Reference works Books

Book SynopsisA dark comedy, with a luminous ending, about the difficulty of representing God.

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Book SynopsisTo find out more information about Rowman & Littlefield titles, please visit us at www.rowmanlittlefield.com.

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Book SynopsisCochineal extract, diacetyl, tertiary butylhydroquinone, BHA, HFCS -- it's not knowing how to pronounce what's in your food, it's knowing what it does and how it can affect you that matters most. But with so many processed foods on the supermarket shelves and additives showing up in the most unlikely foods, that's certainly a tall order. An A-Z Guide to Food Additives will help consumers avoid undesirable food additives and show them which additives do no harm and may even be nutritious. Designed to fit in a purse or pocket, this little book will serve as an "additive translator" when navigating through the landmine field of additives or ingredients that may cause allergic reactions like headaches, fatigue, and breathing difficulties or those that cause bloating or make one hyperactive. Included are safety ratings to 300 ingredients and reference charts of such additives as those that may potentially cause cancer or allergic reactions or that should be limited for sodium-sensitive individuals. There is also essential nutrition advice, hints on what to look for when reading those unreadable ingredient labels, and even tips on buying fresh produce in order to avoid pesticides.

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Book SynopsisDespite the proliferation of electronic navigational devices, celestial navigation remains an essential tool for those who do not wish to be caught short when modern technology fails. In this easy-to-use guide, Hewitt Schlereth explains clearly and concisely how to navigate any stretch of sea using only a handheld sextant, a watch, a plotting sheet and a copy of the Nautical Almanac. The basic process is simple: take a sight with a sextant, establish a secondary reference or benchmark sight, compare the two, and plot the results of the comparison on a chart. Celestial Navigation in a Nutshell demonstrates how to take sights by the sun, moon, stars and planets, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The reader is taken carefully through several examples and situational illustrations, making this a most effective self-teaching guide. Common errors are reviewed and several tips on how to improve accuracy are given.Trade ReviewWhy would anyone want to learn celestial navigation? The answer: Because it will satisfy your soul. * Sailing *... covers everything you need to know to become an expert celestial navigator. Schlereth's approach and style is decidedly hands-on. * Cruising World *"Clear, concise description of the old-style (non-GPS) offshore navigation using a sextant, a chronometer, H.O. 249 tables, the Nautical Almanac and a plotting sheet--essential for the inevitable day when the electronics give out."--Wooden Boat * Wooden Boat *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Part I- Our Star: Navigation by the Sun Chapter 1- The Big Picture Chapter 2- Mirror, Mirror Chapter 3- Celestial Navigation in Theory Chapter 4- Columns of Numbers Chapter 5- Celestial Navigation in Practice Chapter 6- More Columns of Numbers Chapter 7- Plot, Counterplot Chapter 8- Noon Sight for Latitude Part II- Neighbors: Navigation by the Planets Chapter 9- Identification Chapter 10- Venus, Goddess of the Twilight Chapter 11- The Outer Planets Chapter 12- The Edge of Night Part III- The Astral Archipelago: Navigation by Stars Chapter 13- A Handful of Stars Chapter 14- The Pole Star Part IV- Luna: Navigation by the Moon Chapter 15- The Moon Afterword Index

