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Exploring technology and how it made--and continues to change--the modern world! Technology pervades our daily lives and modern society, and not just when it comes to computers and smart phones. Before there was the computer, there was the abacus. Before the smart phone, there was the telegraph and ball point pen. Electricity, penicillin, and the compass have all led to revolutionary changes in how we live. From the relationship between science and technology to the four major branches of engineering to nanotechnology, robots, and predictions for future technology, The Handy Technology Answer Book is an ideal introduction to technology in everyday life. The newsworthy, the practical, the latest and historical, are all detailed in this entertaining and informative book. It brings the vast changes and major innovations into focus through well-researched answers to more than 1,100 common questions on technology, such as ... What are the major time periods of technology? Who is considered to be the first engineer? Which individual was granted the most U.S. patents? Who is the only U.S. president to receive a patent? How do copyrights differ from patents and trademarks? What is the Turing Award? What are the tasks of an operating system? How did the term "glitch" originate? What was the first computer game? What is phishing? What is a Uniform Resource Locator, or URL? How many time zones are there in the world? What is the world population of robots? What is the most destructive non-lethal weapon? Why is mining an important technology? Why are the rare earth elements important? What is "green building"? Who built the Brooklyn Bridge? How are U.S. highways numbered? How popular are electric vehicles in the United States? Why is the right side of a ship called "starboard"? What is the largest aircraft? How long will fossil fuel reserves last? What are the different types of newer, energy-efficient light bulbs? What is the carbon cycle? What products are made from recycled plastic? Who was the first person to receive gene therapy? Can human beings be cloned? What is the future of wearable technology in health care? Providing the facts, stats, science and a little bit of history, The Handy Technology Answer Book answers important questions about the most important inventions, key breakthroughs, and the towering personalities behind them. It spotlights the tallest, smallest, fastest, longest, and the wide range of human firsts and current bests. This informative and fun book also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness.

Researching, writing, and citing. Hiring, firing, and selling. Texting, blogging, and posting. Proper grammar and usage for every occasion is explored through nearly 500 answers to common questions on English grammar and language. The first, best place to turn for an overview of English grammar!Whether you are writing a term paper, a scientific article, a résumé, a business email, a text message, or presenting information in the social media, The Handy English Grammar Answer Book is an engaging guide to writing with clarity. It offers fundamental principles, grammar rules, and punctuation advice, as well as insights on writing for different occasions and audiences. From a brief history of the English language to the deconstruction-and explanation-of the different parts of a sentence, and from showing how to punctuate correctly to how to organize a well-argued essay, this easy-to-use reference answers nearly 500 questions and offers fun facts on the English language and its usage, including ...How did language begin?How did English become a language spoken worldwide?What is Middle English?How did Noah Webster affect the English language? What efforts have been made toward reforming spelling?Are there any language universals? What is an adverb?What is a compound sentence?What is a dialect?What is jargon?What is a noun?What is a split infinitive?What is passive voice and when should you avoid it? Why are English words so hard to spell?What is the i-before-e ruleHow do I use commas correctly in sentences?When should I use parentheses?How do I use capitalization on the Internet?When do I use "that" versus "which"?What types of dictionaries are there?How do I find the right level of formality in my writing style?What is a sentence fragment?What is a misused modifier?Should I use its or it's?What is academic writing?What is the difference between primary and secondary research?How do I respect copyright laws?How do I use materials ethically on my own websites?What is plagiarism and how do I avoid it?How do I plan a structure for my term paper?How do I write an outline?How do I avoid writer's block?What is considered good essay form?How do I write business emails?Should I include personal data in a résumé?What is "netiquette"?How do I write an effective blog? For speakers and writers of all ages and skill levels, The Handy English Grammar Answer Book brings you straightforward explanations, tips on avoiding and fixing grammatical mistakes, as well as numerous examples of good writing. This helpful book includes an appendix of model papers, letters, and sample writing for every occasion-from business or social communications to academic papers or Internet forums. Appendices on irregular verbs, idioms, homophones, prepositions, frequently misspelled words, wordy phrases, frequently confused word pairs, and other common mistakes bring a deeper understanding to readers. There is also a glossary of commonly used terms, a bibliography, and an index.

