Author: Brandy L Rivers
Publisher: Brandy L Rivers
ISBN: 0463367367
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 306
Book Description
No matter how far you run, the past always catches up. Mark Wellings started life as a witch, but he’d locked the memories away when he became a werewolf and gave up his magic. Now nightmares remind him of the hell he escaped. Gina Somerset cannot remember the tragic circumstances that led to her becoming a werewolf. Mark eased a deep fear from the first time they made eye contact. Now she wants to help him face his own dark past. Something evil lingers and Mark senses the danger. Everything changes in one fateful moment when Gina is captured by vampires. One of the witches abducted recognize Mark and tells the remaining members of his old coven. What brings Mark and Gina closer together may tear them apart as Mark’s past catches up.
Woven Fates
Author: Brandy L Rivers
Publisher: Brandy L Rivers
ISBN: 0463367367
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 306
Book Description
No matter how far you run, the past always catches up. Mark Wellings started life as a witch, but he’d locked the memories away when he became a werewolf and gave up his magic. Now nightmares remind him of the hell he escaped. Gina Somerset cannot remember the tragic circumstances that led to her becoming a werewolf. Mark eased a deep fear from the first time they made eye contact. Now she wants to help him face his own dark past. Something evil lingers and Mark senses the danger. Everything changes in one fateful moment when Gina is captured by vampires. One of the witches abducted recognize Mark and tells the remaining members of his old coven. What brings Mark and Gina closer together may tear them apart as Mark’s past catches up.
Publisher: Brandy L Rivers
ISBN: 0463367367
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 306
Book Description
No matter how far you run, the past always catches up. Mark Wellings started life as a witch, but he’d locked the memories away when he became a werewolf and gave up his magic. Now nightmares remind him of the hell he escaped. Gina Somerset cannot remember the tragic circumstances that led to her becoming a werewolf. Mark eased a deep fear from the first time they made eye contact. Now she wants to help him face his own dark past. Something evil lingers and Mark senses the danger. Everything changes in one fateful moment when Gina is captured by vampires. One of the witches abducted recognize Mark and tells the remaining members of his old coven. What brings Mark and Gina closer together may tear them apart as Mark’s past catches up.
Of Woven Fates
Author: Megan Formanek
Publisher: Life Itinerant Publishing
ISBN: 0648808874
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 78
Book Description
A world bound by fate and kin, entangled by the guile of men. Svealand 877 CE Married off by her mother, Astrid finds herself trapped in a life of domesticity, far from the freedom she once knew. Confined to her husband’s settlement, she faces his resentful son, who seeks to usurp authority, and the looming inheritance dispute that overshadows Astrid’s future. Astrid must navigate the treacherous waters of her new reality, contending with the fate the Norns have spun. With her husband’s health failing, Astrid faces a crucial challenge: can she find a way to influence the inheritance and secure her future, or will she be left vulnerable to forces beyond her control? Fans of adventurous Viking stories will be captivated by Of Woven Fates. Immerse yourself in the Viking Trading Lands series, a dramatic Viking historical adventure inspired by archaeological evidence. "These are characters who command our attention from beginning to end. The hardships and fragility of 9th century life are everywhere present, as are the simple but real satisfactions of food and drink, warmth and firelight." - Octavia Randolph, Author of The Circle of Ceridwen Saga
Publisher: Life Itinerant Publishing
ISBN: 0648808874
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 78
Book Description
A world bound by fate and kin, entangled by the guile of men. Svealand 877 CE Married off by her mother, Astrid finds herself trapped in a life of domesticity, far from the freedom she once knew. Confined to her husband’s settlement, she faces his resentful son, who seeks to usurp authority, and the looming inheritance dispute that overshadows Astrid’s future. Astrid must navigate the treacherous waters of her new reality, contending with the fate the Norns have spun. With her husband’s health failing, Astrid faces a crucial challenge: can she find a way to influence the inheritance and secure her future, or will she be left vulnerable to forces beyond her control? Fans of adventurous Viking stories will be captivated by Of Woven Fates. Immerse yourself in the Viking Trading Lands series, a dramatic Viking historical adventure inspired by archaeological evidence. "These are characters who command our attention from beginning to end. The hardships and fragility of 9th century life are everywhere present, as are the simple but real satisfactions of food and drink, warmth and firelight." - Octavia Randolph, Author of The Circle of Ceridwen Saga
