Search results for ""National Geographic Society""

This chock-full how-to photography book from the experts at National Geographic covers everything from composition and camera basics to professional techniques of timing and lighting, as well as pointers on smartphone cameras, social media posting, and digital editing. With more than two billion pictures taken every day, everyone is a photographer now--and we all want to get better at it. This definitive guide shares top secrets and skills from National Geographic's most talented photojournalists, all sure to help you capture the best pictures of what matters most.Created to help a good photographer become even better, this authoritative guide ranges from basics like lens technology and image composition to more complex matters of lighting, filters, and digital editing, with ample advice on best practices including: lighting & exposure aperture & depth of field choosing lenses smartphone techniques photo editing software social media posting archiving photos You’ll also learn how a photographer looks at the world, with nuanced commentaries from photo editors on what makes an image great, using examples from celebrated National Geographic photojournalists like Joel Sartore, Brian Skerry, Lynn Johnson, and Ami Vitale. Finally, a fascinating illustrated time line of photography tracks progress from daguerreotypes to smartphones.Practical and inspiring, this is the perfect how-to, how-it-works, and how-to-get-better guide from National Geographic, the ultimate source for everything photographic. For more photography guidance and inspiration from Nat Geo experts, check out National Geographic Photo Basics by Joel Sartore as well as our many books showcasing National Geographic photography, including National Geographic The 21st Century, America the Beautiful: A Story in Photographs, and Women: The National Geographic Image Collection.

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Now in paperback, this witty, irreverent narrative explores what we can learn from the extraordinary legacies of 30 iconic women--from Frida Kahlo and Liz Taylor to Nora Ephron and Lena Dunham--who forged their own unique paths in the world. Smart, sassy, and unapologetically feminine, this elegantly illustrated book is an ode to the bold and charismatic women of modern history. Best-selling author Karen Karbo (The Gospel According to Coco Chanel) spotlights a group of spirited rule breakers who charted their way with little regard for expectations: Amelia Earhart, Helen Gurley Brown, Carrie Fisher, Hillary Clinton, Amy Poehler, and Shonda Rhimes, among others. Their lives--imperfect, elegant, messy, glorious--provide inspiration and instruction for the new age of feminism we have entered. Karbo distills these lessons with empathy and humor, examining the universal themes that connect us to these mesmerizing personalities today: success and style, love and authenticity, daring and courage. Being "difficult," Karbo reveals, might not make life easier. But it can make it more fulfilling--whatever that means for you.

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Discover a wild (and often off-the-beaten path) Europe--from Croatia's coastal beauty to Scotland's windswept highlands--in this comprehensive guide to 460 pristine parks and wild spaces, packed with full-color photos, detailed maps, and practical tips. In these rich and informative pages, the travel pros at National Geographic bring you the premier guide to 460 national parks of Europe. Find your way to Snowdonia in Wales, offering more than 1,490 miles of walking trails through thick forests, coastal beaches, deep lakes, and jagged mountains. Catch a glimpse of more than 10,000 species inhabiting Germany's Bavarian Forest. Explore the flora and fauna while camping amid the twin peaks of France's Pyrénées. Or visit "the home of the giants," Norway's Jotunheimen park, containing the country's 29 highest peaks and plenty of backcountry hiking. This breathtaking tour spans the entire continent and will inspire your next grand adventure with more than 400 photos, 55 maps, rich histories, exciting itineraries, and need-to-know tips from what to do and how to get there. Each entry includes favorite spots for viewing scenery and wildlife, the best trails to walk or hike, and insights into what makes each of these parks worth visiting. Inspiring and informative, this illuminating guide will help you to experience Europe in a whole new way.

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Best-selling author Winston Groom tells the complex story of how Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin--the three iconic and vastly different Allied leaders--aligned to win World War II and created a new world order. By the end of World War II, 59 nations were arrayed against the axis powers, but three great Allied leaders--Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin--had emerged to control the war in Europe and the Pacific. Vastly different in upbringing and political beliefs, they were not always in agreement--or even on good terms. But in the end, these three men presided over a new world order. Best-selling historian Winston Groom returns to tell one of the biggest stories of the 20th century: The interwoven and remarkable tale, and a fascinating study of leadership styles, of three world leaders who fought the largest war in history.