Stick handlers without helmets rushing goaltenders without masks on rinks lacking side boards gives way to a faster game with bigger players and overtime shootouts. The National Hockey League goes from a Canadian and regional sport to one that is watched by more fans throughout North America than ever. Hockey may have changed, but its essence and appeal remain.The Handy Hockey Answer Book, written by hockey historian, broadcaster, author and self-professed Hockey Maven, Stan Fischler, brings the game to life through exciting game action, vital stats, players, rules, and more. It traces the early spread of hockey, Lord Stanley's involvement, and the birth of the cup, then explains the rules, the equipment, strategies, and positioning, before following the ups and downs of the National Hockey League and its teams and players.From the traditions, all-time cup- and award-winners and record-breakers to the modern game,The Handy Hockey Answer Book answers more than 800 questions on the game, greats, goals, and growing popularity of hockey, including Where does hockey come from?What was the Stanley Cup first called?Where did the name Patrick Division come from and why are the Patrick brothers important?When was six-man hockey invented and who was its creator?What is a Zamboni and after whom was it named?What was the Gretzky Rule?How did the hockey puck develop its present shape?Which is the oldest current NHL team?Why is the term Original Six a misnomer?Which Hall of Famer trained on champagne?Who holds the Montreal Canadiens franchise record for career goals?Who centered Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsey on Detroits legendary Production Line.Which team was the first to come back from being down 3-0 in a series.Who played right wing on a line with Phil Esposito for the Bruins in the late 60s and 70s?Who was the first European player to lead the league in scoring?What NHL team won and loss the Stanley Cup on the same day?Which hockey player was supposed to be kidnapped as part of a scheme to increase attendance at New York Rangers games?Did an NHL club ever play all its home games of the Stanley Cup finals on the road?A glossary of terms and a bibliography for further reading round out this helpful primer on the sport.

Take a walk through the biggest events, the wars, the economic, political, and social forces, the presidents, and lesser-known personalities as well as the sports, music, and entertainment that created, changed, and built the United States!From Washington to the microchip, Columbus to modern terrorist threats, the Anasazi to the iPhone, The Handy American History Answer Book traces the development of the nation, including the impact of the Civil War, the discovery of gold in California, the inventions, the political and economic crises, and the technology transforming modern culture today. It answers nearly 900 commonly asked questions and offers fun facts about American, its history, and people, such as:What were the first crops developed by the early Indian cultures?What was the Lost Colony?When did the first Africans arrive in the British colonies of North America?What was the Stamp Act? Did the American colonies have the death penalty? Why did Elbridge Gerry, Edmund Randolph, and George Mason refuse to sign the Constitution? What were the Lincoln¿Douglas debates? What Civil War nurse later founded the American Red Cross?Who were the robber barons?Who invented the sport of basketball?How bad was the San Francisco earthquake of 1906?What was the Harlem Renaissance?Who were the ¿Four Horsemen¿?Was the U.S. mainland attacked during World War II?When did the Cold War begin and why?How was Earl Warren crucial to the Brown v. Board of Education decision?What caused the Vietnam War?What was Reaganomics? What impact did the Challenger disaster have on the U.S. space program?What record producer co-founded Def Jam? Who became the first space tourist?This handy primer is a captivating, concise, and convenient history of America and Americans.The Handy American History Answer Book also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness.

Brutality and fear. Heroism and sacrifice. Military history is a fascinating, complex, and often contradictory subject. War and fighting between tribes, clans, groups and countries has been with us forever. Great leaders, great villains, pivotal moments and events become transformative, causing political, social, and technological upheavals, which were often built on the foundation of war. The Handy Military History Answer Book is a captivating, concise, and convenient look at how the world, the United States, and the lives we lead today have been changed by war and the military. The weapons, leaders, soldiers, battles, tactics, strategies, blunders, technologies, and outcomes are all examined in this powerful primer on the military, its historyand world history.From early Greeks and Romans to Genghis Kahn and other great conquering militaries of the past, continuing on through the civil wars and world wars that shaped the boundaries of todays nations, and to the modern weapons, technologies, guerrilla warfare, and terrorism currently reported in the nightly news, this book investigates everything from the smallest miscalculations and maneuvers to the biggest invasions and battles, as well as the cutting-edge technologies and firepower that led to victories and helped change the world.The Handy Military History Answer Book looks at the who, the what, the why, and the how of conflicts throughout history. It answers over 1,100 questions, from the mostly widely asked to the more obscure, such as:Who cast the first stone (of human history)?Who were the "e;Sea Peoples?"e;Is there anything to the story of Ancient Troy?Could Alexander the Great have conquered the early Roman Republic?How wealthy would each of Alexander's men been had the treasure at Persepolis been divided?How many Romans lost their lives at the Battle of Cannae?Why did people underestimate Julius Caesar when he was in his thirties?How many men, and auxiliary fighters, were there in a Roman legion?Was the Battle of Actium truly decisive? And what way?Which precious metal did the Vikings prefer above all others?Do we even have his name--Genghis Khan--right?Who employed the composite bow with greater effectiveness: the Arabs or the Turks?Why did Pope Urban II go to central France in 1095?Where did Richard the Lion-Heart get his nickname?Why on earth did Hitler code-name his invasion of Russia for a German emperor who drowned?Who was the greater wit: Voltaire or King Frederick the Great?About whom did King George II remark: "e;Mad, is he? Well I hope he bites some of my other generals?"e;What great poet spent years gathering food and wine for the Spanish Armada?What was the price for King Francis' freedom, in 1526?How long did it take to learn how to use the longbow?What was the largest of the cannon brought by the Ottoman Turks to the siege of ConstantinopleWho took over when Genghis Khan died (after a fall from his horse)?What did the Franciscan monks say when they returned from Karakorum?Was Napoleon really not French?Who won the Battle of the Nile, and how?Where was the world's first submarine deployed?When did George Washington have to alter all his plans: and how did he go about making the change?How many people died at the Siege of Fort Sumter?What was the worst day of the Civil War, in the Far West?When were balloons first deployed in warfare?Where did the name "e;Uncle Sam"e; come from?What signals did Paul Revere watch for on the evening of April 18, 1775?What did Rasputin have to say about the approach of the First World War?How close did Hitler come to victory at Moscow in 1941?What ten days decided the outcome of World War II?What was so special about the B-24?When did the Cold War commence?What was the last action of the Yom Kippur War?What role did Colin Powell play in the run-up to war in Iraq?

