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Siena: City of Secrets
by Jane TylusJane Tylus’s Siena is a compelling and intimate portrait of this most secretive of cities, often overlooked by travelers to Italy. Cultural history, intellectual memoir, travelogue, and guidebook, it takes the reader on a quest of discovery through the well- and not-so-well-traveled roads and alleys of a town both medieval and modern. As Tylus leads us through the city, she shares her passion for Siena in novelistic prose, while never losing sight of the historical complexities that have made Siena one of the most fascinating and beautiful towns in Europe. Today, Siena can appear on the surface standoffish and old-fashioned, especially when compared to its larger, flashier cousins Rome and Florence. But first impressions wear away as we learn from Tylus that Siena was an innovator among the cities of Italy: the first to legislate the building and maintenance of its streets, the first to publicly fund its university, the first to institute a municipal bank, and even the first to ban automobile traffic from its city center. We learn about Siena’s great artistic and architectural past, hidden behind centuries of painting and rebuilding, and about the distinctive characters of its different neighborhoods, exemplified in the Palio, the highly competitive horserace that takes place twice a year in the city’s main piazza and that serves as both a dividing and a uniting force for the Sienese. Throughout we are guided by the assured voice of a seasoned scholar with a gift for spinning a good story and an eye for the telling detail, whether we are traveling Siena’s modern highways, exploring its underground tunnels, tracking the city’s financial history, or celebrating giants of painting like Simone Martini or giants of the arena, Siena’s former Serie A soccer team. A practical and engaging guide for tourists and armchair travelers alike, Siena is a testament to the powers of community and resilience in a place that is not quite as timeless and serene as it may at first appear.
Siena: City of Secrets
by Jane TylusJane Tylus’s Siena is a compelling and intimate portrait of this most secretive of cities, often overlooked by travelers to Italy. Cultural history, intellectual memoir, travelogue, and guidebook, it takes the reader on a quest of discovery through the well- and not-so-well-traveled roads and alleys of a town both medieval and modern. As Tylus leads us through the city, she shares her passion for Siena in novelistic prose, while never losing sight of the historical complexities that have made Siena one of the most fascinating and beautiful towns in Europe. Today, Siena can appear on the surface standoffish and old-fashioned, especially when compared to its larger, flashier cousins Rome and Florence. But first impressions wear away as we learn from Tylus that Siena was an innovator among the cities of Italy: the first to legislate the building and maintenance of its streets, the first to publicly fund its university, the first to institute a municipal bank, and even the first to ban automobile traffic from its city center. We learn about Siena’s great artistic and architectural past, hidden behind centuries of painting and rebuilding, and about the distinctive characters of its different neighborhoods, exemplified in the Palio, the highly competitive horserace that takes place twice a year in the city’s main piazza and that serves as both a dividing and a uniting force for the Sienese. Throughout we are guided by the assured voice of a seasoned scholar with a gift for spinning a good story and an eye for the telling detail, whether we are traveling Siena’s modern highways, exploring its underground tunnels, tracking the city’s financial history, or celebrating giants of painting like Simone Martini or giants of the arena, Siena’s former Serie A soccer team. A practical and engaging guide for tourists and armchair travelers alike, Siena is a testament to the powers of community and resilience in a place that is not quite as timeless and serene as it may at first appear.