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Travel to New Zealand to taste the islands' unique cuisine, discover Maori culture, and drive through "Middle Earth" landscapes--with National Geographic experts as your trusted guides. This newly revised edition of National Geographic's comprehensive New Zealand guide brings the visitor attractions, museums, hotels, restaurants, and ski resorts of this dynamic country right up to the moment. The Christchurch chapter has been fully updated to reflect the recovery and rebuilding after the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, and a new two-page experiential feature on traveling the Great Rides cyclist trails of New Zealand has been added. Travel information tips for Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Canterbury, and excursions around all the islands have all been updated, featuring new activities. Walks in Auckland and Dunedin, as well as a Tongariro Alpine crossing, are also provided, along with suggested drives around the East Cape and through the Catlins; all include maps and reservation details. Informative features take the traveler "In Pursuit of the Rings," into the realm of a wildlife wonderland, and high up into New Zealand's ski country and glaciers. And, of course, the latest on the conquering All Blacks--2015 Rugby World Cup winners--is lovingly chronicled.

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From the world-famous couple who lived alongside a three-generation wolf pack, this book of inspiration, drawn from the wild, will fascinate animal and nature lovers alike. For six years Jim and Jamie Dutcher lived intimately with a pack of wolves, gaining their trust as no one has before. In this book the Dutchers reflect on the virtues they observed in wolf society and behavior. Each chapter exemplifies a principle, such as kindness, teamwork, playfulness, respect, curiosity, and compassion. Their heartfelt stories combine into a thought-provoking meditation on the values shared between the human and the animal world. Occasional photographs bring the wolves and their behaviors into absorbing focus.

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An inspirational speaker, author, and former Wall Street rainmaker, Jim Owen was 70 when he decided he had to get fit. Years of a chair-bound lifestyle were taking their toll. Realizing that the old bodybuilding approach was no way to tackle the stiffness, weakness, and aches and pains that come with age, he set off on a journey of discovery and transformation. With help from the experts, he developed a common-sense, step-by-step program that can be tailored to any level of physical ability. Along the way he learned why cardio machines aren't enough, what it takes to be "functionally fit" for daily life, and how to stay motivated. Today, Owen is in better shape than he was at 25, and he is a passionate evangelist for fitness as a way of life. He has proved that you don't have to be powerless in the face of advancing years: if you make a commitment to "just move," you can take charge of the aging process and make your coming years the best they can be.

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Far more than an encyclopedia, this treasury tells the rich stories of the people who made America's history--and adds context with lush photographs, illustrations, timelines, artifacts, and more. Beginning with pre-colonial America and continuing through today, this beautifully illustrated book details the fascinating lives of the men and women who helped build the story of our nation. Arranged chronologically, it features more than 400 entries illustrated with lavish four-color photography and elegant illustrations. Intriguing stories and historical maps provide additional context in this comprehensive and enlightening look at America's storied past.

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Intricate and soothing, this elegant coloring book for adults invites creative people of all ages to dive into the colorful world of oceans, using the power of their own imaginations. With 50 intricate black and white illustrations, printed on perforated pages that will render them collectible, users will color and embellish the scales of an ocean triggerfish, intricate anemone, and the diamond pattern of sea turtles' shells. Armed with artist's tools, they will enhance the beauty of coral reefs and explore the majesty of the ocean's floors. Fans of National Geographic and newcomers to the coloring world alike will welcome this creative and relaxing journey into our natural world.

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Intricate and soothing, this elegant colouring book for adults invites creative people of all ages to dive into the colourful and complex world of animals, using the power of their own imaginations. With 50 intricate black and white illustrations, printed on perforated pages that will render them collectible, users will colour and embellish the detailed wings of a dragonfly, and the intricate patterns of zebras. Armed with artist's tools, they will explore the majesty of the world's wild animals. Fans of National Geographic and newcomers to the colouring world alike will welcome this creative and relaxing journey into our natural world.

