- Table View
- List View
Touch Matters: Handshakes, Hugs, and the New Science on How Touch Can Enhance Your Well-Being
by Michael BanissyAn exploration of the new science behind our most underappreciated sense and why we need to harness the power of touch for our health and well-being.Every day, we use our sense of touch to navigate the world. A handshake, a pat on the shoulder, a hug—all essential touches that make up our daily lives. In Touch Matters, Professor Michael Banissy brings together diverse scientific insights from the world's largest study on touch with takeaways on how to enhance your levels of touch for a happier, healthier life. The book explains why touch is essential to our well-being, the role it plays in our relationships, friendships, in the bedroom, workplace, in team activities such as sports, and much more. Banissy's latest research explores:Our "touch personalities"Touch starvationHow touch defines our relationships and self-esteemThe impact of touch on our physical and mental health This is a fascinating window into one of our most important and basic senses and how to harness its power.FEATURES ORIGINAL RESEARCH FROM "THE TOUCH TEST": Touch Matters is based on one of Banissy's most recent projects—the Touch Test—a science and broadcast collaboration with the BBC and Wellcome Collection. This project explored attitudes and experiences of touch via the world's largest contemporary survey on the topic, public exhibitions, and a series of broadcast programs focused on the topic of touch that received worldwide attention. The project had approximately 40,000 participants from 113 countries.OFFERS GUIDANCE ON COMMUNICATING AND CONNECTING IN OUR DAILY AND PROFESSIONAL LIVES: As we return to office work and live in a world where touch has become loaded with meaning, this book will help people understand how important touch is and the role it plays in every aspect of our lives, from relationships and friendships to the workplace and team activities and much more.Perfect for:Readers interested in science, psychology, and self-helpFans of James Nestor's Breath, Marc Brackett's Permission to Feel, Bill Bryson's The Body, Mark Miodownik's Stuff MattersAdults and parents of children resuming in-person activities including going back to the office, returning to school, traveling, and socializingThose interested in learning more about the science of touch, touch starvation, and how important touch is to child/human developmentPeople struggling with depression or anxiety around physical contact
Own Your Throne: How to Make Your Time in the Loo Work for You
by Bradford WareThe average person spends about 50 billion hours on the toilet in their lifetime. Why not make the most of it?We’ve all been there and will be back again. This very funny and actually useful guide will help you make your time in the loo more comfortable, entertaining, and even fun. Out-and-about advice includes finding and navigating public restrooms, strategies for pit stops at school, in the office, or at other people’s houses, as well as special circumstances (in a porta-potty, in the woods, in outer space). Tips for optimizing your throne room at home feature playlists, dream décor, scent-sory suggestions, get-things-moving exercises, and toilet tech explorations (flush into the future). Also featuring a Things to Do While You Poo activities section, sidebar trivia from Plungie the Plunger, and reader missions to accomplish from Agent 002, this is the must-have companion for anyone’s time behind closed doors.FUN & USEFUL BATHROOM BOOK: A much better alternative to a toss-away magazine or the sports page, this book offers actionable advice and interesting information in an engaging, funny, and accessible way.STRESS REDUCTION STRATEGIES: When the need for toilet time happens away from home, it can be stressful, including being out and about (looking for any port in the potential storm), at other people’s houses, or in a workspace context. At home, we have varying levels of control, depending on our living situation. The guidance in these pages can help set you up for success, no matter where or when you need to make a public or private place a room of one's own.EVERYBODY POOPS: Why should kids get all the fun? Push aside those playful potty-training books and perch this volume throne-side for inspiration and distraction when you need it most. It holds appeal for men and women across a range of ages.NOVELTY GIFT: We all know someone for whom toilet time is a subject of great interest. Pair this handy volume of bathroom reading material with a bottle of room freshener, fancy hand soap, or a package of luxe "facial tissue" to create a memorable and practical gift.Perfect for:Practical and supportive guide for anyone with toilet anxietyStocking stuffer or birthday gift for men and womenNew home or apartment housewarming giftGoing-away gift for travelers or students moving into a dormFans of What's Your Poo Telling You? and other funny bathroom books
Is It Hot in Here (Or Am I Suffering for All Eternity for the Sins I Committed on Earth)?
