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The Book of Pet Love and Loss: Words of Comfort and Wisdom from Remarkable People
by Sara BaderA powerful collection of quotations by writers, leaders, and legends on the pain of losing a pet and overcoming grief.An animal&’s love is deep, uncomplicated, unconditional, and forgiving. &“Affection without ambivalence&” is how Sigmund Freud described the connection. &“No matter how awful the day, or how awful I am behaving at any given moment, George doesn&’t care,&” writes journalist John Dickerson. &“He finds me smoldering in my chair and dashes to my lap.&” Our lives are intricately intertwined with our pets, and together, over time, we establish rituals that are as steady as a metronome. It&’s no wonder the grief is crushing when they depart—even those who&’ve had time to prepare describe feeling stunned, devastated, and cracked in two. &“We were a bit broken up over the death of our black Persian cat,&” crime novelist Raymond Chandler confessed. &“When I say a bit broken up, I am being conventional. For us it was a tragedy.&” Nobel Prize–winning author V. S. Naipaul described the experience as &“calamitous,&” and writer May Sarton called it a &“volcanic eruption of woe.&” Poet Emily Dickinson was so bereft she asked for help: &“Carlo died,&” she announced in a letter to her friend Thomas Wentworth Higginson in 1866. &“Would you instruct me now?&” The Book of Pet Love and Loss is a collection of quotations—poignant thoughts and memories discovered in letters, journals, diaries, memoirs, and other original sources—from beloved cultural figures who understood this singular experience so deeply, they felt compelled to write about it. This book dignifies the profound connection we share with our animal companions, but it also provides solace as mourners document their heartache over the loss of their cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, and other animals—even, in the case of Pablo Neruda, a mongoose. Their comforting and wise words are what every animal lover needs on this journey of heartbreak and healing.
The Book of Phobias and Manias: A History of Obsession
by Kate SummerscaleFrom the winner of the Edgar Award and the Samuel Johnson Prize, a cultural history of &“everyday madness&”The Book of Phobias and Manias is a thrilling compendium of 99 obsessions that have shaped us all, the rare and the familiar, from ablutophobia (a horror of washing) to syllogomania (a compulsion to hoard) to zoophobia (a fear of animals). Phobias and manias are deeply personal experiences, and among the most common anxiety disorders of our time, but they are also clues to our shared past. The award-winning author Kate Summerscale uses rich and riveting case studies to trace the origins of our obsessions, unearthing a history of human strangeness, from the middle ages to the present day, and a wealth of explanations for some of our most powerful aversions and desires.
The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom: A Reference Manual
by Curt TomlinThe author of The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual, Curt &“CT&” Tomlin, was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write &“The Book&” to enhance and illuminate Christian understanding of the Old Testament&’s Book of Proverbs.The author received instructions from the Holy Spirit to write an 'illuminated', The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual, whereby every Proverbs verse, would be positioned and contained, in one or more Chapter Theme(s); Accordingly, each Chapter Theme(s), characterizes and reflects, the various Proverbs verses listed and/or contained in the Biblical 'Book of Proverbs'; Thus, every Proverbs verse(s), phrase and/or series of Proverbs verses, has been positioned into one or more of the 70 Chapters contained in &“The Book&”. Additionally, as it is more often the case, that a specific Proverbs verse, might be listed within multiple Chapter Themes! For example, one of my all-time favorite Proverbs verses is Proverbs 1:7, which states--"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction". Accordingly, you will find this Proverbs verse listed in six different Chapter Themes, namely: (a) 'Fear of the LORD'; (b) 'Knowledge'; (c) 'Fools/Foolishness'; (d) 'Hate/Despise'; (e) 'Wisdom'; and (f) 'Instruction', based on the 'key word(s)' listed above. Additionally, I have used, the NKJV version of the Bible, including this version&’s citations; Punctuations; Fonts and Appropriateness for Inclusion, for said Chapter Theme.Within &“The Book&”, each Proverbs verse is included or assigned to a specific Chapter Theme, based on such key word(s), phrase(s) or overall Chapter Theme associated with such Proverbs verse. For example: Where there is a direct, one-on-one tie in to a Chapter Theme from a Proverbs verse, then such key word has been, bolded, underscored, and italicized.Additionally, The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual, contains the author's notations to most of the Biblical Proverbs verses, such that the following author's notations are specified: For many Biblical Proverbs verses, the author assigned a: One (*); Two (**); or Three (***) notation for that Proverbs verse, and such a rating, from his