and culture before and during the Soviet era. . . . Clearly, this book is filled with dramatic experiences and detail, but Wilson’s craft as a storyteller ensures that it is a captivating read.”—Vin Arthey, The Scotsman“This book is filled with dramatic experiences and detail, but Wilson's craft as a storyteller ensures that it is a captivating read.”—Vin Arthey, Yorkshire Post“Clearly and unpretentiously written, with sensitive but never blindly hagiographic appreciations of Yudina’s recordings. Where they were dissenting voices about the quality of Yudina’s playing or teaching, she does not hesitate to report them. The text is also studded with fascinating asides.”—David Fanning, Gramophone“This most satisfying biography and appreciation of one of the twentieth-century’s greatest pianists brims over with facts, anecdotes and observations. It’s both an invaluable document and an absorbing and stimulating read. . . . It is surely definitive.”—Stephen Greenbank, MusicWeb International“A brilliant pianist closely connected with the leading lights of 20th-century Russian music, literature and philosophy, Maria Yudina was a seminal figure whose devout religious beliefs brought her into direct collision with the Soviet state. Elizabeth Wilson's great achievement is to have brought Yudina's extraordinary life out of the shadows. With this revelatory biography she takes us deep into the heart of Russian artistic genius at its most passionate and uncompromising.”—Rosamund Bartlett, author of Chekhov Scenes from a Life and Tolstoy: A Russian Life “Maria Yudina, one of the great pianists of the 20th century, reached cult status in the USSR, but is still little known abroad. This fascinating biography by Elizabeth Wilson, combining scholarly erudition and captivating storytelling, not only fills this gap but reads like a powerful Russian novel!”—Mikhail Rudy, award-winning concert pianist “So much more than a great and deeply unusual pianist, Maria Yudina was at once mystic and visionary, a pioneer of modernism and a tremendous friend to those who loved her. Few writers and musicians in the English-speaking world are better placed than Elizabeth Wilson to tell the story of this mysterious and far too little-known 20th century musician. And the story is a revelation.”—Gerard McBurney, composer and writer “An engaging read that tells the story of Russia’s preeminent pianist of the 20th century in lucid and approachable language, this long-needed book illuminates Maria Yudina’s work and life through recollections of her contemporaries and considerable archival research.”—Elena Dubinets, Artistic Director of the London Philharmonic Orchestra “Presents an absorbing picture of a tragic period of Russian history. At its center is the towering figure of Maria Yudina, a remarkable pianist and one of the most influential personalities of Soviet cultural life. A riveting read.”—Boris Berman, Head of Piano, Yale University School of Music

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Book SynopsisAmy Vedder is a wildlife biologist, a scientist who studies animals and their behavior. She uses her knowledge to save animals whose lives and habitats are threatened. This book presents the story of this young nature lover who became a powerful champion of great apes.Table of Contents1 Sample Chapter 1: Close Encounter

