Book Description
The Sound of Music endeared Georg von Trapp (1880–1947) and his singing family to the world, and it also showed us how desperately the Nazis wanted Captain von Trapp for their navy. In To the Last Salute we learn why. Trapp’s own story of his exploits as a submarine commander during the First World War is as exciting as it is instructive, bringing to stirring life a little-known chapter in the naval history of that war.
In his many guises Trapp describes life as captain of Austro-Hungarian U-boats in the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, emerging by turn as the Imperial Austrian naval officer, the witty observer of international politics, and the indefatigable and ultimately heartbroken patriot opposing the Allied enemy. He relates deadly duels with submarine sweepers, narrow escapes and excruciatingly close calls, and the spectacular sinking of cargo and war ships—all the while maintaining a keen sense of the camaraderie of seamen from every corner of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. A picture of a lost time, a portrait of a remarkable character, a window on early submarine warfare: Trapp’s story, in English for the first time, offers a rare combination of human interest, historical insight, and true life-and-death adventure.
Customer Reviews:
U-boats and insights into the geopolitical situation of Austro-Hungary in WWI. .......2007-10-09
This is reasonably light read broken into bite-size chapters covering a variety of experiences surrounding the author's service as a WWI Austrian U-boat captain, the boat technologies of the time and the everyday impact of the politics as Austria's empire unraveled. Austria's relationship with it's wealthy and larger German ally is seen from another perspective as well as the polyglot nature of the many ethnic groups belonging to and participating in the Austrian war effort. A fine military account from the man responsible for "The Sound of Music."
An engaging and moving memoir of life in the Austrian Navy.......2007-09-26
To the Last Salute is Georg Ritter von Trapp's memoir of commanding a U-boat in the Austrian Navy during World War I. While his style of writing does take some getting used to, von Trapp provides an engaging and suspenseful tale of life on a primitive submarine during an oft-neglected period of military history. The book also gives us an insight into von Trapp as a man, more insight than one finds in other books on the life of his famous family. His accounts of the horrors of war and the loss of his beloved navy at the end of the war are especially moving. For those interested in von Trapp, the Austrian Navy, World War I, and the history of submarine warfare, the book will be especially useful; anyone interested in the story of an intriguing, thoughtful, and courageous man will enjoy the chronicle of von Trapp's adventures as well.
Interesting History of the True Life "Captain" from the 'Sound of Music'........2007-08-22
Captain Georg von Trapp's Memoirs were published in Austria in German in the 1930's. One of his Grandaughters (an offspring of one of the real life von Trapp Family Singers)has translated her famous ancestor's work into English and now we can all see why the Evil Nazi's were so set on getting "The Captain" into their Navy when they took over Austria.
The work is very short and von Trapp has a matter of fact writing style similar to that of U.S. counterpart Gene Fluckey in his memoir of the USS Barb. Unlike Fluckey however von Trapp had to go to war in an antequated obsolete gasoline powered Austrian U-boat which was barely a step above the Turtle or the Hunley. A german U boat Captain told him upon going inside the ship that he "was lucky to be Alive". In addition he had to deal with a multinational crew that grew more restless as the war went on and their countries began to break away from the Hapsburg yoke.
The memoir is a good glimpse of a theatre of WWI which is barely mentioned, the Naval War in the Adriatic and the Mediterranean. Very little has been written of the War at sea between the Austrian navy on one side and the Italians and the French on the other. Most I have seen have dealt with the Royal Navy in the Dardanelles.
The book also begins with some von Trapp Family background and reveals many interesting facts such as the Captain's first wife was English and many of 'the children' were a lot older than 'sixteen going on seventeen' when they escaped Austria. Sadly when the Captain died of lung cancer in 1947 it may have been related to all of the gas fumes he inhaled on the poorly ventilated u boat during the war.
Finally!.......2007-08-08
I've wished for this book to be translated into English for a very long time! It was worth the wait.
I've always wanted to know more about Captain von Trapp, in his own words and this book is as close as I am going to get. It did not disappoint as it provided a window to see the Captain, the man.
I could not help but believe this book was more a compilation from a journal he may have kept. I also could not help but believe, if not for his modesty, there was so much more he could have shared.
Perhaps, without realizing it, he showed us many sides, least of which were his tender and compassionate side. How many military captains do you know would allow a rescued kitten to live on board his submarine?
I gave this book five stars, not so much for literary greatess as for the enjoyment received from reading it and having a few more questions answered.
It should be enjoyed by all Sound of Music fans and I believe those interested in history will enjoy it as well. Even though I knew the outcome, I could not help but hold my breath as he told of daring escapades while captaining his u-boats. I found myself, while reading about his experiences, thinking of the movie, K-9, The Widowmaker.
My only complaint, it was only 188 pages log. :-(
Excellent to see in an english translation.......2007-06-27
I had known of this book for many years, and had even thought about seeing if a publisher would be willing to entertain a translation. It was wonderful to see a member of the family lead the effort and have a copy back in print and in english after too many years out of print. It is a wonderful story of a patriotic naval officer, of a now absent navy tell of his adventures as the most successful captain of the Austro-Hungarian Navy. His work with his crew (from all over the empire) dealing with bureaucratic officers, sinking ships in an old sub, that his German peers recommended not taking to sea (they thought it unseaworthy and an antique), and then further adventures in a French sub, sunk then raised to strike again against them is intersting. Those who have read Lowell Thomas' account, or Edwyn Gray's books on the German WW1 submarine service will find this a very different tale and one worth comparing to other efforts.
