The Empire Books

This is an excellent showcase of the Indian Mughal art - the Taj Mahal being the epitome. Giv es an excellent overview of the history. The commentary is good and the pictures, escpecially of the Taj on a moonlit night, are breathtaking.

Also gives a brief on places to see in and aeound Agra. Makes one want to visit Agra more than before.

Its a pity this book is currently not available in English. I have read this book in German, and found it to be an excellent eye-opener to a catastrophe that began to unfold more than 80 years ago. The catastrophe that ended for Europe, and many other parts of the world, in total chaos and has reshaped the world to lay the foundation of our current international political structure, still holds a mixture of fascination and horror for many a historical minded person. - My grandparents and parents have suffered through the anxiety and often horrors of both world wars and their descriptions I will never forget. However, I often ask myself what was it that actually lead to this tragedy that actually started around 1914. What factors prepared a person like Hitler to have such a far reachiung influence? What psychological background in the societies of those times laid the foundation to the course of things. After all what happened in Germany was no exception in those times. The preparations for war, the elimination of so-called undesirable people, the persecution of humans, etc. was something that was practiced in all countries. Countries like France and Britain did it in their colonies, Russia and China against their own people, or turned it against their neighbors. Only in Germany it was pusued with particular systematic fervor. - All this was possible in highly sophisticated societies, and when it all came into the open people were understandibly very disturbed: why did this happen? The haunt of these events still has not lost its grip on our imagination, and its still practiced in countries that as of yet have not come full circle with these experiences. It can be argued that it is our responsibility to come to terms with this past, to learn from the mistakes and set a new future trend. - However, forbidding inconvenient political parties, political crimes, or touting political correctness, etc. alone won't do it. We have to understand why people want to do this, and at at what point are they ready to take action in the most atrocious way. It has to do with soulsearching each nations history and more so each culture's individual psyche when it comes under pressure, when it is subjected to increased political and economic uncertainty. Are we preparing our children to avoid a catastrophe that came full circle by the end of World War II? - Please read this book, it is written excellently, by a master in language. And ask yourself, try to see parallels in political history in countries other than Germany - recognize these patterns and do something - otherwise you maybe next in line. History has a tendency to repeat itself for those who ignore its lessons - politicians, teachers, parents and other leaders, take heed.

This is an excellent, if early, biography of Akbar the Great (who really needs to be analyzed once again in light of the events which have occurred since Indian independence). Smith does not idealize Akbar, being completely honest about his vanity and personal ambition, and yet we get a portrait of a man who was remarkable for his tolerance of all religions and compassion. Although born a Muslim, and hardly a pacifist, he can in a sense can be considered the precursor of Gandhi in his desire to mold India into a united nation that would transcend any one religion. One can only imagine what India would have been like if his successor Aurangzeb had not reversed his policies, calling forth a Hindu national identity, weakening India and thus calling in the British.

This book is the second part of a projected five-part series on the history of Asia from the rise of Islam in the 7th century of the Christian era down to the 18th century. Few scholars would have the courage and even fewer the competence to undertake such an exercise. Nor is this a history of religion or of religious conversion : it is far vaster in its scope and ranges from the study of environments, demography, and economy to kinship, statecraft and military technique. What is more, the author seeks to establish structural linkages and connections between these very diverse historical phenomena - not just in a single region but right across Eurasia from Siberia to Sumatra. He touches, en passant, on issues like the (now extinct) elephant populations of China, horsebreeding in India, and the era of Tibetan military dominance in north-central Asia. The basic paradigm that informs this work is that of the interaction between the herding and trading peoples of Central Asia and the settled farming and city-dwelling populations that lived around them in West, South and East Asia. The great integrative role of Islamic society is seen in its capacity draw and integrate these diverse lifeways and fit them into a single ecumene.

