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| 0140025146
| 9780140025149
| 0140025146
| 3.85
| 1,558
| 1946
| 1977
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None
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Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 15, 2022
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not set
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Sep 15, 2022
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Paperback
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| 0399151834
| 9780399151835
| 0399151834
| 3.83
| 122
| 2004
| Oct 07, 2004
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really liked it
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A finger-licking journey to American iconic food!. Who could resist the temptation of a bucket of freshly cooked Fried Chicken? Not me for sure. Imagi
A finger-licking journey to American iconic food!. Who could resist the temptation of a bucket of freshly cooked Fried Chicken? Not me for sure. Imagined the oily crunchiness of the drumsticks made me salivating. That's a life simple pleasure. A comfort food that brought back many fond memories. It tasted so good back then, that it could do no wrong. For the author John T. Edge, this book chronicling his year of pilgrimage across the country, sometimes relishing fried chicken 3 times in a day in various local favorites. From the bread crumbs chicken back in Ohio; the cornmeal crusted drumsticks in Seattle; to the Buffalo wings in New York; among others. Edge dispelled the long held notion, that the Southern region is where the best serving could be found. While he didn't deny the South had a long distinguished history of fried chicken cookery; his observations showed there's no lack of worthy variants from other parts of the country. He touched the origin of this popular food. Yes, slavery is one of the earliest point of origin. Various immigrants later added up the variety. Like the Barberton Chicken that traced it way back to the old world Serbia. Or, the fiery hot Korean fried chicken. The way it assimilated and become parts of American culinary is worth knowing. The significance of fried chicken to socio-cultural tapestry is very interesting. Just see how American fried chicken company like KFC, Wendy's, Popeye, successfully became a worldwide phenomenon. Creating a different eating habit to those nations, where their franchise operated. Not necessarily a healthy affair though. Their dominion in own's turf were challenged, when Guatemalan's Pollo Campero opened its first outlet in 2002. It was so popular among Latin American descents population. Before that, it was sort of customs for foreign workers to pack, boxes of its fried chicken for US bound air flight; if they visited their home countries in Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador and El Salvador. Overwhelmed by its smells onboard, TACA airline to request the company hermetically sealed those fried chicken boxes for international bound passengers midst 90s. Edge paid homage to legendary cooks who faithfully adhered in preparing this classic dish the good old way. Those iron clad skillets that had been passed several generations, along with cooking techniques. Like Chef Luciano, an Indian born cook whose garlic-marinated Italian fried chicken was so addictive. He told Edge during the interview, that he warned his customers to only consume fried chicken once a week. To no avail of course. At the end of each chapter, Edge shared recreated recipe inspired by fried chickens he sampled. Inspired recipes? Yes, 15 altogether. Do you innocently thought those eateries willing to be parted with their secret recipes? My favourite? Mojo-Marinated Fried Chicken. A tangy and spicy Latin favourite. It used lime and orange juice as the main marinade ingredients. I added salt to the flour, because I think Edge forgot to include salt in his recipe. I didn't squeeze an orange on top of the freshly cooked chicken. I want it crispy. In this way, this fried chicken tasted quite close to a limited time offering by KFC (Malaysia) 2 decades ago. I'm glad to be able to eat something similar again. I'm so sorry if I made you hungry. I have to go and fetch a bucket now. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 12, 2022
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Oct 02, 2022
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Sep 12, 2022
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Hardcover
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| 7119020412
| 9787119020419
| 7119020412
| 3.73
| 11
| Jan 01, 1998
| Dec 31, 2001
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it was amazing
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A vivid portrayal of life inside the harem of Imperial China. It is a splendid retelling of 25 selected episodes of history and legend through the eye
A vivid portrayal of life inside the harem of Imperial China. It is a splendid retelling of 25 selected episodes of history and legend through the eyes of consorts from various ruling dynasties. Harem, or the rear palace; was the quarter where the imperial women lived. The area covering this part was very vast; due to the sheer number of occupants. While it was a standard for one Ruler to have 3 thousand wives of different ranks; a Ruler from the state of Zhao had at least 100 thousand of them including servants during the period of Sixteen States (304-439). This book pointed out the origin of certain culture. 4500 years ago, people in the tribal kingdoms of China wearing animal skins. According to the legend, this custom stopped after Leizu (the consort of Huangdi, the Yellow Emperor) teached her people silkworm's cultivation, and the spinning and weaving process to make fabric and cloth. As time passed by, she was honoured as the Goddess Leizu, the patron of silk. Some consorts were noted for their benevolence, fairness and wisdom. Deng Sui, the Empress Consort to Emperor Hedi (reigned 88-105) was known for her kindness and consideration. She disallowed the Emperor from elevating her own blood relatives to powerful positions in the imperial court. She stopped the palace practice of accepting precious gifts from officials; only books and writing instruments. She established the first mixed school in China for the imperial children; during the period princesses didn't receive any formal education even a millenium later. There's no doubt the polygamous nature of Emperors made a very fertile ground for jealousy, competition, and outmaneuvering between various consort in the palace. Lady Qi had her limbs amputated, eyes gorged, tied to a manure pit, and named "pig-woman" by the Empress Dowager Lu after their consort Emperor Gaozu* passed away. Lady Qi had once intrigued and conspired; in failed attempts to displace Empress Lu's son (the Crown Prince) and had her son installed. * The founder of Han Empire reigned 206 -193 BC. Reading this enlightened me there's many more, well-known consorts of various reputations along the 3000 historical years of Imperial China, beside Wu Zetian or Cixi. The simple and clear writing style in this book appealed to me. The story-telling captured my attention and held me fascinated. Most importantly it's easy to follow. As a starter, this book is an excellent choice; if one is interested to gain insights of the palace women of China. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 15, 2022
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Sep 20, 2022
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Sep 10, 2022
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Paperback
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| 0671501283
| 9780671501280
| 0671501283
| 3.73
| 278
| 1995
| Apr 13, 1995
|
liked it
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I'm one of those guilty of butchering lyric of songs according to what I thought I heard. The technical term for this, is called mondegreen. Had you c
I'm one of those guilty of butchering lyric of songs according to what I thought I heard. The technical term for this, is called mondegreen. Had you committed one? My worst mondegreen is the Informer by Snow; a 92/93 reggae with rap infusion. Honestly, I didn't have any idea what his mumbling about. (Actually I didn't care enough, busy dancing physically or, dancing in my mind). I even got it wrong with the more familiar part of "A Licky Boom Boom Down". I thought the lyric was "A Nicky Boom Boom Bang". If you never heard it, check it out. My hats off if you managed to catch the lyric. Now back to the book. In the introduction, Gavin Edwards reminisced his first mondegreen of Row, Row, Row Your Boat at the tender age of six. It was discovered during elementary's chorus class. He got teased for it, well into his junior high school. Of course, that's the beginning of many more misheard lyrics in his life. Here, Edwards compiled a collection of innocent mondegreens from his fellows with the same predicament, all across the country. It featured songs before 1995. It's a straight forward approach, formatted in 4 lines as the example below: - Mondegreen Forty-five versions of pelican - Singer. Pearl Jam - Song. Glorified G - Actual lyric. Gloried versions of a pellet gun. Imagined my surprise upon learning Edwards listed, the Deep Purple's Smoke On the Water on the most familiar part. - Smoke on the water, Fire in the sky. been sung as; - Slow motion Walter, Fire engine guy. I couldn't stop laughing. This is really helpless man. The crown went to David Bowie's Space Oddity. Not only - "Ground control to Major Tom" became "Clown Control to Mao Tse Tung". - "The paper want to know whose shirt you wear" became "the paper want to know who shot you where". Making Bowie looked like a clown. It will be more enjoyable and more personalized, if Edwards put some recollections from those misheard listeners in between songs. Certainly I will up my rating. That's a missed opportunity, because I loved those funny illustrations accompanied some of mondegreens. It accentuated the crap and hilarity; those modified lyrics had effected to whole meaning of those songs. So, is my worst mondegreen Snow's Informer listed here? No. Probably because universally there's so many misheard happened to the whole song with so many versions. I thought I got a very bad case of misheard lyrics. But, judging from this book, mine is very mild indeed. 3.5 stars. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 10, 2022
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Sep 15, 2022
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Sep 10, 2022
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Paperback
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| 0789302357
| 9780789302359
| 0789302357
| 4.00
| 5
| Apr 15, 1999
| Apr 15, 1999
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really liked it
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A coffee table book about designers shopping bag? Sure. Why not? Even if its published in 1999. It's the designer's era after all. I lived through it,