perspective, represents how that Proverbs verse, spoke to his heart, i.e. "Good*", "Better**", or "Best***". Uniquely, ALL category Three (***) Proverbs verse notations, have been "Bolded", where such Proverbs verse appears within The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual. For example, Proverbs 1:7--"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction", appears in the already mentioned Chapter Themes in a 'bold' fashion.Another unique characteristic of The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual, is that, on numerous occasions within a particular Chapter Theme, the author includes surrounding Proverbs verse(s) within such specific Chapter Theme verse notation, such that in his opinion, including such ancillary Proverbs verses, helps to "illuminate" such Proverbs verse(s) for that particular Proverbs Theme. Thus, 'one size' or one Proverb verse, may not fully provide, the spiritual wisdom, knowledge, discernment and/or instructional message that such Proverbs verse might say, on a standalone basis.Finally, one truly unique characteristic, that has been incorporated into the body of The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual, is the inclusion of what is being characterized as a "Chapter Narrative", which precedes each Chapter Theme, and represents either, the author's personalized reflection of how the upcoming Chapter Theme(s) impacted the author's Life, or it reflects the author's interpretation of how that Chapter Theme(s), has spoken to the author, for inclusion into The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom, A Reference Manual.Enjoy and may God's Blessings enrich your study, journey and illumi
The Book of Qualities
by J. Ruth GendlerFrom Beauty to Compassion, from Pleasure to Terror, from Resignation to Joy -- here is an insightful exploration of the rich diversity of human qualities. J. Ruth Gendler's evocative book has as its cast of familiar characters our own emotions, brought to life with a poet's wisdom and an artist's perceptive eye. In The Book of Qualities' magical community, Excitement wears orange socks, Faith lives in the same apartment building as Doubt, and Worry makes lists of everything that could go wrong while she is waiting for the train. In portraying the complexities of the psyche, Gendler uses the Qualities to bridge the distinctions between literature and psychology, and has created an original work that challenges us to look at our emotions in new and inspiring ways.
The Book of Revelation
by Larry RichardsThe Book of Revelation is God's message to all who are concerned about the future. And no guide makes Revelation more understandable than this one. You'll grasp the meaning of each verse, you'll understand every important symbol, and you'll get the big picture of all that God has promised for those who believe in Him.
The Book of Revelation Made Clear: A User-Friendly Look at the Bible’s Most Complicated Book
by Douglas ConnellyGetting a glimpse into the future is always intriguing, especially when that glimpse comes from God's Word. But let's face it, the book of Revelation has some pretty weird stuff in it: seven-headed beasts, locusts with gold crowns, a city coming down from the sky. What does it all mean, and how does it help you in your Christian faith? This lighthearted yet accurate guide to the last book of the Bible will help you overcome the confusion. Engaging and user-friendly, The Book of Revelation Made Clear helps you:Understand the message of this often misunderstood book chapter by chapterDiscover what Revelation says about how end-time events will unfoldMake sense of all the symbolismSee how Revelation relates to other parts of the BibleLearn how others interpret controversial partsWorship God with a new vision of his glory and ultimate triumph, and of what that means for youX
The Book of Romans (The Smart Guide to the Bible Series)
by Gib MartinHow can we stand firm in our beliefs in a culture that screams, "It's all relative."?Inform and protect yourself by understanding Christianity's greatest truths. The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Romans breaks difficult concepts into easy-to-comprehend bites of knowledge. You'll go verse by verse through the Apostle Paul's overview of theology and reap the eternal rewards of truly knowing-and applying-the cornerstones of the Christian faith.The Smart Guide to the Bible series contains user-friendly guides for everyday Bible readers, designed to faithfully lead you through the Bible using an easy-to-understand approach.Every page contains handy features or learning aids like these:cross-references to other Scripturesbrief commentaries from expertspoints to ponderthe big picture of how passages fit with the entire Biblepractical tips for applying biblical truths to lifesimple definitions of key words and conceptsinteresting maps, charts, and illustrationswrap-ups of each biblical passagestudy questionsWhether you're new to the Bible, a long-time student of Scripture, or somewhere in between, you'll appreciate the many ways The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Romans goes far beyond your typical Bible study tool. The practical, relevant helps on each page lead you to get the most out of God's word.