Rampaging, driven, killing machines. Soulless and dead. Infected and infectious. Zombies. The epidemic of the living dead is stronger than ever in todays pop-culture, but long before exotic viruses, biological warfare, and sinister military experiments brought the dead back to life in our cinemas and on our television screens, there were the dark spells and incantations of the ancient Egyptians, the Sumerians, and the Babylonians. Blending the historical with the modern, the biographical with the literary, the plants and animals with bacteria and viruses, the mythological with the horrifying true tales, The Zombie Book: The Encyclopedia of the Living Dead is a comprehensive resource to understanding, combating, and avoiding zombies.More than 250 entries cover everything from hit television shows, books, and movies, including The Walking Dead, World War Z and Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, to zombies ignominious role in folklore and mythology, such as the Greek god Asclepius, ancient Voodoo religion, and the Native American Wendigo legend. The Zombie Book: The Encyclopedia of the Living Dead examines mad cow disease, the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, the Centers for Disease Control preparing for the end of the world, and much, much more.

Stories centuries in the making, and many centuries worth of stories, are an integral part of modern society. Whether modern or ancient, every culture has its myths. Mythology forms our understanding of our origin, history, and traditions. They tell of our heroes and deities. Myths are vehicles for understanding religion, for learning language, and for understanding society, but they can often be difficult to understand and confusing. The Handy Mythology Answer Book examines and explains, in plain English, numerous myths and mythology.From the ancient Greek and Roman to Egypt and Babylon, from Native North American Indian to Celtic, Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian, African, and the lesser known myths from around the world, The Handy Mythology Answer Book has them covered. Whether it is the modern retelling of a classic myth or an ancient story about a Norse god, this helpful resource demystifies the myth, looks at different archetypes and motifs, and even shows how myths help explain our existence and institutions. It answers nearly 600 questions and offers fun facts about the treachery and violence, the inspirational and epic, the supernatural monsters and heroic mortals found in mythology, such asHow and when did myths originate?What are the three primary myth types?What is the nature of Creation Myths?How can myths be compared to dreams?Why do humans tell myths?What was the Egyptian Book of the Dead?How is the epic of Gilgamesh like later epics?Why is the biblical flood story so like the Babylonian flood myth?What was the myth of Theseus, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur?What are the Homeric Hymns?How and why are the Odyssey and the Iliad so different from each other?What is the popular appeal of the Odyssey?Did the Greeks see these myths as religion or as entertainment?What was the background myth of the Oedipus plays?What was the nature of Roman mythology during the Roman Republic?What was the Metamorphosis?How did Christian narrative and tradition fit into and come to dominate the Roman mythological tradition?How is Celtic culture and mythology related to the culture and mythology of Greek, Roman, and other cultures?How did the Vedas contribute to Hindu mythology?Who invented Chinese writing?What was the Aztec pantheon?What is the story of the Cherokee Grandmother Sun?Who are some Native American tricksters?What is the story of Schrdingers Cat?How did Freud use myths?How is myth used in politics?A glossary of commonly used terms and an appendix of parallel mythology exploring universal themes, motifs, and archetypes from across various cultures further explains the world of mythology.