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Book SynopsisYou don''t have to change your life overnight--instead, you can make small changes that leave a lasting impact. In The 2% Way, discover the simple, revolutionary practice behind the against-the-odds success story of Dr. Myron L. Rolle. Dr. Rolle has led a remarkable life: from earning a scholarship to a prestigious private high school to becoming a top-rated recruit at Florida State University; from winning the Rhodes Scholarship for study at Oxford to playing football in the NFL and then becoming a neurosurgery resident at Harvard.In this inspiring book, Dr. Rolle tells the story of his incredible journey, revealing how a strong work ethic, deep faith, and the family values instilled by his Bahamian immigrant parents set the stage for the transformative life philosophy that enabled him to overcome adversity, defy expectations, and create a life of meaning and purpose.Whether you''re strugTrade ReviewBy beautifully interweaving on- and off-field anecdotes with his 2% Way philosophy, Myron has designed a powerful playbook for tackling our greatest challenges, achieving our most daunting goals, and realizing our true potential. Bonnie Bernstein, veteran sports journalist and CEO of Walk Swiftly ProductionsDr. Myron Rolle's achievements by any standard are stellar. But I am even more proud of the commitments that inspired him to such high attainment. These include a determined, rock-solid grounding in and connection to his cultural heritage, a strong and clear life-vision pursued without fear or compromise, and a subscribed obligation to give back no matter how far his life may take him. What we are seeing is a life richly infused, and for him I believe the best is yet to come. Glenys Hanna Martin, minister of education, technical, and vocational training, government of the BahamasDr. Myron Rolle's diverse life experience will connect with so many communities. His empathy and genius are evident in his voice and storytelling, which weave together his experiences of the most elite and world-renowned organizations. Dr. Rolle's relentless spirit is a product of Love and overcoming seemingly insurmountable adversity, and his methodology and philosophy are directly linked to the joy and success he has. His story is groundbreaking. Troy Polamalu, Hall of Fame strong safety for the Pittsburgh SteelersMyron Rolle is an amazing role model who is in the process of becoming a neurosurgeon after having achieved the goal of becoming a Rhodes Scholar and NFL player. His no-excuses mentality combined with a philosophy that always moves one forward is something to be emulated by all. Benjamin S. Carson Sr., MD, founder and chairman, American Cornerstone Institute; emeritus professor of neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Medicine; 17th Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentMyron's journey from a defensive back in the NFL to a neurosurgery suite as a cranial surgeon is an incredible example of excellence in execution and 120. Small steps cover big distances, and regular 2% improvements can mean the difference between success and failure, average and exceptional, winning and losing. The 2% Way will change the reader's life--I know this because it changed mine. Eric Thomas, PhD, author, speaker, educator, and pastor

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Book SynopsisSir Ranulph Fiennes is uniquely qualified to write a new biography of Captain Scott. This is the first biography of Scott by someone who has experienced the deprivations, the stress and the sheer physical pain that Scott lived through; he has suffered all but the final tragedy endured by the much maligned Scott. He is determined to put the record straight. As well as being the definitive biography of Scott, written with the full and exclusive cooperation of the Scott Estate, this book traces the way that Scott''s reputation has been attacked and his achievements distorted.''Sir Ranulph Fiennes has done Captain Scott''s memory some service...he has certainly written a more dispassionate and balanced account than Huntford ever set out to do.'' - Simon Courtauld, SpectatorTrade ReviewNo-one is better placed than Fiennes to understand what Scott may have experienced or to appreciate the enormity of his achievement. A gripping tale of courage and adventure. * Daily Mail *A valuable corrective to the trend of Scott debunking ushered in by Roland Huntford...One by one, and with commendable attention to detail, Fiennes explodes the accumulated myths. The world will remember Scott and, to a lesser extent, Fiennes when the memory of the mean-spirited and misleading Huntford has long since melted away. * Justin Marozzi, Sunday Telegraph *Sir Ranulph Fiennes has done Captain Scott's memory some service...he has certainly written a more dispassionate and balanced account than Huntford ever set out to do * Simon Courtauld, Spectator *He is uniquely qualified...because only someone who has "man-hauled" across Antarctica can know what went on. Fiennes's own experiences certainly allow him to write vividly and with empathy of the hell that the men went through. He has valuable insights into the running of the Royal Geographical Society and the mounting of an expedition, and he does indeed right some wrongs. * The Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisThe multigenerational tale of three families whose paths collide one summer night in 1960 with the murder of a police officerTrade Review"[An] exhilarating, intimate study of fate, chance and the wildly meaningful intersections of disparate lives….Belkin writes insightfully and engagingly….She has a keen eye for an anecdote and a sharp sense of humor." -- Robert Kolker - The New York Times Book Review"Ms. Belkin stages the drama with the pace and tension of a Greek tragedy...gripping....though-provoking." -- Tom Nolan - The Wall Street Journal"Lisa Belkin has taken an incredible story and unraveled it in the most masterful way. This is an intensely readable, fascinating book that will be with you for a long time." -- Julie Klam, author of The Almost Legendary Morris Sisters: A True Story of Family Fiction"A generational saga both exquisitely detailed and majestically sweeping.… This wonderful book by master storyteller Lisa Belkin carries the reader effortlessly along, revealing profound truths about the history of our country, the intertwined nature of our personal stories, and the forces—often hidden—driving our own lives, our own loves, our own times." -- Liza Mundy, author of Code Girls: The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II"In this riveting narrative, Lisa Belkin brings history to life. Weaving philosophical, psychological, historical, and personal threads, she dissects how the past shapes us and makes us who we are. Meticulously researched and beautifully constructed, this book reads like historical fiction—though it is, almost unfathomably, true." -- Christina Baker Kline, author of Orphan Train and The Exiles

