history and criticism

"From teleportation and space elevators to alien contact and interstellar travel, science fiction and fantasy writers have come up with some brilliant and innovative ideas. Yet how plausible are these ideas--for instance, could Mr. Weasley's flying car in Harry Potter really exist? Which concepts might actually happen--and which ones wouldn't work at all? Wizards, Aliens, and Starships delves into the most extraordinary details in science fiction and fantasy--such as time warps, shape changing, rocket launches, and illumination by floating candle--and shows readers the physics and math behind the phenomena. With simple mathematical models, and in most cases using no more than high school algebra, Charles Adler ranges across a plethora of remarkable imaginings, from the works of Ursula K. Le Guin to Star Trek and Avatar, to explore what might become reality. Adler explains why fantasy in the Harry Potter and Dresden Files novels cannot adhere strictly to scientific laws, and when magic might make scientific sense in the muggle world. He examines space travel and wonders why it isn't cheaper and more common today. Adler also discusses exoplanets and how the search for alien life has shifted from radio communications to space-based telescopes. He concludes by investigating the future survival of humanity and other intelligent races. Throughout, he cites an abundance of science fiction and fantasy authors, and includes concise descriptions of stories as well as a glossary of science terms. Wizards, Aliens, and Starships will speak to anyone wanting to know about the correct--and incorrect--science of science fiction and fantasy"--.

Tony Hoagland discusses the state of poetry and American literary culture.

Analyzes what is known about the life of explorer Christopher Columbus from various sources such as his personal diaries and private correspondence as well as from manuscripts and biographies written by historians throughout history. Also, includes facts about his early, formative years and his four voyages to America.

Christopher Tolkien chronicles his father's creation of the classic fantasy novel "The Lord of the Rings," presenting early notes, outlines, drafts, and sketches, discussing the story up to the arrival of the Company of the Ring at the tomb of Balin.

Traces the development of rhythm and blues music from 1950 to 1999 by analyzing the top twenty-five songs of each decade and exploring the genre's links to African heritage and traditions.

Profiles the musical performers who helped merge gospel, rhythm, and blues to create Southern soul music.

A collection of essays by various authors tat examine ethnomusicology, the study of music in a group's way of life, around the world.

An introduction to musical traditions from around the world, discussing jazz, pop, folk, and classical music, as well as the unique styles of regions such as Africa, the West Indies, and the Far East.

Presents a historical overview of the development of music, from the ceremonial music of ancient Egypt to the electronic sounds of the twentieth century.