For those who wondered where the Captain in the von Trapp family singers came from this fills in a void covering elements of his older children and first wife. Through his first wife, he was related to the inventor of the modern torpedo, who had set up a factory in Austra-Hungary before WW1.
The book is well written and reads quickly, and tells the tale of a dedicated and talented patriot in an prior phase of his life, which was later known to the world in song and story.
Average customer rating:
- Sterling addition to series - diplomacy in Indonesia!
- Reading Patrick O'Brian makes you smarter.
- Jack and Stephen enjoy another remarkable adventure
- Thirteen Gun Salute
- One of the best in the series
|
The Thirteen-Gun Salute
Patrick O'Brian
Manufacturer: W. W. Norton & Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 20th Century
| British
| World Literature
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Historical
| Genre Fiction
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Sea Adventures
| Genre Fiction
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| O'Brian, Patrick
| ( O )
| Authors, A-Z
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Paperback
| O'Brian, Patrick
| ( O )
| Authors, A-Z
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Similar Items:
-
The Nutmeg of Consolation
-
The Letter of Marque
-
The Truelove
-
The Reverse of the Medal
-
The Wine-Dark Sea
ASIN: 039330907X |
Amazon.com
Will Napoleon Bonaparte form an alliance with the Malay princes of the South China Sea? Not if Jack Aubrey can help it. Conveying a diplomatic mission to the Sultan's court, Aubrey and company must also contend with orangutans, typhoons, and a squadron of wily French envoys.
Book Description
The 13th installment in the Aubrey/Maturin series.
Captain Jack Aubrey sets sail for the South China Sea with a new lease on life. Following his dismissal from the Royal Navy (on a false accusation), he has earned reinstatement through his daring exploits as a privateer, brilliantly chronicled in The Letter of Marque. Now he is to shepherd Stephen Maturin–his friend, ship’s surgeon and sometimes intelligence agent–on a diplomatic mission to prevent between Bonaparte and the Malay princes which would put English merchant shipping at risk.
The journey of the Diane encompasses a great and satisfying diversity of adventures. Maturin climbs the Thousand Steps of the sacred crater of the orangutans; a killer typhoon catches Aubrey and his crew trying to work the Diane off a reef; and in the barbaric court of Pulo Prabang a classic duel of intelligence agents unfolds: the French envoys, well entrenched in the Sultan’s good graces, against the savage cunning of Stephen Maturin.
“O’Brian infuses his novels with so much energy, texture and drollery that it’s easy to be swept along for the voyage. Add to this the superb reading of actor Tim Pigott-Smith and you have something approaching audiobook heaven.”
---The Express-Times
Customer Reviews:
Sterling addition to series - diplomacy in Indonesia!.......2007-07-02
Perhaps I grow jaded, but Patrick O'Brian kept me at a distance with "The Thirteen-Gun Salute." As a result, despite the thrilling sights and wonderful writing, I cannot give my heart to this novel as I have with so many of his other Aubrey-Maturin novels.
That's not because O'Brian did not offer his usual delightful plot or dozens (if not hundreds) of perfectly-written passages. Captain "Lucky Jack" Aubrey is reinstated to the Royal Navy after his recent heroics and well-deserved good fortune. Dr. Stephen Maturin continues to serve both as Aubrey's ship-surgeon and resident spy - his recently-acquired wealth has done nothing to stifle his roaming spirit. And this novel sees the pair off to modern-day Indonesia to negotiate a critical treaty with a local potentate before Napoleon does so.
"The Thirteen Gun Salute" is long on sailing and diplomacy, short on broadsides and carronades. This is not a criticism - some of my favorite books in this series focus on Maturin and the exotic joys of life at sea rather than O'Brian's admittedly wonderful battle scenes. Indeed, my favorite section of this book involves Maturin's infamous journey to a Buddhist monastary deep inside a dormant volcano, accompanied by a tame orangutan.
But there was one element in this novel that I found to be deeply unsatisfying. Many of Aubrey's and Maturin's troubles lie at the foot of two traitors to the Crown, and they feature in this novel. (Don't worry - no spoilers here, and you should stay away from them on this page.) And yet O'Brian denies us much in the way of direct confrontation between them. I am familiar with O'Brian's love for oblique references and subtle points (indeed, I adore them), but this was a situation that demanded a well-aired comeuppance and reckoning. O'Brian has dedicated more words to describing a comic cricket match than he gives this situation, and as an editor I would have recommended a revisiting of this element.
Nothing in this review should imply that this is an inferior work. O'Brian's prose sings as ever - a climactic hurricane/typhoon is described in riveting style, and there are several key moments of both humor and acute observations of man in the 19th century.
I guess I was just a little disappointed to get jilted after a build-up over successive novels. Oh, well. Here's to book 14!
Reading Patrick O'Brian makes you smarter. .......2007-01-16
I'm a true Patrick O'Brian fan. I buy his books three or four at a time. I have not been so captivated by a series of books ever since I read "Dune". Surly sadness will come to my day when there is no more for me to read. Patrick O'Brian can make two ships in a chase at no more than 11Mph at the most keep you on the edge of your seat, then in this book take you to the crater of an instinct volcano to a Buddhist monastery to spend time with an Orangutan, and you can smell every flower and hear the breeze in the trees. As always reading Patrick O'Brian makes you smarter.