by Zach ZimmermanIn this debut collection of essays, lists, musings, and quips, New York-based comedian Zach Zimmerman delicately walks the fine line between tear-jerking and knee-slapping, and does so with aplomb.In this laugh-and-cry-out-loud, memoir-esque exploration of selfhood, Zimmerman dives into the pros and cons of retiring a Bible-Belt-dwelling, meat-eating, God-fearing identity in exchange for a new, metropolitan lease on life—one of vegetarianism, atheism, queerness, and humor. Whether learning to absolve instilled religious guilt or reminiscing over Tinder dates gone horribly wrong, this book is a candid and hysterical look at one person's journey toward making peace with the past and seeking hope in the future.HILARIOUS WRITING: The stories featured in this collection are an uproarious read with a strong and established tone of voice. Featuring pieces that were originally published in the New Yorker, Is It Hot in Here (Or Am I Suffering for All Eternity for the Sins I Committed on Earth)? is a literary gem. RELEVANT AND INCLUSIVE: Zimmerman navigates obstacles in the queer community with essays that are not only humorous and heartfelt, but also act as guiding anecdotes for young, queer community members. ESTABLISHED AUTHOR AND COMEDIAN: Zimmerman has written dozens of New Yorker humor pieces and essays, a Billboard Top Ten comedy album that debuted at #1, and has been featured in New York Magazine, The New York Times, TimeOut, Vulture, and more.Comedy and humor fansLiterary enthusiasts and fans of comedy writing like David Sedaris and Gary JanettiShort story and essay collection readers
Dad Law: The Definitive Reference for All Things Dad
by Ally Probst Joel WillisFinally, the unwritten rules of Dadhood have been written in Dad Law.Since the dawn of time, all dads have understood that there are a set of rules for fathers—both old and new alike—that guide them to gleefully repeat terrible puns as well as to hone the perfect deadpan joke delivery. This handsome tome collects all of the governing laws of fatherhood, covering a vast array of conceivable situations ranging from fashion to tech to simply being a dad in public. At last, fathers need look no further to confirm that their instincts are 100 percent legally sound, whether it's to vigilantly guard the thermostat settings or to tell unsuspecting children, "Hey, pull my finger." It's not a choice. It's a law: Dad Law.THE FIRST OF ITS KIND: Never before have all the rules of fatherhood been collected in such a definitive (and laugh-out-loud funny) way!GOOD FOR ALL DADS: Full of universal dad rules that are inclusive of all kinds of dads and their unique families! Grandfathers and uncles, too!HANDSOME AND GIFTABLE: Bound in faux leather with gold stamping, reminiscent of a law textbook, Dad Law is the perfect gift for Father's Day, birthdays, or baby showers.Perfect for:Are you a dad? Do you have a dad? This book is definitely for you!Every man whose dad jokes, dadwear, and questionable behavior have elicited eye rolls, face palms, and a chorus of protests from their nearest and dearest Fans of Sh*t My Dad Says, Father-ish, Tom Segura, Jim Gaffigan, and Dave BarryHumor enthusiasts and anyone who loves puns and dad joke booksOutstanding gift for any dad, including expecting dads, lawyer dads, and father figures, for Father's Day, birthday, holiday, or welcoming a son, daughter, or grandchild
Mom, Can I Do My Laundry at Your House?: Poems from Your Adult Child
by Olivia RobertsEven as a grown-up, sometimes all we need is a hug from our mom—and access to their washing machine. Via fifty short, relatable poems, Mom, Can I Do My Laundry at Your House? celebrates the amazing people who raised us and support us, even when we're still siphoning their streaming services and going grocery shopping in their fully stocked pantry well into adulthood.I see that you're typingAnd I will wait patiently for your text to come throughBecause I knowYou are only usingYour pointer fingerWith poems ranging from cheeky to sweet, side-splitting to sincere, this collection is sure to make mom smile for Mother's Day, birthday, holiday, and just because!
You Are Here: Hikes
by Blackwell & RuthWhether planning a getaway or just dreaming about one, this beautifully curated collection of amazing hikes all around the world evokes awe-inspiring travel adventures that are inspirational and attainable.You Are Here: Hikes features breathtaking photos off-the-beaten-path and iconic natural wonders, from enchanting forests to sunset showcases, jewel-like coastal trails to ancient rock formations, wildflower meadows to spectacular vista views. Each gorgeous, handpicked location represents a unique journey, with geolocation information inviting you to the very scenic spot. You are there, or could be.CHOOSE YOUR OWN PATH: Swoon-worthy photographs will excite the spirit of adventure, with each gorgeous destination identified by geolocation inviting you to visit.WIDE RANGE OF HIKING DESTINATIONS: Rocky alpine summits, tropical fern forests, crystalline ice domes, colorful foliage showstoppers, incredible waterfalls, verdant valleys, towering redwoods, and much more.ARMCHAIR OR OUT THERE: Equally suitable for kicking off your next outdoor exploration and adventure or capturing the beauty of nature to enjoy from the comforts of home.INSPIRING PHOTOGRAPHY: The beautiful photographs collected here will not just inspire travel, but inspire sharing photos of your own journey to these or other amazing places.Perfect for: travel enthusiasts looking for a uniquely memorable hiking experience, and anyone looking for inspiration to take and share their own photos these beautiful scenic spots.