It is inevitable that specialists will find some of Wink's assertions weak and some arguments speculative. Given the imperfect record of the past available to us, no grand synthesis of this type can ever be without some weak spots. I personally felt uncomfortable with the repeated citation of traditions recorded centuries after the events they purported to describe, and the heavy reliance on the stories of Marco Polo. But I would still conclude by saying that this is a book that well repays the reading - it is simply bursting with ideas and information.

Ladybird history books are social history at it's best, from; I would estimate ages 8 to 14 for school use of simply to enjoy. They bring history alive for children, and are filled with fascinating information. As well as bringing alive an animated, exciting past, they also show how events of the past, are with us today, in so many fascinating ways

Alexander the Great, by L Du Garde Peach, traces the life of a man lived more than two thousand years ago, he was one of history's great soldiers, who created an Empire stretching from Macedonia to India.

The book traces his boyhood education by Aristotle, his military campaigns and conquests (with the aid of a map in the inner covers) and his Empire-building and trade.

It is both fascinating and educational , with superb illustrations by Andrew Kenny.

Then this is for you. While working on the WEF competitive reports with Besife Tonwe, we got into a discussion about how despite all the technology advances human nature has changed little in 3000 years. I thought not. Besife's claim was that read Niall Ferguson's House of Rothschild and you pretty much have the narratives of the 1929 crash and the 2000 tech wreck - except they take place between 1798 and 1848. Bose's book was the test and confirms his theory. Rats.

Empire Publishing presents "Allan "Rocky" Lane:Republic's Action Ace", reference book on one of the most interesting cowboy stars who ever rode the Hollywood range with behind the scenes stories of his career...(birth name: Harry Leonard Albershart)...birth date September 22, 1904 in Mishawaka, Indiana...left us October 27. 1973 in Woodland Hills, California...written by one of the best authorities on B-Westerns Chuck Thornton and Western film historian David Rothel... reliving those wonderful years from the past thrilling adventures of B-Western heroes during the Saturday Matinees of yesteryear takes us back to our childhood, family and friends...join us when you read just about everything you ever wanted to know about Republic's action ace...Lane provided the off-camera voice of the talking horse '"Mister Ed" (1961)' on 60s TV series...was Rocky disliked by his co-stars and directors, but worshiped by his fans, find the answer and more from this exceptional book on the "Action Ace of Republic Pictures".

Lane's classic good looks and mellow voice quality made him an ideal candidate for leading man roles...he was 40 years old when starring in B-Western films for Republic Pictures in 1944...Allan assumed the role of Red Ryder from Wild Bill Elliott in 1946...after seven action packed sagebrushes by 1947 the Red Ryder series was discontinued and his new series Allan "Rocky" Lane began...during the next seven years and 38 films later Lane ranked #8 (1951) and #5 (1953) by the "Motion Picture Herald and Fan Magazines"...in the "Who's Who in Western Stars Magazine" ranked in the top ten Western stars.

TABLE OF CONTENTS: (Chapter, Title and Page Numbers)

Acknowledgments
Chapter 1 - Allan "Rocky" Lane, The Fightin'est Cowboy on the Range by Ronnie Jones - 8
Chapter 2 - Earning His Spurs: The First Allan Lane Western Series - 1944-1945 by David Rothel - 16
Filmography by Church Thornton
Chapter 3 - The Third Red Ryder; The Second Allan Lane Western Series - 1946-1947 by David Rothel - 30
Filmography by Church Thornton
Chapter 4 - "Rocky" Rides the Range; The Third Allan Lane Western Series - 1947-1953 by David Rothel - 47
Filmography by Chuck Thornton
Chapter 5 - Straight from the Horse's Mouth; Allan Lane and Mr. Ed - 1961-1966 by David Rothel - 122
Chapter 6 - Allan "Rocky" Lane - The Disliked Cowboy by David Rothel - 127
Chapter 7 - An Allan "Rocky" Lane Scrapbook by David Rothel - 137
Epilogue - 215
Selected Bibliography - 177
About the Author - 178