The Book of Saints: A Day-By-Day Illustrated Encyclopedia
by Weldon OwenA lavishly illustrated reference guide to over five-hundred Christian saints, organized by the calendar year and featuring about six-hundred works of art.Organized by feast day throughout the calendar year, The Book of Saints is both a definitive reference work and a spectacular art book. Featuring fascinating stories of more than five-hundred saints from around the world, the book includes approximately six-hundred works of historic and contemporary art. This extraordinary reference book is a stunning keepsake and essential resource that makes a perfect christening, confirmation, or birthday gift, and is a great addition to any family library. The Book of Saints is an illustrated treasury of compelling information for the devout and the culturally inquisitive alike.
The Book of Seconds: The Incredible Stories of the Ones that Didn't (Quite) Win
by Mark MasonThe Book of Seconds reveals the exciting, intriguing and heroic runners-up who until now have been kept in the shadow of the firsts.Did you know that the winner of the second Tour de France rode 25 miles on two flat tyres?Or that the second crew to land on the Moon danced to a pop song in zero gravity?Step forward all the nearly-men and nearly-women, the nearly skyscrapers, nearly-LPs and nearly deserts. Your time in the spotlight has come at last.
The Book of Seconds: The Incredible Stories of the Ones that Didnt (Quite) Win
by Mark MasonDID YOU KNOW that the second man to swim the Channel drank 20 drops of champagne every hour? Or that the second crew to land on the Moon danced to a pop song in zero gravity? Or that the second man to run a sub-4-minute mile once stopped to check on a fallen rival - but still managed to win the race?You probably didn't - because seconds never get the attention they deserve. This book reveals the people and things who until now have been kept in the shadow of the firsts. We'll glory in the achievements of the nearly-men and nearly-women, not to mention nearly-skyscrapers, nearly-LPs and nearly-deserts.Above all we'll see how so-called 'runners-up' can be exciting, intriguing and heroic. Step forward, seconds - your time in the spotlight has come at last.
The Book of Secrets: Esoteric Societies and Holy Orders, Luminaries and Seers, Symbols and Rituals, and the Key Concepts of Occult Sciences Through the Ages and Around the World
by Daniel PinedaA comprehensive guidebook to over one hundred occult secrets from throughout the world and throughout the ages.From the strange symbols on a one-dollar bill to the secret signs of the Knights Templar and Freemasons, invisible societies, and the world of magic and alchemy, The Book of Secrets is a comprehensive introduction to the world of secret and esoteric knowledge throughout history.In the mystery tradition, “secrets” are levels of consciousness that are hidden from our normal mental state, the acquisition of a new point of view. The Book of Secrets delves into the world of the “occult,” the initiated secret traditions of the fascinating unseen spiritual world: its symbols, secret societies, and seers.You’ll discover:Key Concepts: the Great Work, the Universal Force, Polarity, the Four Elements, Magick and Mysticism, Esoteric Anatomy, Qabalah, Alchemy, Astrology, the Astral Plane, and moreSymbolism: More than one hundred secrets symbols, words, objects, including their meanings and the secret powers they invoke: Animals, spiritual beings, and sacred objectsSecret Societies and Holy Orders: The gatekeepers and the transmitters of sacred knowledge: Freemasons, O.T.O., Cathars, Templars, Assassins. Pineda places them all in history and geography and explains who they are/were and what they stood forLuminaries and Seers: More than two hundred legends and historical personages: Hermes Trismegistus, Jesus, Siddartha, Osiris, and other seers from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the nineteenth and twentieth centuriesFrom video games such as Limbo and Castlevania to TV shows and movies to comic book heroes, or Dan Brown’s novels, secret symbols and societies fascinate. Pineda provides a comprehensive introduction to secret knowledge for readers who want to know more.Praise for The Book of Secrets“This erudite and sweeping survey of the esoteric realm investigates such diverse topics as mystical doctrines, occult symbols, magical rituals, secret societies, the lives of great adepts, and more. . . . Daniel Pineda displays rare versatility, writing with inspiration, clarity, and humility.” —James Wasserman, editor of Aleister Crowley and the Practice of the Magical Diary and author of An Illustrated History of Solomon’s Temple