A coffee table book about designers shopping bag? Sure. Why not? Even if its published in 1999. It's the designer's era after all. I lived through it, when designer's brand played very important part to personal appearance. I collected shopping bags and re-used it. For some, it's to show off. A personal statement. Others see it as an extension to their appearances. Quite a number, love it as a momento. But eventually, it is to carry things we bought. In the introduction, authors (2 of them) relayed that some people bought brand's cosmetic or perfume in order to get the bag. Well, in 90s Malaysia; prestigious cosmetics brand were sold separately in premier department stores. So you get the store's bag, instead from the brand. This book listed winners according to experts by categories (not stated who those experts were). Belows are my comments based on shopping bag I had, that made it into the best list. 1) Best colour - Christian Lacroix. Definitely agree. Its eye catching. Intense colour. Mine's are sexy red paperbags. 2) Most often seen on the street. - McDonald. Applied when McD's outlet happened to be around the vicinity. 3) Most elegant - Givenchy Yes. The simple understated elegance. Timeless. 4) Most prestigious - the white Chanel I will vote it as the most classic. Personally, Christie's or Sotheby's carried more prestige. 5) Most Humourous - Moschino The best description. 6) Most sophisticated - Louis Vuitton I'm not sure. Mine's came after LV became "very in". I means after Jennifer Lopez featured in their advertisement. 7) Best History - Hermès. I will not argue with it. But, I think Hermès paper bags deserved another one more category. The most long lasting. I could attested to its durability. This book brought some nostalgia in the past, upon looking brands that no longer around. Tower Record anyone? During a time when record store still existed everywhere and musics were really great. It made me rediscovered some brands more or less I forget, or paid attention. It reminded me of when Tommy Hilfiger was big. United Colour of Benetton opened stores everywhere, and Anna Molinari was my wish dress. Lest I forget, Guess? with their sensational advertisement and must have jeans and watch during 90s. Some bags are eye-candy too. Like the Guggenheim Museum's. Artful. So, if you loved your shopping bags, this book is for you. It featured bags before the new millenium. Divided into 13 chapters; from fashion designers, department stores, museum, jewelers to beauty bags. Lots of them, in every pages. My only complaint is regarding fonts. Using 3,4 fonts; in different sizes and colours is too much. It strained my eyes. Better to stick at 2 types at most. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 10, 2022
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Sep 11, 2022
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Sep 10, 2022
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Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0312329946
| 9780312329945
| 0312329946
| 3.74
| 135
| Apr 01, 2004
| Jul 01, 2004
|
really liked it
|
2001 was a horrible year for Nepal. It was the year of 3 Kings. Unlike the German Empire in 1888; it was a bloody affair. Their beloved Kings*, Queen
2001 was a horrible year for Nepal. It was the year of 3 Kings. Unlike the German Empire in 1888; it was a bloody affair. Their beloved Kings*, Queen and 7 other family members had been wiped out from a shooting rampage occurred during a monthly family dinner gathering. * Crown Prince Dipendra was declared King by the privy council after the death of his father, King Birendra. He reigned in a coma for 3 days before succumbed to his injuries. This book; Love and Death In Kathmandu by Amy Willesee and Mark Whittaker, offering deeper glimpses of what transpired during the night of royal massacre. It traced movements of Crown Prince Dipendra during his last days on earth and; unfolded events leading up to that fateful Friday evening of June 1st. It also depicted the aftermath of tragedy from several perspectives. This massacre made various international news headlines. It was the first time; a tragedy of this magnitude happened to a royal family in the 21st century. The last time, a group of army officers mounted a coup d'etat and assassinated the Iraqi Royal Family in 1958. This book is quite well-crafted. It is a good choice as a starter, if you are interested in this topic. It introduced readers to local context. The royal massacre was predated by several omens and signs from the universe. 1). The Bhimeshwore idol in Dolakha temple sweated. For all 8 times it sweated before, catastrophes happened in Nepal. Including earthquake in 1934 that killed 8519 people. 2). Mysterious rain occurred during a clear night at the ancestral palace of Gorkar Durbar. Local construed it as a signal directly to the king. Gorkar Durbar is the birth place of Prithwi Narayan Shah, the 1st King of united Nepal from the Shah dynasty. 3) Strange circles of pimples appeared on the cheek of the child Goddess Kumari shortly before the tragedy. As an afterthought, some believed it actually signaled kind of injuries to the Queen. Her Majesty suffered the most horrific injuries in that part. Her head and face was covered with an open eyed china doll mask during the funeral. Metaphysics might not be for everyone; but it's good to glimpse what it had to say. Especially, comments about the presence of "raj bhanga yoga" in CP Dipendra's birth chart. There's a people saying that components in his birth chart made his parent distant from him. Authors weaved some religious theme into their presentation. Readers could get a sense of idea, on what roles Goddess Kumari, Goddess Kali, God Hanuman, and the holy man Goraknath had, with the destiny of the Royal Family. - During the last year of the life of King Tribhuvan, the child Goddess Kumari refused to give him tikka and wept. She gave it to Crown Prince Mahendra instead. His Majesty passed away 6 months later. - For the last 16 years of Her Majesty's life, she performed a specific 5 days fasting ritual annually to ensure that she would never become a widow. - A priest performed katto ceremony for the soul of King Dipendra told author that the reign of King Gyanendra will be troubled since the government didn't fulfilled their promise to compensate him enough. According to him, the spirit of the late King will be angered with it. Authors also explained just enough history behind the intertwined Shah Dynasty and Rana. Of how Rana family occupied the prominent position of being hereditary Prime Minister at the 1st place. Ruler powers had been vested to Rana's premier in perpetuity. * Rana actually descended from Bal Narsingh Kunwar, a bodyguard of the 3rd King of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah, Rana's dynasty had been elevated to become the Maharajah to the small states of Lamjung and Kaski. They became royal themselves, quite on par with Shah Dynasty. Though the Shah's King had the distinction of Maharajadhiraja. (Emperor/Supreme King). For more than a century, Kings of Nepal had to endure the state of being inside a gilded cage. His Majesty couldn't venture outside of the palace or received visitors. Unless with permission. Virtually a prisoner but in name. Until during 1950s, when Mohan Shamsher Rana handed back power to King Tribhuvan and Rana's hereditary premiership abolished forever. The Shah-Rana family chart was provided on the front section; but it was difficult to comprehend. They had intermarried so many times since 1857. So, as the topic flow by, I took notes and drew my own tree, bit by bit as it came up in the book. I had to mention; comprehending the history of Rana's dynasty is very important. In order to understand rivals existed between different Rana's branches. With it, readers will get the historical reason behind Queen's refusal to accept CP Dipendra's bride of choice, Devyani Rana. This refusal was stated as the "main reason" why CP Dipendra allegedly committed regicide. Doubled up as a travelogue, authors brought us to Nepal in midst of various strikes and riots, taken place in less than a year after the tragedy. They even been in close promixity when an explosion occurred on their way to buy fruits. They had to stockpile their food rations in view of uncertainty. Authors described their journey to Gorkha Durbar amidst tighten security. There's a trip to Shiva Ratri festival held in the Pashupatinath temple. Its one of the Hindu holy site in the country. Its ghat was where all the royal victims cremated 9 months earlier. Not in depth depiction though. Since the main focus is to unveil the massacre; and those places related to the subject. Nevertheless, authors made it up with enough political, social and cultural backdrop. They interviewed wide assortment of people from various backgrounds. Ranging from former Maoist leaders; a police officer who fought a continuous 9 hours battle with Maoist; an army officer. There's an interview with the journalist Padam Thakurathi who was critical to the royalty, especially to Queen Aishwarya and the former Prince Dhirendra*. Authors even managed to talk to Pashupati Shamsher Rana**. He was a member of the last cabinet under the Panchayat system. The cabinet recommended to King Birendra for the system abolishment and for Nepal to become a constitutional monarchy. He survived 8 attempts on his life before the interview. * Youngest brother of King Birendra. Lost his royal title after divorcing his wife to marry an English woman. ** Father of Devyani Rana, CP Dipendra's love interest. On the social and cultural front, authors explored the attitudes of Nepalese toward certain things. For example, regarding marriage. To be single at the age of 30 in 2001 as CP Dipendra was, will be regarded with suspicion and stigma. Its a society whose marriage taken place much earlier. There's juicy stories, opinions, hearsays, rumours and gossips from the Kathmandu society and the royal inner circle as well. Flavourful. Inevitably, author's came to CP Dipendra's part. They described his upbringing, relationship with his parents, his characteristics. Most importantly, his love life. Reading this made me realized reasons he was very popular among ordinary public. He earned that respect. He has affinity with the public; with distaste for overt formality or protocol. He mixed easily with them. That's why people refused to believe he was the culprit and disputed the official findings. Even after Nepal had become a republic, this case still gauged lots of interest by locals. He envisioned the constitutional monarchy with less power but with more influence. He no longer saw any point of being Autocrat because he knew the palace official was not very honest, according to this book. I gathered certain biasness toward Devyani Rana from authors and those inner circle. Well, I don't the same sentiment. I have compassion for her. She's a victim as well. As I stated earlier, authors reconstructed detailed movements inside the billiard room during the massacre. It based from those survivors. Authors also gathered opinions from them and relatives of those deceased, for reflection about why it happened. Since the tragedy, I had read various articles about it. There's a lot of theories and books coming up about it. One of the most popular was, the man doing the shooting was a Dipendra's lookalike/double body/man in a realistic Dipendra's mask. While mentally replayed moments depicted during the massacre in this book, I realized this double body theory has a possibility. It didn't contradicted with survivors' statement except the identity of man behind that military fatigue. He didn't speak at all. He wore gloves. It's interesting that this book noted that some of the street lights on the palace compound was not working that night. It was noticed by King Birendra at 8.25 pm. Less than an hour before the tragedy. Nevertheless, this book and all those theories agreed about this point. The movement and behaviour of security personnel especially ADCs during the shooting were questionable. Now, my complaint about this book. As much as it was well written, authors didn't give much room for readers to make their own conclusions. It's akin to, "This is our presentation, we give you facts, how and why. Accept it". They should trust the intelligence of their readers to draw own's conclusions. Afterall, there's no forencis testing to trace bullet residue from the military fatigue last worn by CP Dipendra. That's very important to establish how many shots were actually fired by him. Probably just one (To himself). Probably none. Probably so many. That's crucial because it will establish beyond doubt he did it or did not. If he did, it will bury the theory of double body/ lookalike forever. It should be noted there's no autopsy, blood test or toxicology performed. What I wish is, with the absence of scientific evidence on the government side and, unless authors could unearthed a new one; they should presented their writing in more neutral way. ...more |
Notes are private!