Once upon a time, science fiction was only in the future. It was the stuff of drive-ins and cheap double-bills. Then, with the ever-increasing rush of new, society-altering technologies, science fiction pushed its way to the present, and it busted out of the genre ghetto of science fiction and barged its way into the mainstream. What used to be mere fantasy (trips to the moon? Wristwatch radios? Supercomputers capable of learning?) are now everyday reality.Whether nostalgic for the future or fast-forwarding to the present, The Sci-Fi Movie Guide: The Universe of Film from Alien to Zardoz covers the broad and widening range of science-fiction movies. From the trashy to the epic, from the classics to today's blockbusters, this cinefiles guidebook reviews nearly 1,000 of the biggest, baddest, and brightest from every age and genre of cinematic and TV science fiction. Youll find more than just Star Wars, Star Trek, and Transformers, with reviews on many overlooked and under-appreciated gems and genres, such as ... Monsters! Pacific Rim, Godzilla, The Thing, Creature from the Black Lagoon Superheroes: Thor, Iron Man, X-Men, The Amazing Spider-man, Superman Avant-garde masterpieces: Solaris, 2001, Brazil and many, many more categories and movies!!

Buy Low. Sell High. Build a Nest Egg. Live a Prosperous Life.Appreciation, dividends, interest, and inflation all affect the value of investments. The concepts of compounding, portfolios, and diversification should influence investment strategies. Whether you are a novice or budding expert, there is much to consider and know when investing: stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, retirement planning, college, and tax strategies, just for starters. It can be difficult and confusing.The Handy Investing Answer Book explains the basics of investing, and it explores a variety of investments and their differences, offering tips for avoiding poor returns and unnecessary risk. Most important, it gives valuable information on how to prevent banks, mutual fund managers, and financial advisers from getting rich at your expense. This handy primer provides 1,400 easy-to-understand answers to questions range from the simple to the complex, such as:Why is dollar cost averaging a beneficial strategy for investing?What are some of the steps to establishing the right goals for investing?What is a market index?What is a home equity loan?What types of risks could we see if we own individual stocks?When did mutual funds start?What is laddering?And many, many more!A bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness. The Handy Investing Answer Book is an up-to-date investing reference book for everyone.

Experts on the unexplained and paranormal research, Brad and Sherry Steiger turn their unique and remarkable talents to the bold storytelling of encounters with the unknown from throughout the ages. From mysterious strangers and unpredictable beings to weird behavior and paranormal phenomena, they investigate claims of visits from ghastly ghosts, otherworldly creatures, aliens living among us, phantoms, spirits, and other accounts of encounters with the unexplained. Over 130 astounding accounts of Real Encounters, Different Dimensions and Otherworldy Beings with the supernatural such as: Visitors from other worlds who have had Earth under surveillance for centuries, conducting their activities in secret-even abducting humans for their own research and undeclared ends. Members of secret societies who developed advanced technology centuries ago which has been kept hidden in underground or undersea cities. Time Travelers from the Future. Beings who claim to be our descendants from the future who are returning to study the true destiny of humankind. Ghosts that haunt people, places, and things--and poltergeists that create havoc. Beasties and monsters found in everyone's worst nightmares--and sometimes in their campsites, fields, and yards. Other Dimensional Visitors, Beings, Creatures, or Entities that come not from a faraway world in our solar system or any other, but from an adjacent space-time continuum existing on another vibrational/dimensional frequency or level. Previously unknown, unidentified terrestrial life-forms, such beings as "sky-critters," "sky fish," "rods," and "orbs." As yet unknown physical energies that may be activated by the psyche, the unconscious level of the human mind. Archetypal creatures and entities of the collective unconscious that are the result of energies that are accessible through dreams, meditations, and other states of altered consciousness. Interactions with beings that have been dubbed elves, fairies, devas throughout the centuries. The marvelous, creative facet of dreams. Out-of-body mind-traveling through Time and Space. Majestic beings who are described in the scriptures of many world religions as angels or demons.

Simplifying the complex chemical reactions that take place in everyday through the well-stated answers for more than 600 common chemistry questions, this reference is the go-to guide for students and professionals alike. The book covers everything from the history, major personalities, and groundbreaking reactions and equations in chemistry to laboratory techniques throughout history and the latest developments in the field. Chemistry is an essential aspect of all life that connects with and impacts all branches of science, making this readable resource invaluable across numerous disciplines while remaining accessible at any level of chemistry background. From the quest to make gold and early models of the atom to solar cells, bio-based fuels, and green chemistry and sustainability, chemistry is often at the forefront of technological change and this reference breaks down the essentials into an easily understood format.