The Book of Seeds: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species from around the World
by Paul Smith<p>Seeds are nature’s consummate survivors. The next time you admire a field of waving green grassland or a stunning grove of acacia, stop to consider how it got that way—often against incredible odds. Seeds can survive freezing temperatures and drought. They can pass through our digestive systems without damage and weather a trip across the ocean, hitching a ride on marine debris. They can even endure complete desiccation, a feat taken to extraordinary lengths by the date palm, a seed from which was recovered from the palace of Herod the Great was germinated after some two thousand years. <p>The Book of Seeds takes readers through six hundred of the world’s seed species, revealing their extraordinary beauty and rich diversity. Each page pairs a beautifully composed photo of a seed—life-size, and, in some cases, enlarged to display fine detail—with a short description, a map showing distribution, and information on conservation status. The whole spectrum of seeds is covered here. <P>There are prolific species like corn and less widely distributed species, like the brilliant blue seeds of the traveler’s palm or the bird of paradise flower, aptly named for its distinctive orange coiffure. There are tiny seeds and seeds weighing up to forty pounds. And while seeds in all their shapes, sizes, and colors grant us sustenance, there are even some we would be wise to treat with caution, such as the rosary pea, whose seeds are considered more toxic than ricin. <P>The essential guide to these complex plant creations, The Book of Seeds offers readers a rare, up-close look that will inspire scientists and nature lovers alike.
The Book of Shells: A Life-Size Guide to Identifying and Classifying Six Hundred Seashell
by M. G. Harasewych Fabio MoretzsohnWho among us hasn't marveled at the diversity and beauty of shells? Or picked one up, held it to our ear, and then gazed in wonder at its shape and hue? Many a lifelong shell collector has cut teeth (and toes) on the beaches of the Jersey Shore, the Outer Banks, or the coasts of Sanibel Island. Some have even dived to the depths of the ocean. But most of us are not familiar with the biological origin of shells, their role in explaining evolutionary history, and the incredible variety of forms in which they come. Shells are the external skeletons of mollusks, an ancient and diverse phylum of invertebrates that are in the earliest fossil record of multicellular life over 500 million years ago. There are over 100,000 kinds of recorded mollusks, and some estimate that there are over amillion more that have yet to be discovered. Some breathe air, others live in fresh water, but most live in the ocean. They range in size from a grain of sand to a beach ball and in weight from a few grams to several hundred pounds. And in this lavishly illustrated volume, they finally get their full due. The Book of Shells offers a visually stunning and scientifically engaging guide to six hundred of the most intriguing mollusk shells, each chosen to convey the range of shapes and sizes that occur across a range of species. Each shell is reproduced here at its actual size, in full color, and is accompanied by an explanation of the shell's range, distribution, abundance, habitat, and operculum--the piece that protects the mollusk when it's in the shell. Brief scientific and historical accounts of each shell and related species include fun-filled facts and anecdotes that broaden its portrait. The Matchless Cone, for instance, or Conus cedonulli, was one of the rarest shells collected during the eighteenth century. So much so, in fact, that a specimen in 1796 was sold for more than six times as much as a painting by Vermeer at the same auction. But since the advent of scuba diving, this shell has become far more accessible to collectors--though not without certain risks. Some species of Conus produce venom that has caused more than thirty known human deaths. The Zebra Nerite, the Heart Cockle, the Indian Babylon, the Junonia, the Atlantic Thorny Oyster--shells from habitats spanning the poles and the tropics, from the highest mountains to the ocean's deepest recesses, are all on display in this definitive work.