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3
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Sep 03, 2022
Jul 21, 2022
not set
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Sep 05, 2022
Jul 23, 2022
not set
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Sep 07, 2022
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Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 9937711606
| 9789937711609
| 9937711606
| 3.98
| 56
| Jul 23, 2009
| 1958
|
it was amazing
|
There's a saying, "Behind a successful man, there's a strong woman behind. Do you know behind the liberation of King Tribhuvan of Nepal (1906-1955) fr
There's a saying, "Behind a successful man, there's a strong woman behind. Do you know behind the liberation of King Tribhuvan of Nepal (1906-1955) from the gilded imprisonment; there's a woman tirelessly advocated for the freedom of His Majesty and the Royal Family, which subsequently free the Nepalese people from the iron grip rule of Rana Dynasty? The woman who sow the seeds for its happening. On that fateful Monday in November 1950, the 8th King of Nepal and his immediate family sought asylum at the India Embassy. Soldiers immediately surrounded the area. Supplies (foods etc) to the embassy cut off. Failed in their attempt to get Crown Prince Mahendra to take residence back in the Narayanhiti Palace; by the next day Rana's regime dethroned King Tribhuvan and installed the Crown Prince's second son, the 3 years old Prince Gyanendra***(who deliberately left behind) as the new King. On 10 November, under the diplomatic protection of Indian officials, the Royal Family flown to New Delhi; welcomed by Jawaharlal Nehru, the Prime Minister of India on arrival. *** Reigned twice. 1st reign Nov 1950 - Feb 1951. 2nd reign, as the last King of Nepal 2001-2008. The aftermath of this asylum and exile triggered the Nepalese Revolution 1951. A chain of events that toppled the 104 years tyrannical rules of Rana Dynasty. Delhi Accord were signed between King Tribhuvan, Nepali Congress and Ranas. It created a democratic constitutional monarchy, with elected representatives, no restriction on any political parties, all the political prisoners freed, weapons handed over, and interim government for the transition. King Tribhuvan returned to Nepal with the Nepali Congress members and resumed the throne. February 18th 1951, His Majesty made a historic proclamation by declaring the first step of democracy. Today this event is celebrated annually as the National Democracy Day. . Now, let me introduce you to Erika Leuchtag, the woman who actually made the first move for it to happen. She was the physiotherapist to the Senior Queen Kanthi Rajya Laxmi Devi. She was a guest of Maharani of Patiala when enquiries came if she could accept the appointment to serve to the Queen. This is the woman, held in high regard and trusted by the King, who made her the honorary member of the Nepal royal family. In 1949, she came to Nepal to serve her appointment; along with her servant, and a pet dog. They traveled through the mountainous route by railroad, caravan, walking, being carried in sedan chairs and lastly, by car. It was a 5 days journey from Simla (India), through the Chandragiri Pass until it reached the Kathmandu Valley. This mountainous route is now; the King Tribhuvan highway. The government provided her with accommodation at the guesthouse Tripureshwar no 1, along with bodyguard, chauffeur, housekeeper and cooks. Now, what do I mean by gilded imprisonment? It's Their Majesties' state of living under the regime of Rana's hereditary rule since 1846. The direct impact of Kot Massacre which happened earlier that year. It wiped out most of other powerful clans in the country. The King and Queen went to exile and Jung Bahadur Rana consolidated unrivalled power. He had the newly installed King Surendra to hand over all ruling power in perpetuity. The Rana clan was elevated as a royalty. The Rana's Prime Minister was also the Maharaja of Lamjung and Kaski, small hilly states with united Nepal with the style of His Highness. Beside premiership, all the highest military post also held hereditary by Rana dynasty. So, what were their conditions of living as seen or known by Erika? 1) Their Majesties' could only ventured outside the Narayanhiti palace upon permission by Rana's Prime Minister. Once given, Rana officer* will accompany the King. It was under a rare permission of family leopard hunting at the mountains, that the Royal Family managed to go to the said embassy. 2) During any official ceremony that necessitated the presence of monarch, the King was always flanked by the Premier, or other Rana officer. Probably to keep watchful eyes. 3) The king was forbidden to speak to any European without permission from prime Minister. It happened to Charles Baskerville, an American artist once commissioned to paint the official potrait of the King. According to Baskerville, throughout the whole painting session, never once King Tribhuvan said anything. Not even replied to any of his greeting. Of course, His Majesty wasn't allowed to. But Baskerville didn't know about the restriction imposed to the King. 4) Being spied upon and constantly under watchful eyes of officers who will have to submit report to the Prime Minister. All letters intercepted and never made it to the King. Even Erika had to submit her report on Queen's health and treatment. Also on her activities inside the palace while not giving treatments. Erika knew that her bodyguard was not only employed to ensure her safety, but also to watch on her. 5) The King will be summoned every Thursday to the prime minister's residence. Waiting for hours, until the Premier was ready to receive him. If there's anything needed to be discussed upon. 6) Even His Majesty himself didn't know how the royal crest looked like. Until Erika showed her the royal warrant awarded by the government to her. The seal was kept locked in Prime Minister's desk in Singha Durbar, probably since a century ago. 7) All his sons were taken away from him since young, tutored by Rana and later being arranged to marry Rana's princess. Later, his eldest son the Crown Prince Mahendra (later King Mahendra) also live in Narayanhiti Palace compound, albeit in different residence. 8) Being slandered, so nobody will not have any sympathy or question anything. What kind? Being a dissolute man, enjoying vices, debauchery, alcoholism, drug addictions. 9) Reading material allowed? Mail order catalogues from various department stores around the world. Calcutta, Paris and London. I'm sure, we Goodreads' members will go nuts if that's the only thing we could read. This is a very valuable account because, it offering unique glimpse and view to the personal live of King Tribhuvan and his family, in a time window not known to the world. Erika luckily escaped the suspicion of Rana's administration because the Premier thought she was a naive and stupid Western lady. So, she wasn't accompanied by the royal physician when giving treatments as per original order. There's good enough travelogue materials to be read here. Her observations of Nepalese, their social conditions, architecture, customs, religions and its related festivities is very astute and noteworthy. She's eager to learn about the country, while being neutral. In 1949, Nepal was still very much a closed country. Earlier in that year, there was less than 20 European there. Distrustful of foreigners; which seldom seen there except for religious pilgrimage. Very much unlike now, where tourism played a major part in its economy. She went sightseeing to various natural attractions, visiting temples, hills, browsing goods at the Middle Bazaar. I really like Erika. She's very respectful of other culture and customs. She took it as serious as her own. I couldn't help but feeling, she loved the King. At minimum, she deeply cared from the bottom of her heart. One might ask, why she went to such length? She approached Indian high officials; revealed the plights of the King and Royal Family and requesting their oassistance. Read this book, then you will understand why I feel this way. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 15, 2022
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Oct 06, 2022
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Aug 21, 2022
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Paperback
| ||||||||||||||
| 0688072798
| 9780688072797
| 0688072798
| 3.95
| 4,776
| 1989
| Jan 01, 1989
|
really liked it
|
Finally after almost 2 months, I brought my curtain down on Fortune's Children: The Fall of the House of Vanderbilt. I took a slow reading on this, to
Finally after almost 2 months, I brought my curtain down on Fortune's Children: The Fall of the House of Vanderbilt. I took a slow reading on this, to keep track on each of them. They had a tendency to bestow namesakes to their newborns. It was also to make a rounded picture; on how descendants of Cornelius 'The Commodore' Vanderbilt; lost the greatest family fortune in America. This is a dry book without much warmth. Since, the earlier Vanderbilt was an aloof and distant family, the writing style reflecting the family quite well. So, where the author stands within the family? He is a distance kin; not a direct descendant of The Commodore. Both shared a common ancestor, Jan Aertsen van der Bild 1627-1704 who arrived in this country at 1650 and resided in Flatbush, Long Island. The latter's grandson, Jacob Jr (The Commodore grandfather), started the family's Staten Island branch in 1718 when he bought a farm there. Meanwhile, author's branch settled in New Jersey; for several generations predated the Revolutionary War. The most notable was, his grandfather and namesake Arthur T. Vanderbilt (1888-1957); the Chief Justice of New Jersey Supreme Court. Author's interest on this subject began during high school years, after noticing people got impressed upon hearing his name. He got better service and treatment. But, his knowledge of his well-known relatives, came only from what's written on the textbook. His own parents never shared anecdotes about the famous fortune and acted like it never exist. Even his Vanderbilt's relatives knew nothing about it. Probably because the clan was so dispersed. (This was during the day before the internet; prior to the publication of this book in 1989.) During the author's research for materials of the book, he felt amazed at the extent of wealth, held by the dynasty. The Commodore himself worth $105m; the richest man in America. Much more than amount held by the United States Treasury in 1877. 