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Thor & Loki: Epic Tales from Marvel Mythology
by Delilah S. DawsonIn this officially licensed collection, Marvel Comics heroes Thor and Loki regale us with engaging and fantastical retellings of the classic tales of Norse mythology. It&’s a beautiful day in New York City and the Avengers have arranged a surprise birthday picnic for Peter Parker in Central Park—but the celebration is violently interrupted when a menacing rainbow suddenly crystalizes in the sky, dumping a shellshocked Thor and Loki into the middle of the party with a loud crash. The Avengers swiftly decamp to Stark Tower, where Doctor Strange freezes time to give the heroes a chance to regroup and formulate a plan. Thor and Loki warn the group that Ragnorok, the end of the world, has come, but before they can take action against it, they must understand how the world began. Thus, the brothers begin the age-old Norse tradition of storytelling. As they verbally joust, spar, and one-up each other over who can spin the most outlandish yarn, Thor and Loki weave the sagas of their people including: The Creation of Man, How Odin Lost His Eye, The Theft of Thor's Hammer, Freyja's Beautiful Necklace, Thor and Geirrod the Giant, Sif's Golden Hair, and many more. They recount the ancient stories of the Nine Realms, the first humans Ask and Embla, and the sacred tree, Yggdrasil. In recounting each tale, the brothers aim to bring the cosmos closer to salvation. A brilliant melding of the Marvel Comic universe with traditional Norse Mythology, illustrated throughout with full-color plates and black-and-white art, Thor & Loki is a must-read for Marvel fans and mythology lovers alike.
Born Equal: Remaking America's Constitution, 1840–1920
by Akhil Reed AmarFrom "one of our most prodigious constitutional scholars" (Jonathan Eig), the definitive history of how the ideal of birth equality reshaped the American Constitution, from antebellum debates over slavery and secession, to the Civil War and emancipation, to women&’s suffrage In 1840, millions of Black Americans groaned in the chains of slavery. By 1920, millions of American men and women of every race had won the vote. In Born Equal, the prizewinning constitutional historian Akhil Reed Amar recounts the dramatic constitutional debates that unfolded across these eight decades, when four glorious amendments abolished slavery, secured Black and female citizenship, and extended suffrage regardless of race or gender. At the heart of this era was the epic and ever-evolving idea that all Americans are created equal. The promise of birth equality sat at the base of the 1776 Declaration of Independence. But in the nineteenth century, remarkable American women and men—especially Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Abraham Lincoln—elaborated a new vision of what this ideal demanded. Their debates played out from Seneca Falls to the halls of Congress, from Bleeding Kansas to Gettysburg, from Ford&’s Theater to the White House gates, ultimately transforming the nation and the world. An ambitious narrative history and a penetrating work of legal and political analysis, Born Equal is a vital new portrait of America&’s winding road toward equality.
Criss-Cross: The Making of Hitchcock's Dazzling, Subversive Masterpiece Strangers on a Train
by Stephen RebelloTake a deep dive into the shadows and light of one of the most subversive, corrosively funny, and beloved suspense thriller masterworks as author Stephen Rebello unravels for the very first time the tense and drama-filled story of the making Alfred Hitchcock's Strangers on a Train. As entertaining as it is to watch Strangers on a Train, so too is the previously untold backstory that packs all the suspense, drama, and twists of a thriller. After all, what are the hallmarks of a great Hitchcock movie? A larger-than-life, complex cast of characters, each with something to prove, lose, or hide. Check. Tremendous risk, outsized conflict, and emotion as those men and women confront challenges off the set. Check. Feuds, deceptions, unlikely alliances, and double-crosses. Check. Coming off a 5-year-string of flops, Alfred Hitchcock gambled big on adapting Patricia Highsmith's debut novel, which critics called &“preposterous&” and &“unconvincing," in addition to &“unsavory,&” and &“sick&” (1950s code words for &“gay&” and &“perverted&”). Each step of the production was fraught with battles, but Hitchcock masterfully stayed two steps ahead of his opponents as he fought to bring his vision to life. Strangers on a Train became not only a creative high-water mark and box-office smash for Hitchcock, but also kicked off his unmatched decade of classics including Dial M for Murder, Rear Window, Vertigo, North by Northwest, and Psycho. Richly documented, meticulously researched, and stylishly written, Criss-Cross is more than an authoritative film book. It is a portrait of an especially politically paranoid, misogynistic, and homophobic era in America, a time of dramatic transition in the entertainment industry, and a day of reckoning for Alfred Hitchcock and a few other talents with whom he made a dark, resonant, and prescient work of art.