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Book SynopsisFollowing the international success of his Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible, now in its second edition, John Payne has turned his talents from sailing boatsuhis hobbyuto powerboatsuhis profession. The new Motorboat Electrical and Electronics Manual covers all inboard engine boats, from 20A to 120A, coastal, inshore, and blue-water vessels. This complete guide to the electrical systems and the electronics for large and small pleasure boats and workboats is a must for all builders, owners and operators, whether they are concerned with new boats or older boats and their maintenance and upgrading. Topics cover everything from diesel engines to refrigeration, and lightning protection to batteries and metal corrosion as well as radar, navigation and communications systems. The author has put together a detailed, extremely useful and thoroughly practical guide, explaining in detail how to select, install, maintain, and troubleshoot all the electrical and electronic systems on a boat.Trade ReviewMost electrical and maintenance guides available today cater to the sailboat owner, a person obsessed with minimizing the draw of various electrical and electronic gear. The owner of the power boat, however, is less concerned with such things, being able to draw power more readily. John Payne's latest book is written expressly for the owners of long-distance powerboats. One of the more valuable chapters is a look at managing diesel engines and their attendant electrical systems for long-distance powerboats. Where the sailboat owner is concerned with maintaining an auxiliary engine for power, the care of an inboard diesel that sees heavier use means certain maintenance differences. The book starts with the engine and works its way downstream, discussing everything from refrigeration and communications systems to heavy deck equipment and autopilots. * Ocean Navigator *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThe Caribbean offers some of the friendliest sailing waters in the Northern Hemisphere; in this book's introduction, John Kretschmer says it's "arguably the world's finest cruising ground." Experienced sailors Jane and John Gibb cover many aspects of sailing in the region, from getting there to using a GPS navigation system to safely storing medication on board. Sidebars on water consumption (explaining how to calculate necessary quantities) and things to consider when buying a boat (such as "how will sleeping arrangements work out?") address key issues, and, coupled with the comprehensive narrative, seem to anticipate a good number of the questions sailors who are new to the Caribbean might have. The authors' playful language-many cruisers' route plans, they say, are "set in Jell-O"-should put anxious readers at ease. That said, the Gibbs cover important aspects, such as steering with autopilot and windvanes, with appropriate seriousness. Photos, line drawings, maps * Publishers Weekly *There are plenty of guides to show you where to sail in the Caribbean, as well as guides to harbors, islands and even countries. This book takes another approach. This is a look at HOW to cruise! * Latitudes & Attitudes *This is not a pilot book, but a rich compendium of useful information for the long-term cruiser. Caribbean Cruising is like an informative cockpit conversation with an experienced old hand, and will be especially useful to the first-time Caribbean cruiser. * Caribbean Compass *No matter if you plan to cruise to the Caribbean or fly there and charter a yacht, you'll find all the information you are likely to need, from choosing the right boat, equipment, clothes and stores, to arranging finances and communications along the way. You will learn how to stay healthy, where to obtain weather forecasts, and where best to go cruising in these fabulous waters. * Sailing and Yachting *

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Book SynopsisNow in it's 5th Edition, this book is a treasure trove of invaluable information for owners, crew, chandlers, repairers, builders, surveyors, and anyone maintaining their own boat.Trade Review...a treasure trove of detail for any interested in refitting, repairing or maintaining powerboats and sailboats. * Midwest Book Review *A veritable mine of information... superb value for money. * Nautical Magazine *

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Book SynopsisGood sail trim can mean the difference between winning and losing a race or reaching harbor before the tide turns. This book demystifies the skill of good sail trim with the aid of superb color diagrams and photograph, to enable racers and cruisers alike to sail efficiently and get the most out of their boats. Taking account of all types of wind condition the author explains: aero and hydrodynamics, rig types, the best way to rig a vessel, sail cloth and cut, the right trim for the mainsail and smaller sails, and sailing before the wind. There is really only one way to set your sails for maximum efficiency; this book explains how.Trade ReviewIt is a very well organized, well written book. The text is clear, and the colour pictures and graphics are wonderful aids to getting the mind around the subject. * Sailing *This book explains it all in an easy to comprehend manner, including color diagrams and photographs. * Latitudes & Attitudes *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. A little sail theory 2. And now for the science bit 3. Types of rig 4. Sailcloth 5. Rig trim 6. Sail trim in practice 7. Downwind sailing Quick reference guide Glossary Index

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThe thought of replacing a diesel engine is enough to give some boat owners nightmares, and they find they would rather suffer the continual breakdowns and maintenance headaches than take on such a major overhaul. One sailor who took the plunge and re-powered his boat is Peter Cumberlidge, who not only lived to tell about the experience but wrote a book about it as well, appropriately titled How to Install a New Diesel Engine. In researching and replacing his boat s engine, Cumberlidge learned a lot of useful information, which he shares in this comprehensive, well-illustrated book, now in its second edition. Here would-be engine installers can find answers to most of their questions, including selecting the right size and type of engine, deciding on transmission and stern gear, designing new bearers, and fitting fuel tanks, filters and exhaust systems. Electronics, instruments, engine controls and battery power are also addressed. Cumberlidge likewise shows how to take advantage of the new engine's available power by adding such amenities as hot water systems, cabin heating, engine-driven refrigeration and a hydraulic windlass. * Sailing *Need a new engine? This book will help you choose the right size and type, decide on transmission and stern-gear, design new engine bearers, fit fuel tanks, filter, exhaust system and everything else connected with repowering. Very comprehensive! * Latitudes & Attitudes *Just Do It. So you've made the decision to replace your tired, weeping old Atomic Four gas engine with a new diesel. Chances are you're now suffering from severe sticker shock; having a new diesel professionally installed can easily set you back upwards of $10k. Before you go any further, buy this book. It explains the process of choosing and installing an engine and all its ancillaries in enough cold, hard detail to make you realize exactly what you might be getting yourself into. If this doesn't scare you off, and you are practical-minded enough to enjoy a DIY challenge, it'll do a fine job of guiding you through the complexities of replacing not only the power plant, but its allied systems. And if you decide to leave the job to the boatyard, you'll know exactly what to expect when the bill arrives. * Boatworks *