6 years after inherited $95m, his son William Henry (Billy) managed to more than doubled his wealth to $194m in 1883. I agreed with the author's that Billy was greatly misconstrued by the media then. He differed in business modus operandi from his father. He trusted his men and sought their advice. A team player, he delegated tasks. He was a peacemaker and accommodated his business rivals. Unlike his father who ruined them. He proud of quality services provided by his companies. (Unlike his father.) He cared for the welfare of his staff. He did help others quietly without fanfare. But it was Billy, being labelled by the media as the ultimate model of robber baron. Which I felt he didn't deserve. The Commodore's saying had became true. There's a hell to pay after his death. Billy was aimed by his business enemies, competitors, legislators etc. The interview with Chicago Tribune in October 1882 opened the floodgate. The quote of 'The Public Be Damned' became the united battlecry for politicians, preachers, media and public in condemning the excess of large corporations and capitalism. My opinion (based on the excerpt); he must had been provoked, IF he really said that. Also, it had been taken out of context and sensationalized by media to sell their newspapers. Even now, there's some doubt on whether he really uttered that quote. As the key service provider to the main mode of transportation for that period, Vanderbilt's position was extremely influential. It was not only in connecting people. They could flourish or ruin other businesses. Merchants depended on them. Rural farmers need it to transport fresh produce. Consumer good manufacturers used railroads to reach various distribution lines in order to supply public demands. Any disruption on service affected the public in so large a scale. That's how powerful their position. The Vanderbilt were on top of this. As the king of railroads. As much as they were among titans of industries; they were not accepted into the New York 400 high society, so carefully guarded by Caroline, The Mrs Astor. They were considered nouveau riche; with objectional elements. It was in search for this social recognition that prompted Alva, Mrs William K Vanderbilt (3rd generation) into building the iconic Indiana limestone mansion with French Renaissance style on 660 Fifth Avenue by Fifty Seventh Street. It was design to startle and to impress. Still the door remained closed to the Vanderbilt. Alva; who traced her ancestors back to a Scottish aristocracy couldn't stand this. Alva had Mrs Astor checkmated when she decided to hold a fancy dress ball to officially open her new mansion on one Monday evening on 26 March 1883. The guest of honour was Consuelo, Viscountess Mandeville (later Duchess of Manchester), her best friend. For New York high society, Monday evenings were always reserved for Mrs Astor. It was the time she will host her social events. The Patriarch Ball, reception, musicales, dance, opera night etc. It's an open challenge to Mrs. Astor's reigns as the Queen of New York society. 1200 invitations had been issued to the crème de la crème. Excluding Mrs Astor of course. Who among them could resist to see how splendid and majestic the interior of 660 looked liked? The social arbiter Ward McAllister advised her friend that Vanderbilt's time had inevitably arrived. It's time to accept them, to resist no longer. Therefore, Mrs Astor went to Alva mansion and presented her calling card. That's the society's rule. She's obliged to send her calling card personally to signify introduction and acceptance into her community. Her exclusion from the ball will carry some social prospect implications to her daughter Carrie Astor. The satisfied Alva sent 'the very last invitation card' by the next day. The ball marked the Vanderbilt's triumphant entry into the high society and recognitions from their peers. It changed everything for them. 5 weeks later, Billy resigned as chairman of all his railroad businesses and appointed his sons (and some professionals) to fill in his shoes. He belief that his children will need more money in order to maintain their new social positions. It's not wrong to say, Alva started the trend of enormous spending spree and grandiose display of wealth within the family. Previously Vanderbilts were content to live quietly. If the 1st two generations managed to exorbitantly increase the family fortune, the 3rd generation were not necessarily the same case except for a few (Frederick, Mrs Twombly, & Mrs Whitney). The new head of dynasty, Cornelius II maintained it. He managed the business conservatively as accountant could be. Never expanded the empire to include new emerging industries. He never extended the scope of their railroads. In 1892, he declined an offer to takeover from the executive of Union Pacific that will offered access to transcontinental networks. What a miss of opportunity! Surprisingly, there's little mention about Alfred Gwynne here. Except for few brief references about the settlement of inheritance with Neily and; he died during the sinking of Lusitania 1915. Why? Alfred Gwynne emerged as the new head of the dynasty after his father indeed carried his threat to disinherit his elder brother, Cornelius III (Neily). He received the residual estate worth $43m in 1899. As the chairman of New York Central Railroad, more should be written about him. It will show where bulks of the original fortune went. What and how it went wrong. He shrunk his wealth to $26m by the time of his death. So those few others in 4th generation. The most epic fall was his brother Reginald (father of Gloria), who squandered his whole fortune and died in debts. His estate Sandy Point Farm and other assets to be sold and auctioned off to pay debtors. That left a residual of $130k for his young widow. Luckily, he didn't touch the principle of $5m trust fund his father wisely set up. Thus, he abled to pass it up to his 2 daughters. The author written in his introduction that NONE of 120 attendees of the 1st family reunion held in Vanderbilt University 1973 were millionaire. It is understandable that the original fortune had been diluted in some branches of the family. Afterall, each heir/heiress didn't receive the equal amount of inheritance. Especially Commodore's daughters. Nevertheless, I took it with a pinch of salt. There's 592 descendants still living that year. Attendees only accounted for roughly 20%. 80 of them were direct descendants, while 40 were marrying into the family. I felt it was not exactly an accurate representation for the state of wealth of the whole clan. Gloria Vanderbilt and Carter Burden weren't there. The reunion was organized by William H. Vanderbilt III (1901-1981), the titular head of the family. The 59th Governor of Rhode Island inherited 450 acres of Oakland Farm estate in Portsmouth, from his father Alfred Gwynne. He also received $5m trust fund upon his majority. According to John Astor (probably cousin), he managed to increase that amount by 10 times. Surely he worth at least a million in 1973? Even after he sold the farm in 1947 and his bus service in 50s. Or, it is because he gave away much of his wealth to various charities and causes (including Vanderbilt University) during his final years (up to 1981) that he no longer had a million in his name? According to Peter O Wilde, who attended the reunion and quoted by NY Times; "Not ALL Vanderbilt are extremely wealthy. SOME of them had to work for a living". * O Wilde is a great great grandson of Billy. He was a real estate consultant and teached at Harvard Business school. Based on above, it also meant SOME of them were also quite rich. Though not extremely wealthy to make it into the richest list. Probably self-made. Not through inheritance. That's why it didn't count. They were tracing the residue of the original inheritance left by The Commodore and Billy. I stand corrected on this, okay? There's one glaring difficulty in reading this book. The author didn't provide MORE social and economic context when Vanderbilt's mansions on Fifth Avenue sold and demolished. Besides stating the neighbourhood became a more of a business district, outrageous spending, and taxes eat much of their income. That's important, at least to me. It could provide more rounded picture on why, all Vanderbilt's mansions fated to fall down. There's a probability of empty nest, evolving residential trends and lifestyles. Apartments and townhouses sprawling nearby could become a preferable choice for their younger generations. With less maintenance and less tax. Balls could be held in a grand hotel like Waldorf Astoria. The necessities to live in a huge mansion, on a fast changing neighbourhood landscape were no longer there. Were it also due to a very slow economic and business recovery post Great Depression? Or, railroad business became less competitive, therefore less dividend? My feeling is, these mansions could be renovated to become palatial hotels. The monumental structure, the majestic setting, opulence interiors had all characteristics of a grandeur hotel. It will fitted nicely with the incoming facade of Fifth Avenue as business district. Since railroad business was on decline, they could switch to hospitality business. It's on my mind why not this course being taken. At least, it weren't discussed on this book. The last Vanderbilt's mansion on Fifth Avenue was 640. It's where Grace Vanderbilt, the reigning Queen of New York society lived and entertained her guests. (She was recognised as such by Wilhelm II, the German Emperor no less!) See trivia no 5. If she had a choice and money, surely she will do everything in her power to ensure 640 will remain standing. I don't think she will object to tourist and passerby gawking at the outside of her mansion taking photos. She loved crowds. She thrived in it. This book has an good amount of sourced facts, anecdotes and gossips. The footnotes are very interesting but, its located at the end of the book. List of references provided if readers wanted to explore more; on specific person or subject. At the same time, it has a sufficient emotional distancing. Afterall, not everyone found the excess of the Gilded Age palatable. On the whole, 5 generations of Vanderbilt dynasty provided a great example of case study. On how to get rich; how to maintain that wealth; and how to loose it. Some trivia. 1. How stingy the Commodore could be? During his last year, his physician Dr Linsly suggested him to sip a bottle of champagne every morning. He replied that he will drink soda water instead. When suggested to use a woolen blanket; The Commodore commanded his wife to buy a bale blanket. The reason? He said he couldn't afford it. Mindboggling. 2. Alva's 1883 Fancy Dress Ball that costed $250k lasted until the sunrise the next morning. To the amazement of passerby who was on the way to work and school, upon looking at the departured guests. Alva dressed as a Venetian Renaissance princess. Mrs Astor came very heavily bedecked by gems and diamonds. Some opinionated that, she wore every jewelleries she owned. While evening dress was prohibited to those invited, Billy as her father in law and the world richest man could wear whatever he wanted. He was in his formal black evening clothes. So did his friend who happened to be the 18th POTUS Ulysses A. Grant. 3. To give Consuelo a perfect posture and a stately walk; her mother Alva devised a straight rod to run down her spine, strapped at her waist and over the shoulder. She had to write on the desk with this device attached and held her book high when reading. Want to try? 4. Do you know that Consuelo had never been the 9th Duke of Marlborough first choice of bride; on any aspects? - In Newport, during his visit with Alva to The Breakers, he proposed to Getrude Vanderbilt. Probably sensing that Getrude's parents were much wealthier than Consuelo's. Only to be rejected outright. He proposed to Consuelo during his last day. - After walked down the aisle and settled themselves inside a carriage, the Duke told his bride that he had to give up the woman he loved for their marriage. - Seemed like Consuelo was his last choice to maintain the Blenheim Palace. 5. How busy was the social calendar of Grace, Mrs Cornelius Vanderbilt III? She gave small luncheon or dinner daily. Tea party every Sunday for 100 guests. Twice a week, she held a dinner party. She hosted a ball once a month. Bored with all those and the expenses it incurred, her husband began eating alone at his soundproof laboratory and spent more time with railroad inspection tours, National Guard's duty and his yatch. ...more |
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| 9780831756505
| 0831756500
| 3.94
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| Jan 1979
| Jan 01, 1979
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it was amazing
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An absolute keepsake. Rich with personal insights to the Room of State and the Royal Bedchamber. It brought readers into the journey of vanished pomp