Mushroom Spotter's Deck: A Field Guide to Fungi & Their Age-Old Wisdom
by Megan Lynn KottComplete with 78 cards, each featuring a watercolor painting of a mushroom on the front and an engaging description on the back—including identifying characteristics, fun facts, and a dash of mystical mushroom wisdom—this deck is an invitation to notice and appreciate the mysterious world of fungi. An accompanying booklet includes a brief introduction to mushrooms, a glossary of terms, plus guidance on how to use the cards: display them as art or keep them on hand during your nature walks! Packaged in an attractive, portable box, this playful and informative deck is a must-have for mushroom lovers of all varieties.
Dear Intern
by Mara Nelson-GreenbergEveryone makes mistakes—especially in their first job. Cringe and commiserate with the everyday missteps and epic workplace screwups in this collection of self-confessed blunders from disaster‑prone‑yet‑good‑intentioned interns finding their footing in professional settings.All tenured professionals know that detours and mishaps are an essential rite of passage en route to a successful career—but that doesn't make them any less funny. This curated collection of true intern confessions, from minor mistakes to major messes, is the workplace humor book everyone can relate to. Whether spilling coffee on the boss's laptop or drunkenly sending out a personal tweet on the company's Twitter account, these first-hand stories comprise a cringe- and compassion-inducing celebration of the many memorable blunders that can (and do) happen in our entry‑level years.UNIQUE ADULTING BOOK: This one-of-a-kind collection of hilarious intern stories is the perfect way for current and past interns and entry-level newbies to commiserate over embarrassing moments and lessons learned. RELATABLE HUMOR: Whether you are about to start an internship, currently are an intern, or were once an intern, these stories are a great reminder that levity in the workplace makes all the difference in getting through any given day. Everyone has humiliating slipups, and it is comforting to share them.GREAT GIFT FOR GRADS: What better way to celebrate the trials and tribulations of the workforce than a book poking fun at interns and their amusing mistakes? For anyone from recent graduates to long-standing coworkers, this is perfect as a funny first-job gift or work-iversary present.Perfect for:Graduates and young professionalsGift-giving between coworkers or from bosses to internsComedy and humor fansShort story and essay collection readersFans of The Office, Parks and Recreation, and Office Space
A Sense of Shifting: Queer Artists Reshaping Dance
by Coco RomackEnter the groundbreaking world of queer dance in this gorgeous collection of stories and photographs.Two women hold each other tight as they dance the two-step. A fierce-eyed man in a long red dress performs flamenco. A dancer improvises in a blooming garden, blending diverse influences into a style all their own. This book showcases twelve individual artists and dance companies who are reclaiming traditional genres and building inclusive dance communities. Whether professionals or amateurs, ballerinas or experimental performers, pole dancers or line dancers, these artists embody the queer experience in unique ways. Photographer Yael Malka invites us into an intimate, visceral experience of rehearsals and performances, and writer Coco Romack offers wide-ranging reflections on the creative process drawn from in-depth interviews with the dancers. This beautiful book documents the rise of a new generation of artists and will inspire dance lovers, LGBTQIA+ creators, and anyone who delights in the power of the human body in motion.INSPIRING STORIES: The stories in this book represent a distinctive slice of the LGBTQIA+ experience. For dancers, whose art form is inseparable from their bodies, gender expression entwines with creative expression in challenging and liberating ways. The artists featured here generously explore their journeys in the interviews, while the photographs show the joy to be found in the queer dance community.BEAUTIFUL PRIDE GIFT: This collection is the perfect gift for anyone interested in the intersections of art, identity, and activism. With a deluxe art-book treatment and stunning photographs, the book can be proudly displayed on your coffee table or presented to the creative activist in your life.INCLUSIVE AND INTERSECTIONAL: This collection highlights a truly diverse array of experiences. The stories delve into the experiences of dancing in a wheelchair, navigating the intersections of gender and race, engaging with cultural inheritance on one's own terms, and even striving to make non-activist art when simply existing as a queer person can be a political action. The various dance styles and body types featured emphasize this book's welcoming, inclusive tone. Whether you love to dance or watch from the audience, identify as LGBTQIA+ or as an ally, this book is for you.Perfect for:Dancers and dance enthusiastsPeople interested in contemporary dance styles and dance companiesFans of portrait and performance photographyLGBTQIA+ artists, activists, and alliesReaders seeking inspiring art and storiesFans of portrait anthologies and storytelling projects like Humans of New YorkFans of LGBTQIA+ photobooks like Loving: a Photographic History of Men In Love 1850s–1950s, We Are Everywhere, and Queer Love In Color
Searching for Sunshine: Finding Connections with Plants, Parks, and the People Who Love Them
by Ishita JainWhen Ishita Jain relocated to the visually overwhelming and concrete-filled New York City from New Delhi, India, she found solace in parks and gardens and started thinking about how important these places are to city residents' sense of peace. In Searching for Sunshine, Jain follows her curiosity and creativity to provide a vibrant compilation of essays, illustrations, and interviews centered around the simple yet compelling theme of why and how plants and green spaces create such meaning for us.Whether living in a setting that is urban, rural, or somewhere in between, everyone can find enjoyment in the beautiful illustrations and stories gathered here. Featuring conversations with experts and plant-lovers alike, including scientists at the New York Botanical Gardens, groundskeepers at the famed Green-Wood Cemetery, shoppers at the beloved Union Square Greenmarket, a director of NYC Parklands, a florist, and more, Jain's exploration of plants and parks in New York City demonstrates how nature is vital to all experiences of our lives.
