Named one of the Best Books of 2023 by the New Yorker and The New York Times' Dwight Garner “The first comprehensive biography of this hipster magus . . . [John Szwed] allows different sides of Smith’s personality to catch blades of sun. He brings the right mixture of reverence and comic incredulity to his task.” —Dwight Garner, The New York Times Grammy Award–winning music scholar and celebrated biographer John Szwed presents the first biography of Harry Smith, the brilliant eccentric who transformed twentieth century art and culture. He was an anthropologist, filmmaker, painter, folklorist, mystic, and walking encyclopedia. He taught Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe about the occult, swapped drugs with Timothy Leary, had a front-row seat to a young Thelonious Monk, lived with (and tortured) Allen Ginsberg, was admired by Susan Sontag, and was one of the first artists funded by Guggenheim Foundation. He was always broke, generally intoxicated, compulsively irascible, and unimpeachably authentic. Harry Smith was, in the words of Robert Frank, “the only person I met in my life that transcended everything.” In Cosmic Scholar, the Grammy Award-winning music scholar and celebrated biographer John Szwed patches together, for the first time, the life of one of the twentieth century’s most overlooked cultural figures. From his time recording the customs of Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest and Florida to his life in Greenwich Village in its heyday, Smith was consumed by an unceasing desire to create a unified theory of culture. He was an insatiable creator and collector, responsible for the influential Anthology of American Folk Music and several pioneering experimental films, but was also an insufferable and destructive eccentric who was unable to survive in regular society, or keep himself healthy or sober. Exhaustively researched, energetically told, and complete with a trove of images, Cosmic Scholar is a feat of biographical restoration and the long overdue canonization of an American icon. Includes black-and-white and color images

Embark on a soul-stirring odyssey through the sacred pages of "The Savior's Journey," a poignant and illuminating exploration of the life of Jesus Christ. This meticulously crafted book unfolds like a tapestry, weaving together the threads of divinity and humanity, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the transformative journey of the Savior. From the hallowed echoes of Bethlehem's manger to the profound teachings resonating across the hills of Galilee, each chapter unfurls the narrative of a life that transcends time. Delve into the wisdom of parables, witness the miracles that defy earthly bounds, and join the crowds who sought solace in the presence of a compassionate healer. As the pages turn, the poignant relationships that shaped Jesus' path come to life—the camaraderie of disciples, the tender exchanges with Mary Magdalene, and the divine connections that define his purpose. "The Savior's Journey" invites readers to witness the profound humanity of a figure whose impact has reverberated through centuries. This book does not shy away from the trials that marked Jesus' destiny—the poignant Last Supper, the harrowing betrayal, and the sacrificial crucifixion that echoed through the hills of Golgotha. In each chapter, the narrative captures the essence of a life lived with purpose, love, and an unwavering commitment to a divine mission. "The Savior's Journey" transcends the boundaries of time and space, presenting a masterful blend of historical accuracy and poignant storytelling. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Jesus Christ, exploring themes of faith, redemption, and the eternal significance of a life that continues to inspire and guide countless souls. Immerse yourself in the pages of "The Savior's Journey," and discover anew the timeless and universal truths that illuminate the path of the one who proclaimed, "I am the way, the truth, and the life."

In the enchanting realm of Eldoria, where cosmic forces dance and destinies intertwine, a young hero named Elden embarks on a perilous journey against encroaching darkness. Born with a mysterious cosmic mark, Elden's path is guided by echoes of ancient prophecies and the symphony of cosmic energies. As he confronts otherworldly challenges and forms unbreakable bonds, Elden must unravel the secrets of his mark and unite a diverse group of individuals whose destinies are intertwined with his own. Together, they forge a cosmic resonance that spans dimensions, weaving a tapestry of unity to repel the encroaching shadows. In a saga of courage, connection, and cosmic harmonies, Elden's quest becomes a testament to the power of shared purpose and the intricate dance of cosmic forces.

Truths of Ups & Downs introduces Chinas most practical and influential divination system. This system maps an individuals energy and explains endowments as well as the potential for ups and downs over ones lifetime. This analysis helps people to calculate their future and plan a timetable for their life. And it includes many simple guidelines that are open for interpretation. Author Lily Chung, Ph.D., University of Minnesota, has taught in colleges in the United States and Hong Kong. She has hosted workshops in metaphysics in Europe, Canada and California. A columnist on the subject, she is currently practicing and tutoring metaphysics in the Bay Area of California. Publishers website: http: //www.eloquentbooks.com/TruthOfUps&Downs.htm

