by Isaac Asimov ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 1, 1990
Another collection of science essays from Asimov, all originally published in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction and ranging in subject from the source of the Nile to the role of poetry in modem life. Simple enough for even the most scientifically unenlightened reader, these 17 brief meditations on cosmic rays, the dangers of overpopulation, and how compasses work reflect both Asimov's passing philosophical interests and his freewheeling, conversational style. Though he denies any attempt at social commentary, Asimov never hesitates to express opinions when the opportunity arises—on, for example, SDI (it won't work), modern poetry (it should speak to the lay reader, as opposed to other poets), and the way to achieve success (be aware of Kipling's "unforgiving minute"). His technique is as practiced and predictable as a George Burns routine as he begins each essay with a diverting personal anecdote, then expands his theme—or, in some cases, abruptly changes the subject to address the evolution of man, the formation of the moon, the effects of radon, or whatever other scientific issue has struck his fancy. Clearly enjoying his freedom to "pound the table as anyone would like to," and admittedly not spending an enormous amount of time on each essay, Asimov satisfies only the most cursory interest here—but these pieces entertain nevertheless and may, on occasion, even spark further interest among readers. Typical Asimov, for better or worse.
Pub Date: June 1, 1990
ISBN: 1558176012
Page Count: -
Publisher: Doubleday
Review Posted Online: Sept. 16, 2011
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 1990
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by William Strunk & E.B. White ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 15, 1972
Stricter than, say, Bergen Evans or W3 ("disinterested" means impartial — period), Strunk is in the last analysis...
Privately published by Strunk of Cornell in 1918 and revised by his student E. B. White in 1959, that "little book" is back again with more White updatings.
Stricter than, say, Bergen Evans or W3 ("disinterested" means impartial — period), Strunk is in the last analysis (whoops — "A bankrupt expression") a unique guide (which means "without like or equal").Pub Date: May 15, 1972
ISBN: 0205632645
Page Count: 105
Publisher: Macmillan
Review Posted Online: Oct. 28, 2011
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1972
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by E.T.A. Hoffmann ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 28, 1996
This is not the Nutcracker sweet, as passed on by Tchaikovsky and Marius Petipa. No, this is the original Hoffmann tale of 1816, in which the froth of Christmas revelry occasionally parts to let the dark underside of childhood fantasies and fears peek through. The boundaries between dream and reality fade, just as Godfather Drosselmeier, the Nutcracker's creator, is seen as alternately sinister and jolly. And Italian artist Roberto Innocenti gives an errily realistic air to Marie's dreams, in richly detailed illustrations touched by a mysterious light. A beautiful version of this classic tale, which will captivate adults and children alike. (Nutcracker; $35.00; Oct. 28, 1996; 136 pp.; 0-15-100227-4)
Pub Date: Oct. 28, 1996
ISBN: 0-15-100227-4
Page Count: 136
Publisher: Harcourt
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1996
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