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Book SynopsisAn “engrossing and important book' (Wall Street Journal) that brings to life the fateful friendship between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali In 1962, boxing writers and fans considered Cassius Clay an obnoxious self-promoter, and few believed that he would become the heavyweight champion of the world. But Malcolm X, the most famous minister in the Nation of Islam, saw the potential in Clay, not just for boxing greatness, but as a means of spreading the Nation’s message. The two became fast friends, keeping their interactions secret from the press for fear of jeopardizing Clay’s career. Clay began living a double life—a patriotic “good negro” in public, and a radical reformer behind the scenes. Soon, however, their friendship would sour, with disastrous and far-reaching consequences. Based on previously untapped sources, from Malcolm’s personal papers to FBI records, Blood Brothers is the first book to offer an in-depth portrait of this complex bond. An extraordinary narrative of love and deep affection, as well as deceit, betrayal, and violence, this story is a window into the public and private lives of two of our greatest national icons, and the tumultuous period in American history that they helped to shape.

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Book SynopsisHow One Man Masterminded the Soviet Drive Beat America to the Moon. "Fascinating... packed with technical and historical detail for the space expert and enthusiast alike... Great stuff!"-New Scientist "In this exceptional book, James Harford pieces together a most compelling and well-written tale... Must reading.Trade Review"In this exceptional book, James Harford pieces together a most compelling and well-written tale . . . must reading."-Space News "A fascinating and perceptive history of the Russian space program.... Avid space enthusiasts will find this story a necessary addition to their knowledge of space exploration."-Christopher C. Kraft, Jr., former Director of Flight Operations, NASA "His erudite and meticulously researched charting of the life and times of Korolev provides unique insights. . . . This is a fascinating book . . . for the space expert and enthusiast alike. Great stuff."-New ScientistTable of ContentsPreface ix A Note about Russian Names xvi Abbreviations xvii Prologue The Anonymous Chief Designer 1 Chapter 1 Kibalchich to Korolev 8 2 Growing Up in Ukraine: Broken Family, Bolsheviks, Gliders 16 3 To Moscow: Tupolev, Tukhachevsky, First Rockets 29 4 The Gulag and Sharaga Years 49 5 The German V-2: Bedrock Technology 64 6 The World's First ICBM: Aimed at the USA 91 7 Sputnik: No Big Deal to Khrushchev-At First 121 8 Unmanned Firsts: Hitting the Moon and Venus 139 9 Gagarin First, Shepard an Anti-climactic Second 159 10 Voskhod: A "Circus Act" 180 11 Spy Sats and Com Sats 190 12 The Organization: Korolev Up and Down 201 13 The Technology: Simple but Reliable 219 14 The Party, the Paranoia 230 15 Racing Apollo: The Odds Were Enormous 246 16 The End of Anonymity: Burial in the Kremlin Wall 276 17 After Korolev: Demise of the Circumlunar and Lunar Landing Missions 286 18 Ironic Epilogue 313 Appendix A Chronology of the Moon Race, 1957-1974 324 Notes 340 Bibliography 372 Index 377

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Book SynopsisLt Colonel John Paul Vann went to Vietnam in 1962, but soon became appalled by the slaughter, leaking his pessimistic assessments to the US press corps in Saigon. Neil Sheehan was among them, and became fascinated by the angry Vann, befriended him, and followed his tragic and reckless career.Trade ReviewIf there is one book that captures the Vietnam War in the sheer Homeric scale of its passion and folly, this book is it... A dazzling montage: vividly written and deeply felt... The dramatic scenes of lonely men locked on combat...the clash of wills and egos...all these combine in a work that captures the Vietnam War like no other... An impressive achievement * New York Times Book Review *Superb. If you ever read just one history of the Vietnam war, read and admire and celebrate this one -- John le CarréI have never read such a book and never expected to... It's not just about John Paul Vann. Not just about America and all of us. Not just Vietnam and all the Vietnamese. It is tragedy and comedy and I don't care how many pages it is. I'll never tire of reading it again and again -- Harrison E. SalisburyIt will stand as the definitive account of the passions, loyalties (guided and not), inspirations, follies and tragedies of the Vietnam War * Sunday Times *Probably the book on the Vietnam War...sophisticated, humane. It contains some of the best military reporting ever written -- Francis Fitzgerald