The Book of Signs
by Rudolf KochThis unusual collection of primitive and medieval symbols provides one of the most fertile single sources of decorative ideas available today. It is also a graphic history of the development of written communication and offers a singular insight into the psychology of the primitive mind. The Book of Signs contains 493 classified and documented illustrations, collected, drawn, and explained by the celebrated typographer Rudolf Koch. Divided into 14 different categories, it includes General Signs, The Cross, Monogram of Christ, Other Christian Signs, Monograms of Medieval Church and State Leaders, Stone Masons' Signs, The Four Elements, Astronomical Signs, Astrological Signs, Botanical Signs, Chemical Signs, House and Holding Marks, Miscellany, and Runes.
The Book of Snakes
by Welbeck Children's BooksExplore the amazing world of snakes like never before! Read the notes, sketches and photographs of a globe-trotting snake expert and discover her amazing journey of discovery, as she gets up close with over 20 different snake species from all over the world, with details on their habitat, size, unique features, and prey.As well as fantastic, close-up photography, the book also includes annotated sketches of the snakes and thrilling stories of encountering each one - it's like having access to a real explorer's journal. Told as a fictional story of snake encounters across the globe, this realistic account is a fantastic visual guide to the world's deadliest, fastest, most unusual, and rarest snakes.
The Book of Snakes: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species from around the World
by Mark O'SheaFor millennia, humans have regarded snakes with an exceptional combination of fascination and revulsion. Some people recoil in fear at the very suggestion of these creatures, while others happily keep them as pets. Snakes can convey both beauty and menace in a single tongue flick and so these creatures have held a special place in our cultures. Yet, for as many meanings that we attribute to snakes—from fertility and birth to sin and death—the real-life species represent an even wider array of wonders. The Book of Snakes presents 600 species of snakes from around the world, covering nearly one in six of all snake species. It will bring greater understanding of a group of reptiles that have existed for more than 160 million years, and that now inhabit every continent except Antarctica, as well as two of the great oceans. This volume pairs spectacular photos with easy-to-digest text. It is the first book on these creatures that combines a broad, worldwide sample with full-color, life-size accounts. Entries include close-ups of the snake’s head and a section of the snake at actual size. The detailed images allow readers to examine the intricate scale patterns and rainbow of colors as well as special features like a cobra’s hood or a rattlesnake’s rattle. The text is written for laypeople and includes a glossary of frequently used terms. Herpetologists and herpetoculturists alike will delight in this collection, and even those with a more cautious stance on snakes will find themselves drawn in by the wild diversity of the suborder Serpentes.
The Book of Snakes: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species from around the World
by Mark O'SheaUpdated to reflect the most recent species classifications, a second edition of the beautifully illustrated and beloved guide to 600 members of the suborder Serpentes. For millennia, humans have regarded snakes with an exceptional combination of fascination and revulsion. Some people recoil in fear at the very suggestion of these creatures, while others happily keep them as pets. Snakes can convey both beauty and menace in a single tongue flick, and so these creatures have held a special place in our cultures. Yet, for as many meanings as we attribute to snakes—from fertility and birth to sin and death—the real-life species represent an even wider array of wonders. Now in a new edition, reflecting the most recent species classifications, The Book of Snakes presents 600 species of snakes from around the world, covering roughly one in seven of all snake species. It will bring greater understanding of a group of reptiles that have existed for more than 160 million years and that now inhabit every continent except Antarctica, as well as two of the great oceans. This volume pairs spectacular photos with easy-to-digest text. It is the first book on these creatures that combines a broad, worldwide sample with full-color, life-size accounts. Entries include close-ups of the snake’s head and a section of the snake at actual size. The detailed images allow readers to examine the intricate scale patterns and rainbow of colors as well as special features like a cobra’s hood or a rattlesnake’s rattle. The text is written for laypeople and includes a glossary of frequently used terms. Herpetologists and herpetoculturists alike will delight in this collection, and even those with a more cautious stance on snakes will find themselves drawn in by the wild diversity of the suborder Serpentes.