Siena: City of Secrets
by Jane TylusJane Tylus’s Siena is a compelling and intimate portrait of this most secretive of cities, often overlooked by travelers to Italy. Cultural history, intellectual memoir, travelogue, and guidebook, it takes the reader on a quest of discovery through the well- and not-so-well-traveled roads and alleys of a town both medieval and modern. As Tylus leads us through the city, she shares her passion for Siena in novelistic prose, while never losing sight of the historical complexities that have made Siena one of the most fascinating and beautiful towns in Europe. Today, Siena can appear on the surface standoffish and old-fashioned, especially when compared to its larger, flashier cousins Rome and Florence. But first impressions wear away as we learn from Tylus that Siena was an innovator among the cities of Italy: the first to legislate the building and maintenance of its streets, the first to publicly fund its university, the first to institute a municipal bank, and even the first to ban automobile traffic from its city center. We learn about Siena’s great artistic and architectural past, hidden behind centuries of painting and rebuilding, and about the distinctive characters of its different neighborhoods, exemplified in the Palio, the highly competitive horserace that takes place twice a year in the city’s main piazza and that serves as both a dividing and a uniting force for the Sienese. Throughout we are guided by the assured voice of a seasoned scholar with a gift for spinning a good story and an eye for the telling detail, whether we are traveling Siena’s modern highways, exploring its underground tunnels, tracking the city’s financial history, or celebrating giants of painting like Simone Martini or giants of the arena, Siena’s former Serie A soccer team. A practical and engaging guide for tourists and armchair travelers alike, Siena is a testament to the powers of community and resilience in a place that is not quite as timeless and serene as it may at first appear.
Sicily: A Literary Guide for Travellers (Literary Guides for Travellers #3)
by Andrew Edwards Suzanne Edwards"Without Sicily, Italy leaves no image in the soul. Sicily is the key to everything." Goethe, Italian JourneyRising up from the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily has a rich and ancient history spanning over 2,000 years. A bounty prized by invaders from the Greeks, Romans and Vandals to the Byzantines, Arabs and Normans, Sicily's violently beautiful landscapes are haunted by a vibrant mix of cultures and her soil has always been fertile ground for the literary and artistic imagination. This compelling guide uncovers the island's multi-faceted personality through those literary figures who have managed to get under her skin - from Pindar, Cicero and Aeschylus to Shakespeare and Cervantes; DH Lawrence, Coleridge and Oscar Wilde to Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams Ezra Pound and Lawrence Durrell; as well as local writers who have defined the modern Italian novel - Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa and Leonardo Sciascia. Through their words and lives we witness the beauty, pain and power of the Sicilian cultural landscape and discover how the potent mix of influences on the island's society have been preserved forever in literature.
Sicilian Carousel: Adventures On An Italian Island
by Lawrence DurrellDespite decades spent poetically evoking Mediterranean life in Rhodes, Cyprus, and Corfu, celebrated travel writer Lawrence Durrell had never set foot on the sea's largest island: mysterious, impenetrable Sicily. For years, his friend Martine begged him to visit her on this sun-kissed paradise, but it took her sudden death to finally bring him to its shores. Joining an idiosyncratic tour group, Durrell immerses himself in the spectacular archaeological remains, dizzy with Sicily's rich history and struck by the unity of Mediterranean civilization: its myths, manifestations, and meaning. Featuring several unpublished poems and illustrated with elegant engravings. Sicilian Carousel is a gem.'Elegant ... Wonderful.' Time'Readers who have been to Sicily will love this book. Readers who have not been to Sicily will love this book.' Paul Fussell
Siberian Dreams: Winner RGS/BBC Journey of a Lifetime Award
by Andy HomeEvery year thousands compete to win the RGS/BBC Journey of a Lifetime award and fulfill their travel dreams. However, Andy Home's dream would be most people's nightmare. Andy went to Siberia, to the Russian industrial mining city of Norilsk where temperatures drop to minus 50, half the year is spent in perpetual darkness, and the pollution has destroyed all natural life. Once a prison camp, then a secret Soviet military city, Norilsk teetered on the edge of financial and social meltdown in the early 1990s. Now, it is owned by one of Russia's new breed of all-powerful oligarchs and is the biggest single source of common industrial metals. Andy's quest was to meet the former Soviet shock workers and ask them what life is like in 21st-century Russia. This is a fast paced, humorous, and insightful account of an extraordinary journey of a lifetime.