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Book SynopsisThe aim of this book, with its superb step by step photographs and detailed diagrams is to enable every owner to understand the workings of an outboard motor (2 or 4 stroke) and be able to fix it with relative ease. It includes: an explanation of the different parts that make up the engine and how they interact; how fuel is transformed into propulsion; regular maintenance and repair worksheets to help even the most mechanically ignorant to work on their outboard engine with confidence; the most common causes of breakdown; troubleshooting tables to allow you to diagnose and fix the most common engine problems and advice on how to winterize your outboard in one short afternoon. After reading this book, your outboard will no longer be a potential bother to you but an ally for better boating.Trade ReviewThis maintenance and repair manual provides everything you need to know about maintaining and fixing outboard engines. Simple maintenance tasks are covered along with problem areas and troubleshooting tables to help you diagnose problems. Step-by-step photographs and detailed diagrams help make it easy. * Latitudes & Attitudes *A number of good books deal with outboard motor or diesel engine maintenance and repair, but these two [Marine Diesel Engines Maintenance and Repair Manual and Outboard Motors Maintenance and Repair Manual] come out on top for several reasons. In addition to providing clear descriptions, these easy-to-read books contain step-by-step photographs and graphics that make maintenance and repairs understandable. In the Marine Diesel Engines Maintenance and Repair Manual, the author also describes sail-drive operation, which makes this the only book I know of with such detailed information about the sail-drive propulsion system. The author also breaks down maintenance and repair projects so boat owners will know whether to attempt the repair or call a mechanic. For example, a green wrench indicates a simple repair for the average person, a yellow wrench means that the repair requires some skill, and a purple wrench indicates that the job is complex. When I see a purple wrench, I know it s time to call my mechanic. . . . I highly recommend both books. As with a good novel, I could not put them down and am now ready to tackle some work on my small outboard motor and inboard diesel engine. * The Ensign *In this volume, which includes a profusion of diagrams and photographs, Jean-Luc Pallas, professor of Recreational Mechanics at La Rochelle Technical College in France, provides a most valuable resource for all outboard engine users, ranging from those who allocate all maintenance and repair to others to dedicated to do-it-yourselfers willing to tackle serious maintenance and repair tasks themselves. My comments are from the perspective of a long-time sailboat owner who now operates a small-scale solo sailboat repair business on Chesapeake Bay. Though individual engines may vary, general principles governing the care and feeding of the numerous brands of both 2-owners will, in addition to owning useful volumes such as the one reviewed here, purchase engine-specific repair manuals to supplement the meager information supplied when most engines are purchased. The more information one has, the less likely one is to be taken in or cheated by less-than-straightforward mechanics or repair facilities. This book begins with information on the theory and operation of 2- and 4-cycle outboards. Their anatomy, operation, and terminology are explored thoroughly, supplemented with numerous diagrams, photos, and drawings. Essays on fuel, ignition, cooling, drive systems and lubrication are included among the topics covered. Following the theory and operation section is an extensive review of maintenance, along with an extensive list of hands-on tasks, ranging from checking and changing spark-plugs to carburetor adjustments to battery maintenance. A chapter on breakdowns follows. Such events always seem to occur at the most inconvenient times, making this portion of a list of problems, along with listings of probably causes for each problem area. The repair solutions suggested provide a good troubleshooting guide to getting oneself out of difficulty. The volume ends with an extensive, illustrated essay on laying up and storing the outboard at the end of a season. A (lengths, liquids, capacities, weights, etc.) provides an end piece for this useful book, along with a useful index. This reasonably priced volume would be a worthy addition to any outboard owner's bookshelf! * Good Old Boat *Table of ContentsIntroduction Part I: Theory 1: Why an outboard? 2: Anatomy of an outboard 3: How it works 4: The main parts of an outboard 5: Commonly used terms 6: The different systems and their functions Part II: Maintenance 7: Systems check 8: Listening for noises 9: Checking the cooling system 10: Checking the fuel system 11: Scheduled maintenance 12: Hands-on tasks Part III: Breakdowns 13: Breakdown tables Part IV: Winterizing 14: Laying up 15: Conversion tables for commonly used units of measurement Index

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Book SynopsisThis essential pocket-sized guide equips readers with all the tools needed to predict and deal with local and distant weather conditions—whether on a day trip or a longer cruise, along the coast or further offshore. With practical explanations and helpful diagrams and photographs, this is the ideal aide-mémoire for skippers and crew, especially those studying for their Day Skipper and Yachtmaster exams.