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What happens when ideas presented as science lead us in the wrongdirection? History is filled with brilliant ideas that gave rise to disaster, and this book explores the most fascinating--and significant--missteps: from opium's heyday as the pain reliever of choice to recognition of opioids as a major cause of death in the U.S.; from the rise of trans fats as the golden ingredient for tastier, cheaper food to the heart disease epidemic that followed; and from the cries to ban DDT for the sake of the environment to an epidemic-level rise in world malaria. These are today's sins of science--as deplorable as mistaken ideas from the past such as advocating racial purity or using lobotomies as a cure for mental illness. These unwitting errors add up to seven lessons both cautionary and profound, narrated by renowned author and speaker Paul A. Offit. A physician best known for his research and strong views about childhood vaccination, Offit uses these lessons to investigate how we can separate good science from bad, using some of today's most controversial creations--e-cigarettes, GMOs, drug treatments for ADHD--as case studies. For every "Aha!" moment that should have been an "Oh no," this book is an engrossing account of how science has been misused disastrously--and how we can learn to use its power for good.

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From Caligula's blood-soaked end to hotelier Steve Wynn's unfortunate run-in with a priceless Picasso, Bad Days in History delves into the past to present 365 delightfully told tales of historically bad days.

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This special collection of dog stories and photographs features four-legged heroes who have worked side by side with soldiers, searched the wreckage of natural and man-made disasters, changed families' lives through emotional support, and administered aid around the world and at home in the United States. Heart-warming photographs and touching anecdotes bring to life thirty-eight caring canines who have served the people who mean the most to them, from a German Shepherd who leads a blind man on his marathon training mssion to a belly rub-loving Sheltie who supports at-risk youth in the classroom. For anyone who has experienced the extraordinary affection of a dog, Loyal is a lasting celebration of the joys of canine companionship.

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See the best of Venice with this streamlined walking guide, complete with step-by-step itineraries and maps to help you explore the city like a pro and navigate like a local. Created in a handy, take-along format, this guide is written by a seasoned travel writer to help conjure the spirit of the place in elegant text enhanced by National Geographic's famous eye for good pictures. More than just a guidebook, Walking Venice is full of information about the city and its people.

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This companion guide to the top-selling Guide to the National Parks of Canada showcases 236 national historic sites of Parks Canada. Published for holiday 2016, and on the eve of Canada's 150th anniversary in 2017, it gives visitors fact-packed text that features history and natural history and must-see elements and events at each place. Great visuals and poetic insight into the lands and events reveal how Canada grew into the creative, thriving, and proudly independent nation it is today. Each entry gives the site's unique story and how it contributes to the greater story of Canada.

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This approachable reference covers the wide world of birds, butterflies and pollinating insects such as honeybees and how to bring them in to a yard and garden. For the new homeowner choosing shrubs and flowers for landscaping or the retired couple with bird feeders out the picture window, this through text combines tips and advice with solid science. Rich, colourful photographs illustrate every page. What types of bird feed attract your favourite birds? Which flowers will health of the beleaguered honeybee? All these questions and more will be answered amply in this book.

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From the structure of the atom to the jet engine, from the world's fossil record to the theory of relativity: here are the critical breakthroughs in technology, the paradigm shifts that led to modern science, and the discoveries and accomplishments that shape our world today and our future tomorrow. Organized by realm of science and tracing key concepts from origins to the most exciting ideas and advances on the horizon, this book documents the interconnectedness among the crucial milestones of our time. Written in clear, authoritative prose, illustrated with essential photography and diagrams, and laid out in an entertaining and browsable way, this is the go-to book for answers about the way the world works.

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Celebrated historian Winston Groom tells the story of three remarkable men-at-arms who rose from the gruesome hell of the First World War to become the finest generals of their generation during the Second World War. George Marshall, George Patton, and Douglas MacArthur redefined America's ideas of military leadership and brought forth a new generation of American soldier. Their efforts revealed to the world the grit and determination that would become synonymous with America in the post-war years.

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This richly illustrated National Geographic book showcases the best travel experiences in every state, from the obvious to the unexpected. Sites include national parks, beaches, hotels, Civil War battlefields, dude ranches, out-of-the-way museums, and more. You'll discover the world's longest yard sale in Tennessee, swamp tours in Louisiana, dinosaur trails in Colorado, America's oldest street in NYC, and the best spot to watch for sea otters on the central California coast. Each entry provides detailed travel information as well as fascinating facts about each state that will help fuel your wanderlust and ensure the best vacation possible. In addition to 50 states in the U.S., the book includes a section on the Canadian provinces and territories.