Gray Dawn: An Easy Rawlins Mystery
by Walter MosleyIn this thrilling mystery from "master of craft and narrative" Walter Mosley (National Book Foundation), Detective Easy Rawlins has settled into the happy rhythm of his new life when a dark siren from his past returns and threatens to destroy the peace he's fought for. The name Easy Rawlins stirs excitement in the hearts of readers and fear in the hearts of his foes. His success has bought him a thriving detective agency, with its first female detective; a remote home, shared with children and pets and lovers, high atop the hills overlooking gritty Los Angeles; and more trouble, more problems, and more threat to those whom he loves. In other words, he&’s still beset on all sides. A number of below-the-law powerbrokers plead with Easy to locate a mysterious, dangerous woman—Lutisha James, though she&’s gone by another name that Easy will immediately recognize. 1970s Los Angeles is a transient city of delicate, violent balances, and Lutisha has disturbed that. She also has a secret that will upend Easy&’s own life, painfully closer to home.
Poor Economics: A Radical Rethinking of the Way to Fight Global Poverty
by Esther Duflo Abhijit V. BanerjeeThe winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics upend the most common assumptions about how economics works in this gripping and disruptive portrait of how poor people actually live. Why do the poor borrow to save? Why do they miss out on free life-saving immunizations, but pay for unnecessary drugs? In Poor Economics, Abhijit V. Banerjee and Esther Duflo, two award-winning MIT professors, answer these questions based on years of field research from around the world. Called "marvelous, rewarding" by the Wall Street Journal, the book offers a radical rethinking of the economics of poverty and an intimate view of life on 99 cents a day. Poor Economics shows that creating a world without poverty begins with understanding the daily decisions facing the poor.
Manage Yourself to Lead Others: Why Great Leadership Begins with Self-Understanding
by Margaret C. AndrewsBased on Harvard&’s most popular professional development program, an "insightful, honest, and refreshingly practical" (Dorie Clark, author of The Long Game) guide to harnessing the power of self-understanding to become a more successful leader What is the &“best&” way to lead others? The answer may surprise you. The basis for powerful, effective leadership comes from within—from understanding the people, ideas, and events that have shaped your worldview and how these influences express themselves in your leadership style. In Manage Yourself to Lead Others, leadership expert Margaret Andrews helps you understand yourself and translate this understanding into effectively managing yourself, leading others, working with your boss, and making better decisions. Andrews has taught thousands of executives in her professional development course at Harvard, and she shares her insights, practical tips, and questions for reflection here. This book will allow you to identify the kind of leader you want to be, the behavioral patterns that help get you there or stand in your way, and what it takes to develop new leadership capabilities. Whether you&’ve just been promoted or you&’ve been leading a team for decades, Manage Yourself to Lead Others is essential reading for all leaders.
50 States of Murder: An Atlas of American Crime
by Harold SchechterFrom the true crime author of Murderabilia, a geographic telling of some of the most notorious but lesser-known murders for each US State. Filled with hundreds of entries organized by location, 50 States of Murder is a lively and chilling work of storytelling and an authoritative survey of the homicidal history of the United States—perfect for any true-crime obsessive. Certain crimes are impossible to imagine happening anywhere but where they did: Could the Manson murders have gone down somewhere besides the 1960s sex-and-drug-fueled, occult-dabbling culture of Southern California? Would Truman Capote&’s In Cold Blood have been as powerful if the Clutter family massacre happened anywhere besides the tightly knit world of Holcomb, Kansas? Or would the &“Unabomber&” Ted Kaczynski have been able to hole up in the woods evading notice for decades anywhere but in Montana? Discover each state&’s most memorable and notorious crimes through expert authorship, stunning visuals, and interactive design.