Jack and Stephen enjoy another remarkable adventure.......2005-09-26
I absolutely adore this series, but in some dissent from my fellow Aubrey-Maturin fans I find this to be one of the least interesting books in the series, though it has one of the most compelling endings in that leaves the crew of the Diane stranded on a deserted island in the South Pacific. Until that shocking and unresolved event, I found that the novel had less of interest than nearly any other in the series. Though the visit to Pulo Prabang was interesting, it contained (except for the visit to the ruins of a Hindu Temple) less of the compelling historical detail that characterized the other books. In previous volumes, the places that Jack and Stephen visit come alive in an almost tangible manner. Here one gets little sense of what Pulo Prabang (apart from the temple) looked or felt like. The other thing that makes his books so marvelous are the magnificent character studies. This one eventually makes good on this feature of the series, but only towards the very end, as the weirdness of Fox's personality comes out. But there is far less of the complex interpersonal interplay that enlivens the other books. Finally, until the shipwreck at the end, there is simply very little excitement in this one. Compared to the previous books, I find that this one simply does not stand out.
Not that it is not still an utter delight and completely satisfying for fans of the series. The aforementioned visit by Stephen to the ruins of a Hindu temple, in the company of an orangutan, is one of the most remarkable moments in the entire series. The shipwreck at the end is as marvelously told as it is shocking to read (one simply cannot credit that the Diane enjoyed such a short lifespan). Also, there is a deep sense of satisfaction when Ledward and Wray, the villains through most of the sequence, finally get theirs, and the manner in which their bodies are disposed is quite shocking. Nonetheless, these were for me moments that reminded me of how consistently I found most of the previous books, instead of how intermittently interesting I found this one.
Interestingly, this is one of the few novels in the series in which the title of the subsequent novels is mentioned. I remember when I first read these books and how little sense I could make of the titles. In many of them the phrase that provides the title can occur well towards the end, such as THE REVERSE OF THE MEDAL. But here in THE THIRTEEN-GUN SALUTE (which itself is one of the more ironical in the series, referring to Fox's rather pathetic sense of self importance) the phrase "the nutmeg of consolation" appears, which provides the title for the next novel.
One virtue O'Brian possesses as a writer (among many virtues) is that of understatement. In a genre in which the tendency is to lay things on a bit thick, O'Brian if any thing leaves things deliciously thin. There is no better instance of this than in the fate of Ledward and Wray. Nowhere does O'Brian explicitly explain what happened to them, but instead leaves us to surmise that they were shot by Fox. It is an easy conclusion to make, given Fox's constant target practice in the novel and the statement by Maturin that they were killed by rifle shot (Stephen prefers the pistol). This restraint is one of the things that make his writing so immensely satisfying.
Thirteen Gun Salute.......2005-09-21
Patrick O'Brian is un-matchable when it comes to historical novels on the British Navy & sailing ships during the early 1800's. With help using "Dean King's" two books, "A Sea of Words", and "Harbors and High Seas", the twenty "Master and Commander" series of novels by Patrick O'Brian can be read over many times, and each time will give you aditional pleasure & insight into the days of "Wooden Ships & Iron Men"! (An ex- Merchant Seaman)
One of the best in the series.......2005-05-13
Cleared of false charges that lost him his place on the Royal Navy's roster of officers and newly distinguished by his accomplishments as a privateer, Captain Jack Aubrey is awarded command of the frigate Diane. His first assignment is to convey his brilliant spy/surgeon/best friend Maturin on a diplomatic mission to the Malay prince at Pulo Prabang. The French are already there in hopes of securing a treaty that will all but doom British trade in the region. Maturin's wily machinations in the resulting intelligence battle are a joy to read. Further adventures - an untimely typhoon and Maturin's trek to the sacred crater of the Thousand Steps deep in orangutan country - combine to make this thirteenth book one of the best in a series that the reader by now wishes would never end.
Average customer rating:
- Italy's best kept secret.
- Pack your bags, your camera, and your appetite!
|
Salute!
Gail Donovan , and
Simon Griffiths
Manufacturer: Laurel Glen Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
| Cooking, Food & Wine
| Subjects
| Books
Italian
| European
| Regional & International
| Cooking, Food & Wine
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Italy
| Europe
| Travel
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1571456856 |
Book Description
Their opening sentiment says it all. "Our whole journey revolves around eating -- we are constantly looking at food or touching it, smelling it or reading about it. No wonder every three or four hours we want to eat." The Donovans toured Southern Italy to compose this unique and extensive culinary travel journal, brimming with impressions of places from Calabria to Sicily. Each chapter introduces a different place, featuring sumptuous Italian recipes ranging from a simple summer salad of fresh beans and tomato from market, to a delectably complex sautéed veal with Marsala sauce, to a positively sinful Ricotta cake.
Customer Reviews:
Italy's best kept secret........2002-12-12
Anyone who has ever considered taking a trip to the beautiful island of Sicily, should not even pack before reading this book. My friend and I just returned from a trip to this remarkable island and during the trip, we coincidentally stayed at a few of the places mentioned in this book and had an incredible time. While at one of the locations, I spotted the book. After only a few minutes of perusing, I knew I HAD to have this book. The Donovans, Simon and Robert had pretty much experienced a similar trip and I knew their vivid recount would help us remember the breathtaking land, the proud, gracious, full-of-life people who live there, and the indescribable food they produce. Their travel tips are right-on and a must for any Sicilian traveller. It has also inspired me to compile a travel journal of our trip. As a graphic designer myself, I also compliment the incredible layout and design. A wonderful coffee-table book for anyone to cherish.
Molto bene.
Grazie tanto Gail, Kevin, Simon and Robert!