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Book SynopsisNo group is quotedand misquotedmore often than America's founders. When a political controversy heats up, the nation's speechwriters, politicians, reporters, editorial writers, and talking heads try to influence the debate by quoting their words. Year in and year out, teachers and political buffs look to their wisdom to illuminate the issues.

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Book SynopsisA Glossary of Old Syrian: ʔ – ḳ is the first of two volumes aimed at the completion of a lexicographical index of the Old Syrian linguistical continuum. This glossary gives a picture, or map, of the Old Syrian lexicon as it can be extracted and reconstructed from the available sources, from the (Old Akkadian-)Eblatic through the Old and Middle Babylonian corpora.Old Syrian can be defined most appropriately as a diachronically conservative, geographically pluricentric, and pragmatically multilayered linguistic cluster. Therefore, the present work pays special attention to the distribution of lexical data along diatopic and diastratic criteria. In view of the enormous amount of material and the dispersion of the data, this glossary focuses on the most representative textual corpora of the Old Syrian linguistic landscape. The bibliographical references are kept deliberately succinct and as a rule, restricted to the classic works that may be easily found in every Assyriological or Semitic library, public or private, and that will redirect the users to their sources. Since the Old Syrian lexicography remains uncertain, the leading interpretative opinions are included alongside the most relevant comparative Semitic material. A Glossary of Old Syrian offers a clear picture of the current state of this field and is intended to serve as a reference work in support of future study.

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Book SynopsisTHE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO COMPUTER-BASED MUSIC PRODUCTION

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Book SynopsisThis book is concise, easy -to-use guide to the individuals, peoples, parties, movements, events, decisions and wars that have shaped the history of the United States.Trade Review"It is fascinating, satisfying and richly informed. Each entry is a brilliant piece of American history or biography in ruthlessly summarized form." Contemporary Review "The selection of entries seems judicious and more helpful than that in Martin and Gelber and other similar works; an up-to-date one-volume reference for office and home use." Reference for Books Bulletin "This dictionary will surely become a stand-by for a generation of students, teachers and researchers." Reference Books "Immensely useful to all engaged in the study of the American past. It will save them many hours of frustration in the search for essential but often elusive information." Reference BooksTable of ContentsPreface vii Abbreviations viii Dictionary 1

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Book SynopsisThe first easy-to-use reference guide to saving 50% or more on the 250 most commonly prescribed medications in the United States.Over 40 million Americans lack health insurance. Another 40 million Americans are insured by Medicare and do not have prescription medications as a covered benefit. The 50 million covered by Medicaid are threatened by reduced benefits and limited formulary coverage. Even the 74 million Baby Boomers with health insurance are impacted, as pharmaceutical companies pass their costs on in the form of higher co-pays and insurance premiums. We all are affected by the problem of rising prescription drug costs.Drugs for Less is the answer to the problem. Empowering consumers with needed information, the book outlines seven simple strategies to reduce rising pharmaceutical prices. Here, for example, are tips on how to ensure that drugs you buy online are safe, guidelines on how to slice medications, and information on which generic drugs are more effective than the expensive brand-name versions. Most importantly, the book includes an extensive directory of the 250 most commonly prescribed medications with specific information on how to save money on that drug.Making sense of the convoluted system of pricing drugs and showing you how to beat it, Drugs for Less is the best investment you can make in your health.Visit www.drmichael.com for more information.