The Faerie Morgana
by Louisa MorganIn this atmospheric and bewitching novel, Louisa Morgan reimagines the story of Morgan Le Fay, one of the most enigmatic and powerful women in Arthurian legend. To the other priestesses of the Nine, a powerful council at the Lady&’s Temple, Morgana is haughty and arrogant as she performs feats of magic no human should be capable of. Rumors start that she must be a fearsome fae. To King Arthur, Morgana is a trusted and devoted advisor, but his court is wary of her and her prodigious talent at divination. But his wife sees Morgana as a rival and a malevolent witch. To Braithe, Morgana&’s faithful acolyte, she is simply the most powerful priestess Camelot has seen. Morgana doesn&’t know why she&’s so different from everyone else, and she doesn&’t much care. But when she aids Arthur to ascend the throne before his time, she sets off a series of events that will change everything Morgana believes about her power.
A Little Monster’s Guide to Feeling Calm: A Child's Guide to Coping with Their Worries
by Emily SnapeRed the little monster is so excited to go to their friend's birthday party. But once there, they feel overwhelmed with emotions. With the help of Grandad and their friends, Red learns how to calm down when their feelings start to feel too big.
House of Embers (Royal Houses #5)
by K.A. LindeNew York Times bestselling author K.A. Linde returns with House of Embers, the finale to the Royal Houses series, a delicious YA romantasy that Booktok called "Fourth Wing meets Throne of Glass."A god's legacy. A lover's bond. A world on the brink.Kerrigan Argon never asked to be a hero. But after falling from the land of the gods with only her mate and her mother's bangle, destiny refuses to let her go.Half-Fae and humans are disappearing. The Red Masks now rule the Dragon Society, enforcing a reign of terror built on ancient lies Kerrigan has uncovered—and can no longer ignore.As darkness tightens its grip, Kerrigan must risk everything: her power, her heart, and the fragile future she and her mate barely had a chance to claim.Because the only way to save their world is to set it ablaze.Tropes to love:Outcast heroineCursed prince heroMagical societyDragon academyEnemies to loversSlow burnFated matesPraise for Royal Houses:"An epic foray into a world of power and mystery that caught me from the first page. Fans of Leigh Bardugo and Stephanie Garber will love this thrilling and romantic start to a brand new series." — Carrie Ann Ryan, New York Times bestselling author"HOW DID I NOT KNOW THIS BOOK WAS THE MISSING PART OF MY SOUL? If you are a Sarah J Maas fan, this is for you. If you are a fantasy fan, this is for you. If you aren't a fantasy fan, this book is also likely for you." — Novel Grounds"Absolutely hooked from page one! Love the feisty and strong heroine! Fully obsessed with the dragons, magic, and a dark hero who might be more than what he seems. K.A. Linde has become my go-to author. Sarah J. Maas fans will love this book!" — Sawyer Bennett, New York Times bestselling author"6 stars! Even better than A Court of Thorns and Roses! A masterfully crafted enchanting flight of adventure, friendship, loss, and love." — Lauren Campbell, USA Today bestselling author
When We Spoke to the Dead: How Ghosts Gave American Women Their Voice
by Ilise S. CarterGhosts spoke. Women listened. Everything changed.It began with whispers in a dimly lit room. In the 1840s, the Fox Sisters—and the legions of mediums they inspired—ignited the Spiritualist movement that swept through Victorian parlors and presidential campaigns alike. Contacting the dead wasn't merely a parlor trick: It was a political statement, a declaration of self that still echoes. Séances attracted suffragists and scientists, skeptics and charlatans, giving women a voice in a society that often refused to hear them. But as Spiritualism surged, it also blurred the lines between faith, fraud, feminism, and financial opportunity, drawing figures as varied as Harry Houdini, Victoria Woodhull, and even modern self-help gurus into its ever-expanding orbit.From wartime séances to the rise of televangelists, from Victorian ghosts to goop-approved wellness rituals, When We Spoke to the Dead unearths the forgotten roots of today's obsession with manifestation, mysticism, and the power of belief. Exploring America's deep-seated hunger for the unseen—whether through politics, personal empowerment, or grief—this book traces how the supernatural, once condemned as heresy, became the ultimate commodity.Step inside the séance room. The spirits have been waiting.