Pack your bags, your camera, and your appetite!.......2002-05-30
When you read this book - should I say 'sample' it - and see the wonderful photographs of Italian landscapes, architectural features, and mouth watering food, have your 'plastic' ready, and a telephone nearby so you can book your own adventure.
This book may just be the best combination touring/cooking/picture-taking guide to Italy that you will find. And hats off to the book designer who made it into a wonderful travel scrapbook. The design alone is the definitive guide to producing your own travel journal/diary/photo album. You will want to make a book like this for your own journey(s).
For [the price], this is as close as you can get to being in Italy. In fact, if you play some of the Cieli di Toscana CD by Andrea Bocelli, drink a nice dry Italian red wine, and eat a little Bruschetti as you browse the pages of this coffee table book, you may be magically transported.
Salute!
Book Description
A collection of thought-provoking essays on what makes America the great nation that it is today, from John Ratzenberger, host of the Travel Channel's John Ratzenberger's Made in America.John Ratzenberger's life philosophy is one our ancestors knew well: wake up in the morning, put your hand to something useful, and take care of yourself and your family. It's direct, it's simple, it works, and it's how we lived for over a century. But today, we're losing sight of the principles our country was founded on as companies move production overseas and fewer products are American made. In our fast-paced lives, all too often we take for granted all of the things that make America such a unique and amazing country. Things John Ratzenberger sees everyday as he travels all over the U.S., filming his show John Ratzenberger's Made in America. Now, John will show us the heart and soul of our nation. He'll tell us how and why we're losing it, why we need it, and how we can protect it for future generations.
Customer Reviews:
Makes good points but ............2007-10-10
I wish I had read all the reviews before buying this book. At least I bought a used copy. As another reviewer wrote, this book starts off very well and I looked forward to more stories about workplaces and life in general across the US. He even wrote that not all workplaces are "happy" environments for the workers. And just as things were getting interesting, the book turned into a Fox News Rush Limbaugh rant. And after the first chapter of this, I understood his perspective but from then on, it kept getting worse with even more of the same. He obviously loves the idea of US as world's policeman even though we cannot afford this and at least points out the hypocrisy of our wars for "freedom" while ignoring places like Africa. He also criticizes Bush for illegal immigration (but that is a Fox News stance, too). And that affects our jobs and livelihoods.
There are some self-contradictions as well. He praises the "garage shops" of years past where father and son would work on "projects" and some businesses actually got their start. And then later he curses pack-rat syndrome where we accumulate so much especially in our garages. But then he does not acknowledge the change (in how it got this way or his point of view in the book).
In a few places he does make good points. But this was more like buying a CD and only getting one good song while the rest suck. Check this one out at the library, skim for the good parts, and watch the show (which is great).
Must read!.......2007-03-30
This book is a must read for anyone who loves America and embraces traditional American values like hard work.
A must read for all Americans!.......2007-01-21
I have been a huge fan of the Made In America TV series, so I was very excited to learn about this book. I was not disapointed. This should be required reading in every High School and for every American. It's a wonderful look at our country and what makes us great. I plan on getting the "on/off switch" set up for my cable tv this weekend. My kids are going outside! John has my vote for Emperor!
excellent.......2007-01-16
thank you. the book arrived on time, and the packaging was very good too.
a breath of fresh air.......2006-12-18
sitting down with this book in Borders today was like being released from prison.
the prison of constant left-wing indoctrination from the media.
you become hypnotized with the same rhetoric over and over.
it's like being swallowed up by a avalanche.
and then, you sit down with someone like John and pick anywhere
in his book and like magic, the avalanche melts and the mind clears refreshingly. i would vote for this man for president in a heartbeat.
thanks John for speaking out.
Book Description
New Orleans football fans can continue the celebration of their team's incredible and inspiring season in this dazzling full-color book. The book takes an in-depth look at the Saints? amazing 2006 campaign, while recapping their first-ever trip to the NFC Championship Game, through stories and photos first found in the pages of The Times- Picayune, New Orleans? award-winning daily newspaper. Thank You, Boys is full of exciting full-color photos, taking fans through the great moments of the Saints? remarkable season when they seemingly lifted the spirits of a city still struggling to heal after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Included are game recaps from The Times-Picayune, as well as statistics and complete coverage of the playoff victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in front of a boisterous Superdome crowd. Fantastic player profiles are included that feature the Saints? biggest star performers, including quarterback Drew Brees and running back Reggie Bush.
Customer Reviews:
Great book!.......2007-08-27
This is a great book that depicts the entire 2006 New Orleans Saints football season. The pictures are wonderful and the story was written very well. I bought it as a birthday present for my husband and he LOVED it.
Thank You, Boys: A Salute to the Saints.......2007-05-14
Excellent book. Great item to remember the Saints amazing 2006 season for years and years to come. I look forward to next year's book about the Saints Super Bowl Championship.
An awesome tribute for New Orleans Saints Fans.......2007-02-26
This book was awesome!!!! I have been a Saints fan for many years, through the good and the bad. The 2006 season was awesome. This book is a great recap of a wonderful season for the New Orleans Saints. It has a week by week analysis of each game of the 2006 season. This is a great gift for a New Orleans Saints fan.
Geaux Saints!!!!!