Battles, Blood, Honor, and HeroismThe nations highest-casualty, bloodiest war is still discussed, studied, and acted out. It continues to affect the political boundaries of today. From the economic, political, and social forces behind the conflict, through the first shots fired at Fort Sumter, the military strategies, battles, and people, and from Lees surrender at Appomattox to the Southern reconstruction and modern aftermath, The Handy Civil War Answer Book is a captivating, concise, and convenient history of Americas defining conflict.The complex, turbulent, and difficult events leading to the war are explained. The genius and folly of Union and Confederate generals, major battles, and the experiences of lesser-known soldiers and civilians are examined. Blending historical review with a little surprising trivia into an engaging question-and-answer format, it is perfect for browsing and answers more than 900 questions, including *; How did the MexicanAmerican War influence 1850s America?*; What was Robert E. Lees connection to George Washington?*; What was so important about the Homestead Act?*; Would North and South have been reconciled if Lincoln had not been assassinated?*; What became of Generals Grant and Lee after the war?

A frightening collection of true ghost stories, which will turn skeptics and nonbelievers into people who sleep with one eye open! Ancient philosophers suggested that the appearance of spirits is evidence that we are part of a larger community of intelligences, a universe of interrelated species, both physical and nonphysical. Master ghost hunter and best-selling author Brad Steiger invites you to join him as he explores the many dark and nightmarish pathways leading to this shadowy world of spirits and hauntings. Real Ghosts, Restless Spirits, and Haunted Places is the defining work on spirit phenomena. It is a comprehensive classification of the spirit world touching on every possibility from time travel to parallel universes, presenting the full range of ghostly manifestations and haunted locations. A major work sure to be heralded by paranormal enthusiasts (whatever their corporeal state). Do you know the difference between poltergeists and spirits of the dead? The differences between spirits residue, spirit parasites and spirit masqueraders? With its 30 topical chapters, Real Ghosts, covers those differences and many more: Spirits Seen at Death Beds and Funerals Haunted Churches, Cemeteries, and Burial Grounds Phantoms on Roads and Highways Battlefields Where Phantom Armies Eternally Wage War Speaking to Spirits: The Mystery of Mediumship Animal Ghosts-Domesticated and Wild Spirit Parasites That Possessed Apparitions of Religious Figures Haunted Hotels, Motels, and Inns Did you know that ghosts still haunt Ohio's State Reformatory, otherwise known as Shawshank? Or that the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is home to some of the most famous ghosts in the world? With Real Ghosts, you'll discover that Abe Lincoln regularly consulted "spooks" and mediums, Rudolph Valentino haunts his old mansion, and the ghosts of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII, Katharine Howard, Jane Seymour, Elizabeth I, and King George III all still haunt some of England's most famous castles. You'll also learn how to perform a cleansing ritual to rid your home of unwanted spectral visitors. More than a collection of true ghost stories, this book plunks you square into the middle of the eerie action with captivating stories that would be at home at any midnight campfire. The only difference is these stories aren't urban legends employing hooks, needles, or long, metal fingernails for their scare. These stories exist outside of the mind and live right next door to every one of us. Real Ghosts shouldn't be read when you are home alone and the lights begin to flicker!

Seeing Is Believing. Or Is It? The mysteries of the unexplained examined with a critical eye of a highly-respected, prize-winning paranormal investigator.Weird stuff happens. Spontaneous human combustion, hairy bipeds, the massive Tunguska event, green fireballs, UFOs, cattle mutilation, crop circles, the Bermuda Triangle, Martian lore, Roswell, Loch Ness, weather phenomena, fairies, living dinosaurs, ghosts, pterodactyl sightings, flying humanoids, the hollow earth, and more than 200 other absorbing puzzles. What really happened? What is the truth? Should you dismiss what you can't explain? Or should you pay attention to the startling evidence and frightening personal accounts of those involved? Decide for yourself with Unexplained! Strange Sightings, Incredible Occurrences, and Puzzling Physical Phenomena. An authoritative, intelligent, and well-reasoned examination of strange artifacts and events that have long perplexed scientists, Unexplained! is an award-winning exposition of the strange and mysterious. Journey to the outer limits of science and nature and explore a wide range of unknown and enigmatic phenomena. The truth is out there, and looking for it is the real fun. Learn of hoaxes, witness the creation of various modern myths, and learn of frightening personal accounts and startling historical documents. Documenting the evidence and hearing witnesses out, Jerome Clark brings an engaging narrative to the stories, objectively presents their many possible explanations, and lets the reader make his or her own judgment in this one-of-a-kind book. Unique in the depth of examinations, Unexplained! delivers the possible truths of over 200 unexplained mysteries, including Area 51, Hangar 18, Ancient Astronaut Society, Objects from the Sky, Ball Lightning, Cattle Mutilations, Crop Circles, Devil's Footprints, Wheels of Light, Giant Octopus, Loch Ness Monsters, Sasquatch, Bigfoot, Yeti, Wildman, Alligators in Sewers, White River Monster, Black Dogs, Chupacabras, Fairies, Hairy Dwarfs, Little Green Men, Mad Gassers, Merfolk, Mothman, Thunderbirds, Werewolves, Yowie, Bermuda Triangle, Cottingley Fairy Photographs, Devil's Sea, Hollow Earth, Jersey Devil, Martian Mummies, Noah's Ark, Spontaneous Human Combustion, and more!!