In the quiet shadows of an orphanage doorstep, destiny unfolded for Elara. Abandoned as a babe, she grew under the watchful eyes of nuns who sensed the extraordinary within her. Objects danced with her moods, and flowers bloomed brighter in her presence. Whispers in the village spoke of magic coursing through her veins, a child born of both the mundane and mystical worlds. Yet, Elara herself remained unaware of the extent of her enchanting abilities. One dawn, as sunlight filtered through the trees, Elara awoke to an electrifying sensation. The air itself pulsed with otherworldly energy, unveiling a spectacle beyond imagination. The emerald forest transformed into a kaleidoscope of shimmering colours, revealing a hidden tapestry of magic. Amidst the ethereal display, a figure materialized – a guardian of the ether. "Elara," he whispered, revealing her destiny. A choice lay before her – to embrace the magic within or to turn away. With a gentle touch against a shimmering barrier, Elara's world expanded. Visions of starlight dragons and whispering trees flooded her senses, unlocking the mysteries of the ether. The guardian faded, leaving Elara with a newfound purpose. Determined, she chose to embrace her connection to the ethereal, setting forth on a journey to uncover the secrets of her origins and bridge the gap between worlds. Fast forward to the realm of Etherea, where magic flowed like a symphony. "Chronicles of the Ethereal Nebulae Empress" unveils a tale of grandeur and mystique. Etherea, a world teeming with wonder, is a breathtaking tapestry of diverse landscapes and creatures, woven together by the essence of ether. Empress Elara, a sorceress of unparalleled prowess, rules over Etherea. Her connection to the ether grants her immense power, but ruling is no simple feat. Navigating political alliances, ancient rivalries, and the looming Shadowstorm, Elara must be more than just a ruler – she is a diplomat, strategist, and visionary. As the Shadowstorm threatens Etherea, Elara faces challenges that test her abilities. Ancient prophecies point to a chosen one, but the path is shrouded in uncertainty. Elara's journey unfolds, a tale of external threats, internal struggles, and the unyielding determination of a woman destined to shape the fate of her world.

Religion in Late Modernity runs against the grain of common suppositions of contemporary theology and philosophy of religion. Against the common supposition that basic religious terms have no real reference but are mere functions of human need, the book presents a pragmatic theory of religious symbolism in terms of which the cognitive engagement of the Ultimate is of a piece with the cognitive engagement of nature and persons. Throughout this discussion, Neville develops a late-modern conception of God that is defensible in a global theological public. Against the common supposition that religion is on the retreat in late modernity except in fundamentalist forms, the author argues that religion in our time is a stimulus to religiously oriented scholarship, a civilizing force among world societies, a foundation for obligation in politics, a source for healthy social experimentation, and the most important mover of soul. Against the common supposition that religious thinking or theology is confessional and inevitably biased in favor of the thinker's community, Neville argues for the public character of theology, the need for history and phenomenology of religion in philosophy of religion, and the possibility of objectivity through the contextualization of philosophy, contrary to the fashionable claims of neo-pragmatism. This vigorous analysis and program for religious thinking is straightforwardly pro-late-modern and anti-postmodern, a rousing gallop along the high road around modernism.

This pioneering study in mysticism explores the phenomenon of transcendent realization, or illumination. Its numerous case studies offer intriguing, real-life particulars of individuals who experienced personal epiphanies.

Take a trip to outer space with this weird and wonderful guide to our universe, the perfect gift for both young and old Vargic's beautifully innovative designs will help to explain all of the bizarre and fascinating aspects of the cosmos; from the history of the universe to what makes up our solar system and even how human life fits into the wider picture. Be taken on an unforgettable journey through space with chapters on . . . · Exploring the Cosmos · The Night Sky · Maps of the Inner Solar System · Timeline of the Universe · Cosmologies throughout History · Journey Into Outer Space · Scale of the Universe This is a book that celebrates the scale and spectacle of the universe on every page, and one which you'll treasure forever. _______ '5***** In more than one hundred pages filled with facts and illustrations he takes the reader on a journey through the history of the cosmos' BBC Sky at Night 'Packs in so much of our astronomical knowledge, so many tidbits about the history of astronomy and space exploration that I felt wonderfully enriched by it all. It is visually striking and beautifully illustrated' Dr. Alfredo Carpineti

"2047" by eminent futurist and psychologist Dr Jawahar Surisetti, offers a compelling glimpse into India's future, a century after gaining independence. Through interconnected stories, it paints a vivid picture of India's global prominence. showcasing its technological supremacy, robust healthcare and education systems, sustainable agriculture practices, pioneering space exploration endeavours, modern infrastructure, and efficient transportation networks. Each narrative thread illuminates India's ascent as a superpower, emphasising its leadership in various fields while highlighting the nation's commitment to progress, innovation, and inclusive development. "2047" celebrates India's journey towards prosperity and influence on the world stage, offering a hopeful vision of the nation's future achievements.