Average customer rating:
- Fascinating dialogue
- Rogue's Salute
- heated historical romance
|
Rogue's Salute
Jennifer Blake
Manufacturer: Mira
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Blake, Jennifer
| ( B )
| Authors, A-Z
| Romance
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Romance
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Historical
| Romance
| Subjects
| Books
Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
( B )
| Authors, A-Z
| Romance
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
| Baker, Madeline
| Beverley, Jo
| Brown, Sandra
General
| Romance
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Historical
| Romance
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Dawn Encounter (Mira Historical Romance)
-
Challenge To Honor (Mira)
-
What A Lady Wants
-
The Raven Prince (Warner Forever)
-
Surrender to a Scoundrel (Avon Romantic Treasure)
ASIN: 0778324052 |
Book Description
They are the notorious swordsmen of New Orleans, bound by a brotherhood of loyalty, skill and courage--infamous by day, dangerous at night, loyal only to each other and the women they love…
At ease making life-and-death decisions between breaths, maître d'armes Nicholas Pasquale proposes marriage to a beautiful and desperate stranger, a woman who offers comfort to his irascible young charge and calmly tells him the boy needs a mother. It is a challenge he can't resist.
Nor can Juliette Armant. Though pledged to the church since infancy, she's been summoned to save her family in the only way possible...by marriage. Once she is wed, she will claim an ancestral marriage chest--and protect its secret contents from the dubious intent of her twin sister, who wants the treasure all to herself.
Juliette never dreamed such a practical arrangement would explode with heady desire when a rogue's kiss unleashes the sensual woman within. But someone is determined to stop the wedding, willing to go to desperate lengths to claim the chest, plunging Juliette into a fight to claim a legacy and a love worth any price.
Customer Reviews:
Fascinating dialogue.......2007-01-25
I absolutely couldn't put the book down. I've read every Jennifer Blake written and the interaction between these two main characters, Juliette and Nicholas, is the finest work she's done to date. Blake's a true professional, capable of drawing us into the world she's created.
Can you can resist the opening lines?
"Send a husband for me, I pray, most Holy Mother. Interced in this
matter, if it be they will, for I have desperate need."
If you enjoy the history on the sword masters of New Orleans, be sure to read the other two books in the Master at Arms series, "Challenge to Honor" and "Dawn Encounter".
Rogue's Salute.......2007-01-19
As always Jennifer Blake has out done herself in this book. The characters are so wonderful to drift off with. The story line is so good that you can't put it down for you want to find out what is going to happen. I read it in a day's time. I also can't wait for next book!
heated historical romance .......2007-01-05
In 1842 New Orleans, fencing master Nicholas "La Roche" Pasquale meets church-pledged Juliette Armonte when she rescues his three year old ward from an angry male pursuer, who happens to be him. Nicholas tells her that Gabriel could use a mother so he proposes a marriage of convenience. To save the family legacy, a marriage chest, she accepts.
Juliette's twin sister Paulette wants to keep the marriage chest so she does her best to cause trouble in order for the relationship between Nicholas and her sibling to fall apart. For the most Nicholas ignores the irritating machinations until someone tries to kill Juliette; Nicholas assumes a desperate Paulette is behind the dastardly but potentially lethal attempts and he vows to stop her. Julietee knows the rivalry is intense due to the marriage chest, but she cannot accept her sibling would want her dead.
ROGUE'S SALUTE is a heated historical romance starring the latest Maitres des Armes (see DAWN ENCOUNTER and CHALLENGE TO HONOR) hero and the woman who proves his fencing equal. The story line focuses on a marriage of convenience turning into a marriage of love and passion and the suspense in the storyline enriches a fast-paced mid nineteenth century tale.
Harriet Klausner
Book Description
"Narrative history in the great tradition . . ." Chicago Tribune
Two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize and bestselling author Barbara W. Tuchman analyzes the American Revolution in a brilliantly original way, placing the war in the historical context of the centuries-long conflicts between England and both France and Holland. This compellingly written history paints a magnificent portrait of General George Washington and recounts in riveting detail the events responsible for the birth of our nation.
Customer Reviews:
Is a bad Tuchman still worth reading?.......2007-05-05
A tour guide at Williamsburg recommended this as 'essential' reading and since I had enjoyed Tuchman's "A Distant Mirror" I was ready for a good book. Into the fourth page describing intricate and, to me, unimportant interrelationships of the Danish royal family I came to the conclusion that at some point in this book's production Tuchman just gave up. So I did to. The chunk I did read was very well researched but I don't need to read a summary of everything Tuchman read in researching this book. The choppy writing and, most importantly, lack of editing wore me out. Is a bad Tuchman worth reading? If you need to know every angle about the American Revolutuion the answer may be 'yes.' But, for me, the answer is 'no', not when there are so many other good books out there.
An outstanding historian.......2007-03-09
I've read all her published works and this is one of the best.
One of Tuchman's Best.......2007-01-29
Let me start with what might be the prime negative of this book: its description is somewhat misleading. The incident upon which the book is based is fairly tangential and little more than a lead in to the book's topic, which has more to do with British Naval history during the Revolutionary War than it does with the Dutch or Americans themselves.
That having been said, if you are curious about the British Navy's role in the Revolutionary War, this is an excellent book. Tuchman is at her best here, her writing tight and storytelling superb. She wanders off on tangents from time to time as is her habit, but even these are fascinating enough that you won't mind. At some point half-way through the book you may catch yourself thinking, "Hey, I thought that the Dutch were going to be important players in this book..." and then realize that you don't really care very much.
Even the Americans largely get left out of this Revolutionary War book. Washington, naturally, shows up, if only to move the plot along toward the Yorktown campaign. Even here he must share the limelight with de Grasse and Rodney (who Tuchman paints as the most important character in the Yorktown campaign by virtue of his missing it due to illness).