The Siberia Job
by Josh HavenFrom critically acclaimed new author Josh Haven, a thrilling adventure inspired by true events in 1990s Russia.GETTING RICH IS THE EASY PART1990s Russia. Following the demise of the Soviet Union, the newly established Russian government is privatising its industries. The people have the chance to become shareholders in a capitalist future.The state has issued vouchers that can be exchanged for shares. For the many citizens living in abject poverty, these are little more than scrap paper. But for one American businessman and his Czech companion, they suggest a lucrative opportunity. The pair travel the icy length of Russia, roving from town to town with suitcases full of cash to buy as many as they can.But their plan is not as simple as it seems. The system of trading vouchers for shares is set up to deter profit-hungry outsiders. And when the Russian mafia and newly powerful oligarchs hear of their successes, the stakes suddenly become deadly...The Siberia Job charts a course through one of the most dramatic periods in recent Russian history. Perfect for fans of Martin Cruz Smith, Joseph Kanon and Kathleen Kent. Reviews for The Siberia Job'An astonishing story, excitingly told, and all too close to the reality of Russia in the murderous 1990s.' Charles Cumming'A terrific post-Soviet thriller.' Martin Cruz Smith'One of the most original, well-written, and best-plotted post-Cold War stories I've read in years.' Nelson DeMille'Storytelling intrigue at its very finest.' Bill Browder'A breathless, globetrotting thriller... Vivid, ingenious, and suspenseful to the last page.' Joseph FinderReviews for Josh Haven 'Superb... Smart, fast, twisty and dangerous. Highly recommended.' Lee Child 'A fresh new voice.' Kirkus'A pleasing romp through James Bond territory.' Library Journal
Shuffle & Deal: Rediscover the joy of playing cards today
by Tara GallagherDo you ever wish you watched less and played more? Shuffle & Deal is a card game book packed with hilarious, evil and deeply addictive games that are guaranteed to spread through your circle of friends like poison ivy. This isn't a book full of old favourites; all of the games selected offer something a bit different - new twists and alternative rules. But Shuffle & Deal is more than a collection of card games. Fun to read and beautiful to look at, it features a collection of stunning artwork dating from medieval times to the present day. Alongside the games are historical anecdotes, top tips for winning, and card-speak jargon busters, designed to ake everyone an expert.In a world that relies ever more on screens to fill its need for entertainment, card games are a beacon of light. So come in from the cold, call your friends and families, grab a deck, and make some memories.
The Show: Racy, pacy and very funny! (Swell Valley Series #2)
by Tilly BagshaweWelcome to Swell Valley – where the scandal is in a class of its own… The second book in the Swell Valley series by bestselling author Tilly Bagshawe
The Show (Swell Valley Series #2)
by Tilly BagshaweWelcome to Swell Valley – where the scandal is in a class of its own… The second book in the Swell Valley series by bestselling author Tilly Bagshawe
Short Walks to Curious Places: Exploring 50 of Britain's Ancient Sites, Myths and Legends
by Roly SmithEmbark on an extraordinary journey through the British countryside, leading to mysterious sites, ancient wonders and legendary landscapes to uncover 50 of the most intriguing walks in Britain. Discover the Green Chapel of Arthurian legend deep in the Staffordshire moorlands. Take a magical stroll through the fairytale forest of Wistman's Woods on Dartmoor. Marvel at the surreal rock formations of Brimham Rocks in Yorkshire, or spot the Hogwarts Express crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands. With each walk ranging from two to eight miles in length and featuring beautiful photography, helpful directions and useful information, this book guarantees captivating experiences for walkers of all abilities, whether you're a casual stroller or seasoned hiker. Short Walks to Curious Places is your key to unlocking the secrets of the British countryside. With every step, you'll uncover the stories that shaped these extraordinary landscapes. Get ready to explore, discover and be enchanted by the wonders that lie just beyond the beaten path.
Short walks in the Yorkshire Dales
by Collins MapsRecommended for colour tablets only. This ebook is not suitable for reading on black and white eink devices. All content downloaded to device, making maps and text available at all times.The Yorkshire Dales with its picturesque dales, ancient farmhouses and villages offer some superb country walking.