The Book of Songs: The Ancient Chinese Classic Of Poetry
by Arthur Waley The Arthur EstateFirst published in 1937. The Book of Songs is a collection of ancient Chinese songs, dating from 800 to 600 B.C. Until this was published in 1937 it had not been translated into English since the middle of nineteenth century, when sinology was still in its infancy. For the first time the original meaning of 290 out of the 305 songs is given, use being made of the advances in the study of old Chinese. The result is not merely a clear picture of early Chinese life, but also the restoration to its proper place in world literature of one of the finest collection of traditional songs.
The Book of Stones: Who They Are and What They Teach
by Robert Simmons Naisha Ahsian• Explores 455 crystals, minerals, gemstones, and their metaphysical energies, including vivid color photographs for each stone • For each stone, shares its scientific information, its element and chakra correspondences, its history, and its physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits • Includes guidance on how to work with crystals and stones and also explores the concept of crystal resonance Offering an illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, this comprehensive reference guide takes you deep into the world of crystals and their uses for spiritual awakening and self-healing. Exploring 455 gemstones and their metaphysical energies, the encyclopedia includes vivid color photographs for each stone to aid identification and showcase its beauty, as well as listing each gem&’s physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. The book begins with two introductory chapters by authors Naisha Ahsian and Robert Simmons detailing how to work with crystals and stones and exploring the concept of crystal resonance. Each stone entry includes the mineral name and photo, its elemental and chakra correspondences, keywords that indicate its properties, and a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers personal insights on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. This edition also includes an index of the stones&’ healing and energetic properties, making it easy to find the stone best suited to your needs.
The Book of The Boss: Empowering words of wisdom from Bruce Springsteen
by Pop Press'I think I just wanted to be great'Born in the USA ... but loved around the world, Bruce Springsteen has been a musical icon for the last 50 years and continues to rock stadiums with his legendary shows.An outspoken ally for social justice, this collection of quotes showcases The Boss's wisdom on equality, performing and friendships and will inspire everyone to live a creative and confident life.
The Book of Times: From Seconds to Centuries, a Compendium of Measures
by Lesley Alderman“Clever and entertaining . . . contains everything you’d want to know about the ticking away of seconds, minutes, hours, days, years, decades and centuries.” —Time.comOur relationship to time is complex and paradoxical: Time stands still. Time also flies. Tomorrow is another day. Yet there’s no time like the present. We want to do more in less time, but wish we could slow the clock. And despite all our time-saving devices—smart phones, AI, high-speed trains—Americans feel that they have less leisure time than ever.In an era when our time feels fractured and imperiled, The Book of Times encourages readers to ponder time used and time spent. How long does it take to find a new mate, digest a hamburger, or compose a symphony? How much time do we spend daydreaming, texting, and getting ready for work? The book challenges our beliefs and urges us to consider how, and why, some things get faster, some things slow down, and some things never change (the need for seven to eight hours of sleep).Packed with compelling charts, lists, and quizzes, as well as new and intriguing research, The Book of Times is an addictive, browsable, and provocative look at the idea of time from every direction.“Alderman’s greatest achievement is the continual delivery of quirky knowledge that our collective curiosities crave.” —Forbes“Fascinated by how we spend—and waste—our most precious commodity, journalist Lesley Alderman gathered the sometimes-surprising stats for her debut, The Book of Times.” —People“A fascinating foray into familiar terrain and a revealing look at how we really spend our lives.” —Mental Floss
The Book of Useless Information
by Noel BothamThousands of things you didn't think you needed to know--and probably don't. All you never needed to know, and couldn't be bothered to ask. One person's useless information could prove invaluable to someone else. Then again, maybe not. But to The Useless Information Society, any fact that passes its gasp-inducing, "not-a-lot-of-people-know-that" test merits inclusion in this fascinating but ultimately useless book. Did you know... - That fish scales are used to make lipstick? - Why organized crime accounts for ten percent of the United States's annual income? - The name of the first CD pressed in the U.S.? - The shortest performance ever nominated for an Oscar? - How much Elvis weighed at the time of his death? - What the suits in a deck of cards represent? - How many Quarter Pounders can be made from one cow? - How interesting useless information can be? The Book of Useless Information answers these teasers and will captivate readers with the joy of pursuing pointless knowledge.
