history and criticism

Presents a cinematic history of comedy films including the classic silent movies featuring Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy, and Buster Keaton, as well as later films such as the "Road" pictures with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby.

Presents a brief history of action and adventure cinema, in simple text with illustrations, describing the key films in the development of the genre, and discussing subjects and themes such as swashbucklers, spies, tough guys, disasters, and more.

Presents profiles of forty-nine musicians who have had a significant influence on the development of jazz; grouped in six categories according to musical style, each with an introductory essay on the history of the era. Includes discographies and references.

Explores the personal life and literary career of the wide-ranging British author known for his science fiction, histories, and novels.

Examines the personal life and literary career of the author of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Discusses the life and works of prolific English author A.A. Milne, best remembered for his children's poetry and books about Winnie-the-Pooh.

Defines folk music and traces its history and development in the United States, including its resurgence in popularity starting in the 1940s.

Examines various facets of the music business, discussing the importance of a manager, promotion, recording contracts, recording sessions, how CDs are made, and the release and promotion of a music CD.

Discusses the origins of jazz, famed jazz musicians, musical movements within the genre, and jazz's influence on rock 'n' roll.

A history of country music which discusses its roots, influences, and various types including bluegrass, honky tonk, cowboy music, western swing, and rockabilly.