History Books

If the raw realities of life behind bars intrigue you, then "Criminal Intent" offers a rare lens into Singapore's Changi Prison, once notorious for its harsh conditions. Through the true stories penned by Wong Kim Hoh, you'll come up close with the fabric of tales that are both harrowing and eye-opening, a testimony to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of despair. It's a profound journey through the corridors of crime and redemption, beckoning those with an interest in law, order, and the complex narratives woven between them.

Imagine finding out that some of the things you believed about music theory were actually myths. This book is quite the eye-opener, casually stripping away misconceptions with Gerald Eskelin's lighthearted expertise. It's perfect if you're diving back into music or if traditional approaches have ever felt daunting. Eskelin makes music theory feel like a conversation with a wise, humorous friend, not a lecture.

If you're intrigued by the complexities of youth subcultures, "Speed Tribes" will captivate you. As it delves into the vibrant underbelly of 1990s Japan, you'll discover a world where traditional values clash with the hedonistic pursuits of the young. It offers an eye-opening journey through the lives of various individuals navigating a society in flux. This isn't just a book; it's a time capsule from an era of radical change.

If you're intrigued by religious history and charismatic figures who've shaped it, Arnold Dallimore's book on George Whitefield will likely catch your interest. It's not just about religious fervor; it's a glimpse into the historical significance of a man whose evangelical zeal influenced the spiritual climate of his time. This abridgment makes for an accessible read that brings out the essence of Whitefield's life and legacy.

"Rising Out of Hatred" offers more than just a transformation story – it's a deep dive into the complexities of societal beliefs and the possibility of profound change in individuals. If you've ever wondered how someone with extremist views can come to renounce them and work towards the opposite, here’s a book that doesn’t just speculate but gives a first-hand account. It's also a timely exploration of hate, understanding, and ultimately, redemption, which could resonate with anyone interested in the dynamics of belief and identity.

Born an ocean apart--one in Peru, Indiana, to great wealth, the other in Teddington, England, to an itinerant piano salesman--Cole Porter and Noel Coward have come to represent the ultimate in sophistication and urbanity. "You Do Something to Me," Gay Divorce , "I Get a Kick Out of You," "JustOne of Those Things," Anything Goes , "Begin the Beguine," Private Lives , "Night and Day," Blithe Spirit , "Let's Do It," Hay Fever , "It's De-Lovely"--the list of witty and irreverent songs and plays goes on and on. It is a body of work that was tremendously exciting when it first appeared and remainsremarkably popular today.Based on access to previously unpublished manuscripts, lyrics, scores and letters, plus dozens of interviews, Noel and Cole presents a fresh and often surprising portrait of these two geniuses and their work, packed with numerous photographs, some of which have never been published before.Stephen Citron interweaves the biographical strands with consummate skill, providing insight into both men's private lives--including a frank discussion of their homosexuality--while illuminating their musical achievements. Indeed Citron, a composer and lyricist himself, excels at musical analysis,and throughout the volume he sheds considerable light on Porter's and Coward's art. He tells us, for instance, that in composing the melody of "Night and Day," Cole Porter restricted himself to mid-range notes, with hardly any vocal leaps that would betray a breathless dancer, especially as thedancer was Fred Astaire, who had never studied singing seriously, and was just launching his solo career. (Citron also tells us that Astaire wanted "Night and Day" dropped from the show, because he feared that with its long-held notes, especially on the word "day," his voice would crack.) Citronalso shows how fast a worker Noel Coward could Coward wrote Hay Fever in three days, for instance, and his finest play, Private Lives , took him four days (while he was laid low with a bout of influenza in Shanghai).Packed with information, including a quintuple chronology and a fifty-page section devoted to the analysis of selected songs, Noel and Cole will be an essential reference as well as a fascinating dual biography of two men who brought style and dazzle to the art of popular entertainment.

Imagine a place where gender roles are flipped, where women lead in almost all aspects of life, and marriage doesn't exist as we know it. That's the essence of "The Kingdom of Women." If you're intrigued by anthropology or just want an intimate look at a culture starkly different from the mainstream, this book offers that deep dive. It's a unique chance to explore love, life, and death from a fresh, thought-provoking perspective.

In 1990, IBM had its most profitable year ever. By 1993, the computer industry had changed so rapidly the company was on its way to losing $16 billion and IBM was on a watch list for extinction -- victimized by its own lumbering size, an insular corporate culture, and the PC era IBM had itself helped invent. Then Lou Gerstner was brought in to run IBM. Almost everyone watching the rapid demise of this American icon presumed Gerstner had joined IBM to preside over its continued dissolution into a confederation of autonomous business units. This strategy, well underway when he arrived, would have effectively eliminated the corporation that had invented many of the industry's most important technologies. Instead, Gerstner took hold of the company and demanded the managers work together to re-establish IBM's mission as a customer-focused provider of computing solutions. Moving ahead of his critics, Gerstner made the hold decision to keep the company together, slash prices on his core product to keep the company competitive, and almost defiantly announced, "The last thing IBM needs right now is a vision." Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? tells the story of IBM's competitive and cultural transformation. In his own words, Gerstner offers a blow-by-blow account of his arrival at the company and his campaign to rebuild the leadership team and give the workforce a renewed sense of purpose. In the process, Gerstner defined a strategy for the computing giant and remade the ossified culture bred by the company's own success. The first-hand story of an extraordinary turnaround, a unique case study in managing a crisis, and a thoughtful reflection on the computer industry and the principles of leadership, Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? sums up Lou Gerstner's historic business achievement. Taking readers deep into the world of IBM's CEO, Gerstner recounts the high-level meetings and explains the pressure-filled, no-turning-back decisions that had to be made. He also offers his hard-won conclusions about the essence of what makes a great company run. In the history of modern business, many companies have gone from being industry leaders to the verge of extinction. Through the heroic efforts of a new management team, some of those companies have even succeeded in resuscitating themselves and living on in the shadow of their former stature. But only one company has been at the pinnacle of an industry, fallen to near collapse, and then, beyond anyone's expectations, returned to set the agenda. That company is IBM. Lou Gerstener, Jr., served as chairman and chief executive officer of IBM from April 1993 to March 2002, when he retired as CEO. He remained chairman of the board through the end of 2002. Before joining IBM, Mr. Gerstner served for four years as chairman and CEO of RJR Nabisco, Inc. This was preceded by an eleven-year career at the American Express Company, where he was president of the parent company and chairman and CEO of its largest subsidiary. Prior to that, Mr. Gerstner was a director of the management consulting firm of McKinsey & Co., Inc. He received a bachelor's degree in engineering from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