The Book of Useless Information
by Noel BothamWhat you may so cavalierly call useless information could prove invaluable to someone else. Then again, maybe not. But to The Useless Information Society, any fact that passes its gasp-inducing, not-a-lot-of-people-know-that test merits inclusion in this fascinating but ultimately useless book. . . Did you know (or do you care). . . • That fish scales are used to make lipstick? • Why organized crime accounts for ten percent of the United States’s annual income? • The name of the first CD pressed in the United States? • The last year that can be written upside-down or right side-up and appear the same? • The shortest performance ever nominated for an Oscar®? • How much Elvis weighed at the time of his death? • What the suits in a deck of cards represent? • How many Quarter Pounders can be made from one cow? • How interesting useless information can be? The Book of Useless Information answers these teasers and is packed with facts and figures that will captivate you—and anyone who shares your joy in the pursuit of pointless knowledge. .
The Book of Virtues: 30th Anniversary Edition
by William J. Bennett Elayne Glover BennettHelp your children develop moral character with this updated, 30th anniversary edition of the perennial classic Book of Virtues.Almost 3 million copies of the Book of Virtues have been sold since it was published in 1993. It is one of the most popular moral primers ever written, an inspiring anthology that helps children understand and develop character—and helps parents teach it to them. Thirty years ago, readers thought that the times were right for a book about moral literacy. Back then, Americans worried that schools were no longer parents&’ allies in teaching good character. As the book&’s original introduction noted, &“moral anchors and moorings have never been more necessary.&” If that was true in the 1990s, it is even more true today. The explosion of information with the Internet has left many unsure of what is valuable and what is not. Responsibility. Courage. Compassion. Loyalty. Honesty. Friendship. Persistence. Hard work. Self-discipline. Faith. These remain the essentials of good character. The Book of Virtues contains hundreds of exemplary stories offering children examples of good and bad, right and wrong. Drawing on the Bible, American history, Greek mythology, English poetry, fairy tales, and modern fiction, William J. and Elayne Bennett show children the many virtuous paths they can follow—and the ones they ought to avoid. For the 30th anniversary edition, the Bennetts have slimmed down the book&’s contents, while also finding room to introduce such figures as Mother Teresa, Colin Powell, and heroes of 9/11 and the War in Afghanistan. Here is a rich mine of moral literacy to teach a new generation of children about American culture, history, and traditions—ultimately, the ideals by which we wish to live our lives. The updated edition of The Book of Virtues will continue a legacy of raising moral children far into a new century.
The Book of Virtues: A Treasury Of Great Moral Stories (Book Of Virtues Collection)
by William J. BennettResponsibility. Courage. Compassion. Honesty. Friendship. Persistence. Faith. Everyone recognizes these traits as essentials of good character. In order for our children to develop such traits, we have to offer them examples of good and bad, right and wrong. And the best places to find them are in great works of literature and exemplary stories from history. William J. Bennett has collected hundreds of stories in The Book of Virtues, an instructive and inspiring anthology that will help children understand and develop character -- and help adults teach them. From the Bible to American history, from Greek mythology to English poetry, from fairy tales to modern fiction, these stories are a rich mine of moral literacy, a reliable moral reference point that will help anchor our children and ourselves in our culture, our history, and our traditions -- the sources of the ideals by which we wish to live our lives. Complete with instructive introductions and notes, The Book of Virtues is a book the whole family can read and enjoy -- and learn from -- together.