Publisher: Imagination Books
China Beauty Through Watercolors A wonderful collection of watercolor paintings of this beautiful country, showcasing the sublime and amazing sites through the beauty of the brush stroke...Get it now!
The Asuka Period (538–710) marks a pivotal era in Japan’s history, serving as the transitional phase between the ancient Kofun Period and the Nara Period. This era is often considered the birthplace of Japanese civilization, a time when the political, religious, and cultural foundations of the nation began to take shape. It was during this period that Japan first came into direct contact with continental Asia, particularly through the introduction of Buddhism, the establishment of a centralized government, and the adoption of Chinese-style political and legal systems. The early years of the Asuka Period were dominated by the Soga clan, who played a crucial role in the political and religious developments of the time. Their influence can be seen in their advocacy for the adoption of Buddhism, which arrived in Japan from Korea around the mid-sixth century. Buddhism’s introduction, however, was met with resistance from the powerful native Shinto religious leaders and aristocracy, creating a conflict that would shape the religious landscape of Japan for centuries to come. Despite early opposition, Buddhism gradually took hold in Japan. The Soga clan, with the support of the royal family, used Buddhism as a tool to consolidate power and gain legitimacy. By the late 6th century, the religion had become deeply integrated into the fabric of Japanese society, influencing not only spiritual practices but also politics, art, and culture.Show book
Find Peace, Calm, and Emotional Renewal In today’s fast-paced world, achieving deep relaxation and restorative sleep can feel like an impossible task. This transformative guide offers you the tools to achieve emotional healing, release stress, and reclaim your well-being. By combining holistic approaches with mindful practices, this book empowers you to take control of your sleep and emotional health, leading to more peaceful, rejuvenating nights. The methods presented in this book are designed to help you embrace serenity and establish effective evening routines that promote relaxation. You’ll discover how simple practices can nurture balance and bring clarity to your mind, allowing you to fully unwind after a busy day. Whether you are looking to improve the quality of your sleep, reduce anxiety, or simply promote a sense of inner peace, the tools provided in this guide will support your journey to emotional renewal. This book goes beyond just sleep—it’s about restoring your mind and body, helping you unlock the well-being and rejuvenation that comes with deep emotional and physical rest. Through actionable advice, you will learn to cultivate habits that create a lasting sense of peace and clarity, leaving you feeling more grounded and resilient in your everyday life. By embracing these practices, you’ll experience a significant shift toward greater emotional balance, less stress, and more fulfilling nights of sleep. Whether you're seeking personal growth, emotional healing, or simply a better way to end your day, this guide will be an essential resource on your path to better rest and overall health.Show book
WINNER in the Architectural Book Awards 2024. SHORTLISTED in the British Book Design and Production Awards 2024. A celebration of sea swimming – looking at the architecture, history and social significance of sea pools around the world. The sea can be challenging and changeable. Protected from the dangers of currents, crashing waves and extreme cold, sea pools (also known as tidal or ocean pools) are manmade pools that provide a safe space for swimmers to enjoy the benefits of the sea at all states of the tide and weather. Sea Pools begins with an introduction to sea pools within the history of outdoor swimming, their unique designs and architectural significance and commentary on the resurgent appreciation for sea swimming in the 21st century. Chris Romer-Lee selects 66 of the most beautiful and culturally significant sea pools from around the world, including the 25-metre cliffside Avalon Rock Pool in new South Wales, Australia, the sublime Pozo de las Calcosas in Spain that is shrouded in volcanic rock, and Ireland's historic Vico Baths to name but a few. Sea Pools also includes four insightful essays: Nicola Larkin looks to the next generation of ocean pools in her exploration of how we can conserve, protect and regenerate the coastline; Therese Spruhan testifies to the healing and transformative benefits of ocean swimming; Freya Bromley discusses her odyssey to swim in every sea pool in Britain; and Kevin Fellingham reflects on the importance of sea pools in South Africa. The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful colour photography, as well as fascinating archive material to give an insight into the provenance of these vital sanctuaries.Show book