Blame the Stars: A Very Good, Totally Accurate Collection of Astrological Advice
by Heather BuchananPart surrealism, part humor, and part affectionate guidance, Blame the Stars is a wild adventure into a world of uniquely alternative zodiac signs.Welcome to the world of Horror Scoops: a weird and wonderful twist on classic zodiac signs. Meet passionate and wild Lemo (a.k.a. Leo), kind Lehbrah (Libra), steadfast Clopricrumb (Capricorn), Germini the Twrnnns (take two guesses), and others—signs which, although slightly silly, reveal more about us than we realize.Part One dives deep into each sign, offering insightful tidbits and advice on love, life, and work (for example, if you’re an Arbys, consider a career as a Pie-Eating Competition Judge, a Horse Observer, or a Horse Observer Observer). Part Two details a year’s worth of sign-specific guidance, Scoop-holidays (like January 15, the Day of Remembrance for Fallen Houseplants), and journal prompts to spark deep introspection. Full of colorful illustrations from Scoops creator and accidental astrologer Heather Buchanan, lots of entertaining nonsense, and occasional sense-sense, Blame the Stars offers the ideal way to contemplate the mysteries of the universe (or have a giggle). FOR ASTROLOGY FANS: Horoscope and astrology are deeply engrained in society. This modern divination book stands out as a playful and interactive option that will appeal to people who dig astrology but don't take it all too seriously (because life is serious enough).FROM THE CREATOR OF WILDLY POPULAR HORROR SCOOPS: Author Heather Buchanan has been creating and sharing her absurdist horoscopes for years to her hundreds of thousands of fans. This is the book those fans have been waiting for, capturing for the first time all the wild, insightful, colorful signs and observations they love in one volume. RELATABLE AND QUIRKY HUMOR: There is a genuine feeling of joy behind the absurd, offbeat humor of this horoscope book. While some astrological-themed metaphysical books may be more serious, this one feels approachable, engaging, and just plain fun.Perfect for:Fans of Horror Scoops and Heather Buchanan's work Astrology devotees (and the astrology-curious) who don't take themselves too seriously People interested in lighthearted self-helpFollowers of social media horoscope accounts and brands like Bitch Rising, Co-Star, That Libra Chic, and moreGift-giving to any astrology lover for birthday, anniversary, or just for fun
Footnotes from the Most Fascinating Museums: Stories and Memorable Moments from People Who Love Museums
by Bob EcksteinA beautiful, smart, entertaining new art book from New Yorker cartoonist and author Bob Eckstein that is a love letter to museums and museum-goers, filled with lush and whimsical illustrations paired with stories and anecdotes from curators, museum workers, museum visitors, and more.Footnotes from the Most Fascinating Museums is a collection of the greatest and most beloved museums of North America, illustrated and explored through fun and fascinating anecdotes. Curated by Bob Eckstein, author of the New York Times bestseller Footnotes from the World's Greatest Bookstores, this delightful twist on an art history book shows these institutes in a way not seen before, illustrated in a lush and idealized style.The 75+ museums featured include the biggest and boldest names (MoMA, the Whitney) and the more offbeat (Museum of Bad Art, the Museum of Jurassic Technology). They span the US, Canada, and Mexico and include those specializing in art, natural history, academia and science, and more. The 155 original pieces of artwork illustrate a story about the museum or showcase a particular work of art in its collection.Featured museums include:The Field Museum, ChicagoThe Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New YorkThe Museum of Modern Art, New YorkThe Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge, MAThe National Portrait Gallery, Washington DCLa Brea Tar Pits, Los AngelesIsabella Stewart Gardner Museum, BostonMuseum of Motherhood, St. Petersburg, FloridaChapultepec Castle, Mexico City, Mexico American Museum of Natural History, New YorkAnd many moreA perfect gift for artists, art lovers, students, travelers, and adventurers of all ages, this collection of funny, heartfelt, and quirky profiles is a thought-provoking, inspiring celebration of museums, why we go to them, and why we love them so much.