Create Stunning Animations Using Corona and V-Ray in 3ds Max: Guiding the Next Generation of 3D Renderers
by Margarita NikitaThis book is a step-by-step guide on how to create realistic animations using Corona and V-Ray within 3ds Max. It caters to beginners and intermediate users, helping them transform static renders into dynamic and captivating animations. It combines technical knowledge with practical examples, covering everything from basic principles to advanced techniques.By the end of this book, readers will: Understand the fundamentals of animation in 3ds Max Learn to animate cameras, objects, and lights effectively Create realistic animated scenes using Corona and V-Ray Explore time-saving workflows and rendering optimization tips Develop a polished animation portfolio ready for professional projects This book is structured as a nuts-and-bolts how-to guide, breaking down complex animation techniques into manageable steps. Each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of animation, blending foundational knowledge with advanced tips to enhance the reader’s understanding and capability. Through detailed explanations, visual examples, and step-by-step tutorials, this book aims to demystify the animation process for beginners while offering advanced insights for experienced users.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Algorithms for Engineering Applications
by Krishan Arora Aeidapu MaheshThis book comprehensively covers core algorithms and techniques used in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for engineering applications. It further explores the use of AI in civil and structural engineering, quality control, and product design.Features: Presents autonomous robots using onboard computing and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to process the data from their sensors and make real-time decisions. Discusses nature-based optimization-based computing techniques to enhance the computational speed for solving engineering problems. Provides conceptual and practical knowledge about the design of modern computation techniques with advanced tools and methodologies. Highlights the importance of using smart techniques including AI and ML in product design and development. Covers time series analysis and forecasting in engineering, robotic process automation, and autonomous robots in manufacturing. The text is primarily written for senior undergraduates, graduate students, and academic researchers in the fields of electrical engineering, electronics and communications engineering, computer science and engineering, manufacturing engineering, and environmental engineering.
Speaking with Houses: A Cross-Cultural Critique of Heidegger’s Ontology
by Michael LinzeyThis book critically examines the concept of “Being” in Western philosophy and its manifestation in architecture.The book traverses diverse cultural and historical contexts, analysing five architectural works: the Djoser Step Pyramid in ancient Egypt, the Pantheon in imperial Rome, the Tai-an tea house in late medieval Japan, the Te Tokanganui-a-Noho meeting house in colonial New Zealand and Mies van der Rohe’s Seagram Building in modern New York. Through these case studies, it challenges Martin Heidegger’s assertion that “language is the house of Being,” proposing instead that “Being” is a construct specific to Western ontology. By exploring architectural poiesis across various cultures, the book reveals that the Western notion of “Being” is not a universal foundation for architectural creation. Each examined structure embodies distinct cultural and philosophical principles, such as the concept of mū in Japanese tea houses, which signifies “neither Being nor non-Being,” and the “no-Being” tradition in Māori tikanga. This comparative analysis underscores the diversity of architectural expressions and their underlying philosophies, offering readers a nuanced understanding of how different cultures conceptualize existence and space.This book is an invaluable resource for scholars in architecture, philosophy and cultural studies. Its interdisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive critique of Western metaphysical assumptions, encouraging readers to reconsider the relationship between language, being, and architectural form. By integrating architectural analysis with philosophical inquiry, it fosters a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity in architectural practices and invites academics to explore alternative ontological perspectives in the built environment.