An engaging question-and-answer guide to the world's major religions. Why do conflicts in the name of God persist¿even though religious scholars agree that all great religions are based on love, not carnage? What do different faiths have to say about God? About the afterlife? The spiritual world we live in today is a diverse and sometimes highly individualized mixture of religious practices and beliefs. The physical world is a much smaller place, often secular in appearance but still very much fueled by religious beliefs and conflict in the name of God. The Handy Religion Answer Book is an easy-to-use comparative guide for anyone seeking a greater understanding of the world's religious beliefs, customs, and practices. It provides solid descriptions of major beliefs and rituals worldwide, affording the reader an understanding of contemporary religion. This book contains detailed descriptions of the history, beliefs, symbols, rituals, observations, customs, membership, leaders, and organization of the world¿s eight major religious traditions: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shinto. Clearly and eloquently written by a scholar with over 40 years of study and teaching experience, The Handy Religion Answer Book is an engaging guide for anyone seeking basic religious literacy and intellectual history. This handy primer contains a wealth of information and answers more than 1,000 questions, such as ... What is the significance of the Star of David? How did so many different Christian churches come into being? What is the importance of the month of Ramadan? What is an ayatollah? Do Taoists believe in heaven and hell? What are the main Islamic notions of the afterlife? Who is the Dalai Lama and why is he important to so many Buddhists? Plus, it includes questions concerning religion and violence and suborganizations that claim affiliation with the major faith communities. A glossary of religious terminology and maps of the general coverage areas for each religion are also included. Enlightening and educational, The Handy Religion Answer Book clears up misinformation and misconceptions, and helps explain cultural and historical differences, providing the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the world¿s great religions.

In an age of continued Middle East volatility, religious extremists, and terrorist threats, the mere mention of Islam and Muslims too often provokes misunderstanding and even rancor. Often overlooked are the important links between the Qur'an and the Bible. Also ignored are the significant historical overlap between Islamic interpretation of history with those of Christianity and Judaism, including the monotheistic belief in a single God. Islam is too often confusing and even opaque to those unfamiliar with it.The Handy Islam Answer Book, is clearly and eloquently written by John Renard, Ph.D., a scholar of Islam with more than 40 years of research and teaching experience. He provides detailed descriptions of the history, beliefs, symbols, rituals, observations, customs, leaders, and organization of the worlds second largest religion. Renard explains the significance of the Five Pillars, Muhammad, various sects, the Qur'an, Islamic law, and much more. This engaging primer is a resource for reliable information about Islam and Muslims and it brings an understanding of the shared humanity that joins Muslims and non-Muslims far more deeply than cultural or religious differences separate them. Truly a must-have reference for our changing and trying times, this user-friendly guide answers nearly 800 questions and offers fun facts that cover Islamic history, religious practices, and Muslim cultural perspectives, including When did Islam begin? Why is Mecca a holy city for Muslims? Do Muslims worship Muhammad? What was the fate of Medieval Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land? What do Muslims mean by the term "e;Allah"e;? What does the crescent moon and star symbol mean to Muslims? What is the Muslim call to prayer? Is it similar to church bells? Do Muslims believe that God tests people? Does Muhammad play a role in Islamic spirituality in a manner similar to Jesus role in Christianity? Is jihad a legal concept for Muslims? Is it true that Muhammad both preached and engaged in military campaigns? Do Muslims, Christians, and Jews worship the same God? Why do Jews, Christians, and Muslims all claim parts of Israel/Palestine as Holy Land? Why do some people, such as the Taliban, not want girls to get an education? Does Islam require wearing face veils? Does Islam have theologians like Augustine and Thomas Aquinas and the other great Christian thinkers? Is there any similarity between Muslim and Christian art?Muslims are diverse, and they have a vast spectrum of views about Islam. The Handy Islam Answer Book aims for understanding, which is the first step to uniting, instead of dividing. This helpful books provides a historic timeline, a glossary of commonly used terms, a genealogy from Adam to Muhammad and beyond, a calendar of major observances, and a bibliography help further exploration of one of the worlds great religions.