Beaming: Radiant Visualizations and Meditations to Expand Your Mind and Open Your Heart
by Marilyne VerschuerenA powerful tool for self-discovery filled with mystical practices, meditations, and mind-expanding visuals from the artist behind the wildly popular Instagram account @beamingdesign.In Beaming, Marilyne Verschueren—the artist behind internet sensation Beamingdesign—presents 100 expansive visuals designed to stimulate your mind and awaken your intuition. Messages of hope, resilience, and joy are incorporated into radiant art, with each image offering the reader an opportunity for deep contemplation and introspection. Powerful imagery is paired with dozens of guided mindfulness, journaling, and breathwork exercises to deepen the interactive experience. For fans of modern mysticism, tarot, and self-care and anyone on a spiritual journey, Beaming is an exquisite companion and a stirring call to follow your truth.BELOVED ARTIST: Marilyne Verschueren (@beamingdesign) is a celebrated artist with a passionate following on social media. This book collects fan-favorite artwork, dozens of never-before-seen pieces, and guided practices for deeper engagement with the visuals to inspire self-care, personal growth, creativity, and more. BEAUTIFUL BOOK TO GIFT AND DISPLAY: Overflowing with colorful, radiant artwork in an eye-catching package, this beautiful book is a statement object that makes an uplifting self-purchase or thoughtful gift for the spiritual and the spiritually curious. FUN AND ILLUMINATING ACTIVITY: Rich with visually inspiring art, meditations, and mindful exercises, this book guides readers through an empowering practice of self-reflection and self-discovery. This visual approach offers a dynamic alternative to text-driven guides, bringing a fresh and energetic perspective to personal growth.Perfect for:Modern mysticsTarot and oracle deck enthusiastsMeditators and mindfulness practitionersFans of The Wild Unknown and Mystic Mondays TarotFans of @beamingdesign on Instagram
Shopkeeping: Stories, Advice, and Observations
by Peter MillerA love letter to the small shop, and shop owners everywhere, by beloved bookseller Peter Miller.For more than four decades, Peter Miller has run a design bookshop that shares his name in Seattle. He has also written three of his own books, manuals about cooking and about food and about eating together. In Shopkeeping, Miller writes for the first time about his other love: shopkeeping."There is a tradition of shopkeeping, a tradition of codes, etiquette, and customs. For the most part, it is an oral history, passed along, person to person. You learn to be a retailer—not by going to college, but by going to work. You learn from people who have learned how to run a shop." [from the Introduction]Over ten chapters, Miller crafts stories from the bookshop floor with wry humor and skillful storytelling. Readers will laugh out loud as they come to understand along the way that small shops characterize our towns and cities, making them unique, special, and worth visiting and living near. An essay collection for book and bookshop lovers, small business owners, and Seattle natives, transplants, and visitors, Shopkeeping captures the art and heart of running a local shop cherished by the community that surrounds it.
Well Worn: Visible Mending for the Clothes You Love
by Skye PennantMend and revive your favorite well-worn garments with this comprehensive guide to visible mending techniques from the founder of Slow Stitch Club.From the creator of the popular Slow Stitch Club, Well Worn is a fresh and engaging clothing repair guide and accessible introduction for anyone looking to explore visible mending to revolutionize their wardrobe, whether you are a stitching pro or have never picked up a needle and thread.Mending is a creative outlet and a slow and therapeutic skill, and author and textile artist Skye Pennant shares the joys of mending by teaching traditional darning and sashiko techniques to help fight against wardrobe perfectionism as well as fast fashion, making for gorgeous visible mending results. Her introduction includes a short history of mending followed by key techniques, fabrics, tools, and materials. Sections are organized by type of clothing to mend: Jeans & Denim, Sweaters & Knitwear, T-Shirts, Socks, and more.An outstanding gift or self-purchase for anyone interested in refreshing their wardrobe, fostering a more sustainable lifestyle, saving money and avoiding fast fashion, or simply engaging with a crafty new creative outlet, this sewing basics book is all about mending clothes you love, one slow stitch at a time.