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Geared to meet the same standards of excellence as our previous pocket guides, this book is tailored to the needs of an eager beginner. Affordable and authoritative, this entry-level field guide will appeal to all animal-spotting newcomers, combining spot-on descriptive information, definitive photography, animal track silhouettes, and key facts in a handy, pleasant-to-hold, easy-to-reference volume. More robust than any other beginning field guides on the market, this book includes selected photography and newly commissioned art and graphics to help identify each mammal species. Tips throughout show how to observe, track, and identify mammals in nature. Beautifully designed and illustrated, with logical organization and bulleted information, these pocket guides are useful in the field or as an in-home reference. Tips throughout show how to observe, track, and identify mammals in nature.

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The allure of Great Britain's natural beauty, famously refined culture, and storied history has long attracted visitors. The guide explores all regions, including the countries of Scotland and Wales, covering every corner of this diverse and beguiling land. From venerable Special features give comprehensive information on diverse topics such as the relaxing parks of London, Wedgewood and the potteries, Thomas Hardy's Dorset, and golfing in Scotland.

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An inspired tribute to the astonishing beauty and priceless cultural treasures of America's National Parks, National Geographic’s “The National Parks” is a lavish celebration of the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. This stunning volume collects the very best of National Geographic's photographs, combined with an expertly told history: from the multi-hued layers of the Grand Canyon to the verdigris flame of the Statue of Liberty, this book presents a breathtaking panorama of the National Parks.

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This basic beginner's field guide to our favorite animals that slither and swim is the latest in the growing National Geographic Pocket Guide series. Spot-on descriptive information and key facts about reptiles and amphibians are conveyed in a handy, colorful, easy-to-reference volume. More robust than any other beginning field guides, this book includes selected photography and newly commissioned art and graphics to illustrate and identify each species from every angle. With logical organization and bulleted information, this pocket guide is useful in the field or as in-home reference, for beginners, families, and new nature lovers alike.

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Packed with irresistible facts and photos, this beautiful gift book reveals the untold story of the world's favourite indulgence. Did you know that M&Ms were invented for WWII soldiers as the chocolate that wouldn't melt in their hands? Or that Marie Antoinette had her own personal chocolate maker? And that the first people to climb Mount Everest buried a piece of chocolate at the summit? Featuring 20 sinfully delicious chocolate recipes from around the world, this entertaining romp through chocolate history is the perfect gift for chocoholics everywhere.

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National Geographic The Covers is the definitive cover collection from the world's most beloved magazine. The magazine with the famous yellow border has been in publication for more than 125 years, and its vast array of cover stories have opened our eyes to a richly diverse world and taken us to places we only dream of visiting: deep within the rain forest, miles below the surface of the ocean, and into the farthest reaches of the universe.

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It's an age-old battle: cat vs. dog. Now, National Geographic and BuzzFeed's Jack Shepherd team up to settle the dispute once and for all! Documenting cats' superior abilities in such areas as artistry, athleticism, and intellect, Shepherd provides compelling insight into the fight for pet dominance. Perfectly pairing witty text with hilarious photographs and hard-hitting scientific facts, this brutally honest book culls the best evidence of the supremacy of cats (that the Internet can provide) to establish with definitive proof that individuals of the feline persuasion reign supreme over their canine counterparts.

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In this exquisitely photographed and affordable keepsake book, esteemed National Geographic photographer Peter Essick pays tribute to Ansel Adams and the craggy California Sierra Nevada wilderness area named in his honor. Like Adams, Essick aims to instill respect for the awesome yet fragile beauty of the High Sierras; the stunning images in this book reinterpret this powerful landscape through the modern lens of digital photography. Interspersed with illuminating words from prominent naturalists and conservationists, these photographs offer a new view of one of the country's most timeless and striking national parks. Elegant and evocative, this modern tribute to one of photography's greatest masters will be treasured by camera buffs and nature lovers alike.

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Grouped into practical themes, including The Canine State of Mind, Solving Common Problems, and Living a Better Life With Your Dog, this handy guide will be the go-to bible for those seeking the key to Millan's world-famous dog (and human) training philosophy, established over the past decade on his hit TV show, The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan. Punctuated with inspiring testimonials from Millan's many encounters with perplexed owners and their pets, as well as a candid discussion of his own recent life challenges following his painful divorce and the death of his beloved pit bull, Daddy,

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In this groundbreaking book, Dan Buettner reveals how to transform your health using smart eating and lifestyle habits gleaned from new research on the diets, eating habits, and lifestyle practices of the communities he's identified as "Blue Zones"—those places with the world's longest-lived, and thus healthiest, people, including locations such as Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California. Throughout the book are lifestyle recommendations, checklists, and stories to help you create your own personal Blue Zones solution. Readers will learn and apply the 80/20 rule, the plant slant diet, social aspects of eating that lead to weight loss and great health naturally, cultivating your "tribe" of friends and family, and your greater purpose as part of your daily routine. Filled with moving personal stories, delicious recipes, checklists, and useful tips that will transform any home into a miniature blue zone, The Blue Zones Solution is the ultimate blueprint for a healthy, happy life.