When Darkness Reigns and the Full Moon Glows, Terror Emerges to Stalk the UnsuspectingFrom lycanthropic creatures found on television and film such as Teen Wolf, Twilight, and True Blood to the earliest folklore of shape-shifting creatures, The Werewolf Book: The Encyclopedia of Shapeshifting Beings is an eye-opening, blood-pounding tour through the ages of monsters with the most amazing camouflage capabilitiesthey hide among us! Along the way, youll land at the doorstep of creatures like hirsute mass-murderer Albert Fish, and Fritz Haarman, who slaughtered and ate his victimsselling the leftovers as steaks and roasts in his butcher shopas well as visits to mythical shamans, sirens, and skin walkers.Covering 140,000 years of legend, mythology, and fact, The Werewolf Book provides hair-raising evidence of strange and obsessional behavior through the centuries. Learn the basics of becoming a werewolf and the intricacies of slaying the beast. A true homage to werewolves and other full moon beasts, it includes topics such as Bear, tiger, coyote, and other shape-shifting people Classic and modern werewolf movies Gargoyles, totem poles, and Internet depictions Serial killers and sadistic rulers Sorcery, spells, and talismans Television shows, songs, and computer games

Your fitness, health, and well-being depend on food and proper nutrition. Yet, knowing what is in the foods we eat, understanding the differences between good and bad fat, learning which foods are good sources of vitamins, keeping up on the latest scientific discoveries, or discerning the effectiveness of different diets can be challenging. To help answer these questions there's The Handy Nutrition Answer Book. Additionally, the book scrutinizes the pros, cons, and effectiveness of the biggest, most popular, and trendiest diets on the market today.This handy reference examines, explains, and traces the basics of nutrition, the value of vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins, the science behind food-processing and the modern food industry. It traces nutritionand nutritional misconceptionsthroughout history. It explains how to read food labels and what to watch for in food additives. From the newsworthy to the practical and from the medical to the historical, this entertaining and informative book brings the complexity of food and healthy nutrition into focus through the well-researched answers to nearly 900 common questions, such as How do our muscles obtain energy?What is a calorie in terms of nutrition?How are calories measured?Why do vegetarians need to know about complementary proteins?How does a person interpret how much fat to eat based on the daily calories they want to consume?What is omega-9?How have trans fats in foods changed in the pastand how might they change in the future?Can dense carbohydrates that are high in fat and calories affect our sleep?What are some healthier natural sweeteners?What recent study indicated that red wine and dark chocolate are not as healthy as we think?What are some of the worst ways to cook vegetables that destroy nutrients?What is the Maillard reaction?What recent study showed how beer can help grilled foods?How does human taste work?Does the percent of water in our system change as we age?Whats the difference between gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, and wheat intolerance?What sugar can act like a laxative?What did the ancient Roman soldiers eat?Why did so many men die from starvation during the American Civil War?What does the word natural mean on a label?Why will food labels change in the near future?What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?Is there a controversy concerning farmed fish versus wild-caught fish?What is irradiation of food?Why is high fructose corn syrup so controversial?How can diet help with premenopausal symptoms in women?Can soy products lower my cholesterol?Why do some people seem to eat whatever they wantand still lose or maintain their weight?

From "Vlad the Impaler" and "Barnabas Collins" to "Dracula" and "Lestat", this guide furnishes more than 500 essays, a vampire chronology, and 60 pages of vampire resources.

A chilling chronicle of the often ignored history of vampirism as it has surfaced repeatedly in news articles, historical accounts, and first person interviews, this shocking account of occultist rituals and the inhuman forces that influence them shines a light on the horrifying truth. Revealing that real vampires are not immortal, do not have fangs or sleep in coffins, and have no fear of sunlight or crucifixes, the examination dispels many myths but also confirms the truth behind several traits of real vampires, such as the insatiable thirst for blood and the dream of an eternal soul. Complete with 30 spinetingling tales of the hideous wraiths and creatures that lurk in shadow, this fascinating collection includes the stories of the Mexican prostitute who mesmerized an entire village, convincing them she was an Incan goddess who required human sacrifice for her magic; the three teenagers who left a trail across the South as they conducted blooddrinking rituals with animals; and the mysterious Lady in Black who draws psychic energy from men who dare approach her as she wanders through city streets and parks.

Combining a basic history of philosophical thought with the often quirky personal stories of famous philosophers, this comprehensive introduction to the world of philosophy answers more than 1,000 questions, ranging from What was the Enlightenment? to Why did the Pythagorians avoid fava beans? Analyzing the collective effort of philosophers throughout history in the pursuit of truth and wisdom, the guide explores the tangible significance of philosophical thought to modern society and civilization as a whole. With a wide range of information suitable for various knowledge basesfrom junior high to junior collegethis is an ideal resource for anyone looking to get a better grasp of the history of thought.