If you're looking for a history of Continental politics or the land campaigns of the Revolutionary War, you'll be disappointed. Lexington, Concord and Bunker Hill had already happened by the time this book starts. Saratoga gets only the barest of mentions, as does Trenton.
Even the tiny Continental Navy is barely mentioned.
As such this book is a "classic" Tuchman work...you'll be left thinking that she couldn't have chosen a more narrow and obscure topic...and love her for doing so. Happy reading...
Someone was indulgent........2007-01-25
This book is a rhapsody on the theme of American independence, but isn't up to Tuchman's usual standard or those from whom she borrows. The Revolutionary War has been examined so many times that one expects a revisit to provide new information or insight; this book lacks both. Original materials (see Huddleston) are more entertaining, and textbooks more informative. As it stands, the book is a good introduction to the War of Independence, but superfluous to those familiar with it and useless to the specialist.
It could have been a third shorter, if efficiency had prevailed over style. A sentence may run to a hundred words, with appositions inside parenthetical expressions. Was it dictated rather than written? Was the author, consciously or unconsciously, emulating Eighteenth Century prose while describing an Eighteenth Century war? Footnotes aren't indicated, leaving the reader to discover them after finishing the text. Was her editor out to lunch?
The First Salute is Superb.......2007-01-12
Specific interest in creating a replica of the Vessel Andrew Doria - the ship that received the First Salute from the Island of St. Eustatius, a Dutch Colony, led me to read this book. Barbara Tuchman reveals details of an important event in the beginnings of our Nation during the early days of the War of Independence. She also delves into the strength and weaknesses of the British Navy during that important period of history. Also the book develops a clear understanding of the details of how weapons and munitions found their ways to the Colonial Government's armies from manufacturers in Europe. This excellent work provided me with important new insights on the role of a very small Caribbean island in the struggle for indepence of the USA.
Book Description
This commemorative book pays tribute to a chapter of Houston's baseball history nearly swept away in the fanfare of the Astrodome.
Customer Reviews:
The ultimate book on the history of the Houston Colt .45's/Astros.......2005-11-02
Anyone who enjoys reading about the history of baseball will love this book whether one is a Houston fan or not. It is a history book and a human interest story all rolled into one.
One get's the feeling after reading this book a feeling of a little sorrow of not having the opportunity to have known some of the unusual personalities depicted in the book, especially pitcher Dick "Turk" Farrell whom obviously was an under rated but solid major league pitcher and a man of a thousand pratical jokes.
The power struggles between the men who helped bring major league baseball to Houston is a story that is almost too intriguing to be true yet is a story that is factual in every detail.
To the fan of the Houston Astros baseball franchise, this is the ultimate book on the history of the origin of the team.
Author Robert Reed definitely did his homework on this one.
Hot Times In Houston.......2004-08-08
I grew up and still reside in the Bayou City. I was born in 1967, two years after the Colt .45's moved from Colt Stadium into the Astrodome and changed their name to the Astros.
Even as a young child I remember having an almost mystical interest in the Colt .45's. It was a marvel to me that they could actually play basball outside in the summers in Houston. I clearly remember my little leauge days in Houston thinking about the heat and humidity and the glare of the sun.
There was never an abundance of information on the Colt .45's or pictures of the old stadium unless you heard it about it from older Houstonians or former players that still called Houston home. This book is truly the Bible of Houston baseball. It is comparitive to the Old Testament's GENISIS. I swear if you curl up on a lazy afternoon and let your mind flow with the book you will feel as though you have travelled back into yester-year and you are there at Colt Stadium, mosquitos, humidity and all.
Sadly baseball in Houston now is a joke. The Astros are the epitome of over-paid, grossly under achieving, lazy athletes. I grew up with the Dome and I would have glady gone to Colt Stadium to root on a near last place team. AT LEAST THEY TRIED AND MADE AN EFFORT. The new ballpark downtown I have nicknamed "The Coffin". With it's retractable roof "The Coffin" is either opened or closed depending on what day you drive by. Most every player inside the place is alrady dead or just going through the motions.
This book celebrates the effort, the entertainment and the energy that once exsisted in Astros history but no longer does. This is the written account of the genisis of major leauge baseball in Houston. It also includes INCREDIBLE photographs in color and black and white.
This book is NOT to be missed ! Read it !
A real winner.......2002-01-08
An excellent and detailed history of the Colts and their origins in the planned Continental League, the National League expansion of 1961-62, and their colorful early days until they became the Astros. Lots of great photos of players, now-defunct ballparks, and memorabilia, and the real inside story of the name changes from Colts to Colt .45s to Astros. A winner all around.
Sweet and well done.......2000-09-01
I stumbled on this book at a bookstore in upstate NY, a far cry from the Houston area. As a baseball fan, it caught my eye although I had very little knowledge of Houston's MLB origins. What sold me-- at least during that quick perusal in the bookstore -- was its treatment of how Houston and NY both came into the league at the same time. After reading it, though, I'm astounded at the history and story of baseball's first major-league team in the south. The no-hitters, the futility, the tear-jerker about Jim Umbricht .... this story reeks of everything that baseball is -- good things, such as colorful characters, true fans, baseball as a game first and business second, and tragedy as well -- the real "Love of the Game" story, not that Kevin Costner tripe. Whether you know anything about Houston, the Colt 45s, or Texas, do yourself a favor and read this book. Heck, it's a human story, not just a sports story. The younger fan may not "get it," but those of us who grew up with those hot summer nights listening to baseball on transistor radios -- no matter were you lived of what team you claimed -- will enjoy the trip back.