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Paul Nicklen, wildlife photojournalist, showcases his stunning photography for National Geographic with this collection of North American bears: the grizzly, polar bear, black bear and the rarest spirit bear. Evocative storytelling combines with Nicklen's landmark photographs to reveal the truths and myths about these amazing creatures, and sheds light on their threatened ecosystems. Years of photographing bears in their habitat have given Nicklen a special understanding of these majestic mammals: the polar bear, ranked most popular species on Earth; the grizzly, feared and misunderstood; and the black bear, as well as its precious white counterpart, the spirit bear. Nicklen believes that sharing knowledge and stories about bears will impact the way we think of them, and thus ensure their future. Well-known environmentalists such as Wade Davis, Sylvia Earle, Werner Herzog, and Nicklen himself contribute essays to enhance the message of Nicklen's photographs. Quotes from literary figures punctuate the pages, offering insight into the magnificence of these impressive mammals. An epilogue takes a global look at the future of bears.

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Kostyal tells the story of the great American heroes who created the Declaration of Independence, fought the American Revolution, shaped the US Constitution--and changed the world. The era's dramatic events, from the riotous streets in Boston to the unlikely victory at Saratoga, are punctuated with lavishly illustrated biographies of the key founders--Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Ben Franklin, Thomas Paine, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and James Madison--who shaped the very idea of America. An introduction and ten expertly-rendered National Geographic maps round out this ideal gift for history buff and student alike. Filled with beautiful illustrations, maps, and inspired accounts from the men and women who made America, Founding Fathers brings the birth of the new nation to light.

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Written by best-selling author Jean-Pierre Isbouts, Who's Who in the Bible is the ultimate reference guide to the men and women in the Bible, featuring more than 2,000 entries spanning Genesis to Revelation. From the author of In the Footsteps of Jesus and The Biblical World comes a vibrant family reference that brings to life the fascinating characters of the Old and New Testatments of the Bible. From the fall of Adam and Eve to Judas' betrayal of Jesus, the key events of the Bible are expressed through the lives of hundreds of people. Told through exquisite art and artifacts, intriguing sidebars, and unique family tree features, this illuminating volume tells the stories of Biblical characters and highlights their greater meaning for mankind. Illustrated with lavish color photography and exquisite historical artwork, this reference runs chronologically, with each person listed by order of appearance.

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“Any time an Apollo-era astronaut steps forward with ideas for our future in space, it’s time to stop what whatever we’re doing and pay attention. Buzz Aldrin, one of the first moonwalkers, has no shortage of these ideas. And in Mission to Mars he treats us to how, when, and why we should travel there.” —Neil deGrasse Tyson Legendary "space statesman" Buzz Aldrin speaks out as a vital advocate for the continuing quest to push the boundaries of the universe as we know it. As a pioneering astronaut who first set foot on the moon during mankind's first landing of Apollo 11--and as an aerospace engineer who designed an orbital rendezvous technique critical to future planetary landings--Aldrin has a vision, and in this book he plots out the path he proposes, taking humans to Mars by 2035. Foreword by Andrew Aldrin Chapter 1: The View from Air Force One Chapter 2: Time for Decision-making Chapter 3: Your Space: Building the Business Case Chapter 4: Dreams of My Moon Chapter 5: Voyage to Armageddon Chapter 6: The March to Mars Chapter 7: Homesteading the Red Planet Chapter 8: The Clarion Call

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The first in National Geographic’s 365-photo-a-day line of inspirational books, Daily Joy unites inspiring words of joy with lovely National Geographic images of the world–a perfect gift to keep on your bedside table to read just before bed or first thing in the morning. Crafted in the tradition of the successful Offerings series from Abrams/Stewart Tabori & Chang, Daily Joy’s elegant design features 365 days of gorgeous National Geographic photography, each one paired with a meaningful quotation, meditation, or thought that will help readers find joy every day of the year. Each month has a theme, and all the quotes are centered around it.

