Other books that might interest you

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  Oz Clarke’s Story of Wine: 8000...

  Oz Clarke

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  Uncork a whole new take on the fascinating story of wine, captivatingly told by everyone’s favourite wine expert Oz Clarke.  
  This fully updated edition takes us through the riveting twists and turns of the history of winemaking all the way to the very latest trials and innovations of the present day… 
  Join Oz Clarke on a journey through the ages as he explores the places, the people and the bottles that have shaped the captivating history of wine. 
  Starting from the probable birth of a wine culture in ancient Georgia, Oz travels from 6000 BC through the fact and fiction of Persia, Egypt, Greece and Rome, and then along the winding trail right up to the latest innovations in winemaking today. 
  Packed with sparkling wit and charismatic storytelling, Oz shares more than a hundred fascinating tales and woven into these are probably a hundred more. From revered medieval monks to revolutionary discoveries, Oz paints a wonderfully vivid picture of the ever-evolving story of wine. 
  The book is a non-fiction masterpiece, taking readers on a road trip through the world of beverages. It's a top pick for those interested in cooking, antiques, and collectibles, especially those related to alcoholic drinks. 
  For fans of Hugh Johnson (Hugh Johnson on Wine), Madeline Puckette (Wine Folly), Henry Jeffreys (The Cocktail Dictionary), Jamie Goode (The Goode Guide to Wine), and Stephen Skelton (Vine Varieties, Clones and Rootstocks for UK Vineyards 2nd Ed.). 
  HarperCollins 2023

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  Chimú Empire - The Kingdom of...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The Chimú Empire, one of the most prominent pre-Columbian civilizations of the northern coast of Peru, flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries. This advanced civilization is known for its impressive urban centers, most notably the capital city of Chan Chan, which remains the largest adobe city in the world. At its height, the Chimú Empire controlled vast territories, from the southern border of the Moche Valley to the northern regions of present-day Ecuador. The empire was characterized by its highly structured society, advanced technology, and unique artistic traditions, which helped shape the cultural landscape of the Andean region. 
  The roots of the Chimú Empire trace back to the Moche culture, which had a significant influence on the development of the Chimú. However, the Chimú people took the foundational knowledge of their predecessors and expanded upon it, creating a powerful and sophisticated society. They established a series of city-states along the coast, which were eventually unified under the leadership of a single ruler, the Chimú king, who governed from Chan Chan. 
  The Chimú Empire’s political structure was highly organized, with a well-defined hierarchy that ranged from the elite rulers to the common people. The king, or "Sapa Chimú," was considered the most powerful figure, acting as both a political and spiritual leader. The empire was divided into regions, each overseen by local lords who managed administrative and religious duties within their territories. This hierarchical structure helped maintain control over the vast lands and resources of the empire.

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  Zhou Dynasty - Philosophy and...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The Zhou Dynasty emerged as a dominant force in ancient China following the decline of the Shang Dynasty. Its rise was marked by strategic alliances, military conquests, and the introduction of the Mandate of Heaven, a concept that would define Chinese rulership for centuries. The Zhou people, originally a semi-nomadic tribe living in the Wei River Valley, gradually expanded their influence through diplomacy and warfare, positioning themselves as challengers to Shang authority.  
  King Wen of Zhou played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the dynasty’s ascent. A respected leader known for his wisdom and virtue, he strengthened alliances with neighboring tribes and promoted administrative reforms that would later become the foundation of Zhou governance. However, it was his son, King Wu, who ultimately led the military campaign that overthrew the Shang. The decisive battle took place at Muye around 1046 BCE, where the Zhou army, though numerically inferior, defeated the Shang forces due to superior strategy and the defection of many Shang soldiers who had grown discontented with their rulers. 
  Following their victory, the Zhou established a new political order centered around the Mandate of Heaven. This doctrine asserted that the right to rule was granted by divine authority, but it was not absolute—rulers had to govern justly and maintain moral integrity to retain legitimacy. If they failed, they could be overthrown, as had been the case with the Shang. This belief not only justified the Zhou conquest but also set a precedent for the dynastic cycle in China.

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  Great Patient One

  Ajahn Sucitto, Nick Scott

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  This book is a sequel to Rude Awakenings which began the account of a six-month epic journey by two Englishmen, a monk and layman, around the Buddhist holy places in India. Rude Awakenings was a great adventure story. 
  While the second part of the journey still had its share of adventure, and some amazing encounters with wildlife including tiger, the novelty of the endeavour had worn off, and the two pilgrims came face to face with both their own and the other’s deeper humanity. 
  Thus Great Patient One is, for both Ajahn Sucitto and Nick, the more valuable of the two accounts, as in this volume they share their deeper lessons and the powerful resolution of the journey they both experienced at its end. 
  “Just as this pair of travellers were challenged, inspired, and transformed by their journey, we find ourselves similarly changed.“ Ajahn Amaro, Abbot of Amaravati Buddhist Monastery

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  This Autistic Girl Went to Japan...

  Bianca Toeps

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  This Autistic Girl Went to Japan is the inspiring story of a young woman who moved halfway around the world in pursuit of happiness. With humor and remarkable candor, Bianca describes the challenges of applying for a visa during a time of terrifying uncertainty, slogging through endless red tape, and the loneliness that comes with being a stranger in a strange land. Oh, and how she wound up evicting a bat from her new apartment, attending a Pokémon GO event with a bunch of middle-aged women, and discovering the best thrift store in all of Tokyo. Along the way, she explains why she feels so at home in Japan, where things are often a bit easier for autistic folks. Well, except for revenue stamps. And opening a bank account. And faxes.

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  Iceland's Enchanting Landscapes...

  Eleanor Blake

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  Embark on an unforgettable voyage through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes with "Iceland's Enchanting Landscapes: Exploring the Magic of the Midnight Sun." This immersive travel guidebook invites you to discover the wonders of one of the world's most captivating destinations, where fire and ice converge to create a landscape of unparalleled beauty and adventure. 
  From the vibrant streets of Reykjavik to the remote wilderness of the Westfjords, this guidebook takes you on a comprehensive tour of Iceland's diverse regions, uncovering hidden gems and must-see attractions along the way. Delve into the country's rich cultural heritage as you explore ancient sagas, folklore, and traditional music, and marvel at the resilience of its people in the face of adversity. 
  But Iceland's real magic lies in its natural wonders, from towering glaciers and cascading waterfalls to steaming geothermal springs and serene fjords. With practical advice and insider tips on everything from transportation and accommodation to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, this guidebook is your essential companion for exploring the Land of Fire and Ice. 
  Whether you're drawn to Iceland's dramatic landscapes, its rich cultural heritage, or the allure of the Midnight Sun, "Iceland's Enchanting Landscapes" promises to inspire, inform, and delight. So pack your bags, set your sights on Iceland, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonders that await you.

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