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Book SynopsisAn authoritative, intelligent, and well-reasoned examination of strange artifacts and events that have long perplexed scientists, Unexplained! is an award-winning exposition of the strange and mysterious. Journey to the outer limits of science and nature and explore a wide range of unknown and enigmatic phenomena. The truth is out there, and looking for it is the real fun. Documenting the evidence and hearing witnesses out, Jerome Clark brings an engaging narrative to the stories, objectively presents their many possible explanations, and lets the reader decide.Trade Review"... wonderful compendium of strangeness ... This is one of those books you'll return to again and again for head-shaking accounts of how weird and wonderful this world can sometimes be."— About.com"An excellent purchase for those curious about the curious."— Library Journal"...a very captivating read and a must for anyone interested in paranormal phenomena."— Booklist Online"Sometimes the medium is more valuable than the message, and that is true of this third edition of Unexplained! … hundreds of weird, wild, and wonderful accounts of everything from Bigfoot to snakes living in stomachs … Clark’s writing style is clear, dispassionate, and witty. … Recommended."— Choice"Should warm the heart of any serious observer of the weird world in which we live. It will disturb doubters, scandalize skeptics, and readjust the realities of those whose tunnel vision has blinded them."— Fate magazine"Jerry Clark is a treasure of the fortean world. … This is a very professional compendium of 64 selected topics from one of the field’s masters. … Clark also provides definitive investigations. ... It’s a critical (in all senses) book; get it, read it and be better informed for it."— Fortean Times"Jerome Clack, is a fantastic writer and researcher ... A great new read chock full of data and stories that will give you a new perspective on our world."— Horrornew.net"...fresh and eminently worthwhile in several respects: its particular coverage, the comprehensive detail of its bibliographic references, the high intellectual level of its analysis."— Journal of Scientific Exploration"Though aimed as an introduction to Fortean phenomena, this contains lots of material which will be new to even the seasoned Fortean."— Magonia Review of Books"Unexplained! is a delightful book to curl up with before bed. Mr. Clark, who doubles as the [former] vice president of the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies, makes no judgments, and offers no compelling hypothesis … because after all … weird stuff … happens."— Real Crime Book Digest

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Book SynopsisThe Art of Discovery. The Discovery of Art. The History of Art! Warhol, Michelangelo, and da Vinci. Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt, Ai WeiWei and Jenny Holzer. What were they thinking when they created their masterworks? While we can't always know an artist's exact thoughts, The Handy Art History Answer Book examines their benefactors, their wealth or poverty, their passions, the politics, and the world events that inspired and influenced them. Explore their techniques and materials, the forms, colors and styles, the movements and schools of thoughts, and discover the varied forms and nature of artistic expression. Tracing art history from cave paintings to contemporary installations, along with Romanticism, Impressionism and the numerous “isms” in-between, The Handy Art History Answer Book guides you through the major art movements, artists, and important art pieces from 35,000 B.C.E. to today. This fascinating book provides an overview of art from its history and basic principles to its evolution, philosophy, and the masters who created groundbreaking works that changed its course forever. Accessible and entertaining, this captivating book answers over 600 questions, such as … What is beauty? What tools did Paleolithic artists use? Why do Egyptian figures have two left feet? What is the difference between weaving and tapestry? What happened to the Venus de Milo's arms? Why is Emperor Comoodus dressed as Hercules? What are the Classical Greek Orders of Architecture? What do the Yoruba consider beautiful? What was the first Gothic cathedral? How was single-point perspective invented? What makes the Mona Lisa such a great work of art? What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco? What is a Zen garden? Why wasn’t photography considered art in the 19th century? How did Cezanne “astonish Paris with apples”? Why did Jackson Pollock splatter paint all over his canvases? Why do Jeff Koons’ balloon animals sell for millions of dollars? Who is Ai Weiwei? The Handy Art History Answer Book covers not only paintings, but every medium imaginable, including sculpture, architecture, pottery, photography, installation art, and even video games. The concise and clearly written text is enhanced by nearly 150 color images illustrating artistic concepts and highlighting important and memorable artworks. Its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness. Trade Review"Using the series signature question-and-answer format, this title offers 600 entries on the major artists, schools, periods, movements, and techniques of art from all areas of the world. Recommended for junior and senior high school students and adult general readers." — Library Journal" … a truly colorful gift."— The Bookworm Sez"...well-produced book offers basic information about elements of art and architecture, media employed, and a timeline of world art beginning with Prehistoric (from 35,000 B.C.) and continuing into the present. ... curious art explorers could very well start at the beginning and just devour the entire book; answers to particular questions will most likely lead on to others. ... With Leonardo's beautiful Ginevra de' Benci beckoning from cover and title page, any curious art-lover will find some intriguing information to investigate further."— Children's Literature