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and engaging biography of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Pulitzer Prizewinning author of the beloved classic The Yearling.Trade Review"McCutchan is a sensitive observer of Rawlings’s work, and of her deeply unconventional life... It’s a pleasure to meet this cursing, hard-drinking, brilliant, self-destructive, car-wrecking, fun-loving, chain-smoking, alligator-hunting, moonshine-making, food-obsessed woman again on the page... Come to this biography for Rawlings’s outsize personality... Stay for the portrait of a woman whose writing meant everything to her." -- Dwight Garner - New York Times"[McCutchan] has a graceful style enlivened by glints of wry humor... The book re-creates the lush tropicality of north-central Florida in the 1930s and 1940s, before developers began to bulldoze over its natural wonders. And readers get a penetrating look at one driven writer's work process... [A] vivid portrait of a woman who gave her all to do her best work." -- Mary Ann Gwinn - Minneapolis Star Tribune"An engaging, lively biography of an accomplished and complicated woman... All of it adds up to a rich portrait of a woman who loved Florida, and of a Florida that’s now all but vanished." -- Colette Bancroft - Tampa Bay Times"Rawlings cleared her path through life as though armed with a machete; McCutchan, gracefully, records every chop." -- Jonathan Miles - Garden & Gun"Absorbing, affectionate, and long overdue... McCutchan looks closely at Rawlings’ letters, stories, novels and memoirs and mines the ways they reveal Rawlings’ writerly mind... The Life She Wished to Live is the biography that Rawlings has long deserved." -- BookPage"It’s been a quarter of a century since we’ve had a new biography of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, and Ann McCutchan delivers. From Rawlings’s early newspaper days to the triumph of The Yearling, McCutchan shows us a writer of complexity, ambition, and conviction. A deeply researched and satisfying read." -- Martha Ackmann, author of These Fevered Days"An affectionate biography of the beloved author…Work by work, McCutchan carefully details Rawlings’s gradual development as a professional writer who keenly absorbed [Cross Creek, Florida’s] history, culture, and dialects…An all-inclusive and intimate assessment that could help Rawlings attract a new generation of readers." -- Kirkus Reviews"In Ann McCutchan’s welcome biography, we follow Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s evolution as a writer, glimpse her friendships with writers as various as Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, Margaret Mitchell and Zora Neale Hurston, and witness her vibrant literary life. Most striking is the fascinating account, unearthed from letters, of Rawlings’ personal struggle against what we would now call racist consciousness and her evolution as an ally of early 20th century struggles for social justice." -- Honor Moore, author of Our Revolution"How many contradictions can one life contain? Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings bridged the world of alligator hunting/orange growing/racially segregated early 20th century Florida and the world of legendary writers and elite New York-based editors. Ann McCutchan’s richly researched biography of the Pulitzer prize-winning author vividly portrays the uncompromising, hard-drinking and versatile Rawlings, who was equally at home wading through swamps as she was writing a novel or a cookbook, or conversing with F. Scott Fitzgerald, Zora Neale Hurston and Robert Frost. The complexities of Rawlings’ massive inner insecurities and her outward, outsized personality make for a compelling and thoughtful biography." -- Julie Dobrow, author of After Emily

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Book SynopsisWhen sixteen-year-old Jess arrives on foster carer Maggie Hartley''s doorstep with her newborn son Jimmy, she has nowhere else to go. Arriving straight from the hospital having just given birth, Jess is like a rabbit caught in the headlights. Scared, alone, and practically a child herself, she is overwhelmed with the responsibility of caring for a newborn without the support of a loving family or her beloved boyfriend. With social services threatening to take baby Jimmy into care, Jess knows that Maggie is her only chance of keeping her son.Maggie can see that Jess loves her boyfriend and wants to be a good mother to her son. Can Maggie help Jess learn to become a mum? Will the family ever be allowed to live together?A true story of hope from Sunday Times bestselling author Maggie Hartley, a foster carer for over 20 years.''Didn''t want it to end'' 5* Amazon reader review

