united states

Examines controversies over gays serving in the American military, covering arguments from both sides of the debate.

Chronicles the experiences of the boys sent from China to the United States at the end of the twentieth century to become familiar with Western ways and bring back their knowledge to the empire, describing how their knowledge influenced their lives, thinking, and their nation's quest to become a world power.

Provides a narrative overview of the life and career of Branch Rickey and examines his influence on professional baseball as president and general manager of the Dodgers.

The author describes his work with Caballo Blanco, an outsider who befriended the Tarahumara Indians, in which the two men organized a running event between the tribesmen, who are considered to have superhuman running abilities, and Americans, including a ultramarathoner, a surfer, and others; and includes facts about techniques and the history of running.

Argues for greater African-American leadership in order to close the black-white academic achievement gap which is the primary obstacle to African-American advancement.

A social commentary on the emergence of women, power, and feminism took center stage during the 2008 presidential campaign.

A behind-the-scenes look at "American Idol," discussing how the program, which started out as a summer replacement, came to be one of the most watched television shows, examining the influence of the competition on popular culture, and including interviews with Idol alumni.

What was supposed to be a test flight of the technology and crew of "Able One," an experimental aircraft armed with a high-power laser that can knock out missiles, becomes an urgent mission when a rogue North Korean faction launches a nuclear missile that destroys most of the world's satellites, and intelligence reveals they have two more weapons yet to be deployed.

Examines the Korean War, following the lives and experiences of the soldiers. Recounts battles and discusses the waning interest in the war at home.

A comprehensive guide to the organization and operation of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League that draws on historical documents to offer an inside look at the league, its history, key figures, and impact on American sports.