Short walks in the Peak District
by Collins Maps SpencerRecommended for colour tablets only. This ebook is not suitable for reading on black and white eink devices. All content downloaded to device, making maps and text available at all times.The Peak District, with its gentle limestone White Peak and the wilder more dramatic gritstone Dark Peak, offer some superb walking areas.
Short walks in the Lake District
by Collins MapsRecommended for colour tablets only. This ebook is not suitable for reading on black and white eink devices. All content downloaded to device, making maps and text available at all times.The Lake District contains some of the most spectacular landscapes in Britain with superb walking areas.
Short Walks in Dorset
by Collins MapsDiscover Dorset like never before with Ramblers Short Walks in Dorset. This practical e-guidebook contains 20 short walks in Dorset, all of which are 5 miles or under, and are ideal for families and individuals young and old looking for an afternoon stroll.
Short Walks in Cornwall
by Collins MapsDiscover Cornwall like never before with Ramblers Short Walks in Cornwall. This practical e-guidebook contains 20 short walks in Cornwall, all of which are 5 miles or under, and are ideal for families and individuals young and old looking for ideas for an afternoon stroll.
Short Walks in Beautiful Places: 100 Great British Routes (National Trust History & Heritage)
by Short Walks in Beautiful PlacesWith information on transport links, facilities, local attractions and fun stuff for the kids, along with maps of each route, this is the perfect guide for exploring Britain's countryside and discovering your new favourite walk.
Short Walks from Bogotá: Journeys in the new Colombia
by Tom FeilingFor decades, Colombia was the 'narcostate'. Now travel to Colombia and South America is on the rise, and it's seen as one of the rising stars of the global economy. Where does the truth lie? Writer and journalist Tom Feiling, author of the acclaimed study of cocaine The Candy Machine, has journeyed throughout Colombia, down roads that were until recently too dangerous to travel, to paint a fresh picture of one of the world's most notorious and least-understood countries. He talks to former guerrilla fighters and their ex-captives; women whose sons were 'disappeared' by paramilitaries; the nomadic tribe who once thought they were the only people on earth and now charge $10 for a photo; the Japanese 'emerald cowboy' who made a fortune from mining; and revels in the stories that countless ordinary Colombians tell. How did a land likened to paradise by the first conquistadores become a byword for hell on earth? Why is one of the world's most unequal nations also one of its happiest? How is it rebuilding itself after decades of violence, and how successful has the process been so far? Vital, shocking, often funny and never simplistic, Short Walks from Bogota unpicks the tangled fabric of Colombia, to create a stunning work of reportage, history and travel writing.
A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush (Isis Large Print Ser.)
by Eric NewbySome of the maps in this title are best viewed on a tablet device. A classic of travel writing, ‘A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush’ is Eric Newby’s iconic account of his journey through one of the most remote and beautiful wildernesses on earth.
Short Stories in Icelandic for Beginners: Read for pleasure at your level, expand your vocabulary and learn Icelandic the fun way! (Foreign Language Graded Reader Series)
by Olly RichardsAn unmissable collection of eight unconventional and captivating short stories for young and adult learners of Icelandic."Olly's top-notch language-learning insights are right in line with the best of what we know from neuroscience and cognitive psychology about how to learn effectively. I love his work - and you will too!" - Barbara Oakley, PhD, Author of New York Times bestseller A Mind for Numbers Short Stories in Icelandic for Beginners has been written especially for students from high-beginner to low-intermediate level, designed to give a sense of achievement, a feeling of progress and most importantly - enjoyment! Mapped to A2-B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for languages, these eight captivating stories are designed to give you a sense of achievement and a feeling of progress when reading.What does this book give you?- Eight stories in a variety of exciting genres, from science fiction and crime to history and thriller - making reading fun, while you learn a wide range of new vocabulary- Controlled language at your level to help you progress confidently- Realistic spoken dialogues to help you learn conversational expressions and improve your speaking ability- Accessible grammar so you learn new structures naturally, in a stress-free way- Pleasure! Research shows that if you're enjoying reading in a foreign language, you won't experience the usual feelings of frustration - 'It's too hard!' 'I don't understand!'Carefully curated to make learning a new language easy, these stories include key features that will support and consolidate your progress, including: - A glossary for bolded words in each chapter- Full plot summary- A bilingual word list- Comprehension questions after each chapter. As a result, you will be able to focus on enjoying reading, delighting in your improved range of vocabulary and grasp of the language, without ever feeling overwhelmed. From science fiction to fantasy, to crime and thrillers, Short Stories in Icelandic for Beginners will make learning Icelandic easy and enjoyable.