All of You Is Magic Deck: 52 Practices to Unlock Your Cosmic Power
by Zulfa IshakFor fans of modern mysticism, this gorgeous illustrated deck of uplifting messages and mind-expanding rituals is a powerful tool for self-discovery.In All of You Is Magic, mystic artist Zulfa Ishak presents 52 mystical practices to open your heart, expand your mind, and help you connect with your intuition. Each card includes one uplifting affirmation and one ritual for self-discovery through breathwork, meditation, journaling, and more. Brimming with enchanting artwork and transformative mystic wisdom, this cosmic companion helps you discover your innate magic so you can pursue your dreams with confidence, energy, and joy.EASY TOOL FOR SELF-DISCOVERY: These 52 cards combine self-care, mysticism, and meditation. For anyone interested in astrology and mindfulness, this deck shares powerful healing methods in an easy-to-use format.CELEBRATED AUTHOR: Zulfa Ishak is a beloved mystic creative. In this deck, she shares her expert wisdom, distilling teachings from astrology, mindfulness, and mysticism in an inspiring package filled with her celebrated artwork.BEAUTIFUL TO GIFT AND DISPLAY: This sleek, eye-catching set is filled with 52 shimmery, bright cards, making it a lovely gift and a stylish companion for the spiritually curious, crystal lovers, and tarot enthusiasts.Perfect for:Astrology enthusiastsAnyone interested in mysticism and witchcraftFans and followers of Zulfa IshakUnique gift for people who use tarot card sets, oracle decks, and crystalsFans of The Wild Unknown, The Numinous, and Mystic Mondays Tarot
On a Summer Night
by Deborah HopkinsonStep into the quiet magic of this celebration of summer nighttime and the mystery of a world lit differently by the moon.On a summer night, the world is still. Even the crickets think it’s too hot to sing. But all at once, a girl wakes. In the kitchen, the cat rolls onto its soft paws. A neighbor’s small white dog yaps, a brown rabbit peeks from a hedge, and the leaves of a cherry tree begin to stir in the breeze. Readers witness and wonder: Who has woken them all? In this soothing bedtime story, the quiet of a warm summer night is brought to vivid, magical life with the soft steps of bare feet, the padding of paws, and the bright, golden light of the moon. One by one, each creature is roused and then gently returned to sleep in a lovely and lyrical exploration of wakefulness, restfulness, and the mysterious calm of the night.PERFECT FOR BEDTIME . . . OR ANYTIME: This beautifully illustrated children's book is ideal for soothing young readers to sleep—or encouraging a contemplative break in an energetic day. The story’s engagement with the wonders of nighttime will help children feel comforted by the dark and the prospect of going to sleep rather than afraid of them.READ-ALOUD READINESS: With its lyricism and short refrains, this gentle story is just right for sharing.CONNECTION TO NATURE: This magical book gradually reveals the moon as a character as it wakes girl, cat, dog, rabbit, tree, air, and cloud in turn—and connects them to one another through the welcoming quiet and wonder of a world gilded by moonlight.THE POWER OF SLOWING DOWN: Picture books are often wonderful excuses to slow down and share a moment of gentleness in kids' (and parents') busy lives; this book feels like a deep breath and offers a chance to wonder and reflect.Perfect for:Kids who can't sleep on hot summer nightsParents, grandparents, and caregivers seeking a sweet bedtime bookLibrarians and storytime leaders looking for a summer read-aloudGift givers who want to share a beautiful, lyrical book with someone specialReaders of such classic bedtime stories for kids as Goodnight Moon and The Going to Bed Book
Interactive Dashboards and Data Apps with Plotly and Dash: Harness the power of a fully fledged frontend web framework in Python – no JavaScript required
by Elias DabbasBuild web-based, mobile-friendly analytic apps and interactive dashboards with PythonKey FeaturesDevelop data apps and dashboards without any knowledge of JavaScriptMap different types of data such as integers, floats, and dates to bar charts, scatter plots, and moreCreate controls and visual elements with multiple inputs and outputs and add functionality to the app as per your requirementsBook DescriptionPlotly's Dash framework is a life-saver for Python developers who want to develop complete data apps and interactive dashboards without JavaScript, but you'll need to have the right guide to make sure you're getting the most of it. With the help of this book, you'll be able to explore the functionalities of Dash for visualizing data in different ways.Interactive Dashboards and Data Apps with Plotly and Dash will first give you an overview of the Dash ecosystem, its main packages, and the third-party packages crucial for structuring and building different parts of your apps. You'll learn how to create a basic Dash app and add different features to it.Next, you'll integrate controls such as dropdowns, checkboxes, sliders, date pickers, and more in the app and then link them to charts and other outputs. Depending on the data you are visualizing, you'll also add several types of charts, including scatter plots, line plots, bar charts, histograms, and maps, as well as explore the options available for customizing them.By the end of this book, you'll have developed the skills you need to create and deploy an interactive dashboard, handle complexities and code refactoring, and understand the process of improving your application.What you will learnFind out how to run a fully interactive and easy-to-use appConvert your charts to various formats including images and HTML filesUse Plotly Express and the grammar of graphics for easily mapping data to various visual attributesCreate different chart types, such as bar charts, scatter plots, histograms, maps, and moreExpand your app by creating dynamic pages that generate content based on URLsImplement new callbacks to manage charts based on URLs and vice versaWho this book is forThis Plotly Dash book is for data professionals and data analysts who want to gain a better understanding of their data with the help of different visualizations and dashboards – and without having to use JS. Basic knowledge of the Python programming language and HTML will help you to grasp the concepts covered in this book more effectively, but it's not a prerequisite.