An absolute keepsake. Rich with personal insights to the Room of State and the Royal Bedchamber. It brought readers into the journey of vanished pomp of the royal court of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland through eyes of Louisa, Countess of Antrim. Louisa Jane McDonnell was a Lady of Bedchamber to Queen Victoria since 1891. Her service was eagerly sought by the sovereign herself. My opinion; her upbringing among royal environment was the main factor for her to be invited to serve as a Queen's Lady. Born and grown up in the palace staff quarters; she became a playmate and childhood friend of Queen's children. Her father General Grey, served the Queen in the capacity of a private secretary. The same post he held in the service of Prince Albert, the Prince Consort previously. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister Earl Grey which a tea had been named after, was her grandfather. Her traits of being diplomatic, and willingness to lend a pair of sympathetic ears must be a winning factor in the mind of Queen Alexandra to continue with Louisa's service. Her Majesty promoted her to become the Mistress of Bedchamber. This book has been brought forth by discovery of her diaries and albums in the 70's. It's compiled and edited by Elizabeth Longford, a renowned historian and biographer. Longford summarized writings on diaries and gave her commentaries. Sort of hybrid of biography, memoir and album based on diaries here. What made it extra special is the exquisite collection of ephemera of those 2 reigns. Amounting to hundreds. Consisted of notes, instructions, correspondence, programs, schedules, invitation cards and royal menus. Some clues about those ephemera. 1) The order of procession throughout the Westminster Abbey during the coronation of Edward VII and Queen Alexandra on 9 August 1902. - Their exact position during the ceremony. 2) Menu for Royal Banquet for the King of Portugal at Balmoral 1895. Both rulers were hearty eaters. - Surprisingly, all royal menu I saw in this book was written in French. This one included. I wonder why? 3) The official summons from the Earl Marshal for Louisa to assist in the funeral service for Edward VII. It had taken place at the Royal Chapel of St George, Windsor on 20th May 1910. - The office of Earl Marshal of England held hereditary by the Duke of Norfolk since 1672, responsible for organising state occasion among others. As an avid amateur photographer, Louisa brought along her camera during various royal voyages and journeys. It captured inner moments of the royal household rarely seen on the media. Most of the photograph featured here, derived from her personal albums. Among photos 1. Louisa's last reading session to Queen Victoria in December 1900. The eyesight of the Queen had weakened many years before. Her Majesty required her ladies to read to her. 2. Photos of Edward VII journey to meet Nicholas II at Reval, June 1908. It caused controversy at the Parliament as the Russian Emperor recently dismissed the Duma and the incident of Winter Palace massacre. 3. A souvenir photograph given personally to Louisa by Wilhelm II. It's an informal photo, with the German Emperor flanked by his 2 young grandsons. It's given during Edward VII state visit to Berlin. This is a good book if we wanted some real examples regarding the protocol of state occasion, state visit, and the inner working of the royal court. It also highlighted some details observed by Louisa. This book is also a testament of how the office of Lady in Waiting evolved during the twilight of Victorian era. It shown how their appointments contrasted with Her Majesty earlier reign, when it's filled with ladies affiliated to the governing party. Remember the Bedchamber Crisis 1839? Of course, this book is not all about royal court. It also included her personal life while not in waiting duty. Though entries ended with the end of Edwardian era. To me, Louisa was an epitome of being a well connected woman of her time. A connection made up by combinations of Old Money and those of Gilded Age. Crème de la crème. In my personal assessment, a PRIOR KNOWLEDGE is required for readers to fully appreciate infos; and it's historical value. I admit the photo and ephemera arranged haphazardly. But it didn't override it's valuable historical contents. If anyone planning to read this, buy it in a physical copy even if it's pre-loved. It's worth keeping as a reference for the Court of St James of those 2 eras. ...more |
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| B06XRJ3K1K
| 3.86
| 2,032
| unknown
| Nov 23, 2011
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liked it
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This book read and sounded like an extended version of a high society magazines. The quite apparent elements of self entitlements and vanities might p
This book read and sounded like an extended version of a high society magazines. The quite apparent elements of self entitlements and vanities might put some readers off. The Hon. Margaret Rhodes was the youngest daughter of 16th Lord Elphinstone. Her mother was the eldest daughter of 14th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and a sister to the late Queen Mother. As such, she was a 1st cousin to Elizabeth II. She had been brought up together with her royal cousins. Sometimes, introduced to the guest as the 3rd daughter. (Genealogical chart included on the front part.) In my opinion, there's a social history value in her. But the writing execution to achieve this was midway. Honestly, this book read like a voyeuristic glance into her life, without depth in life journeys, depictions, anecdotes, feelings, and atmospheres. Originally, this writing actually meant for her descendants. That's before she's being urged to publish it. Family members had the advantage of kinship knowledge and accessible materials, but the general public is not. Which to me, necessitated Rhodes to revise her writing to suit the general audience. It doesn't hurt if she expanded this memoir by at least 50%, as she got lots of interesting moments. Examples of what I wish being more details. 1) Do you know where is Miss Margaret's Pool? It's a stretch along Findhorn River in Scotland named after her; for her angling prowess. I wish she included who taught her to fish, of the river itself; experience to land fighting fish; meals cooked with fish freshly caught. Is there any different in fishing now and then? Is the river still maintain their pristine state? 2) She and her husband had been invited to attend the wedding of Crown Prince of Sikkim in 1963. This wedding had attracted international media attention because the bride was an American socialite, Hope Cooke. How I wish Rhodes paid more attention to this part. It's not an every day occurrence that American girl became a Crown Princess, few months later the Queen Consort. During that time, Sikkim was still an absolute monarchy state. Only in 1975, Sikkim merged with India. Actually, Rhodes had been in a unique point of history. She participated in a grand royal ceremony of bygone era. If, she added more background of Sikkim royalty and depictions of Gangtok, the capital city where the wedding took place; that would make this account fascinating. Gangtok, situated at higher peak of Himalayan range at the elevation of 1,650 m or 5,410 ft. To be fair, this memoir is not without any personal touch. It featured the chronicle of John, Master of Elphinstone (her eldest brother), regarding his last days in Nazi's captivity. He had been incarcerated for 5 1/2 years. His group of POW was classified as Prominente, due to their close relationship with Allied leaders. Among Prominente were Giles Romilly, a nephew of Winston Churchill; Viscount Lascelles, a nephew of George VI; and Charles Hopetoun, the eldest son of Marquis of Linlithgow, Viceroy of India. The Nazi general who handed them to negotiators did it under his own responsibility. In contrast to the real command from Hitler to shoot them. I'm grateful that Rhodes chose to share this. Some interesting facts. 1. Glamis Castle is the seat of the author's maternal grandparents, the Earl and Countess of Strathmore. It has a reputation as the most haunted castle in Scotland. This place is the setting for the scene of King Duncan's murder in Macbeth by Shakespeare. 2. Young Princess Elizabeth had written an account of her parents' coronation in 12th May 1937. It is preserved in the Royal Archives. 3. As we know, Princess Elizabeth became Elizabeth II in 1952 while on top of Treetops Hotel in Kenya. What not normally known was; while she was up there, 2 waterbucks were fighting and 1 mortally wounded. According to a Kikuyu legend, it signifies the death of a great chief. 4. Do you know the job scope of still-room maid? In the childhood household of Rhodes, the maid was to slowly brew pots of porridge the whole night. Besides, she was tasked to make jam and bottled the fruit. 5. Even Duchess of Portland had to travel around by bus during the period of economy. ...more |
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| 0451212924
| 9780451212924
| 0451212924
| 4.03
| 5,941
| Apr 01, 1995
| Sep 07, 2004
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it was amazing
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Upon reading this, I felt the necessity to say a prayer to those tortured Iraqis. The cruelties inflicted were so horrible, beyond words. Seemed, no o
Upon reading this, I felt the necessity to say a prayer to those tortured Iraqis. The cruelties inflicted were so horrible, beyond words. Seemed, no one were safe there. Gender, age or social status didn't prevent anybody from being tortured inside those prisons, which were a daily affair. It's all a fair game for those jailers. With the liberation of Iraq; I hope this nation will eventually heal from those wounds and trauma. Though, I think it will be a very long process of recovery; considering the history of modern Iraq and the psychological impacts. It's a good tact and diplomacy on the author's part; to alternate the imprisonment account, with the history of Iraq, of the family of Al Husri-Askari and of Mayada herself. - Most of all, it made the imprisonment account bearable to be read, till the end. It served as a good distraction. If not, lots of readers would be so horrified, that they stopped reading altogether. Because some of depictions were even more horrible than those of French Revolution. - It served as a background. So, readers will understand the impact of continuous chain of events in Iraq; and got the message, Mayada and Sasson tried to convey from this story. - It showed how and why their lineage gained everlasting respects from most Arabians' walks of life. That's including, from the late President Saddam Hussein himself, who granted exemptions to descendants of Sati Al Husri from joining the Baath Party. - Of how innocence, and by being a law-abiding citizen didn't spare you from being arrested. Mayada doing lots of reflections during her time in Baladiyat. She felt, the presence of Al Husri linage in Iraq were giving sorts of credibility to the government, of the way Sati Al Husri had envisioned and approved. It became imperative to her that once released, she will escape from Iraq altogether and denounced this government. Hence, the reason why this book published. Mayada had known the author in 1998; when her service as a translator was acquired by the press centre of Ministry of Information, for Jean Sasson who was travelling alone in Iraq during summertime. It also dawned upon her, that she and family members received benefits by association with Dr Fadil Al Barrak as well. He was a director general of secret police. She recalled her advancement on journalism career. 3 times she received reward from the president for her articles. She was the first to be granted interview by the secretive Chemical Ali. More or less, interventions of Dr Fadil smoothed the way for her. For so many years I had ignored this book. How wrong I was about it. ...more |