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Book SynopsisHurricanes. Tornadoes. Floods. Wildfires. Earthquakes. Epidemics. Droughts. Landslides. Trillions of dollars in damages. Billions of people affected. Terrorist attacks. Gas explosions. Bridge collapses. Car, train, and plane crashes. These sudden and unexpected events make it feel as if chaos rules the world, but expecting the unexpected can mitigate the damage and loss to you and your loved ones. It pays to be prepared. When catastrophe strikes, no matter how big or small, being ready and knowing how to respond can be the difference between the loss of life and survival.Trade Review“… extremely comprehensive … Readers are guaranteed to learn something new to help them survive all kinds of arduous situations.” – Booklist“Jones, an author who is trained in disaster response/preparedness, shows readers how to prepare for and survive disasters ...” – ProtoView BookNews“... provides insights into how to react and respond when disaster does strike” – SirReadaLot“This book appears to be a sign of the times. … the quintessential survival guide for many, many different life-threatening situations … well rounded and extensively researched and prepared volume of encyclopedic proportions.” – Alternate Perceptions Magazine“The Disaster Survival Guide” by Marie D. Jones, a book that’s a good primer for coming out the other side of nature’s worst and mankind’s unthinkable.” – Bookworm SezTable of ContentsIntroduction Part One: The Threats: Natural Disasters 1. The Worst Natural Disasters We’ve Faced 2. Avalanches to Wildfires: The Darker Side of Nature 3. Man-made Disasters Part Two: Readiness 4. What to Do before It Happens 5. Making a Plan 6. Getting Ready 7. Learning from Preppers and Survivalists Part Three: Response 8. Should I Stay or Should I Go? 9. First Aid, Triage, and Trauma 10. Travel Safety 11. Personal Safety 12. Wilderness Survival Part Four: Before, During and After: A to Z 13. Before, During and After It Happens 14. Large-Scale Disasters 15. Dangers in the Home: Domestic and Child Violence, Drug Overdose, and Suicide 16. Lessons from Past Disasters: Harvey, Irma, and the Vegas Massacre Resources Appendix: Personal Emergency Action Plan Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisStrange science facts! Hilarious history facts! Informative and Fun! A treat of science and history stories and trivia that will inform and entertain anyone curious about the world! From astonishing, amazing and surprising science and history facts to the little-known stories hidden inside bigger events, The Big Book of Facts is a fascinating tour through our weird and interesting world. You'll learn about the earth and its history through absorbing stories and interesting tidbits. Did you know Babies start laughing at just a few weeks old; there are ten discernible types of laughter; and laughter spurs our appetite for food? Like fingerprints, every tongue on Earth has a unique print? The history of the U.S. Postal Service, including the Pony Express, and the short-lived (but legal) practice of mailing children? Hand washing was not always common through history; toilet paper was invented in the 1400s, and Sir John Harington invented the flushable toilet for Queen Elizabeth I? Though they are all differently shaped by virtue of being an assembly of water droplets, there are ten basic kinds of clouds? A basic and quick history of cash in America, including Alexander Hamilton and the Bank of the United States, Benjamin Franklin's efforts to thwart counterfeiting, $100,000 bills, and the fact that more than 85% of the world's money is digital only? Though Shakespeare mentioned Valentine's Day in Hamlet, sending paper cards to a beloved wasn't a fad until the eighteenth century, and by the 1840s, insulting Valentine cards also became common? Government agencies in the U.S. and France both agree that the measure of a second is determined by how long it takes a cesium atom to vibrate just over nine billion times? The history of children's games such as hide-and-seek, blindman''s bluff, and jacks that date back to the ancient Greeks and Romans? And much, much more.Engrossing, engaging, and enlightening, The Big Book of Facts lets you discover the fun oddities that make up our world. Wide-ranging and fact-filled with nearly 160 illustrations, this information-rich tome also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index for those scrambling for more information.

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Book Synopsis The story of the United States military is the story of the country itself. Both have grown and changed over time. Learn about the unique histories, traditions, weapons, leaders, stats, and fun facts of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Space Force, and their roles within the military in this fun and fascinating guide! From the few hundred soldiers in its ranks when it was first established, to the over one million service members today, the U.S. military has grown in power and size over its 250-year history. Its organization and branches have changed to adapt to new technologies and national needs. The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book: Your Guide to the Whats and Whys of the U.S. Military looks at each branch of the U.S. military. It answers more than 500 of the most intriguing questions, including … How is the U.S. military organized? How do the branches work together? When did the Army Air Corps become the U.S. Army Air Force? What is the selection process like for Special Forces? Who was the Continental Army’s first Commander in Chief? How does the military rank structure function? How does somebody become an Air Force officer? What was the “Brown Water Navy”? What is the motto of the Coast Guard? How many bases does the military have? What is the Marine Corps Hymn? Did any Coast Guard vessels serve in combat? What type of aircraft is Air Force One? Who said “Retreat? Hell! We just got here!” Who were the Buffalo Soldiers? What are the Blue Angels? What is the most challenging USAF plane to fly? What is the origin of the Coast Guard “racing stripe”? Does the Space Force have any operational bases? How did a mutiny help establish the United States Naval Academy? What is the longest-serving personal weapon used by the American soldier? What is the difference between a UAV and a drone? What attack submarines does the Navy deploy? Who defends the United States against cyberattacks and other digital threats? The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force are uniquely American, each in their own way. Learn what makes each branch special in The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book! With more than 140 photos and graphics, this fascinating to me is richly illustrated. Its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness.