Volume 3: Aquaculture and Living Resource Management (Aquatic Sciences)
by Rui Pedro Gonçalves PereiraThe sustainability of our natural resources has never been so important. The fields of aquaculture and living resources management must stand at the forefront of innovation and environmental stewardship. We hope this book serves as both an educational resource and a call to action for students, professionals, and policymakers alike. By fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these fields, we can work together to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of our aquatic resources, while contributing to the wellbeing of society.
Walking as Critical Pedagogy (Routledge Advances in Research Methods)
by Maggie O'Neill Kieran Keohane Tom Boland Ray Griffin Gerard Mullally Katharina Swirak Danielle O'Donovan John Barimo Amin Sharifi Isaloo Tom SpaldingDefining the principles and practices of walking as critical pedagogy, this book engages with social questions and challenges related to understandings of the Anthropocene.Through a series of chapters that operationalize walking as a form of participatory pedagogy, it explores issues including migration and borders, sustainability and climate change, gender and feminist thought, the labour market, crime and rehabilitation, and urban life and regeneration. Showing how walking enables us to learn creatively, convivially and critically on the move in city spaces, while thinking relationally, the authors demonstrate the importance of space, time and place: the layers of history embedded in the present, and the importance of active, embodied, participatory, collaborative, creative and place based learning.A pioneering approach to walking as a form of engagement and learning, Walking as Critical Pedagogy will appeal to researchers and students across the social sciences interested in new methods and research methodologies, and creative ways of teaching and learning about – and engaging with – major global issues in society.
Designing Instruction with Generative AI: 24/7 Support for Optimizing Teaching and Learning
by Brent A. AndersDesigning Instruction with Generative AI offers a novel set of tools and strategies for leveraging generative AI to create engaging and personalized learning experiences. While instructional designers are a tremendous asset to higher education, not all colleges or universities have the robust staff needed to support all instructors on staff or large student populations. Drawing on a wealth of research, professional experience, and strategic insights, this book equips new and seasoned teaching faculty and trainers with step-by-step directions on how freely accessible artificial intelligence software can assist with all aspects of the course creation and instruction process and cater to the needs of diverse learners. Each chapter offers forward-thinking and empirically validated ways to help faculty create and improve instructional materials, course design, and learning environments while supporting their digital literacies. Rather than introduce AI as a means of outsourcing subject-area expertise, critical thinking, or cognitive processes, the author instead emphasizes its potential to build on traditionally honed knowledge and foundational instructional design practices. From optimizing course alignment and accessibility practices to fostering active learning, motivation, and engagement, educators will find new solutions to common teaching and learning challenges with greater efficiency in time and capacity.
A History of Energy in Mexico: From Cornfields to Solar Farms
by Philip L. RussellThis volume synthesizes energy history in Mexico from pre-Conquest times to the present. It traces human development from a low-energy, sustainable existence to fossil fuel-based non-sustainability.The book familiarizes readers with different energy sources, what the advantages and disadvantages of each source are, and how the importance of each energy source has changed over time. From early agricultural beginnings and Spanish-introduced energy innovations to the rise of coal and oil, the volume analyzes how evolving energy sources produced sweeping environmental and social change. It also studies economic history from the approach of the emerging field of biophysical economics, recognizing the often-overlooked role of energy in Mexico’s development. Linking this development to climate change, the book discusses the ways in which Mexico and the Global South are impacted by this crisis, despite doing little to cause climate change themselves. Later chapters inform readers of how energy issues have shaped U.S.–Mexican relations throughout the twentieth century and into today.A History of Energy in Mexico will be of value to students of environmental, economic, and Mexican history as well as political scientists, economists, and anthropologists.