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| 0789300192
| 9780789300195
| 0789300192
| 3.50
| 14
| Jan 01, 1996
| Feb 15, 1996
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really liked it
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Welcome to the world of Faberge, the imperial court jeweler of Russia. This book featured 52 objects of fantasy acquired by American collectors over 1
Welcome to the world of Faberge, the imperial court jeweler of Russia. This book featured 52 objects of fantasy acquired by American collectors over 100 years, focused on the intricately crafted Imperial Easter Eggs. It was published as an accompaniment to the catalog of "Fabergé in America" tour of 5 city museums in 90s. What attracted me to this book was, the red Imperial Lilies of the Valley Easter Egg on the front cover. It came from the Forbes Magazine Collection. Crafted by the head workmaster Mikhail Perkhin in St Petersburg's workshop from gold, enamel, diamonds, pearls, rubies and rock crystal. Beautiful isn't? If you push up the crown, it will reveal 3 miniature portraits of Grand Duchess Olga, Tatiana, and their father, Nicholas II. As I found out, books curated for visitors of exhibitions/museum were always brief; devoid of emotion and sentimentality. So does this book. It's an overview for people to know the outlook of Fabergé masterpiece created pre 1917; that survived the Russian Revolution. The company itself had been nationalized in 1918, and Carl Faberge had died in Switzerland 1920. Later, his descendants opened an outlet in Paris under the name of Fabergé Cie to differentiate the era. From this book, I gathered that only 44 imperial eggs survived out of 56. 12 is featured here. 1 egg that was supposed to be presented to Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna in 1917, ended in a Shanghai flea market. To me, the Imperial Coronation Egg is simply breathtaking. The golden egg, will reveal a miniature imperial carriage that Empress Alexandra Feodorovna rode to the ceremony. What a fine workmanship. The picture was self-explanatory on why some people with lots of spare-money, willing to spend a fortune on a fine artistic workmanship. In comparison to the real cost of precious metal and stones involved. But I couldn't help thinking of very wide discrepancies existed between the distinguished class and those have-nots during the Russian Belle Époque. Of course, imperial eggs was not the only attractions. Guilloché enamel, the secretly guarded techniques of Fabergé craftsmen was also given a considerable part. Others like jewels, silverware, figurines and furnishing items were briefly mentioned to accompany the exhibit lots. There are pages on list of plates featured here of their provenance and authenticity.For those wanting to explore more, there's a suggestion for you to choose, from the reading list. ...more |
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| 0934211000
| 9780934211000
| 0934211000
| 4.50
| 466
| 1986
| Jan 01, 1986
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really liked it
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I saw this book on the list of my friend and having a thought, why not give this book a try? Afterall, I love to eat Persian food once in a while. Wha
I saw this book on the list of my friend and having a thought, why not give this book a try? Afterall, I love to eat Persian food once in a while. What a heavenly cuisine! With the help of this book, I decided to cook it myself. Being in Malaysia, looking for those ingredients posed not much trouble, spice-wise. Some ingredients for winter dishes could be found at baking supplies wholesalers, in canned or bottled version. Specific fresh produce could be bought at premium supermarkets. Nevertheless, I admit certain items like lamb brain, lamb head, lamb feet and grape leaf were unavailable. Honestly, I didn't miss much. There's plenty of other choices. I already finished reading this book some months back. Cooking-wise, I decided to incorporate it at least once fortnightly as a part of the complete course of the day. To see its compatibility to be paired with local dishes. Since, I already aware of numerous preparation and amount of time involved, I'm not going to complain. But I could tell you; some of those tricky steps are the secret of Persian food deliciousness. So here are some of the results. 1. Eslamboli Polo or Rice with Tomato Sauce As a nation of hearty rice eater, naturally the rice section will be on top of my list to-cook. This one took around 3 hours including preps time. (Rice soaking for 2 hours) - I used Basmati rice variety. For meat, I used lamb. Cinnamon sticks instead of powder. Pure ghee instead of butter. - A very rich and fragrant yet simple rice. Tomatoes enhanced the lamb flavour. Following extra tips on handling the rice resulting in a very desirable texture. Rice were fluffy, separated individually and not sticky. A standard bearer of Basmati rice cooking. - This rice is perfect to be served with pickled vegetables. I served it with a local cucumber pickle salad or Persian cucumber and mint salad. A perfect match. 2. Kookoo ye Sabzi or Herb Kookoo - A Persian version of omelette. Infused with herbs and green in color. It is normally served during Persian New Year. Believed to bring fruitfulness and prosperity along the year. - I excluded barberry here. Instead of baking, I cooked it on the frying pan over the stove with low heat. - Every inch of a comfort soul food. Convenient and easy to make. I paired it with plain steam rice and some local stir-fried vege. Some spicy or hot gravy/ sauce would make a good accompaniment. Suitable for everyday cooking. My favourite. 3. Mahi ye Tu Por Ba Sabzi or Fish Stuffed with Fresh Herb - I used sea bass. Minus scallions and barberry. For the outer rub, I added flour, black pepper and herbs (same as in fillings but in powder form) instead of just salt. - Turned out very well. Crispy outside but soft inside. The herbs flavoured the seabass nicely without overpowered. I figured out, the same recipe could be used to steam the fish with good result. - Seabass is among popular choice of fish among Malaysian for family dining. This recipe is will suit them just fine. It is meant to be shared and perfect for family gathering. Good with plain steam rice. Could be match with other sweet and sour, or tangy dishes. - So there you go. Some example of dishes that I had cooked at least twice from this book. There's a page of classified foods, on hot or cold elements according to author's mother. I found it fascinating. For example - Chicken/lamb/mushroom/wheat flour/apple/vanilla/egg are hot element foods. - Fish/beef/cauliflower/rice/orange/coriander/milk/ coffee are cold element. If one is prone to anger/rage, he shouldn't consume much lamb or egg but more fish and milk. The only aspect hindered me to rate this 5 stars is the picture. Not many of them accompanied recipes. I had to look elsewhere. The arrangement of some pictures also proved confusing. Some attached in different chapters. Since this book marketed internationally, getting the photo aspect right is extremely crucial. It couldn't be ignored. From the point of view of non-Persian, I like that this cookbook being infused with Persian culture and traditions. Instead of just a collection of recipes. Poems by great Persian poets Hafez and Omar Khayyam adorned the opening of each chapter. So did, food stories of Mullah Nasrudin. I found that just adorable. ...more |
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Hardcover
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| 9670941040
| 9789670941042
| 9670941040
| 4.00
| 9
| 2012
| Dec 2015
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really liked it
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Ia adalah siri pembelajaran sains bersama detektif Conan dengan sukatan sekolah rendah di Jepun yang sesuai untuk kanak kanak. 2 kes diberikan sebagai
Ia adalah siri pembelajaran sains bersama detektif Conan dengan sukatan sekolah rendah di Jepun yang sesuai untuk kanak kanak. 2 kes diberikan sebagai contoh iaitu : 1) Pengembara dan Harta Karun Hijau. 2) Mencari Ikan Maigo Yang Hilang. Tetamu undangan, Yasufumi Kawamura, seorang professor di Universiti Sains Tokyo menghuraikan prinsip sains udara dan air yg menjadi sebab penyelesaian siasatan 2 kes diatas. Penerangan yang diberikan agak ringkas dan mudah difahami kerana disertakan sekali contoh bergambar. Beberapa ilustrasi eksperimen juga sesuai dijadikan aktiviti bilik darjah bagi meningkatkan pemahaman murid tentang sains. Contoh seperti eksperimen bazooka angin dan membuat gel. Antara fakta menarik yang diselitkan. 1) Stesyen Misashima mempunyai kelajuan udara yang mencecah 30 batu sejam. Penumpang perlu mengosongkan platform dalam masa 2minit selepas keluar dari tren. Kelajuan angin dari tren yg mulai bergerak bertindak sebagai vakum yang akan menyedut penumpang jatuh ke landasan. 2) Cara Archimedes menyelesaikan keraguan raja tentang ketulenan emas pads mahkotanya menggunakan prinsip ketumpatan emas, perak dan air. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jan 15, 2022
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Jan 16, 2022
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Jan 15, 2022
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Paperback
| ||||||||||||||
| 0375753087
| 9780375753084
| 0375753087
| 3.99
| 149
| 1997
| Mar 02, 1999
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it was amazing
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This will be my first review regarding Imperial Iran, after more than a decade of reading. What propelled me all this while was, this reflection from
This will be my first review regarding Imperial Iran, after more than a decade of reading. What propelled me all this while was, this reflection from a blogger; 'If there's no Iranian Revolution, by now we will see mass market products dominated by Made in Iran, instead of Made in China'. I never see this kind of opinion before. It left me with wonders. With this book, I concluded that it would be a big possibility IF, AIOC (Anglo Iranian Oil Company) practiced fair play and absolute professionalism in their conduct with Iran; way back to the period prior to 1933 Concession agreement. Even if that happened as late as after the oil nationalization in 50s under the premiership of Dr Mossadegh. * Do you know that AIOC brought the oil nationalization case to The Hague? It was even brought to the UN Security Council? Ridiculous isn't? * Read the UN Security Council about this proceeding. It's the most interesting. Dr Mossadegh himself headed the Iranian delegation during the debate. I never thought a memoir with intricate details on Iranian oil and gas history would be so absorbing and engrossing. It's a superbly written book, with insiders' perspective on the eclipse of Shah Qajar; to the rise and fall of Pahlavi dynasty. I'm very much sympathize with Iran for all she had gone through. Never a British colony but treated worse. Being chosen as a place of world intrigue. * Do you know that British & Russia chose Persia as their battleground? It contributed to a very large degree, the fall off, the last Shah of Qajar dynasty. It's the most important book to read, for those who want EMOTIONAL and PSYCHOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING of why Iranian Islamic Revolution happened at the first place. It threw me a new light and perspective. Lots of happenings in Iran pre revolution beginning to make sense to me. Immediately after the introduction, the main author wrote his adventurous account of escaping from the Khomeini's regime Wanted List through a Kurdish populated Rezaiyeh, near the border of Iran-Turkey. He ventured through a snow-laden mountain by horses and a mule; with an opium smuggler as his fellow escapee. This, decidedly hooked me up to the rest of the book till the end. Manucher Mirza Farmanfarmaian was a director of concession, oil and mining in Finance Ministry at one time. Rests assured that he had a deep knowledge of what he wrote, when he lamented AIOC bullying attitude towards Iran. It's very fortunate that he chose to share his knowledge. - AIOC was the largest private employer in Iran.Very wide discrepancies existed between British expats and locals Iranian worker of the oilfields which, in breach of agreement with Iranian government. The blue collars had no electricity, running water in staff quarters. Wages 50 cents a day, no medical or disability benefits, no sick or annual leaves. There's even 4000 applications for Palestinian untrained workers to be approved at one time. Was Iran had zero unemployment that AIOC needed to import foreign untrained workers? Look like they didn't want Iranian to benefit AT ALL from petroleum found beneath the Persian motherland. Unsatisfactory life-working condition led to strike and riot; susceptible to the influence of communist (Tudeh Party). Guess who got the blame and who got the most profit? - AIOC accused Iranian government of being ill-informed when they, themselves closed the accounting book from being scrutinized by government officials. Citing one reason after another. - They offered low royalty. 