Woven Fates: Crimson and Silver
Author: Jesus Arredondo
Publisher: Xlibris Corporation
ISBN: 1456881639
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 400
Book Description
For years weve scurried about in the underworlds of society. We hid in plain sight, avoiding confl ict with the Human race. Weve always had a set of rules, guidelines to keep our kind safe. But they are broken, futile rules. No one obeys them, no one cares for them, and we just go through the motions. Like a loveless marriage we just stay out of each others way, let the others do as they wish as long as they dont mess with us. Well, those were the good ole days. Someone decided to break the uneasy balance between our species and the Humans; this is now boiling down to a critical point. Its us or them, kill or be killed, unless
Publisher: Xlibris Corporation
ISBN: 1456881639
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 400
Book Description
For years weve scurried about in the underworlds of society. We hid in plain sight, avoiding confl ict with the Human race. Weve always had a set of rules, guidelines to keep our kind safe. But they are broken, futile rules. No one obeys them, no one cares for them, and we just go through the motions. Like a loveless marriage we just stay out of each others way, let the others do as they wish as long as they dont mess with us. Well, those were the good ole days. Someone decided to break the uneasy balance between our species and the Humans; this is now boiling down to a critical point. Its us or them, kill or be killed, unless
God of War II
Author: Robert E. Vardeman
Publisher: Random House Worlds
ISBN: 0345508688
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 370
Book Description
All the majesty and mayhem of Greek mythology springs to life once more in the powerful second novel based on the bestselling and critically acclaimed God of War® franchise. Once the mighty warrior Kratos was a slave to the gods, bound to do their savage bidding. After destroying Ares, the God of War, Kratos was granted his freedom by Zeus—and even given the ousted god’s throne on Olympus. But the other gods of the pantheon didn’t take kindly to Kratos’s ascension and, in turn, conspired against him. Banished, Kratos must ally himself with the despised Titans, ancient enemies of the Olympians, in order to take revenge and silence the nightmares that haunt him. God of War II takes the videogame’s action to electrifying new heights, and adds ever more fascinating layers to the larger-than-life tale of Kratos.
Publisher: Random House Worlds
ISBN: 0345508688
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 370
Book Description
All the majesty and mayhem of Greek mythology springs to life once more in the powerful second novel based on the bestselling and critically acclaimed God of War® franchise. Once the mighty warrior Kratos was a slave to the gods, bound to do their savage bidding. After destroying Ares, the God of War, Kratos was granted his freedom by Zeus—and even given the ousted god’s throne on Olympus. But the other gods of the pantheon didn’t take kindly to Kratos’s ascension and, in turn, conspired against him. Banished, Kratos must ally himself with the despised Titans, ancient enemies of the Olympians, in order to take revenge and silence the nightmares that haunt him. God of War II takes the videogame’s action to electrifying new heights, and adds ever more fascinating layers to the larger-than-life tale of Kratos.
Fates and Traitors
Author: Jennifer Chiaverini
Publisher: Penguin
ISBN: 0698404130
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 418
Book Description
The New York Times bestselling author of Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker and Canary Girls returns with a riveting work of historical fiction following the notorious John Wilkes Booth and the four women who kept his perilous confidence. John Wilkes Booth, the mercurial son of an acclaimed British stage actor and a Covent Garden flower girl, committed one of the most notorious acts in American history—the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The subject of more than a century of scholarship, speculation, and even obsession, Booth is often portrayed as a shadowy figure, a violent loner whose single murderous act made him the most hated man in America. Lost to history until now is the story of the four women whom he loved and who loved him in return: Mary Ann, the steadfast matriarch of the Booth family; Asia, his loyal sister and confidante; Lucy Lambert Hale, the senator’s daughter who adored Booth yet tragically misunderstood the intensity of his wrath; and Mary Surratt, the Confederate widow entrusted with the secrets of his vengeful plot. Fates and Traitors brings to life pivotal actors—some willing, others unwitting—who made an indelible mark on the history of our nation. Chiaverini portrays not just a soul in turmoil but a country at the precipice of immense change.