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The worldwide leader in animal photography, National Geographic brings us Mother’s Love: Inspiring True Stories From the Animal Kingdom, a collection of the most moving and intimate portraits of animal mothers and their babies. Each photograph shows animal moms as they nurture, play, teach, and protect their young. Sprinkled throughout are inspirational quotes (“All I am I owe to my angel mother.” -Abraham Lincoln) and unbelievable true stories of maternal heroism–like the mother duck from Vancouver who persuaded a human passerby to rescue her ducklings from a storm drain. A perfect gift for any budget, Mother’s Love is a great way to celebrate Mother’s Day, a new arrival, or any old day to show your mom how much you care.

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Popular actor and award-winning travel writer Andrew McCarthy writes the foreword to this lavish book, offering 400 awe-inspiring destinations chosen by National Geographic's family of globe-trotting contributors; dozens of fun, "Best of the World" themed lists; illuminating sidebars, several by travel and literary luminaries such as Anna Quindlen, Bill Bryson, Gore Vidal, and Pico Iyer; and hundreds of dazzling, oversized, full-color images to bring to life a wide variety of location categories--from entire countries to mountaintop villages to pristine lakes to ancient wonders. This broad, general interest travel title will appeal to active travelers looking for the next great trip as well as to the many readers who simply love dreaming of visiting far-flung, idyllic destinations, and for those who love to be "in the know" of the next travel trend.

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A tiny little book with a great big message, Love You, Dad: A Book of Appreciation recognizes all the important things that fathers do for their children. Melina Gerosa Bellows, head of National Geographic Kids and Family, has written a simple and moving tribute that will touch the hearts of dads everywhere. Page after page is illustrated with heartwarming National Geographic photography of animal dads and animal kids.

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The National Geographic Traveler: Vienna guides you to the better- and lesser-known sights of one of Europe’s most popular cities. In between, you’ll discover the cultural and natural treasures Vienna has to offer.

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What makes us happy? It's not wealth, youth, beauty, or intelligence, says Dan Buettner. In fact, most of us have the keys within our grasp. Circling the globe to study the world's happiest populations, Buettner has spotted several common principles that can unlock the doors to true contentment with our lives. Working with leading researchers, Buettner identifies the happiest region on each of four continents. He explores why these populations say they are happier than anyone else, and what they can teach the rest of us about finding contentment. His conclusions debunk some commonly believed myths: Are people who have children happier than those who don't? Not necessarily—in Western societies, parenthood actually makes the happiness level drop. Is gender equality a factor? Are the world's happiest places to be found on tropical islands with beautiful beaches? You may be surprised at what Buettner's research indicates. Unraveling the story of each "hotspot" like a good mystery, Buettner reveals how he discovered each location and then travels to meet folks who embody each particular brand of happiness. He introduces content, thriving people in Denmark, in Singapore, in northeastern Mexico, and in a composite "happiest place in America." In addition, he interviews economists, psychologists, sociologists, politicians, writers, and other experts to get at what contributes to each region's happiness, from the Danish concept of hygge, which translates to creating a feeling of coziness, to the Mexican love of a good joke. Buettner's findings result in a credible, cross-cultural formula and a practical plan to help us stack the deck for happiness and get more satisfaction out of life. According to Buettner's advisory team, the average person can control about forty percent of his or her individual happiness by optimizing life choices. These aren't unreasonable demands on a person's lifestyle, and they often require only slight changes. They fall into three categories that make up the way we live our lives: the food we eat, the way we exercise, and the social networks we foster. It's all about nourishing the body and the spirit. Heeding the secrets of the world's happiness all-stars can help us make the right choices to find more contentment in our own lives and learn how to thrive.

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Two opening spreads in the front matter help the reader to better interpret images and new data. “Remote World” introduces readers to data collection via remote sensing and GPS technology. “Understanding Our World Spatially” follows, covering data processing and analysis as it relates to mapping and using GIS technology (Geographic Information Systems).