Kids ask the darndest things . . . and here are the answersall in one helpful book!Anyone who has ever been a kid, raised a kid, or spent any time with kids knows that asking questions is a critical part of growing up. Kids have curious minds and they come up with some very interesting questions. But the truth is adults don't always know the answers. The Handy Answer Book for Kids (and Parents) comes to the rescue. Written with a child's imagination in mind, this easy-to-understand book is a launching pad for curious young minds and a life raft for parents at wits end. It addresses nearly 800 queries with enough depth and detail to both satisfy the curiosity of persistent young inquisitors and provide parents with a secure sense of a job well done. It'll equip every parent for those difficult, absurd, or sometimes funny questions from their kids, such as Is there life on Mars? Do rivers ever dry up? Why are there wars? Is there such a thing as a funny bone? Why do dogs bark? Why is the sky blue? Why do people have to grow old? Why do people speak different languages?

Fully updated with the latest advances in meteorology as well as an additional section on climate change, this comprehensive reference addresses all aspects of weather in an accessible questionandanswer format. All the basic elements of weather are discussed, as are all types of weather phenomena and the science of forecasting. In addition, the relationships between weather and oceanography, geology, and space science are expertly covered. Included are more than 1,000 questions and answers such as, Has a hurricane ever struck southern California? Could our oceans have originated in space? and What is bioclimatology? This resource is an ideal reference for students, teachers, and amateur meteorologists.

Including over 200 true stories, this collection provides a glimpse into the world of unexplained phenomena and survival against overwhelming odds. It covers a wide range of topics and circumstances, including angelic interventions, medical miracles, amazing sea rescues, miracles on the highway, and near-death experiences.

Spanning nearly 400 years from the early abolitionists to the present, this guide book profiles more than 400 people, places, and events that have shaped the history of the black struggle for freedom. Coverage includes information on such mainstay figures as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks, but also delves into how lesser known figures contributed to and shaped the history of civil rights. Learn how the Housewives' League of Detroit started a nationwide movement to support black businesses, helping many to survive the depression; or discover what effect sports journalist Samuel Harold Lacy had on Jackie Robinson's historic entrance into the major leagues. This comprehensive resource chronicles the breadth and passion of an entire people's quest for freedom.

Black Heroes profiles 150 individuals who have made a lasting and profound impact on our culture, our nation and the world! A who's who of cultural importance to all Americans, Black Heroes celebrates individuals who have made a lasting and profound impact on American history. Wherever they’ve made their mark—politics, art, sports, entertainment, literature, civil rights, business, medicine, education, or law—the heroes represented in this book are men and women who have struggled against the odds and advanced to miraculous heights in the process, inspiring countless others. Distinguished scholar and best-selling author, Jessie Carney Smith, has created another classic guide to extraordinary individuals and their accomplishments that is sure to please readers of any age. To help you locate information quickly, Black Heroes includes a general index and an index arranged by occupation. Brimming with information and more than 200 photographs, this weighty collection is an important guide to extraordinary individuals and their accomplishments that is sure to please readers of any age.

A thorough, comprehensive guide to the world of angels Angels, whose principal employment is the protection and encouragement of human beings, are more popular than ever. In this age of uncertainty, it is easy to understand why the concept of angels is so comforting. While much has been written about angels throughout history, no single source examines them as thoroughly or as thoughtfully as Angels A to Z. Written by an "e;angel expert"e; and a recognized authority on nontraditional religious movements, this enlightening resource is one of the most comprehensive books on angels and angel-related topics currently available. More than 300 entries, drawn from multiple religions, such as Christianity, Islam, and Hindu traditions, as well as from pop culture, are included. A variety of angel topics are discussed, including celebrity angels, obscure angels still waiting for their big break, classifications of angels, guardian angels, fallen angels, biblical figures associated with angels, angels in art and architecture, and angels in the media and literature. Plus, angels are discussed in terms of the occult and metaphysics, with entries on UFOs, fairies, and witches. You will discover how ancient, contemporary, and pop cultures represent angels in their mythology, folklore, architecture, art, literature, religion, and so much more. Angels A to Z explores such topics as: Gabriel, Michael, Lucifer, and other biblical angels Angels in various religions (Christianity, Islam, Hinduism) Different classifications of angels such as the Valkyries from Norse mythology and Hafaza from Islamic tradition Fallen angels, guardian angels, obscure angels, and angels across religious traditions Authors who write about angels, including Frank Peretti, Joan Wester Anderson, Eileen Freeman, Terry Lynn Taylor, and others Artists who depict angels such as Michelangelo, Raphael, Glenda Green, and Karyn Martin-Karl Beloved fictional characters like Clarence from the film It's a Wonderful Life If you want to know more about the rich and important history of these spiritual beings, Angels A to Z is the answer to your prayers.