Publisher: Penguin
ISBN: 0698404130
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 418
Book Description
The New York Times bestselling author of Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker and Canary Girls returns with a riveting work of historical fiction following the notorious John Wilkes Booth and the four women who kept his perilous confidence. John Wilkes Booth, the mercurial son of an acclaimed British stage actor and a Covent Garden flower girl, committed one of the most notorious acts in American history—the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The subject of more than a century of scholarship, speculation, and even obsession, Booth is often portrayed as a shadowy figure, a violent loner whose single murderous act made him the most hated man in America. Lost to history until now is the story of the four women whom he loved and who loved him in return: Mary Ann, the steadfast matriarch of the Booth family; Asia, his loyal sister and confidante; Lucy Lambert Hale, the senator’s daughter who adored Booth yet tragically misunderstood the intensity of his wrath; and Mary Surratt, the Confederate widow entrusted with the secrets of his vengeful plot. Fates and Traitors brings to life pivotal actors—some willing, others unwitting—who made an indelible mark on the history of our nation. Chiaverini portrays not just a soul in turmoil but a country at the precipice of immense change.
"We Three"
Author: Laura Annawyn Shamas
Publisher: Peter Lang
ISBN: 9780820479330
Category : Drama
Languages : en
Pages : 156
Book Description
Original Scholarly Monograph
Publisher: Peter Lang
ISBN: 9780820479330
Category : Drama
Languages : en
Pages : 156
Book Description
Original Scholarly Monograph
Destiny and You
Author: Mei Lin Zhang
Publisher: Xspurts.com
ISBN: 1991093373
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 169
Book Description
"Destiny is not predetermined, but something that we shape with every decision we make." Immerse yourself in the exploration of destiny with our book, "Destiny and You: An Intertwined Journey". This comprehensive guide delves deep into the understanding and exploration of destiny from a multitude of perspectives, creating an engaging and insightful journey through its pages. Our book begins with defining and understanding destiny from different perspectives and cultures, helping you grasp this complex and often misunderstood concept. It further explores the intricate connection between destiny, fate, and free will, providing a philosophical outlook on these interrelated themes. Whether it's destiny in Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism or Islam, you'll get a broad view on how different religions interpret this mystifying topic. No exploration of destiny is complete without examining its role in literature, mythology, psychology, and science. You'll be treated to fascinating discourses on Greek mythology, Shakespearean tragedies, and the role of destiny in mental health. We then explore the intriguing debate between genetic determinism and environmental influences, giving you a nuanced view on the factors that may shape our destinies. "Destiny and You" further delves into the impact of destiny beliefs on personal development, relationships, and even in times of crisis. Explore how goal setting, dreams, and relationships intertwine with destiny, helping you navigate life's challenges. Learn about the art of acceptance and surrendering to destiny, and how personal growth and transformation can rewrite your destiny. This book also discusses the ethical implications of believing in destiny and how different cultures and societies interpret it. Understand the paradox of destiny and the eternal debate between free will and destiny. Uncover the role of destiny in art, popular culture, and how it is reflected in films and television. Not forgetting the younger generation, "Destiny and You" provides valuable insights on teaching destiny to children and instilling a healthy understanding of it in young minds. Lastly, embark on a reflective journey of destiny as it pertains to your past, present, and future, and how you can embrace uncertainty to navigate the unpredictable nature of destiny. "Destiny and You: An Intertwined Journey" is not just a book, it's an enriching exploration of a life-long quest for meaning, understanding, and the search for purpose. It is sure to leave you with a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of destiny, making it a compelling read for those yearning for wisdom and enlightenment on this fascinating subject.Table of Contents Understanding Destiny: Definitions and Perspectives The Concept of Destiny in Different Cultures Destiny, Fate, and Free Will: Unraveling the Differences The Philosophy of Destiny Predetermined Destiny: Exploring Determinism Shaping Destiny: The Role of Free Will and Choice Destiny and Religion: Divine Plans and Human Actions Destiny in Christianity: Predestination and Divine Providence Karma and Destiny in Hinduism and Buddhism Qadr: The Concept of Destiny in Islam Destiny in Literature and Mythology Greek Mythology and the Moirai: Spinners of Destiny Shakespearean Tragedies: Fate and Destiny in Literature Destiny and Psychology: A Look at Destiny Beliefs The Impact of Destiny Beliefs on