When Baseball Came to Houston.......2000-05-22
Texas coastal heat, tropical humidity and giant mosquitoes; those are my memories of Colt Stadium. But I also remember the excitement of going to a real major league game in Houston. This book brings back all those memories and tells things I never knew about the screwball cast of characters who made up the team and the giant personalities who labored to bring big league baseball to Houston. The Colt .45s included major talent such as Joe Morgan, Rusty Staub, Jim Wynn and Larry Dierker. But they also had "colorful" players such as Richard "Turk" Farrell. A must for any collector of Texana, baseball or Houston history.
Book Description
First published in 1934, this book has enjoyed a reputation both as an authoritative guide to conduct in a contemporary maritime setting and a fascinating historical reference on the ways of the sea and sailor going back to the earliest days of sail. Now updated to cover all the sea services, this new edition fully reflects today's diverse force while at the same time exploring the maritime history of the United States, its flag, and the U.S. Navy's uniforms. A new chapter on naval ceremonies offers more details than ever on such events as award presentations and changes of command. A separate chapter on the popular "Dining In" ceremony explains its beginnings and evolution and tells how to plan and execute such an event. There is also greater coverage of Marine Corps and Coast Guard history and traditions. In addition to discussing the derivation of traditions and customs of the sea services, this latest update has been reorganized for ease of use by the professional seaman planning an upcoming event as well as the armchair sailor curious about the origins of naval customs and terms. It is the only up-to-date book on the subject available. 132 photographs. 6 x 9 inches.
Customer Reviews:
Navy custom explained.......2001-10-10
This book is clearly inteded as a manual for naval officers. I don't doubt that it would come in useful. It's a true treasure trove of information concerning US Navy custom and traditions. But the best part is the fact that it goes extensively into the backgrounds of many of the traditions and customs the Navy is steeped in. It is a scholorly book on history as much as it is about custom and tradition.
As a person who's not in the navy and just has an interest in it's history, this book was extremely entertaining and informative. If you're interested in such things, this book is defiantely worth a look.
Navy 101.......2001-01-22
This is an excellent source of knowledge with a wealth of information. If you want to know about the origins of Naval terms and how certain Naval traditions came about (ie..The Crossing of the Equator, Change of Command ceromonies) this book explains most of it. My only complaint is that it revolves around the officer community too much. I think it would have helped to add some more enlisted info too! So I highly reccomend this book! Fair Winds and Following Seas!
Average customer rating:
- Gorgeous book!
- Magnificent!
- Beautiful Book & Great Gift Idea
- Capturing the Essence
- Experience the Bounty of Guatemala through Vibrant Photos and Profiles
|
Viva Colores/ Vivid Colors: A Salute to the Indomitable People of Guatamala / Un Saludo a La Indomable Gente De Guatamala
David Hill
Manufacturer: powerHouse Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Collections, Catalogues & Exhibitions
| Photography
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Photography
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Photographers, A-Z
| Photography
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Photo Essays
| Photography
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Guatemala
| Central America
| Americas
| History
| Subjects
| Books
General
| South America
| Americas
| History
| Subjects
| Books
General
| World
| History
| Subjects
| Books
Ethnic Studies
| Special Groups
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Spanish
| Foreign Language Nonfiction
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Reference & Tips
| Travel
| Subjects
| Books
| Beaches
| Business Travel
| Cruises
| Essays & Travelogues
| Food & Lodging
| Guidebooks
| Pictorial
| Reference
| Spas
| Tips
| Tourist Destinations & Museums
| Travel Writing
Biografías y memorias
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
| Artes y Literatura
| General
| Gente, A-Z
| Grupos Específicos
| Históricas
| Líderes y Personas Célebres
| Memorias
| Profesionales y Académicos
| Referencia y Colecciones
| Viajes
| Étnico & Nacional
Colecciones, Catálogos y Exibiciones
| Fotografía
| Arte, arquitectura y fotografía
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
General
| Fotografía
| Arte, arquitectura y fotografía
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
Ensayos en Fotos
| Fotografía
| Arte, arquitectura y fotografía
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
Fotógrafos
| Fotografía
| Arte, arquitectura y fotografía
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
America Central
| Las Américas
| Historia
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
General
| Sur América
| Las Américas
| Historia
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
General
| Mundial
| Historia
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
Estudios Étnicos
| Grupos Especiales
| Ciencias Sociales
| No-Ficción
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
Referencia y Consejos Prácticos
| Viajes y turismo
| Libros en español
| Formats
| Books
| Comida y Hospedaje
| Destinaciones de Turismo y Museos
| Ensayos y Diario de Viaje
| Guías del Viajero
| Referencia
Similar Items:
-
In Her Hands: Craftswomen Changing the World
-
Women Who Light the Dark
-
Abuela's Weave
-
Celebrating Women
-
Guatemala Revealed
ASIN: 1576873358 |
Book Description
The joyful cacophony of color that envelopes visitors to Guatemala may seem misplaced at first. After all, the nation has only recently emerged from a 36-year civil war that destroyed its infrastructure and claimed more than a million lives. But to the authors of ¡Viva Colores!: A Salute to the Indomitable People of Guatemala, it is a vivid expression of a 1,500-year-old spirit that refuses to die.
Photographer Paola Gianturco and writer David Hill offer inspirational profiles of a people who have endured and, indeed, gained strength, thanks to the bounty of their land, their beliefs, traditions, and kinship with one another. People like Luis.