"My East End" is like a time machine to a lively, tight-knit community that many people have only glimpsed in movies or heard about in songs. Gilda O’Neill doesn’t just recount facts; she shares living memories that make you feel like you’re wandering through East London, hearing stories from old friends. If you're fascinated by the rich tapestry of urban life and appreciate the value of storytelling, this book is a portal to another world – one of warmth, resilience, and the unmistakable charm of the Cockney spirit.

Recommendation: If you've ever been fascinated by the world of espionage, 'True Spy Stories' is a thrilling collection that exposes the hidden world of real-life spies. From the glamorous Mata Hari to ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat as you discover the sacrifices and risks these spies took to shape history. Step into the shadowy world of espionage and be captivated by these true tales of danger, deception, and daring.

If you're captivated by the extraordinary tales of bravery and strategy that defined World War II, "The Victors" is a must-read. Stephen E. Ambrose harnesses his renowned historical expertise to bring you a compelling narrative that not only narrates the momentous events but also honors the ordinary men whose extraordinary courage wrote history. This book will immerse you in the true essence of camaraderie and the indomitable spirit of the soldiers who turned the tides of war.

If you've ever been bitten by the travel bug, Helena Drysdale's "Alone Through China and Tibet" might just be your next must-read. Drysdale transports you to 1985 China, sharing her encounters with both the hilariously bizarre and the starkly profound. It's a raw and authentic travelogue that inspires adventure and offers a glimpse into China's multilayered society right as it was transforming post-Mao era. Her up-close engagement with locals provides a personal narrative that's as enriching as it is entertaining.

"Dog's Best Friend" is a heartwarming tribute to the special bond between humans and their canine companions, documenting a relationship that has existed for over 20,000 years. Mark Derr explores the cultural and historical aspects of this bond, ranging from the role of dogs in ancient cultures to their place in modern society. This book is perfect for anyone who has ever experienced the love and loyalty of a dog, and wants to deepen their understanding of this extraordinary relationship.

If you're looking to peek behind the political curtains, Barbara Bush's memoir offers a rare perspective from inside the White House. Her straightforward anecdotes and reflections take you on a journey from her early days to her time as America's First Lady, providing an intimate look at a figure who balanced public service with family life. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in the personal stories that weave into America's political tapestry.

If you're enamored with the birth of America and the idealism that shaped its foundation, this book offers a gripping narrative that brings the 1776 era to life. You'll get to know the sacrifice behind the signature. It's like witnessing the forging of America's soul, guided by a historian's pen, and enhanced with artifacts that let history's weight rest in your hands.

Recommended for fans of journalism and American history. Gain insight into the life of one of America's most famous news anchors, Walter Cronkite. Brinkley's biography paints a picture of a private man who held a public position, tracing Cronkite's career from his time as a print reporter in World War II to his present-day icon status. Gain insight into the major historical events Cronkite covered and reported on, as well as the man behind the camera.

"The Girl in the Picture" is more than just a biography; it's an intimate exploration of resilience amidst war's brutality. Denise Chong captures Kim Phuc's agonizing road from being a napalm victim to finding solace and new life in Canada, weaving social history and spiritual exploration along the way. This book would nudge your heart and broaden your understanding of the human spirit's capacity to seek forgiveness and peace even after unimaginable trauma.

If you're seeking profound, personal insights mixed with broader societal reflection, "Last Watch of the Night" could captivate you. Monette's writing, shaped by his own experiences as a gay man during the AIDS epidemic, intertwines the deeply personal with the universal. The essays offer a raw and unflinching look into struggles and hope, giving a voice to a community's fight for dignity and recognition. This could be more than just a read; it could be an emotional journey and a historical witness.

If the golden era of Hollywood glamour intrigues you, this book is a treasure trove. It showcases the brilliance of Adrian, one of the most influential costume designers in cinema. His work dressed silver screen legends and defined an era of style. Flip through these pages, and you'll be transported back to a time of sophistication and timeless elegance.

If you're drawn to the grit and gravity of military life, "Jarhead" is bound to captivate you. Anthony Swofford's unvarnished look at the Gulf War through the eyes of an infantry marine is as real as it gets. It's not just war stories; it's about the psychological battles soldiers face, both on the field and within themselves. This memoir invites you to peer behind the curtain of the Pentagon's portrayal of the war, providing a powerful, personal glimpse an American soldier's experience.

"Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World" taps into a history buff's curiosity like a journey through time. Ferguson offers a compelling narrative that doesn't just recount historical facts but evaluates the paradoxes of British imperialism with a balance of wit and critique. It reads like a map of how past geopolitical strategies shaped our current global framework, making it enlightening for anyone interested in the roots of modern international relations.