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Book SynopsisInformative, easy-to-use guide to everyday science questions, concepts and fundamentals celebrates its twenty-fifth year and over one million copies sold!Science is everywhere, and it affects everything! DNA and CRISPR. Artificial sweeteners. Sea level changes caused by melting glaciers. Gravitational waves. Bees in a colony. The human body. Microplastics. The largest active volcano. Designer dog breeds. Molecules. The length of the Grand Canyon. Viruses and retroviruses. The weight of a cloud. Forces, motion, energy, and inertia. It can often seem complex and complicated, but it need not be so difficult to understand. The thoroughly updated and completely revised fifth edition of The Handy Science Answer Book makes science and its impact on the world fun and easy to understand. Clear, concise, and straightforward, this informative primer covers hundreds of intriguing topics, from the basics of math, physics, and chemistry to the discoveries being made about the human body, stars, outer space, rivers, mountains, and our entire planet. It covers plants, animals, computers, planes, trains, and cars. This friendly resource answers more than 1,600 of the most frequently asked, most interesting, and most unusual science questions, including ... When was a symbol for the concept of zero first used? How large is a google? Why do golf balls have dimples? What is a chemical bond? What is a light-year? What was the grand finale of the Cassini mission? How many exoplanets have been discovered? Where is the deepest cave in the United States? How long is the Grand Canyon? What is the difference between weather and climate? What causes a red tide? What is cell cloning and how is it used in scientific research? How did humans evolve? Do pine trees keep their needles forever? What is the most abundant group of organisms? How do insects survive the winter in cold climates? Which animals drink seawater? Why do geese fly in formation? What is FrogWatch? Why do cats' eyes shine in the dark? Which industries release the most toxic chemicals? What causes most wildfires in the United States? Which woman received the Nobel Prize in two different fields (two different years)? What is the difference between science and technology? For anyone wanting to know how the universe, Earth, plants, animals, and human beings work and fit into our world, this informative book also includes a helpful bibliography, and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness. It will help anyone's science questions!

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Book SynopsisEntertaining, informative, and fun. Educational, trivial, and profound. Astonishing, amazing, and surprising. That’s history! Take a weird and wonderful tour of American history with this treat of stories, trivia, and facts! From Juan Ponce de León to John Wayne to Jane Doe to the little-known stories hidden inside bigger historical events, The Book of Facts and Trivia: American History combines the educational, profound, and trivial into a rich account of American history facts (and the interesting role Johns—and Juans and Janes—played along the way)! You’ll learn about the United States through hundreds of absorbing stories and interesting tidbits such as … Our sixth president, John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), had a pet alligator while in the White House. Graceland, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is America''s second-most visited home. The first is Thomas Jefferson''s Monticello.

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Book SynopsisLegendary treasures. Mythical robberies. Lost riches. Buried plunder and fabulous wealth. Hidden dangers. Ancient curses and deathbed jinxes. Captivating tales of lost fortunes, hidden caches, the eternal allure of wealth, and the heartbreak of mysterious curses!Read about the pursuit of riches turning to grief in this mesmerizing story collection! A thrilling exploration of the world''s most intriguing and dangerous treasure hunts, Lost Loot: Cursed Treasures and Blood Money collects dozens of fascinating stories of reward, riches, greed, and ruin, including ? Curses, deaths, and centuries old treasure on Oak IslandSearchers hunted down and killed before finding a gangster?s stolen richesThe eternal quest for D. B. Cooper and his hijack ransomElaborate booby traps protecting ill-gotten gainsCursed Aztec wealth lost as it journeyed to SpainMysterious caves holding secrets in the Grand CanyonMontezuma?s revengeThe train-robbing Robin Hood myth of the Sam Bass GangJean Lafitte and the Galveston HoardThe lost Dutchman mineCivil War coins hurriedly stashed after a brutal reign of terrorThe missing Fabergé eggsJohn Dillinger?s suitcaseKing Kamehameha?s burial chamberCaptain Kidd''s buried treasureAnd more stories of doomed pursuits of plundered riches.Tales of bewitching riches and hunts gone wrong, yet hope springs eternal. Lost Loot unfolds like a treasure map?but beware of the hidden, deadly obstacles!