Data Engineering with Google Cloud Platform: A practical guide to operationalizing scalable data analytics systems on GCP
by Adi WijayaBuild and deploy your own data pipelines on GCP, make key architectural decisions, and gain the confidence to boost your career as a data engineerKey FeaturesUnderstand data engineering concepts, the role of a data engineer, and the benefits of using GCP for building your solutionLearn how to use the various GCP products to ingest, consume, and transform data and orchestrate pipelinesDiscover tips to prepare for and pass the Professional Data Engineer examBook DescriptionWith this book, you'll understand how the highly scalable Google Cloud Platform (GCP) enables data engineers to create end-to-end data pipelines right from storing and processing data and workflow orchestration to presenting data through visualization dashboards. Starting with a quick overview of the fundamental concepts of data engineering, you'll learn the various responsibilities of a data engineer and how GCP plays a vital role in fulfilling those responsibilities. As you progress through the chapters, you'll be able to leverage GCP products to build a sample data warehouse using Cloud Storage and BigQuery and a data lake using Dataproc. The book gradually takes you through operations such as data ingestion, data cleansing, transformation, and integrating data with other sources. You'll learn how to design IAM for data governance, deploy ML pipelines with the Vertex AI, leverage pre-built GCP models as a service, and visualize data with Google Data Studio to build compelling reports. Finally, you'll find tips on how to boost your career as a data engineer, take the Professional Data Engineer certification exam, and get ready to become an expert in data engineering with GCP. By the end of this data engineering book, you'll have developed the skills to perform core data engineering tasks and build efficient ETL data pipelines with GCP.What you will learnLoad data into BigQuery and materialize its output for downstream consumptionBuild data pipeline orchestration using Cloud ComposerDevelop Airflow jobs to orchestrate and automate a data warehouseBuild a Hadoop data lake, create ephemeral clusters, and run jobs on the Dataproc clusterLeverage Pub/Sub for messaging and ingestion for event-driven systemsUse Dataflow to perform ETL on streaming dataUnlock the power of your data with Data StudioCalculate the GCP cost estimation for your end-to-end data solutionsWho this book is forThis book is for data engineers, data analysts, and anyone looking to design and manage data processing pipelines using GCP. You'll find this book useful if you are preparing to take Google's Professional Data Engineer exam. Beginner-level understanding of data science, the Python programming language, and Linux commands is necessary. A basic understanding of data processing and cloud computing, in general, will help you make the most out of this book.
Farmer Innovations and Best Practices by Shifting Cultivators in Asia-Pacific
by Malcolm CairnsThis book, the third of a series, shows how shifting cultivators, from the Himalayan foothills to the Pacific Islands, have devised ways to improve their farming systems. Using case studies collected over many years, it considers the importance of swidden agriculture to food security and livelihoods, and its environmental significance, across multiple cultures, forest and cropping systems. There is a particular focus on soil fertility and climate change challenges. It is a 'must read' for those who realize that if the lives of shifting cultivators are to be improved, then far more attention needs to be directed to the indigenous and often ingenious innovations that shifting cultivators have themselves been able to develop. Many of these innovations and best practices will have strong potential for extrapolation to shifting cultivators elsewhere and to farming systems in general. This book: - Highlights innovations of shifting cultivators. - Combines solid science with accessible language and outstanding artwork. - Provides a collection of case studies unprecedented in its scope. This book will be suitable for students and researchers of agriculture, anthropology, sociology, agricultural economics, human ecology, ethnobotany, forestry, agroforestry, agronomy, soil science, farming systems, geography, environmental science and natural resource management.
Sustainable Events Management
by Kevin Griffin Dr Razaq RajThis book introduces the reader to sustainable events management theory and practice, based on academic research and illustrated with empirical case studies. The book provides a comprehensive view of sustainable management and how it relates to the many sectors within the events industry. It emphasises the fundamental importance of local communities, businesses and stakeholders to events organisation in regional, national and international locations. It brings into focus international governing bodies, and national government strategic objectives as the corner stones for sustainable development in the events sector. The relationship between strategic objectives and on-the-ground operational responsibilities are presented using research by contributing authors and accredited organisations to add scope and depth. Best-practice case studies are used throughout the book to highlight and explain particular sustainable management issues and practices. The scope of the book is international and designed to educate undergraduate and postgraduate students and to support practitioners in their operational and administrative duties within their industry sectors.