Luis was orphaned as a small child. The aunt and uncle who took him in sent him into the streets to hawk trinkets and cadge pesos from tourists. He quickly figured out that he could do better if he learned the tourists' language, so he taught himself English. At 18, he became a licensed tour guide. Five years later, he was begging again, a homeless panhandler, brought low by demon rum. Then he found AA, which helped him get sober and gave him a reason to live. He traveled his country, launching AA programs. Today, he's a doting grandfather and popular tour guide. Luis' story is but one of many Gianturco and Hill have discovered in their travels through Guatemala. Readers of their book will enjoy—and be inspired by—many more.
Customer Reviews:
Gorgeous book!.......2007-08-04
This book is a beautiful representation of Guatemala. We are happy to add it to our collection.
Magnificent!.......2007-01-12
This salute will get your attention and admiration. The colors are breathtaking. Indeed, Viva Colores.
Beautiful Book & Great Gift Idea.......2006-12-16
I'm a traveler, but no matter how much time I can spend in a place, I inevitably feel like I'm just scratching the surface. Even when sitting in a cafe or small square away from the usual tourist destinations, I always feel like I'd like to learn more about the "ordinary" folks walking past; VivaColores does just that, and the book proves I am right in my belief that even the most average-seeming people can be extraordinary. The book is a journey into Guatamala, but more so, it's about discovering the the rich lives of the people there.
Like Gianturco's prior books, this one is filled with great photography, enlightening text, and serves well as a conversation-starter on your coffee table. But, reading VivaColores also makes you feel like a better person for the time spent.
I highly recommend this book as a gift to anyone, or to yourself. Enjoy!
Capturing the Essence.......2006-11-11
The images in Viva Colores expertly capture the essence of Guatamala. In addition to being fine art, the photographs tell stories that convey the hopes of hard working people in a country poor in almost everything but spirit.
Experience the Bounty of Guatemala through Vibrant Photos and Profiles.......2006-10-31
I always keep an eye out for new books by photographer Paola Gianturco. When I opened VIVA COLORES, words like stunning, beautiful, gorgeous just rolled out! The photographs here are so vibrant, the book pulls you in to explore what else you'll find beyond its sheer beauty. And what you do find is a beauty of another kind in addition to its visual artistry. You'll find the strength, the soul of a people.
The text by David Hill succinctly and eloquently gives voice to the valor and courage of everyday Guatemalans who have flourished against all odds. The people profiled share dreams for themselves and their country, like 12-yr old Maria, one of nine children, who wants to be a doctor. Her family is so poor that they can't buy food, yet so resourceful since the father rents land to grow their own food. Lucky for Maria that her parents understand the value of education, so she goes to school and excels and now has a scholarship ensuring her continued learning.
The text is written in Spanish and English, enabling so many more people to journey to this dynamic country and experience its spirited people. Like eye candy these rich color photographs make this book a wonderful gift. And the benefits don't stop there. The authors have designated the proceeds to benefit the PAVA Foundation, which works with villagers in Guatemala's highlands building bridges, schools, water pipelines, providing teachers and scholarships, amongst its many services. Truly a great book and gift, for so many reasons.
Books:
- Van Gogh's Table at the Auberge Ravoux: Recipes From the Artist's Last Home and Paintings of Cafe Life
- Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World: 75 Dairy-Free Recipes for Cupcakes that Rule
- Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World: 75 Dairy-Free Recipes for Cupcakes that Rule
- Vegan with a Vengeance : Over 150 Delicious, Cheap, Animal-Free Recipes That Rock
- Vegetable Soups from Deborah Madison's Kitchen
- Washoku: Recipes From The Japanese Home Kitchen
- Wedding Cakes You Can Make: Designing, Baking, and Decorating the Perfect Wedding Cake
- What to Drink with What You Eat: The Definitive Guide to Pairing Food with Wine, Beer, Spirits, Coffee, Tea - Even Water - Based on Expert Advice from America's Best Sommeliers
- What to Drink with What You Eat: The Definitive Guide to Pairing Food with Wine, Beer, Spirits, Coffee, Tea - Even Water - Based on Expert Advice from America's Best Sommeliers
- What to Drink with What You Eat: The Definitive Guide to Pairing Food with Wine, Beer, Spirits, Coffee, Tea - Even Water - Based on Expert Advice from America's Best Sommeliers
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Evaluating Practice: Guidelines for the Accountable Professional
- The Voyage of the Beagle: Charles Darwin's Journal of Researches
- Marshfield Dreams: When I Was a Kid
- Second Chance: Three Presidents and the Crisis of American Superpower
- Singing Cowboys
- The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt
- The Audubon Society Encyclopedia of North American Birds
- Nail the Cover Letter: Great Tips for Creating Dynamite Letters
- PASSTRAK Life and Health Insurance Questions & Answers, 5E
- Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up
A Sailor of Austria: In Which, Without Really Intending to, Otto Prohaska Becomes Official War Hero No. 27 of the Habsburg Empire (The Otto Prohaska Novels)
Tomorrow the World: In which Cadet Otto Prohaska Carries the Habsburg Empire's Civilizing Mission to the Entirely Unreceptive Peoples of Africa and Oceania (Otto Prohaska Novels)
The Emperor's Coloured Coat: In Which Otto Prohaska, Hero of the Habsburg Empire, Has an Interesting Time While Not Quite Managing to Avert the First World War (The Otto Prohaska Novels)
The Two-Headed Eagle: In Which Otto Prohaska Takes a Break as the Habsburg Empire's Leading U-boat Ace and Does Something Even More Thanklessly Dangerous (The Otto Prohaska Novels)
Agathe von Trapp: Memories Before and After The Sound of Music