Forest celebrates the diverse ways in which trees and forests are as magnificent, economically relevant and profoundly enchanting today as they ever have been. Journeying across the continents, Matt Collins and Roo Lewis tie together both the historical context and modern-day applications of some of the world's most fascinating and iconic trees. Forest is a celebration of the diverse ways in which trees and forests are as magnificent, economically relevant and profoundly enchanting today as they ever have been. Journeying across the continents, writer Matt Collins and photographer Roo Lewis tie together both the historical context and modern-day applications of some of the world's most fascinating and iconic trees. They explore the heritage of woodlands from around the world and meet those whose lives are inexplicably bound to them. The book is divided into 10 main chapters, each of which explores a tree from a particular genus – Pine, Juniper, Oak, Hornbeam, Cherry, Beech, Birch, Chestnut, Douglas-fir and Poplar. Each chapter provides the reader with a short introduction to the tree, followed by a journalistic account of its relevance to modern day-life (from gin making on Isle of Islay to a truffle farm in Spain), and concludes with an account of the tree in its native forest (from hornbeams in the Ironwoods of Ontario to firs on Vancouver Island). Captured on medium-format film, Roo’s stunning, rich colour images are the perfect companion to Matt’s engaging storytelling and botanical knowledge. Forest crafts a captivating interpretation of the story of the forest through the trees. In Forest, Matt Collins delves into the heart of our planet's most vital ecosystems, exploring the intricate balance between plants, animals, and their habitats. With a focus on conservation, this non-fiction masterpiece takes readers on a journey through the world's most stunning rainforests, revealing the importance of their protection for the future of our earth. For fans of Fiona Danks (Run Wild!), Jo Schofield (Go Wild!), and Bear Grylls (Soul Fuel). HarperCollins 2025Show book
This fascinating painting, entitled ‘After Midnight Mass, Fifteenth Century’, was exhibited by George Henry Boughton at the Royal Academy in 1897 and is now hidden away in a private collection. Did her creator know who she was, this lady of high birth emerging from the cathedral in the snow with her companion at her elbow? And who was the young man with yellow hair who is stepping forward from the crowd, hoping to attract her attention?Within the covers of this book, the reader will discover her story, the story of a little serf with chestnut curls and violet eyes...Show book
The Oyo Empire, one of the most powerful and influential states in West Africa, has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. Located in what is today southwestern Nigeria, the empire was a major force in the region, known for its military prowess, sophisticated political system, and extensive trade networks. The history of the Oyo Empire dates back to the 14th century, when it emerged as one of the leading Yoruba kingdoms in the area. Over time, Oyo became a dominant power in West Africa, shaping the political, economic, and cultural landscape of the region. At its height, the Oyo Empire controlled a vast territory stretching across modern-day Nigeria and parts of Benin and Togo. The empire was strategically positioned along important trade routes, allowing it to thrive economically and maintain strong ties with neighboring kingdoms. Its economy was based primarily on agriculture, with crops such as yams, millet, and sorghum being grown in abundance. Additionally, the Oyo people were involved in long-distance trade, exchanging goods like kola nuts, textiles, and metalwork with other African states and even European traders. Politically, the Oyo Empire was an advanced and well-organized state. The Alafin, the emperor of Oyo, was the supreme ruler and held significant authority over the empire. However, the Alafin did not rule alone. The Oyo Mesi, a council of chiefs, played a critical role in governance, advising the Alafin and ensuring the balance of power. This system of governance allowed the empire to remain stable for centuries, even as it faced external threats and internal challenges. The military was also a key component of the empire’s strength, with the Oyo army being one of the most formidable in West Africa. The empire’s military success was due in part to its highly disciplined forces, as well as the use of cavalry, which gave it a tactical advantage over its enemies.Show book