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Book Synopsis''SUCH AN INCREDIBLE READ'' ZOE BALL''ONE OF THE YEAR''S MOST INSPIRING BOOKS'' HOLLY WILLOUGHBYWith a foreword by 2021 Strictly Come Dancing winner Rose Ayling-Ellis, and including chapters on Rose and her mum, the 3 Dads Walking, Martin Hibbert, Paul and Nick Harvey, the heroes of Fishmongers'' Hall, and Jimi Olubunmi-Adewole.Dan Walker is back, determined to keep shining a light on the kindness, compassion and selflessness which continue to characterise so many people and their actions right across the country.As one of the UK''s leading journalists, Dan has made it his life work to focus on people who often act as the catalysts for change: the unheralded champions who frequently go without getting the recognition they deserve.The new book from the author of the bestselling Remarkable People contains a totally fresh batch of humble heroes whose actions, bravery and determination have helped shape thTrade ReviewExtraordinary -- Julia Kuttner * Sunday Express *On Remarkable People: A compilation of inspirational stories from ordinary - in the best sense of the word - people [Dan Walker] has met over the years living through extraordinary circumstances, both joyous and torturous * Radio Times *

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Book SynopsisThe riveting biography of Burl Osborne, former chairman of The Associated Press and publisher of The Dallas Morning News, who waged and won one of the last great newspaper wars in the U.S.Burl is the story of one man’s unlikely rise from the coal mines of Appalachia to the pinnacle of journalism. After being diagnosed with a fatal kidney disease as a child, Burl Osborne pioneered home dialysis treatment and became the 130th person to undergo a live kidney transplant in 1966—then an unproven, high-risk operation.While managing his challenging illness, Burl distinguished himself early as a writer and reporter with The Associated Press, eventually rising to the top of the wire service’s executive ranks. Then, against the advice of his colleagues and the newspaper’s own doctors, he sought an even greater challenge: joining The Dallas Morning News to lead the fight in one of America’s last great newspaper wars. Throughout his life and career, he garnered respect from business and political leaders, reporters, editors, and publishers around the country. Burl thrusts readers into the improbable and remarkable life of a man at the forefront of both medicine and the golden age of journalism. Trade ReviewBurl Osborne was a man of talent, determination, and courage against obstacles. All those qualities are reflected in this book. He was a friend and valued colleague—a man I admired. (Walter R. Mears, Associated Press reporter for forty-five years and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist)"Wolfe (The Murchisons) does justice in this comprehensive biography to the inspiring life of journalist Burl Osborne (1937–2012), who during his career led both the Associated Press and the Dallas Morning News. Born in a Kentucky coal camp, Osborn suffered a bad case of strep throat at age six, wasn’t expected to survive his teen years, and suffered kidney disease, eventual failure, and frequent dialysis. He nevertheless overcame the odds and enrolled in college in 1956, where a chance question from a professor—“Anybody here want to be a cub reporter?”—sparked his career. In 1957, he joined The Ashland Daily Independent, which led to his job at the AP. He climbed the ladder, becoming managing editor in 1977 and being elected chairman by 2001. Meanwhile, his tenure at the Dallas Morning News, which started in 1980, was so successful it ran its city rival out of business. Photos and excerpts from Osborne’s own writing bring his colorful personality to life: he captured the nation’s attention, for example, with reports on a man in West Virginia who nearly lost his dog in a mine shaft but emerged “half laughing and almost crying as he carried his 3-year-old rabbit hound off the mountain.” The result is a moving testament to a consequential figure." (Publishers Weekly)Burl was wildly unique . . . I’ve never met anyone in the media business like him. He was the real deal. (Morton H. Meyerson, former executive of Electronic Data Systems and current chairman of 2M Companies, Inc)Today, more than ever, America needs more Burl Osbornes . . . tough, demanding but compassionate, a fighter, a competitor, and a newsman committed to reporting the news in a balanced, honest,and fair manner. (Dolph C. Simons, Jr., editor of The Lawrence Journal-World and chairman of the World Company)Burl served on the board of CPJ for fifteen years . . . [He] had an uncanny ability to identify the key issues, ask the relevant questions, and build a consensus around an informed decision. It was a marvelto watch him work . . . His service contributed enormously to . . . the defense of persecuted journalists around the world seeking to bring the truth to light. (Joel Simon, executive director of the Committee to Protect Journalists)Every word in Burl rang true to me. I could almost hear him speaking in my ear. I laughed many times and cried a few as well. (Linda Quick, Burl Osborne's longtime friend, business associate, and retired executive vice president of marketing for Foley's department store chain)

