QUEST FOR ADVENTURE: ultimate feats of modern exploration

Quest for adventure:

ultimate feats of modern exploration

 

 

 

Here's something to stop and think about: the opportunity to be the first to accomplish an "adventure" on land, sea, and air may be gone. In 1999, the attempt to circumnavigate the globe in a balloon which presented one of the last challenges for intrepid explorers was successful. Virtually every major mountain has been climbed, the depths of the oceans have been charted, and the most inhospitable deserts have been crossed. We live in a world where people compete on television programs like Survivor to do things that were unthinkable just a century ago. Bonington, an accomplished mountain climber, presents 17 stories of the most remarkable expeditions of the past 100 years, giving factual accounts of what it was like to be "the first" to cross the polar wastes, fly solo around the world, brave uncharted waters, and reach the peaks of treacherous mountains. Familiar names like Thor Heyerdahl and Francis Chichester are mingled with lesser-known explorers such as Maurice Herzog and Wally Herbert to present a breathtaking account of the people who had the courage to face these challenges. Dynamic and inspiring, this book will attract readers of all ages, including young adults. Highly recommended

THE LORD OF THE RINGS: The Art of the Return of the King

The Lord of the Rings:

The Art of the Return of the King

 

 

 

ith Peter Jackson's Acadamy Award-winning epic motion picture trilogy drawing to a spectacular and triumphant close, Gary Russell's detailed research takes us back into the world of Middle-earth, to relive all the visual drama and excitement of The Return of the King.

The Art of The Return of the King illustrates the creative development of the film from sketch to special effect and features 600 images, most appearing nowhere else. This fully authorized book includes pencil sketches by Alan Lee and John Howe, costume designes by Ngila Dickson, magnificent full-color paintings by Jeremy Bennett, and prop designs, concepts, sculptures and digital artwork from Weta Workshop and Weta Digital. From Minas Tirith to Mount Doom, from the Army of the Dead to Shelob the monstrous spider, all the spectacular landscapes, characters and creatures are covered in stunning detail, including concepts that did not make it into the final film.

To accompany this wealth of imagery, detailed and informative commentaries appear by all the featured artists and designers, together with a special afterword by Peter Jackson. Their personal thoughts and explanations offer unique and fascinating insight into how The Return of the King was brought to life. An artistic journey begun in 1997 reaches its glorious conclusion within these pages, giving the reader a unique chance to witness the creative process that led to one of the most spectacular movies of all time. 

HARRY POTTER : half blood prince

Just a few weeks after the previous book left off, the penultimate entry in the series is, as the author foretold, the darkest and most unsettling yet. The deeds of Voldemort's Death Eaters are spreading even to the Muggle world, which is enshrouded in a mist caused by Dementors draining hope and happiness. Harry, turning 16, leaves for Hogwarts with the promise of private lessons with Dumbledore. No longer a fearful boy living under the stairs, he is clearly a leader and increasingly isolated as rumors spread that he is the "Chosen One," the only individual capable of defeating Voldemort. Two attempts on students' lives, Harry's conviction that Draco Malfoy has become a Death Eater, and Snape's usual slimy behavior add to the increasing tension. Yet through it all, Harry and his friends are typical teens, sharing homework and messy rooms, rushing to classes and sports practices, and flirting. Ron and Hermione realize their attraction, as do Harry and Ginny. Dozens of plot strands are pulled together as the author positions Harry for the final book. Much information is cleverly conveyed through Dumbledore's use of a Pensieve, a device that allows bottled memories to be shared by Harry and his beloved professor as they apparate to various locations that help explain Voldemort's past. The ending is heart wrenching. Once again, Rowling capably blends literature, mythology, folklore, and religion into a delectable stew. This sixth book may be darker and more difficult, but Potter fans will devour it and begin the long and bittersweet wait for the final installment