Optimizing Edge and Fog Computing Applications with AI and Metaheuristic Algorithms
by Punit Gupta Dinesh Kumar Saini Madhusudhan H SFog and edge computing are two paradigms that have emerged to address the challenges associated with processing and managing data in the era of the Internet of Things (IoT). Both models involve moving computation and data storage closer to the source of data generation, but they have subtle differences in their architectures and scopes. These differences are one of the subjects covered in Optimizing Edge and Fog Computing Applications with AI and Metaheuristic Algorithms. Other subjects covered in the book include: Designing machine learning (ML) algorithms that are aware of the resource constraints at the edge and fog layers ensures efficient use of computational resources Resource-aware models using ML and deep leaning models that can adapt their complexity based on available resources and balancing the load, allowing for better scalability Implementing secure ML algorithms and models to prevent adversarial attacks and ensure data privacy Securing the communication channels between edge devices, fog nodes, and the cloud to protect model updates and inferences Kubernetes container orchestration for fog computing Federated learning that enables model training across multiple edge devices without the need to share raw data The book discusses how resource optimization in fog and edge computing is crucial for achieving efficient and effective processing of data close to the source. It explains how both fog and edge computing aim to enhance system performance, reduce latency, and improve overall resource utilization. It examines the combination of intelligent algorithms, effective communication protocols, and dynamic management strategies required to adapt to changing conditions and workload demands. The book explains how security in fog and edge computing requires a combination of technological measures, advanced techniques, user awareness, and organizational policies to effectively protect data and systems from evolving security threats. Finally, it looks forward with coverage of ongoing research and development, which are essential for refining optimization techniques and ensuring the scalability and sustainability of fog and edge computing environments.
Lean-AI: A Humanistic Integration of Lean and AI (Continuous Improvement Series)
by Elizabeth A. Cudney Adil DalalWe stand at the threshold of a transformative era where the convergence of Lean methodologies and artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining operational excellence. This book is a pioneering exploration of this integration, offering a roadmap for organizations seeking to harness AI’s potential while preserving the human-centric values at the heart of Lean. It provides a deep dive into how Lean principles – focused on efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement – can be enhanced through AI-driven intelligence, agility, and innovation. More than just a technical guide, this book is an invitation to rethink the future of work, leadership and culture in an AI-powered world.Lean-AI: A Humanistic Integration of Lean and AI empowers readers with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of Industry 5.0+. Through real-world case studies, practical strategies, and in-depth discussions, this book illustrates how organizations can leverage AI to accelerate Lean transformation, enhance human performance, and drive sustainable growth. Readers will gain actionable knowledge on integrating AI with Lean tools such as 5S, poka-yoke, single minute exchange of dies, total productive maintenance, and value stream mapping, among others. The book also highlights the critical role of leadership and culture in ensuring AI-driven Lean implementations uplift rather than replace human capabilities.This book is designed for forward-thinking innovators, business leaders, Lean practitioners, and AI enthusiasts eager to explore the synergy between technology and human-centric process improvement. Whether you are an executive driving digital transformation, a Lean expert looking to modernize methodologies, or a professional seeking to understand AI’s role in operational excellence, this book provides a strategic guide to mastering Lean-AI integration. It is an essential read for those ready to challenge conventional paradigms and embrace the future of efficiency, collaboration and intelligent innovation.
Climate Adaptation for Architects: A Design Toolkit
by Allison AndersonArchitecture must adapt to protect people from the threat of climate change. About half of the world’s population lives in contexts that are highly vulnerable to climate change as hazards continue to intensify, with global disasters projected to reach 560 events per year by 2030, or 1.5 events every day. The accelerating frequency and intensity of disasters underscores the urgency to prepare for severe events to protect people, communities, and essential systems but also to protect the environment which provides shelter, livelihoods, cultural heritage, and public functions. This book provides a comprehensive reference of climate adaptation design tactics and a toolkit for adaptation to shocks and stresses, outlining the process for architects and designers to: Understand the risks posed by climate change to the built environment. Reduce the risks to people and the built environment from natural hazards. Reduce human vulnerability to shocks and stresses by strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity. Design the built environment to adapt to changes over its lifetime. Design buildings and cities to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Preserve biodiversity and support natural resources. Climate Adaptation for Architects presents 45 adaptation tactics responding to the most consequential effects of climate change: heat, water, wind, and resource scarcity. Each chapter includes images, a definition, background information, key design considerations, potential impacts, and resources for further information. This is a valuable resource for every architect, landscape architect, urban planner, developer, and policymaker.