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Book SynopsisNot a typical biography, Ralph Steadman examines Freud using Freud's 1905 essay on Jokes and illustrates his points with 75 drawings. The result is a masterful interplay of text and illustration, visual and verbal puns, and unexpected insight. One genius takes on another. In what is a thoroughly atypical biography, Ralph Steadman examines Freud using his 1905 book The Joke and Its Relation to the Unconscious to illustrate his points with 75 illustrations. The result is a masterful interplay of text and illustration, visual and verbal puns, and unexpected insight. Sigmund Freud bursts defiantly and gleefully beyond the bounds of orthodox biography. It is a wildly humorous exercise in bending, stretching and speculating on the activities of the so-called Father of Psychoanalysis. Ralph Steadman wields his shrewd wit and fierce pen to highlight the ebbs and tides of Freud's life and career from early childhood to the moment of death. But there's a twist. Rich illustrations and witty text work hand in hand to transform each scene into a "joking situation," which the artist hilariously examines according to the techniques wielded by Freud himself in his 1905 book on humour and the unconscious mind. The result is a fantastic Freudian festival of visual and verbal puns, unexpected insights, and sheer intellectual enjoyment. Sigmund Freud is superbly illustrated with more than 50 major drawings and 25 vignettes by a renowned master of the pen. It remains one of the most original illustrated books of our times and a Ralph Steadman classic. AUTHOR: Ralph Steadman has been a cartoonist since 1956, starting as a caustic observer of Britain's political and social scene. He is well known as the illustrator of Hunter S. Thompson's Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Steadman's work appears regularly in newspapers and magazines, including Rolling Stone and the Atlantic Monthly, and his many published books include Tales of the Weirrd and Alice in Wonderland.

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Book SynopsisA collection of personal stories, history, poetry, and artA Land With a People is a book of stories, photographs and poetry which elevates rarely heard Palestinian and Jewish voices and visions. Eloquently framed with a foreword by the dynamic Palestinian legal scholar and activist, Noura Erakat, this book began as a storytelling project of Jewish Voice for Peace-New York City and subsequently transformed into a theater project performed throughout the New York City area. Stories touch hearts, open minds, and transform our understanding of the ?other??as well as our comprehension of own roles and responsibilities? and A Land With a People emerges from this reckoning. It brings us the narratives of secular, Muslim, Christian, and queer Palestinians who endure the particular brand of settler colonialism known as Zionism. It relays the transformational journeys of Ashkenazi, Mizrahi, queer, and Palestinian Jews who have come to reject the received Zionist narrative. Unflinching in their confrontation of the power dynamics that underlie their transformation process, these writers find the courage to face what has happened to historic Palestine, and to their own families as a result. Contextualized by a detailed historical introduction and timeline charting 150 years of Palestinian and Jewish resistance to Zionism, this collection will stir emotions, provoke fresh thinking, and point to a more hopeful, loving future?one in which Palestine/Israel is seen for what it is in its entirety, as well as for what it can be.

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Book SynopsisA new, unexpected understanding of Frida Kahlo s work and the vibrant Surrealist art scene in the 1930s.

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Book SynopsisThe second edition of the comprehensive collection of writings by the Black Panther Party founder and revolutionary icon.

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Book SynopsisNow a Major Motion PictureHeartfelt, deeply moving, and incredibly real, this narrative shares the five-year journey of philosopher Ken Wilber and his wife, Treya Killam Wilber, through Treya’s illness, treatment, and death. Ken’s wide-ranging commentary—which questions conventional and New Age approaches to illness and reaches beyond the experience to find wisdom in pain—is combined with Treya’s journals to create a portrait of health and healing, wholeness and harmony, and suffering and surrender. This edition includes a new preface by the author.

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