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  Exploring Shakespeare - A...

  Bill Alexander

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  'Theatre is the greatest of collaborative art forms, and Shakespeare its greatest exponent: he used the form better than anyone else ever has to speak truth about the world.'
  In Exploring Shakespeare, acclaimed theatre director Bill Alexander takes us inside the rehearsal room to reveal – in unprecedented and captivating detail – exactly what happens there. He examines the key relationship between the actors and the director, how they work together to bring Shakespeare's vision to life, and how choices are made that will shape every aspect of the play in production.
  Full of acute observations and perceptions drawn from a long and brilliant career, the book covers the essential aspects of any Shakespeare production, from understanding the world of the play, to preparing and cutting the text, deciding on costumes and set design, handling soliloquies, and considering character and backstory.
  There are detailed studies of eight plays spanning the full length and breadth of the Shakespearean canon, from Titus Andronicus and The Shrew to The Tempest, via Othello, Hamlet, Lear, The Merchant of Venice and Twelfth Night. Alexander also provides first-hand case studies of three of his own productions, including his famous Richard III starring Antony Sher.
  Personal, forthright, and full of pragmatic advice, Exploring Shakespeare is a masterclass for directors and actors, and a fascinating insight for anyone interested in Shakespeare.
  Bill Alexander was an Associate Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and then Artistic Director of Birmingham Rep. His landmark productions include Richard III and The Merry Wives of Windsor (both Olivier Award-winners), The Merchant of Venice, The Taming of the Shrew, Titus Andronicus and King Lear with Corin Redgrave.
  'Bill Alexander is a brilliant director, whose work has powerfully shaped my understanding of Shakespeare's plays, Richard III most of all' James Shapiro, author of 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare

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  Fever - The Complete History of...

  Margo Donohue

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  Saturday Night Fever made millions at the box office, earned an Oscar nomination for John Travolta, catapulted The Bee Gees' music career into the stratosphere with a record-breaking, Grammy-winning soundtrack album, and ignited a "disco inferno" that burns to this day. From Travolta's iconic white polyester suit and legendary dance moves, to the flashing lights and illuminated floor of the Odyssey disco in Brooklyn, Saturday Night Fever captured the era like no other film—and launched a phenomenon that changed the world forever. 
   
   
   
  Here, for the first time, is the complete history of Saturday Night Fever. From the New York magazine article that inspired the film—"Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night" by Nik Cohn—to the on-and-off-set dramas of Travolta, director John Badham, and producer Robert Stigwood, this deep dive into the making of a movie classic also includes special interviews with actors Donna Pescow and Joseph Cali, among others. It explores the huge impact of the film on the industry—including a "Death to Disco" backlash—as well as on American culture itself. With modern-day insights into its 1970s-era portrayals of gender, sex, and race, this is a richly detailed, delightfully entertaining celebration as glittering and multi-faceted as a mirrored disco ball. It's a must-listen for every movie and music lover who's ever caught the Fever . . .

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  Fragmentation and Conflict - A...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The grand narrative of Chinese history is often presented as a seamless succession of unified dynasties. Yet between these periods of unity, China experienced crucial eras of division that profoundly shaped its cultural and political development. "Fragmentation and Conflict: A Divided China" examines three fascinating periods when competing states vied for dominance across the Chinese landscape. 
  Following the collapse of the Han Dynasty, the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 CE) saw China fractured into the competing states of Wei, Shu, and Wu. This era of military genius, political intrigue, and strategic maneuvering became immortalized in the classic novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms," transforming historical figures like Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and Sun Quan into cultural icons. Beyond the battlefield drama, these rival states developed distinct regional cultures and governance approaches while competing for legitimacy as the true inheritors of the Han legacy. 
  The Jin Dynasty (265-420 CE) briefly reunified China before succumbing to internal rebellions and nomadic invasions, leading to further fragmentation. This tumultuous period witnessed massive population movements as northern Chinese fled southward, dramatically reshaping the cultural geography of China while Buddhist influence expanded significantly throughout society. 
  Centuries later, as the Song Dynasty controlled much of traditional China, the Western Xia (1038-1227 CE) emerged as a powerful independent state in the northwest. Founded by the Tangut people, this sophisticated kingdom developed its own unique script, produced remarkable Buddhist art, and maintained a complex relationship with its Chinese and nomadic neighbors before ultimately falling to the Mongol conquest.

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  The Youtube Growth Blueprint -...

  Austen Porter

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  Contrary to popular belief, the YouTube platform is not dead. In this audiobook, author Austen Porter shares insider tips and expertise and guides you through everything you need to start a successful YouTube channel from scratch. From all topics from making your first video to dealing with burnout and creative ruts, Austen Porter provides a new perspective and advice to grow on social media.

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  The Qin Dynasty - Unifying China

  Jun Liu

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  The Qin state emerged as one of the most formidable powers during the Warring States Period, a time of intense conflict and political fragmentation in ancient China. Situated in the western frontier, Qin was once considered a relatively backward state compared to its eastern rivals. However, through strategic reforms, military innovations, and a firm commitment to Legalist principles, Qin transformed itself into the dominant force that would eventually unify China. 
  One of the key factors in Qin’s rise was the implementation of Legalist policies under the statesman Shang Yang. In the fourth century BCE, Shang Yang introduced a series of reforms that fundamentally reshaped Qin society. These policies emphasized strict laws, centralized authority, and merit-based advancements. Land ownership was restructured to allow farmers more direct control over their land, encouraging agricultural productivity and economic growth. At the same time, a rigid legal code was enforced, ensuring discipline among the population while diminishing the power of aristocratic families. By weakening the influence of hereditary nobles and promoting individuals based on their abilities, Shang Yang’s reforms created a more efficient and loyal administrative system that strengthened Qin’s central government. 
  The military advancements of Qin also played a crucial role in its ascendance. Unlike other states that relied heavily on noble warriors, Qin adopted a professional army system that allowed for greater discipline and efficiency. The state implemented mass conscription, ensuring a steady supply of soldiers trained under strict military codes. Advanced weaponry, including iron swords and crossbows, gave Qin troops a significant advantage on the battlefield. Additionally, the construction of an extensive road network allowed for rapid troop movements, enabling Qin forces to respond quickly to threats and expand their territorial control.

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  Hanukkah Is Here

  Kim Mitzo Thompson, Karen Mitzo...

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  Kids will love this sweet story/song combination as they listen to “Hanukkah is Here”  and follow along word-for-word in the adorably illustrated eBook. Rhyme and repetition will teach children about this Jewish holiday. This adorably illustrated eBook encourages learning through music and introduces children to important early literacy skills.

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