Mental Health How Destiny Beliefs Shape Our Decisions and Actions The Science of Destiny: Genetics, Environment, and Destiny Genetic Determinism: How Much Does DNA Dictate Destiny? The Influence of Environment and Upbringing on Destiny Destiny and Personal Development: The Role of Goals and Dreams Setting Goals to Shape Your Destiny The Power of Dreams in Determining Destiny Destiny and Relationships: Soulmates, Twin Flames, and Destiny The Idea of Soulmate: Destiny or Choice? Twin Flames and the Concept of Shared Destiny Shaping Your Own Destiny: Tools and Strategies The Power of Positive Thinking and Affirmations Law of Attraction: Manifesting Your Destiny Destiny vs. Chance: The Randomness of Life The Role of Chance and Randomness in Shaping Destiny Harnessing Chance: Turning Random Events into Destiny Embracing Destiny: Acceptance and Surrender The Art of Acceptance: Embracing Your Destiny Surrendering to Destiny: Letting Go and Trusting the Journey Revising Destiny: Change, Growth, and Transformation Change: The Only Constant in Shaping Destiny Personal Growth and Transformation: Rewriting Your Destiny Destiny: A Journey, Not a Destination Embracing the Journey of Destiny Understanding that Destiny is Ever-evolving and Fluid Destiny and Success: How Goal Setting Affects Your Path The Role of Ambition in Shaping Destiny How Destiny Influences Career Success and Fulfillment The Role of Destiny in Times of Crisis Understanding Destiny in the Midst of Life's Storms Learning from Crisis: How Difficult Times Influence Destiny Destiny and Spirituality: The Higher Purpose The Role of Destiny in Spiritual Enlightenment Spiritual Teachings on Destiny from Around the World The Impact of Destiny on Identity and Self-concept How Beliefs about Destiny Shape Our Self-perception The Influence of Destiny on Personal Identity Destiny and Morality: The Ethical Implications of Believing in Destiny Exploring the Ethical Dilemmas Inherent in Destiny Beliefs The Role of Destiny in Moral Decision Making Destiny and Culture: How Different Societies Interpret Destiny A Global Perspective on Destiny Beliefs How Culture and Tradition Shape Our Understanding of Destiny The Paradox of Destiny: Predetermination and Free Will The Eternal Debate Between Free Will and Destiny Coming to Terms with the Paradox of Destiny The Role of Destiny in Art and Popular Culture The Representation of Destiny in Film and Television How Artistic Expression Reflects Beliefs about Destiny Teaching Destiny: Lessons for the Next Generation The Importance of Discussing Destiny with Children Ways to Instill a Healthy Understanding of Destiny in Young Minds Destiny and the Search for Meaning Destiny as a Tool for Finding Purpose in Life How Destiny Guides Us in Our Quest for Meaning Destiny and the Future: What Lies Ahead? Predicting Destiny: Can We Forecast Our Future? Embracing Uncertainty: Navigating the Unpredictable Nature of Destiny Destiny: A Reflection on the Past, Present, and Future Reflecting on the Past: How Destiny Has Shaped Your Journey So Far Looking to the Future: Destiny as a Guide for What's to Come Have Questions / Comments? Get Another Book Free ISBN: 9781991093370
Publisher: Xspurts.com
ISBN: 1991093373
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 169
Book Description
"Destiny is not predetermined, but something that we shape with every decision we make." Immerse yourself in the exploration of destiny with our book, "Destiny and You: An Intertwined Journey". This comprehensive guide delves deep into the understanding and exploration of destiny from a multitude of perspectives, creating an engaging and insightful journey through its pages. Our book begins with defining and understanding destiny from different perspectives and cultures, helping you grasp this complex and often misunderstood concept. It further explores the intricate connection between destiny, fate, and free will, providing a philosophical outlook on these interrelated themes. Whether it's destiny in Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism or Islam, you'll get a broad view on how different religions interpret this mystifying topic. No exploration of destiny is complete without examining its role in literature, mythology, psychology, and science. You'll be treated to fascinating discourses on Greek mythology, Shakespearean tragedies, and the role of destiny in mental health. We then explore the intriguing debate between genetic determinism and environmental influences, giving you a nuanced view on the factors that may shape our destinies. "Destiny and You" further delves into the impact of destiny beliefs on personal development, relationships, and even in times of crisis. Explore how goal setting, dreams, and relationships intertwine with destiny, helping you navigate life's challenges. Learn about the art of acceptance and surrendering to destiny, and how personal growth and transformation can rewrite your destiny. This book also discusses the ethical implications of believing in destiny and how different cultures and societies interpret it. Understand the paradox of destiny and the eternal debate between free will and destiny. Uncover the role of destiny in art, popular culture, and how it is reflected in films and television. Not forgetting the younger