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At a riverbank in Africa’s Serengeti, thousands of migrating wildebeest try desperately to cross as terrifying crocs feast on the galloping herds–which must attempt the river for a chance at survival. In the Falkland Islands, the albatross–king of migrations–journeys thousands of miles to nest despite the deadly cara cara, a predatory raptor. “The Need for Speed” documents migration as a race against time, in which freezing temperatures or scorching heat usher in a crisis. Incredible photographs document activity along the Mississippi Flyway, which teems with long-distance travelers: red-winged blackbirds, white pelicans, tundra swans, and the birds of prey that patrol the skies.In “The Need to Feed,” the annual search for greener pastures means life must go on the march as hungry predators lie in wait. Dramatic stills show as many as 40,000 walrus trying to evade 200 polar bears…and a jungle terrorized by nature’s perfect killer: millions of voracious ants that work as one to overwhelm other species. “The Need to Lead” explains that migrations need generals, admirals and pioneers. How well the leaders keep their charges in line and on track will determine a species’ fate. And in “The Need to Breed,” the drive to renew the species forces every generation to risk it all.

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A general “how-to” book for international birding is absent. This unprecedented new book by top-selling author Les Beletsky (Birds of the World, Birdsongs) will aim to explain why birders are interested in going to other countries and where they like to go. It will act as a “bridge” for domestic birders, allowing them to build on their exciting new knowledge as beginner birders by accessing other countries to see species they cannot see at home. The book, in six chapters, will describe each continent with respect to birds and birding, and tell what kinds of birds birders seek out in those places, along with practical pointers on international birding contacts and field guides. Engaging sidebars throughout the book, tell short stories of birding adventures looking for special birds or unique birding locations.

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"Rare" presents an exquisite collection of stark and haunting studio images of the most endangered or imperiled plants and animals of North America. Renowned National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore has devoted years to making these photographs and documenting more than 1,200 imperiled species. Here are his favorites, highlighted with his stories about taking photographs of wild animals in controlled settings. A selection of these images was published in "National Geographic Magazine" in January 2009, to great acclaim. The book gives an opportunity to present those pictures bigger, in greater detail, and to add in others - both from Sartore's archive and from those he has taken in the year since. Every one is an exquisite work of art, and together they form a repository of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and flowers that few of us will see - and even fewer of our children will see. There is bad and good news in this book. The bad news is that the last individuals representing some of these species, like the pygmy rabbit, have died since Sartore took their photographs. The good news is that some species, like the American bald eagle, are in fact increasing now in the wild, thanks to the effects of Congress' Endangered Species Act and the work of bird and animal lovers and environmentalists. All such stories are told, in brilliant pictures and a few well-chosen words, in Joel Sartore's work of a lifetime, "Rare".

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A challenging ascent of 13,770-foot Grand Teton is detailed, as well as encounters with loggers, hunters, miners, and hikers. Yellowstone National Park, the oldest in the world (established in 1872), forms the core of this vast area.

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From grizzlies to glaciers, gold fields to ice fields, fishing boats to northern lights, Treasures of Alaska uncovers the wild heart and the endless challenge that make Alaska a land of enduring beauty and undying dreams.

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Grand Canyon Country explores the spectacular 277-mile-long gash in Arizona’s red-rock country—noted by Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 as “the most impressive piece of scenery I have ever looked at”—and much more.

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Arlington National Cemetery spreads across the rolling hills west of the Potomac, a serene and reverent sanctuary for the presidents, soldiers, and heroes—famous and unsung alike—who lie in eternal rest among its green lawns and quiet glades, a roster dating back to America’s birth and including many of the foremost names in our history.

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Sometime about 30,000 years ago, somebody stuck a sharp rock into a split stick—and presto! The axe was born. Our inquisitive species just loves tinkering, testing, and pushing the limits, and this delightfully different book is a freewheeling reference to hundreds of customs, notions, and inventions that reflect human ingenuity throughout history. From hand tools to holidays to weapons to washing machines, An Uncommon History of Common Things features hundreds of colourful illustrations, timelines, sidebars, and more as it explores just about every subject under the sun. Who knew that indoor plumbing has been around for 4,600 years, but punctuation, capital letters, and the handy spaces between written words only date back to the Dark Ages? Or that ancient soldiers baked a kind of pizza on their shields—when they weren’t busy flying kites to frighten their foes? A lively, incomparably browsable read for history buffs, pop culture lovers, and anyone who relishes the odd and extraordinary details hidden in the everyday, it will inform, amuse, astonish—and alter the way you think about the clever creatures we call humans.

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