4 shilling per barrel, not reflecting the inflation and market price. That's the lowest rates among oil producing countries. In comparison, American oil company (those so called robber barons) paid 50 percent profit to Venezuela. - They paid Iran only AFTER they had paid British tax. Fair or not? They operated in your country. After payment of tax to THEIR government, you could expect your payment of royalties. Tell me what you think. Is that the right business practice? - Iran shares of royalties were shelved together with British war pools at one time. That pool money was meant for British overseas company that exceeded certain profit amount for war purpose. It should exclude Iran's. British administration had even gave AIOC's chairman; discretion to pay the accrued amount to Iran. He didn't. He took a flight to Tehran, delivered ultimatum for an extended 60 years concession and return back to England next day. Even though Dr Mossadegh was the first cousin to the author, he got sacked because he opposed oil nationalization. His reason was, by nationalization, Iran lost any future probable claim to any profit made by subsidiaries of AIOC. He believed Iran had a right to it as those companies were set-up using profit from Iranian soils. Fearing arrest, he exiled himself in US and support himself giving series of nationwide lectures about middle east. After few years, he returned and appointed as the sales director of National Iranian Oil Company. Later, he was posted to Venezuela as ambassador. *AIOC used it's profits to form subsidiaries operating in other middle eastern countries. Of course this book was not all about oil. I stressed more to oil because it's largely intertwined with the destiny of modern Iran. It set back the development of this country for almost 5 decades; before the settlement on oil nationalization. That's easily covered 3 generations. By the time Iran prospered by oil wealth, it wasn't fully appreciated by her people because of those scars and damage done by international oil politics. This book was beautifully written with prose and poems by Hafez (the great Persian poet), adorned the beginning of each chapter. Reading this was like having an epic journey to the lost world of Imperial Iran. Vivid reminiscence and emotional depictions of scenes. There are a lot of anecdotes along the way, if that's what you are looking for. There's plenty of old pictures of Farmanfarmaian households stacked in the middle of the book. It's priceless. A nostalgia of bygone era. I think, being born a Farmanfarmaian enabled the author to see things from multiple point of views. Royals, aristocrats, political, tribes, landowners, pheasant, agricultural, technocrat, administrator among others. The advantage of birth-rank and being well-connected. Blood and Oil is a book that I wanted to have the physical copy. It's an absolute keepsake. Luckily, I picked up this marvelous piece of writing. It definitely deserved to become a finalist of Pen/West Award. All these times, I always feel something lacking in my reading of Iran. With this, I found the right key. I definitely recommend this for those cared enough to understand why Iran behaved liked that. It's even relevant today. Some notes. * Farman Farma was a royal title bestowed by Shah. It meant Commander of the Chief Commanders. In my opinion, equivalent to the rank of Marshall of France in Napoleonic French Empire. * Under the reign of Shah Reza, each family need to choose a surname. His father chose Farmanfarmaian to reflect his royal title. * Reza Shah, the first Emperor of Pahlavi dynasty was a soldier in command of his father's regiment at one time. * The main author Manucher Mirza Farmanfarmaian was a member of the most distinguished family in Iran. He was a second cousin to Ahmad Shah Qajar, who reign the peacock throne at the time of his birth. * He left the household at the age of 9, to enroll a boarding school in England. * Nosrat Doleh, his eldest brother, a former finance minister had been executed by Shah Reza. His father, a former PM, Prince Abdol Hossein had passed away, leaving him in immediate financial limbo to finish his studies; if not for the generosity of an English mechanic family. * Muzaffar, his brother was a DPM under the premiership of Qavam Saltaneh. * Armed with a degree in Petroleum Engineering from University of Birmingham, he made his way back to his motherland. *He was a main signatory of OPEC blueprint. *Differed from other countries, ambassadors of Iran was Shah's appointment, to personally represented the Emperor. It's equal in rank of cabinet minister. * He returned from his ambassadorial posting in Venezuela just 1 or 2 years before revolution. * Unlike others on Khomeini's wanted list which was specified by exact names, his family was listed broadly as Farmanfarmaian, means any of them young and old. He was having a conversation when the authority came to arrest his brother, Rashid. He barely escaped. That's when he decided to leave Iran forever. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jan 11, 2022
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Jan 17, 2022
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Jan 11, 2022
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Paperback
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| 0439992249
| 9780439992244
| 0439992249
| 3.68
| 137
| 1996
| Aug 17, 2001
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really liked it
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It's a "today in history" kind of diary. Each entry of the day featured an interesting historical happening around the world, from 551 BC to 1988. It's It's a "today in history" kind of diary. Each entry of the day featured an interesting historical happening around the world, from 551 BC to 1988. It's a good choice to teach children to love history lesson. It's written in a witty, lively conversational ways to catch the interest of children to listen and learn. Each page accompanied by an equal page of blank entry. So, kids could fill their owns' as a diarist do. Each entry was accompanied by short related anecdotes. For example, 1 October 1788 was the day William Brodie had been hung as convicted of burglary. But do you know during the day time, Brodie was a respected skilled craftsman that designed the Edinburgh gallows? Yes! He designed it. Later, been hung with it. Some entries were asking readers to think further, whether things were what it seems, or were there something more to it, rather than the official version. Like the incident of Hinderburg crash on May 6 1937. Was it purely accidental or a sabotage? As the author of Horrible Histories series, more or less some critical commentaries passed along those lines. Which is to be expected to those familiar with his writing style. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jan 09, 2022
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Jan 09, 2022
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Jan 09, 2022
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Paperback
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| 1760790001
| 9781760790004
| 1760790001
| 4.00
| 1
| unknown
| Nov 13, 2018
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really liked it
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Celebrating New Year 2022 couldn't get better than this with arrays of sweet indulgence of luxurious shakes; topped with every imaginable treat. Make
Celebrating New Year 2022 couldn't get better than this with arrays of sweet indulgence of luxurious shakes; topped with every imaginable treat. Make a wish, so your sweet dream came true. I blended up Billy Bonka, a concoction of Oreo, Snickers, peanut butter and chocolate. The picture is on the front cover of this book. It's the middle one; with 2 layer toppings of mini waffles, with Oreos, pretzels, whipped cream and Reese pieces (I used Hershey's). These calories laden milkshakes, had taken the foodie culture by the storm since a decade back. Here, proprietors of the Vogue Cafe in northern Sydney had shared 40 variations of their famous crazy sips for us to try. The cafe had closed since April 2021, but we still have this book, 1st published in 2016 as consolations. Basically it divided into 4 parts; 1) Fruity Mania - I would love to try Pash Me. It's a non dairy, white peach and passion fruit quencher based concoction. It used frozen berries as pearls. Perfect for the weekend. 2) Chocolate Mania - All sort of choc based. A chocolate wild dreams came true. Lot of shakes belong here. Including Billy Bonka that I concocted yesterday. 3) Super Sweet - It used different types of sweetener like maple syrup, honey, fruit syrup and using various types of candies as flavour based. Honestly, to get the exact candy required could posed problem to some. For me, I will use the substitute version for the topping if it's difficult to find. Who cares? Probably one day I will have Maybe It's Maple. A pecan, caramel and maple syrup flavour. A wishful thinking. The topping is a too complicated idea for me with rose buds, fairy floss and all. Remain my fantasy perhaps. 4) Crazy Cool - The richest one belong here including the Infamous Nutella Milkshake. Oh my! I wonder how many exercises, walking I had to do to use up those calories' intake. Save this one for once a year affair. Instructions to prepare the glass and ratio for dairy substitution are written on earlier part as references. I made the chocolate rim on 31st Dec and kept it in the fridge. On New Year's day; I just had to concoct shake and decorate it. Easier. Pick this book if you planned for a gathering, party, celebration. This kind of dessert is a perfect medium to be enjoyed over conversation. Just prepare the glasses and shakes. Let your guests assemble their own favourite topping. Kids will love to lay their hands decorating according to their fancy. Bonding session perhaps? ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 31, 2021
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Jan 2022
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Dec 31, 2021
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Hardcover
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| 0552776351
| 9780552776356
| 0552776351
| 3.51
| 1,387
| 2008
| 2010
|
liked it