Brings back so many good memories of my years growing up with Rocky Lane at our neighborhood theater..out of print but now appearing on Amazon as a used copy...Don't hesitate pick up your copy today, wonderful and very informative book by Chuck Thornton, David Rothel (one of my favorite authors)...special thanks to Rhonda Lemons and the staff of Empire Publishing for sharing in detail photographs and articles of this great action star who gave us so much pleasure up there on the big screen...Don't miss this one...Great reading in the days and weeks to come...if you enjoyed this book why not read the complete account of "Roy Barcroft:King of the Badmen", which is the title of Bobby J. Copeland's book on the life and times of "Republic Pictures Number One Villain". Barcroft appeared in B-Westerns and Serials - became one of the most recognized actors, when you heard that familiar voice...you were in for it...pick up your copy on Amazon or Empire Publishing.

Total Pages: 181 ~ Empire Publishing ISBN# 0-944019-09-9 ~ (8/01/1990)

"Alliance and Empire" is the seventh expansion set for the Star Wars Miniatures game, which started with the Rebel Storm Starter set back in September, 2004 (see more about the minis game itself in my addendum below). This set was released to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Star Wars. As such, these figures have a special square bases with "Star Wars" written on the front. HOWEVER, THIS SET IS STILL FULLY COMPATIBLE WITH THE OTHER STAR WARS MINIS SETS. There are 60 different figures in this set. Each booster comes with seven durable, pre-painted minis (including one rare OR one very rare figure).

The first thing I look for in any expansion set are how many characters I recognize from the movies (vs. those that appeared only in the books). I am particularly interested in figures from the original trilogy, and I am happy to say that there are at least 40 figures from the original trilogy in this set. Most are interesting and/or more powerful variations of earlier figures (for example, Boba Fett, Lando Calrissian, Jabba, Wampa, R2-D2 with C-3PO, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, Imperial Governor Tarkin, three different versions of Han Solo, and three different versions of Luke Skywalker). But, some of the figures have never been released before (for example, Wicket the Ewok, Ewok Hang Glider, and Jawa on Ronto). Notably, there are even a few great new common and uncommon figures from the original trilogy in this set (for example, Death Star Trooper, Death Star Gunner, Rebel Commando Strike Leader, Talz Spy, and a variation of the Ewok with a bow -- rather than just melee attack).

The rest of the figures are either from the prequel, the books, or generic/minor characters (however, some of these characters are also very good -- especially for use in the Star Wars RPG).

In sum, this expansion set is excellent for those interested in the original trilogy, and fair for those interested in the prequel.

ADDENDUM: (Please note that I include this addendum at the end of all my Star Wars minis reviews, so if you've read it before, there is no need to read it again.) If you want to play the Star Wars minis game as it was designed to be played, it is best to have at least one starter (each starter comes with game instructions, a map, a D20, terrain tiles that are very helpful and add great variety to the game, and more). I like the Rebel Storm Starter the best because it's from the classic era/trilogy, but the Clone Strike and Revenge of the Sith starters from the newer movies will also work. If you don't want to invest in a starter, you can also get one of the three "Ultimate Missions" books, as each comes with a double sided map and a few smaller terrain tiles (again, I like the Rebel Strom Ultimate Missions book the best because it is also from the classic era/trilogy). Or, you can buy the "Attack on Endor" scenario pack, which comes with TWO double sided maps (in addition to a scaled AT-ST that is fully usable in play). The main point here is that you'll need some type of map/grid. If you don't want to buy a Star Wars one, generic ones are also available at most gaming stores (you can use your imagination to set the scene, or draw terrain with an erasable marker right on the grid). Of course, the minis are also useful for the roleplaying game (RPG) - in which case you may not need a starter or map, but will likely need the "Core Rulebook" instead. Finally, they are just fun to collect for those who like all things Star Wars!

Although this is a National Geographic travel chronicle it reads more like an adventure story. You will not believe what Karin gets herself in to. I don't want to say more for it would spoil your adventure with the book.

This book is also a wonderful exploration of an amazing area. For those who have not been to Peru or neighboring countries, it is a good taste. For those who have visited, it will stir up good memories.