How to Paint Transparent Watercolour Flowers
by Olga KoelschLearn how to create six delicate, see-through flowers in watercolour with the renowned YouTube and Instagram tutor and botanical watercolour artist.In her debut book, Olga Koelsch gently guides artists through the process of painting flowers that combine the accuracy of botanical illustration with the expression and freedom of modern watercolour. Here you’ll find:A concise introduction with the key items you’ll need to get startedOlga’s most-used watercolor methodsSix different stunning plant projects: magnolia, eucalyptus, bellflower, rose, peony, and irisClear photography and step-by-step instructions for every projectTraceable outlines at the back of the book for beginners needing help\Inspiration from Olga’s stunning collection for what to do with your finished artwork: cards, invitations, wall art, fabrics, and moreWhether you’re looking to start painting flowers with a nod to botanical illustration, or to learn how to create beautiful flowers to adorn personal items, you’ll be struck by the timeless and unique artwork that fills How to Paint Transparent Flowers.
Women's Work in the Civil War: Profiles in Strength During the Civil War (Civil War Classics)
by L.P. Brockett Mary C. VaughnA tribute to the extraordinary sacrifices and devotion of heroic women during the Civil War—from battlefield nurses to helpers of freedmen and refugees.To commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the end of the Civil War, Diversion Books is publishing seminal works of the era: stories told by the men and women who led, who fought, and who lived in an America that had come apart at the seams.While men fought the battles, it was the women who fought the war. Thrust onto sides of a fence, still decades away from even the right to vote, women kept the country from crumbling upon itself during the brutal conflict. These profiles of women both historically notable, like Clara Barton and Dorothea Dix, as well as women history has forgotten until now, will enthrall readers with stories of the war as seen by those who healed soldiers, kept the homefront safe, and ensured that the country would be strong after the final shot was fired.
The Clothes Make the Girl (Look Fat)?: Adventures and Agonies in Fashion
by Brittany GibbonsThe New York Times-bestselling author of Fat Girl Walking delivers a sartorial follow-up that once again deep dives into the world of the curvy woman.As body acceptance spokesmodel and blogger Brittany Gibbons knows, what we choose to wear is especially important, and especially emotional, for curvy women. This isn’t only because curvy women feel underrepresented and underserved by the fashion world. For the curvy woman who struggles with feelings of self-worth and a lack of confidence the feeling of “why bother” can come crashing in. You can’t help but think “wouldn’t leggings and a slouchy sweater just be easier?” Especially when we, like every other woman on the planet, are facing greater, real-life obstacles like raising kids, attending college, keeping your marriage together, paying bills, and a myriad of other daily struggles.Everyone has those days where they hate their body, they hate their clothes, but self-confidence and strength can come from a great outfit. Brittany is determined to help women, curvy and otherwise, embrace fashion and all the bumps and lumps that come with it. An “overdue love letter” to her body, Brittany delves into the hilarity and the humility of her quest to find her own personal style—to break out of a rut of maternity underwear and men’s undershirts once and for all. From wardrobe malfunctions, to fashion advice, to mom bodies and the perfect pose, The Clothes Make the Girl (Look Fat)? is the empowered battle cry all women deserve.“In her second book, body-acceptance advocate Brittany Gibbons is all for looking like a knockout while fighting the good fight.” —Shelf Awareness
Their Make-Believe Match: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
by Jackie StefIn this Amish romance, a woman pretends to be in love with a new male friend to avoid a forced marriage, but her love for him becomes all too real.Irrepressible Sadie Stolzfus refuses to wed someone who doesn’t understand her. To avoid an arranged marriage, she finds the perfect pretend beau in handsome but heartbroken Isaac Hostettler. Spending time with the unconventional Sadie is helping Isaac avoid matchmaking pressure—and helping him handle a difficult loss. But can they really be sure their convenient courtship isn't the real thing?