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It's walking down the memory lane on the most nostalgic heritage of the English countryside. It featured personal reminiscence by various notable peop
It's walking down the memory lane on the most nostalgic heritage of the English countryside. It featured personal reminiscence by various notable people commemorating the most meaningful aspect of rural life. My impression, this book had an excellent idea but average execution on essays writing parts. The general idea of celebrities contributed by penning their favorites' to the worthy cause of CPRE was very noble indeed. Combined that with Bill Bryson presidency of CPRE (At the time book published. He wrote the introduction), a worldwide renowned bestselling travel author, a former English Heritage commissioner. That's brilliant. Having recognized name didn't ensure ability to compose a heartfelt celebration within the limitation of 2 or 3 pages. Some did well with very insightful recollections that touched my heart. Some were rightfully boring and bland. It's a hit or miss. Did I regret reading this? No. It gave me ideas regarding the off the beaten path to discover England. It would make a good companion for those intended to explore off the trail attractions. I got better glances on rural customs and learned of landmarks I never knew existed (like Hadrian's Wall), through their writings. Collectively, subjects not limited to stereotypical landmarks and landscapes. It included tangible features; great oak trees, cattle grid and pub signs. Of intangible cultures; the tradition of local family butcher, village's cricket and bonfire night. Variety-wise, very good. It had a good representation of what quintessentially English. Here are some of great entries I loved. - A Passion for Meat by Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones. Paying homage to a master butcher, Phillip Warren of Warren's Butchers in Launceston, Cornwall. It's a personal call for people to support their local meat shop. This appeal much to me. I love support local business when possible. - My Little Piece of History by Rosie Boycott. An exciting recollection on the seaside pier of Lyme Regis. At Mary Anning's fossil shop, you could buy an ancient historical momento for as little as £2.50. This is kind of place I would like to put on my itinerary. - Paradise Found by John Sergeant. A childhood remembrance of living in Tew village during 50s in the Oxfordshire. The picture is very beautiful. No wonder it once been voted as the most beautiful village in England. I decided to re-enter to my to-buy-list, a pictorial book on Cotswolds village. - The Road Taken by Robert McFarlane. A historical account on old sunken roads. It's as deep as 20ft and dated back from Iron Age to the early 18th century . Some still exist in soft stone counties of southern England. Another place I would consider to venture. - What a Waste by Eric Clapton A melancholic rendering of the bygone era on seeing Newlands corner being converted into rubbish dump. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 26, 2021
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Jan 05, 2022
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Dec 26, 2021
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Paperback
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| 0743270797
| 9780743270793
| 0743270797
| 3.83
| 417
| 1993
| Sep 27, 2005
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None
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Notes are private!
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0
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not set
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not set
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Dec 19, 2021
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Hardcover
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| 1926893352
| 9781926893358
| 1926893352
| 3.14
| 105
| Jun 21, 2010
| Jun 21, 2010
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really liked it
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I glad that I waited 10 years before picking this up. By this time, I had neutralized myself of bad reviews and media coverage on Judge Larry Seidlin.
I glad that I waited 10 years before picking this up. By this time, I had neutralized myself of bad reviews and media coverage on Judge Larry Seidlin. Now I'm able to focus on what this book has to offer and be objective with it. Not exactly without prejudice though. I had personal opinion of Anna Nicole Smith since the first time I saw her; featuring in those sensational Guess? advertisement early 90s. I love those ads you know. I have no regret reading this. It's captivating and unputdownable. It has the most revealing facts and info that laid bare the prescription drug abuse by that big beautiful doll and the role her enablers played that led to her early death. Quote from Judge Seidlin: "In this book, we will explore whether Anna Nicole Smith died from an accidental overdose, as announced by Dr. Joshua Perper, the chief medical examiner for Broward County, or from foul play. Why did Howard K. Stern, as an alleged enabler, allow Anna Nicole to remain on drugs? Was it so, he could remain with her and control her person and property?" I agree that her death smelled rat. Even when she still alive, her mother, a retired sheriff warned it will be her turn next. That's not long after her son suspicious death in the Bahamas. For the judge, whose instinct sharpened from boyhood spent in a shady neighbourhood of Bronx; it pointed to Howard K Stern, who was there when both deaths took place. I believed, Judge Seidlin purposely prolonged the trial. So some Attorney General will pick up hints, witness statements, evidence and facts provided by testimonies and dispositions from the 6 days trial that he presided and do something about it. Yeah, the Californian Attorney General picked it up and charged those enablers. There are appendixes of these trials inserted. Judge Seidlin eccentricity and self-glorification aside, I agreed with most of the observations he concurred. He presented us on how and why justice eluded Anna Nicole Smith and Daniel Smith. That left a bitter taste of strong injustice. But at least Judge Seidlin had tried his best. From his experience as a probate judge, he predicted that battles between the estate of Anna Nicole Smith versus E. Pearce Marshall will prolonged beyond 2010 when this book published. So true. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 12, 2021
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Dec 14, 2021
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Dec 13, 2021
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Hardcover
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| 3.85
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not set
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Sep 15, 2022
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| 3.83
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really liked it
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Oct 02, 2022
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Sep 12, 2022
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| 3.73
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it was amazing
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Sep 20, 2022
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Sep 10, 2022
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| 3.73
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liked it
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Sep 15, 2022
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Sep 10, 2022
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| 4.00
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really liked it
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Sep 11, 2022
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Sep 10, 2022
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| 3.74
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really liked it
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Sep 05, 2022
Jul 23, 2022
not set
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Sep 07, 2022
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| 3.98
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it was amazing
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Oct 06, 2022
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Aug 21, 2022
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| 3.95
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really liked it
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Aug 02, 2022
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Jun 20, 2022
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| 3.94
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it was amazing
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Jun 14, 2022
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Jun 15, 2022
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| 3.86
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liked it
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Mar 12, 2022
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Mar 04, 2022
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| 4.03
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it was amazing
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Feb 12, 2022
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Feb 15, 2022
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| 3.50
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really liked it
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Jan 29, 2022
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Jan 28, 2022
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| 4.50
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really liked it
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Jun 17, 2022
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Jan 23, 2022
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| 4.00
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really liked it
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Jan 16, 2022
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Jan 15, 2022
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| 3.99
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it was amazing
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Jan 17, 2022
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Jan 11, 2022
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| 3.68
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really liked it
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Jan 09, 2022
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Jan 09, 2022
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| 4.00
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really liked it
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Jan 2022
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Dec 31, 2021
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| 3.51
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liked it
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Jan 05, 2022
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Dec 26, 2021
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| 3.83
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not set
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Dec 19, 2021
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| 3.14
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really liked it
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Dec 14, 2021
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Dec 13, 2021
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