Enjoy!

This is an exellent book to read, while snow and ice falls from the sky. Heading to South America next year, found it to be a great starting point to plan the trip. She has a some great stories to share with others on the trip.

Like other reviewers, my first complaint about this book is the lack of a map!

The drifts into lectures on the Spaniards invasion of the Inca empire got tiresome because there was nothing new to anyone who has read any history of South America already. I found the jumping into local (mostly men's or government-related) activities sometimes surprising and adventurous, sometimes appalling. And it sounds like everything was dirty and the food mostly unappetizing or disgusting, both of which I find hard to believe.

That said, I admire a woman who would undertake such a trek on a semi-solo basis (having a photographer along takes away much of the solo aspect). I found the first chapter, the brink of the adventure, the most appealing. It would have been interesting to have a little more background on Karin herself and on how National Geographic funded it. Did she have to stay in hovels because there weren't enough funds, or was that a personal choice (likely because she notes her disdain for luxury hotels).

Basically, I was glad I read the library's copy and didn't purchase my own.

I decided to read this book with much caution; it seemed at best a very superficial account of an adventurous travel narrative. While I applaud the author's courage and willingness to endanger herself for the sake of telling a good story, her willingness to learn about Andean traditions along the Inca road camouflages her ingrained ignorance and arrogance of people and cultures of the Andean region.

I did not expect to read an anthropological analysis of the author's encounters along the Inca Road, but neither did I expect her demeaning attitude of indigenous culture. Muller's treatment of events and traditions she encountered reflects a shallow understanding of Andean cultures. The precise moment where my disgust of the author's vision overcame my interest in her adventures occurred when she described an Aymara person speaking in a mixture of broken Spanish and in the Aymara dialect. This statement completely overlooks the fact that Spanish varieties exist in various forms and that the Aymara language was never a dialect, but a language of a civilization that predates the Incas.

For centuries, the process of translating cultures has exacerbated the conditions of difference, and the wide gap between the "us versus them". While, the author seems to want to avoid further alienation between the materialistically modernized, namely herself, and the Andean world, her contributions fall into this category. She paints herself a heroic woman, challenging social roles and customs, but along the way proves that the stereotypical version of the "ugly American" still exists in ignorant travelers.
While I commend her efforts in her travel narrative, I caution all readers to not read her book for cultural understanding of the region.

The strange thing about this book is that theoretically everything's fine about it - looking for and at the remains of a fascinating culture, the author taking part in the local rituals and daily life, writing of acceptable quality. It should be grand - and still I don't like it for some reason.

What made this book quite tiresome was Karin Muller's lack of a sense of humor. It is my firm belief that it is very hard to write a breathtaking book about a difficult journey without being able to see the funny side of different situations. Perhaps that was why I can't say I like the author as a person - and since this book is based on her personal experiences, that itself takes away from the fun of reading this book. Also - as another reviewer correctly noted - she constantly tries to do things that are only done by men in this country, ignoring the gender roles there are a part of the local culture. Is it some misguided attempt to show that women are equal to men? It's certainly very out of place in this country of so ancient traditions.

Karin Muller's descriptions lack real vividness, and she is considers too many local people to be weird. True, their lifestyle is quite different, but it can be said with absolute certainty that so are the lifestyles of many individuals of her own country. She gives fake respect to the world views of these people, talking about how perhaps that is the right way to live. It is obvious she doesn't have the intention of ever doing so.

My review is almost certainly too negative, do not expect the book to be so bad, but I have outlined the main faults simply trying to guess why I instinctively didn't like this book.

And - too much amateur philosophy, perhaps?

Rothel has done it again. Fresh thoughts about old familiar places. He is tune with the spirit of the old west and has a rare understanding of the Hollywood machine. He translates this world into everyday language for lovers of the west and westerns like me. I can feel the rustle of the sagebrush and feel the Indian eyes watching me as I leaf through the book. Well done!