In his fourth book, Clancy uses nuclear strategies to probe the ambiguities of fighting the good fightthe Americans vs. the Soviets. By the time familiar hero Jack Ryan steps in to investigate mysterious structures on the Soviet-Afghan border, the Soviets have struck again by zapping a satellite with a free electron laser. The title's cardinal, an elite, well-placed source in the Kremlin, leaks details of this secret activity to the United States.
Prohibition. Al Capone. The President Harding scandals. The revolution of manners and morals. Black Tuesday. These are only an inkling of the events and figures characterizing the wild, tumultuous era that was the Roaring Twenties. Originally published in 1931, Only Yesterday traces the rise of post-World War I prosperity up to the Wall Street crash of 1929 against a colorful backdrop of flappers, speakeasies, the first radio, and the scandalous rise of skirt hemlines.
Added by: decabristka | Karma: 68075.20 | Fiction literature | 18 July 2015
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The story of the Warden, McKenzie, O’Keefe, Greenwood and Martyn families intertwine across the years 1852 – 1918. Five generations are covered in the sweeping backdrop of New Zealand’s colonial days and early nationhood.
The history is accurate in its background, but the families involved are fictitious. The development of sheep farming, gold mining, the coal mines and railroads are the backdrop to these families wealth.
Perhaps the most influential sovereign England has ever known, Queen Elizabeth I reigned prosperously for more than forty years, from 1558 until her death in 1603. During her rule, however, she remained an extremely private person. Now, in this brilliantly researched, fascinating new book, acclaimed biographer Alison Weir brings the enigmatic figure of Elizabeth I to life as never before. Against a lavish backdrop of pageantry and passion, intrigue and war, Weir dispels the myths surrounding Elizabeth I and examines the contradictions of her character, exploring complex questions.
"Slumdog Millionaire" - the story of a young boy from the streets of Mumbai who wins popular quiz show 'Who wants to be a millionaire' - won eight Oscars and was a huge box office success. Its strong storyline, set against a fascinating cultural backdrop is sure to appeal to older students.