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Book SynopsisGeneral Music Today is a publication of MENC: The National Association for Music Education for the Society of General Music. The journal features articles of interest to teachers specializing in general music at all levels from early childhood through high school, particularly works that describe successful practices, share teaching strategies or materials, and suggest new ideas and issues of concern to general music educators. General Music Today is currently published online and available to all MENC members on its Web site, www.menc.org.Table of ContentsChapter 1 Music Learning through All the Channels: Combining Aural, Visual, and Kinesthetic Strategies to Develop Musical Understanding Chapter 2 Using Rubrics as an Assessment Tool in Your Classroom Chapter 3 Ghanian Folk Songs: Training Ground for Music and Social Skill Development Chapter 4 From the Bookshelf Chapter 5 Multicultural Resources Chapter 6 Nursery Rhymes: Foundation for Learning Chapter 7 Connecting the Dots: From Absolutes to Continua Chapter 8 A Proactive Strategy for Working with Children who Have Special Needs

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Book SynopsisThe purpose of Creative Ways to Teach the Mysteries of History, Volume 2 is simple—to make the teaching and learning of history a powerful and enjoyable experience in the classroom. All too often students say that history is the most boring subject they have at school. This volume will change the image of history for students and offer teachers an opportunity to go beyond the regular textbook. It focuses on: · A variety of active teaching ideas · Ideas on how to get students excited about history · How-to-do-it brainstorms for teachers · Neat ways to have students grapple with the major problems and issues humanity has faced throughout history · Innovative ways to help students see the relevance of major people, events, and ideas of the past to todayTable of ContentsChapter 1 Introduction: History-What, Why, and How? Chapter 2 Lesson Activity Pac 1: Mummy Dearest Chapter 3 Lesson Activity Pac 2: The Mystery of the Knights Templar—Guardians of the Holy Grail Chapter 4 Lesson Activity Pac 3: Will the Real Dracula Please Stand Up! Chapter 5 Lesson Activity Pac 4: Aye Matey, Pirates They Be! Chapter 6 Lesson Activity Pac 5: Double, Double, Toil and Trouble—Why Witchcraft in Salem in 1692? Chapter 7 Lesson Activity Pac 6: 1776—Was Slavery a Cause of the American Revolution? Chapter 8 Lesson Activity Pac 7: Why Was Custer Siouxed at the Little Big Horn? Chapter 9 Lesson Activity Pac 8: The Wild West ... Or So We Thought Chapter 10 Lesson Activity Pac 9: Crime Scene Investigation: Why Are So Many People Falsely Convicted of Crimes? Chapter 11 Lesson Activity Pac 10: Blowback! Is It a Major Reason for Terrorism? Chapter 12 Lesson Activity Pac 11: When Will We Rejoin Our Planet Earth?

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Book SynopsisEach year, the Journal of Music Teacher Education provides music teacher educators and others interested in the training of music teachers with information on the latest issues, trends, and research in music teacher education. The journal, which is available online to all members of MENC: The National Association for Music Education, is now being offered as a paperback yearbook comprising all articles in a volume year. The 2007 Journal of Music Teacher Education Yearbook includes all the articles and columns from Volume 16 of the journal, published online in Fall 2006 and Spring 2007. The articles cover a variety of topics related to music teacher education, such as professional development, the National Association of Schools of Music standards for teacher education, music for students with special needs, interaction between university and public school music teachers, the attrition and retention of music educators, and mentoring graduate teaching assistants. The following authors are featured in the 2007 Yearbook: James R. Austin, Vicki D. Baker, Elizabeth L. Braun, Frederick W. Burrack, Suzanne Burton, Jeffrey E. Bush, Don Ester, Jere L. Forsythe, William E. Fredrickson, Gena R. Greher, Rhonda S. Hackworth, Janice Killian, Daryl W. Kinney, Maureen T. Makowski, Carol McDowell, Izzet Mergen, Jennifer Scott Miceli, James B. Morford, Jessica Napoles, Martha Rowe, John W. Scheib, Elise Sobol, Kimberly VanWeelden, Jennifer Whipple

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Book SynopsisA psychologist who barely survived a disastrous fire, Steven Shepard provides essential tips for avoiding fires and saving lives if one occurs. He advises readers in how to deal with the trauma of a fire’s aftermath, as well as how to talk to insurance companies.

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