Human-Animal Interactions in Zoos: Integrating Science and Practice
by Terry L. Maple Courtney Collins Amanda D. Webber Ellen Williams Geoff Hosey Vicky Melfi Sarah Webber Samantha J. Chiew Jon Coe Neil D’Cruze Angela J Dean Polly Doodson Lucy Dumbell Ashley N. Edes Kelly S Fielding Georgina Groves Lauren M. Hemsworth Paul H. Hemsworth Julia Hoy Violet Hunton Mark J. Learmonth Emily M McLeod Georgia Oaten Chris Pawson Bonnie M. Perdue David M. Powell Samantha WardHuman-Animal Interactions (HAI) are a primary welfare interest to both animal scientists and practitioners. In zoos and aquariums, the study of Animal-Visitor Interactions (AVI), including both the impact of visitors on animals (the visitor effect) and the impact of animals on visitors (the visitor experience), have become a focus for understanding HAIs in zoos. The study of HAIs in zoos has grown to consider a number of factors, including animal-staff interactions and bonds, modern exhibit design and technology, direct and indirect interactions, as well as positive and negative impacts on both animals and visitor alike. This thought-provoking book summarizes the latest research concerning the impacts of HAIs in zoos, including considerations for conducting research and managing HAIs. The book: Explores the interactions of animals with keepers, veterinary professionals, and other staff, and the effects of those interactions on the welfare of animals. Considers the impact of visitors on the well-being of animals. Covers the effects of interactions on education and the visitor experience. Outlines the use of technology to enhance experience, and improve animal welfare. Details theoretical, ethical, and practical considerations relevant to HAIs in zoos. An invaluable resource for animal behaviour and welfare scientists, students and practitioners, as well as anyone working with zoo animals.
Dragon Fruit: Botany, Production and Uses (Botany, Production and Uses)
by Nigel P. Taylor Pradyot K. Pathak Kundan Kishore Ankita Sahu Prinya Wongsa Taner Bozkurt Özhan Simsek Joanna Cho Ying Phebe Ding Long Haibo Tang Liangde Li Huadong Hamide Gubbuk Recep Balkic Lokman Altinkaya Leila Aparecida Pio Renato Paiva Mai Van Tri Dinh Thi PhuongDragon fruit (pitaya) is a perennial climbing cactus, native to the tropical areas of North, Central and South America. It is suited to tropical and subtropical regions and is commercially grown in an increasing number of countries, including Israel, Australia and the USA. Dragon fruit generates considerable consumer interest because of its exotic appearance and potential health benefits. The fruit is rich in nutrients and phytochemical compounds. It can be eaten fresh or used in the preparation of juices, jellies, jams, etc. The natural bioactive compounds in pitaya have the potential to be exploited in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Increasingly cultivated worldwide, the plant is drought-resistant, easily adapts to light intensity and high temperatures, and has a tolerance to a wide range of soil salinities. With ongoing global warming, dragon fruit has great potential as a new crop for many more countries. This book is a compilation of the current state of knowledge on dragon fruit physiology, cultivation, production technology, postharvest management and processing, and is written by leading international authors.
Guide to the Naturalized and Invasive Plants of the Caribbean
by Arne WittThe Caribbean region is one of the world's greatest centres of biodiversity. It includes about 11,000 species of plants of which 72% are found nowhere else on earth. Endemic vertebrates include all of the 189 species of amphibians present in the Caribbean; 95% of the 520-reptile species; 26% of the 564-bird species; and 74% of the 69 species of mammals, mostly bats. Species endemic to this hotspot represent 2.6% of the world's plant species and 3.5% of the world's vertebrate species. This biodiversity, and the livelihoods of people that depend on it are threatened by, among others, the uncontrolled spread of invasive alien species (IAS). This Field Guide has been developed to help address one of the barriers to effective IAS management, which is the lack of information on the presence, impact and management of invasive alien plant species in the Caribbean. In general, we have only included those species that we consider to be threatening biodiversity and livestock production.
Gender-responsive Researchers Equipped for Agricultural Transformation, Level 2.: Trainer’s Manual for the Gender-Responsive Plant Breeding Course
by Dr Margaret Najjingo Mangheni Professor Hale Ann Tufan Dr Elizabeth AsiimweThis manual presents the training process for the Gender-Responsive Plant Breeding course, implemented by Makerere and Cornell Universities, over a period of five years (2016-2020), under the Gender-Responsive Researchers Equipped for Agricultural Transformation (GREAT) project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It has five broad parts: I) Introduction; II) Required preparation before the course; III) Phase one (9-day, face-to-face training); IV) the 5-month Field Training phase; and V) Phase two (5-day, face-to-face training). Each session consists of specific learning objectives, session plans and slides, delivery methods, practical exercises and examples, as well as relevant tips and synthesized take-home messages. The sessions were developed by an international multidisciplinary team of experts in gender and agriculture and subjected to a rigorous peer review and quality assurance process. GREAT aims to contribute to building a pool of gender-responsive agricultural researchers able to advance more equitable and effective agricultural systems in Africa and beyond. This manual is for all facilitators/trainers interested in applied, gender responsive agricultural research.