generation, "Destiny and You" provides valuable insights on teaching destiny to children and instilling a healthy understanding of it in young minds. Lastly, embark on a reflective journey of destiny as it pertains to your past, present, and future, and how you can embrace uncertainty to navigate the unpredictable nature of destiny. "Destiny and You: An Intertwined Journey" is not just a book, it's an enriching exploration of a life-long quest for meaning, understanding, and the search for purpose. It is sure to leave you with a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of destiny, making it a compelling read for those yearning for wisdom and enlightenment on this fascinating subject.Table of Contents Understanding Destiny: Definitions and Perspectives The Concept of Destiny in Different Cultures Destiny, Fate, and Free Will: Unraveling the Differences The Philosophy of Destiny Predetermined Destiny: Exploring Determinism Shaping Destiny: The Role of Free Will and Choice Destiny and Religion: Divine Plans and Human Actions Destiny in Christianity: Predestination and Divine Providence Karma and Destiny in Hinduism and Buddhism Qadr: The Concept of Destiny in Islam Destiny in Literature and Mythology Greek Mythology and the Moirai: Spinners of Destiny Shakespearean Tragedies: Fate and Destiny in Literature Destiny and Psychology: A Look at Destiny Beliefs The Impact of Destiny Beliefs on Mental Health How Destiny Beliefs Shape Our Decisions and Actions The Science of Destiny: Genetics, Environment, and Destiny Genetic Determinism: How Much Does DNA Dictate Destiny? The Influence of Environment and Upbringing on Destiny Destiny and Personal Development: The Role of Goals and Dreams Setting Goals to Shape Your Destiny The Power of Dreams in Determining Destiny Destiny and Relationships: Soulmates, Twin Flames, and Destiny The Idea of Soulmate: Destiny or Choice? Twin Flames and the Concept of Shared Destiny Shaping Your Own Destiny: Tools and Strategies The Power of Positive Thinking and Affirmations Law of Attraction: Manifesting Your Destiny Destiny vs. Chance: The Randomness of Life The Role of Chance and Randomness in Shaping Destiny Harnessing Chance: Turning Random Events into Destiny Embracing Destiny: Acceptance and Surrender The Art of Acceptance: Embracing Your Destiny Surrendering to Destiny: Letting Go and Trusting the Journey Revising Destiny: Change, Growth, and Transformation Change: The Only Constant in Shaping Destiny Personal Growth and Transformation: Rewriting Your Destiny Destiny: A Journey, Not a Destination Embracing the Journey of Destiny Understanding that Destiny is Ever-evolving and Fluid Destiny and Success: How Goal Setting Affects Your Path The Role of Ambition in Shaping Destiny How Destiny Influences Career Success and Fulfillment The Role of Destiny in Times of Crisis Understanding Destiny in the Midst of Life's Storms Learning from Crisis: How Difficult Times Influence Destiny Destiny and Spirituality: The Higher Purpose The Role of Destiny in Spiritual Enlightenment Spiritual Teachings on Destiny from Around the World The Impact of Destiny on Identity and Self-concept How Beliefs about Destiny Shape Our Self-perception The Influence of Destiny on Personal Identity Destiny and Morality: The Ethical Implications of Believing in Destiny Exploring the Ethical Dilemmas Inherent in Destiny Beliefs The Role of Destiny in Moral Decision Making Destiny and Culture: How Different Societies Interpret Destiny A Global Perspective on Destiny Beliefs How Culture and Tradition Shape Our Understanding of Destiny The Paradox of Destiny: Predetermination and Free Will The Eternal Debate Between Free Will and Destiny Coming to Terms with the Paradox of Destiny The Role of Destiny in Art and Popular Culture The Representation of Destiny in Film and Television How Artistic Expression Reflects Beliefs about Destiny Teaching Destiny: Lessons for the Next Generation The Importance of Discussing Destiny with Children Ways to Instill a Healthy Understanding of Destiny in Young Minds Destiny and the Search for Meaning Destiny as a Tool for Finding Purpose in Life How Destiny Guides Us in Our Quest for Meaning Destiny and the Future: What Lies Ahead? Predicting Destiny: Can We Forecast Our Future? Embracing Uncertainty: Navigating the Unpredictable Nature of Destiny Destiny: A Reflection on the Past, Present, and Future Reflecting on the Past: How Destiny Has Shaped Your Journey So Far Looking to the Future: Destiny as a Guide for What's to Come Have Questions / Comments? Get Another Book Free ISBN: 9781991093370
A History of Pagan Europe
Author: Prudence Jones
Publisher: Psychology Press
ISBN: 9780415158046
Category : Europe
Languages : en
Pages : 292
Book Description
In this definitive study, Prudence Jones and Nigel Pennick draw together the fragmented sources of Europe's native religions and establish the coherence and continuity of the Pagan world vision. Challenging a traditional, Christian perspective of history, the authors argue that the modern world owes to ancient Paganism its pluralistic tolerance, its love of the arts, and its respect for empirical method. This innovative and comprehensive history of European Paganism will provide a stimulating, reliable guide to this popular dimension of religious culture.