Short Runs in Beautiful Places: 100 Spectacular Routes
by Jen Benson Sim Benson National Trust Books100 short runs – ranging from 1 to 10 miles – ideal for beginners and experienced runners alike and travelling through beautiful countryside of all kinds, from ancient woodland and meadows studded with wildflowers to rugged headlands with uninterrupted views of the sea.
A Short Ride in the Jungle: The Ho Chi Minh Trail by Motorcycle
by Antonia Bolingbroke-KentAntonia sets out on a solo hair-raising motorbike mission down the remnants of the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Battling inhospitable terrain and multiple breakdowns, the story of her brave journey is thrilling and poignant: a unique insight into a little known face of Southeast Asia
A Short Residence in Sweden & Memoirs of the Author of 'The Rights of Woman' (The\regency Library)
by Mary Wollstonecraft William Godwin Richard HolmesIn these two closely linked works - a travel book and a biography of its author - we witness a moving encounter between two of the most daring and original minds of the late eighteenth century: A Short Residence in Sweden is the record of Wollstonecraft's last journey in search of happiness, into the remote and beautiful backwoods of Scandinavia. The quest for a lost treasure ship, the pain of a wrecked love affair, memories of the French Revolution, and the longing for some Golden Age, all shape this vivid narrative, which Richard Holmes argues is one of the neglected masterpieces of early English Romanticism.Memoirs is Godwin's own account of Wollstonecraft's life, written with passionate intensity a few weeks after her tragic death. Casting aside literary convention, Godwin creates an intimate portrait of his wife, startling in its candour and psychological truth. Received with outrage by friends and critics alike, and virtually suppressed for a century, it can now be recognized as one of the landmarks in the development of modern biography.
A Short History of the Sailing Ship
by R. C. Anderson Romola AndersonThis outstanding, amply illustrated book traces the evolution of the sailing ship from ancient times to the end of the 19th century. Extremely well-written in clear, non-technical language, the work provides detailed coverage of the ships of ancient Egypt and Crete (4000-1000 B.C.); Phoenician, Greek, and Roman ships; ships of the Middle Ages; as well as double-ended and one-masted ships. Following the main streams of development of both northern and southern European vessels, the authors elucidate the technical and cultural factors behind their change in form and function and their culmination in the full-rigged clipper ships of the 19th century. No concise history of sail has ever presented the subject more authoritatively or enjoyably as this critically praised book. Anyone with an interest in sailing ships, scholar or layman, will find the book invaluable and appealing.
A Short History of Polar Exploration: The Pocket Essentials Guide (Short History Ser.)
by Nick RennisonAccording to Apsley Cherry-Garrard, one of the men who went to Antarctica with Captain Scott, 'Polar exploration is at once the cleanest and most isolated way of having a bad time that has ever been devised. ' Despite this there has never been a shortage of volunteers willing to endure the bad times in pursuit of the glory that polar exploration sometimes brings. Nick Rennison's compelling book tells the memorable stories of the men and women who have risked their lives by entering the white wastelands of the Arctic and the Antarctic, from the compelling tales of Scott, Shacklet on and Amundsen, to lesser known heroes such as Fridtjof Nansen and Robert Peary. A Short History of Polar Exploration also looks at the hold that the polar regions have often had on the imaginations of artists and writers in the last two hundred years examining the pain tings, films and literature that they have inspired.