Publisher: Psychology Press
ISBN: 9780415158046
Category : Europe
Languages : en
Pages : 292
Book Description
In this definitive study, Prudence Jones and Nigel Pennick draw together the fragmented sources of Europe's native religions and establish the coherence and continuity of the Pagan world vision. Challenging a traditional, Christian perspective of history, the authors argue that the modern world owes to ancient Paganism its pluralistic tolerance, its love of the arts, and its respect for empirical method. This innovative and comprehensive history of European Paganism will provide a stimulating, reliable guide to this popular dimension of religious culture.
Martha, Mary, and Jesus
Author: Nancy Corson Carter
Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers
ISBN: 1532678665
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 146
Book Description
Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers
ISBN: 1532678665
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 146
Book Description
The Star-Crossed Stone
Author: Ken McNamara
Publisher: University of Chicago Press
ISBN: 0226514714
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 281
Book Description
Throughout the four hundred thousand years that humanity has been collecting fossils, sea urchin fossils, or echinoids, have continually been among the most prized, from the Paleolithic era, when they decorated flint axes, to today, when paleobiologists study them for clues to the earth’s history. In The Star-Crossed Stone, Kenneth J. McNamara, an expert on fossil echinoids, takes readers on an incredible fossil hunt, with stops in history, paleontology, folklore, mythology, art, religion, and much more. Beginning with prehistoric times, when urchin fossils were used as jewelry, McNamara reveals how the fossil crept into the religious and cultural lives of societies around the world—the roots of the familiar five-pointed star, for example, can be traced to the pattern found on urchins. But McNamara’s vision is even broader than that: using our knowledge of early habits of fossil collecting, he explores the evolution of the human mind itself, drawing striking conclusions about humanity’s earliest appreciation of beauty and the first stirrings of artistic expression. Along the way, the fossil becomes a nexus through which we meet brilliant eccentrics and visionary archaeologists and develop new insights into topics as seemingly disparate as hieroglyphics, Beowulf, and even church organs. An idiosyncratic celebration of science, nature, and human ingenuity, The Star-Crossed Stone is as charming and unforgettable as the fossil at its heart.
Publisher: University of Chicago Press
ISBN: 0226514714
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 281
Book Description
Throughout the four hundred thousand years that humanity has been collecting fossils, sea urchin fossils, or echinoids, have continually been among the most prized, from the Paleolithic era, when they decorated flint axes, to today, when paleobiologists study them for clues to the earth’s history. In The Star-Crossed Stone, Kenneth J. McNamara, an expert on fossil echinoids, takes readers on an incredible fossil hunt, with stops in history, paleontology, folklore, mythology, art, religion, and much more. Beginning with prehistoric times, when urchin fossils were used as jewelry, McNamara reveals how the fossil crept into the religious and cultural lives of societies around the world—the roots of the familiar five-pointed star, for example, can be traced to the pattern found on urchins. But McNamara’s vision is even broader than that: using our knowledge of early habits of fossil collecting, he explores the evolution of the human mind itself, drawing striking conclusions about humanity’s earliest appreciation of beauty and the first stirrings of artistic expression. Along the way, the fossil becomes a nexus through which we meet brilliant eccentrics and visionary archaeologists and develop new insights into topics as seemingly disparate as hieroglyphics, Beowulf, and even church organs. An idiosyncratic celebration of science, nature, and human ingenuity, The Star-Crossed Stone is as charming and unforgettable as the fossil at its heart.