Amazing Decisions


Book Description

Dan Ariely, the New York Times bestselling author of Predictably Irrational, and illustrator Matt R. Trower present a playful graphic novel guide to better decision-making, based on the author’s groundbreaking research in behavioral economics, neuroscience, and psychology. The internationally renowned author Dan Ariely is known for his incisive investigations into the messy business of decision-making. Now, in Amazing Decisions, his unique perspective—informed by behavioral economics, neuroscience, and psychology—comes alive in the graphic form. The illustrator Matt R. Trower’s playful and expressive artwork captures the lessons of Ariely’s groundbreaking research as they explore the essential question: How can we make better decisions? Amazing Decisions follows the narrator, Adam, as he faces the daily barrage of choices and deliberations. He juggles two overlapping—and often contradictory—sets of norms: social norms and market norms. These norms inform our thinking in ways we often don’t notice, just as Adam is shadowed by the “market fairy” and the “social fairy,” each compelling him to act in certain ways. Good decision-making, Ariely argues, requires us to identify and evaluate the forces at play under different circumstances, leading to an optimal outcome. Amazing Decisions is a fascinating and entertaining guide to developing skills that will prove invaluable in personal and professional life.




100 Things Duke Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die


Book Description

Perfect for Duke fans who think they already know everything 100 Things Duke Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die is the ultimate resource guide for true fans of the Blue Devils. Whether you're a die-hard booster from the days of Mike Gminski or a new supporter of Jahlil Okafor, these are the 100 things all fans needs to know and do in their lifetime. It lists figures from the Vic Bubas era to the current Coach K era—with stories on each of his four national championships and the players involved. The book also features the places all Duke fans needs to visit, such as the Angus Barn, and provides background on the university, including how it was founded and what makes the famed chapel such a special structure. Every essential piece of Blue Devils knowledge and trivia is here, as well as must-do activities, and ranks them all from 1 to 100, providing an entertaining and easy-to-follow checklist as you progress on your way to fan superstardom.




The Duke Legacy


Book Description

Washington Duke is very young when he first realizes there is racial discrimination in the South. Living outside of Hillsboro, North Carolina, in the mid-1820s, he is one of ten children in a family that shares the wilderness with bears, rattlesnakes, and mountain lions. Washington learns about the world around him from his scholarly father, nurtures a compassion for others, and eventually grows into a man deeply troubled by the institution of slavery. Unaware of what awaits him, Washington is conscripted into the Confederate Army and reluctantly leaves his three-hundred-acre farm in 1864 to fight in the war. When the Civil War is over, Washington is left widowed, with nothing but his farm, two blind mules, a wagon load of tobacco, and his four children. Determined to rise from the rubble, Washington soon begins building the foundation for the Duke financial empire although not without challenges. As Washington ages, his sons eventually capture his dream to establish Duke University. Even with the family's successes, though, there is tragedy and heartache; Washington's granddaughter, Doris, dies under suspicious circumstances in 1993 and her estate becomes embroiled in a legal battle. Based on a true story, this compelling and inspirational tale examines the life of a gentle giant and his descendants who together built a multibillion-dollar empire, numerous charitable foundations, and a renowned academic institution, proving that anyone can overcome adversity to achieve greatness.




The Complete Works of Sir Walter Scott (Illustrated Edition)


Book Description

The Complete Works of Sir Walter Scott (Illustrated Edition) is a monumental collection that spans across genres such as historical fiction, romance, and adventure. Known for his intricate storytelling and vivid descriptions, Scott's works transport readers to different time periods, most notably the medieval age of chivalry and feudalism. His literary style is characterized by a combination of rich language, complex characters, and detailed historical settings, making his works both entertaining and informative for readers interested in the past. This illustrated edition allows readers to further immerse themselves in Scott's vivid world through visual representations of key scenes. As a prominent figure in Scottish literature, Scott's influence can be seen in many modern works that draw inspiration from his themes and settings. The Complete Works of Sir Walter Scott serves as a definitive collection for any enthusiast of historical fiction and classic literature, showcasing the depth and breadth of Scott's literary contributions.




At Home: Special Illustrated Edition


Book Description

From one of the most beloved authors of our time—more than six million copies of his books have been sold in this country alone—a fascinating excursion into the history behind the place we call home. “Houses aren’t refuges from history. They are where history ends up.” Bill Bryson and his family live in a Victorian parsonage in a part of England where nothing of any great significance has happened since the Romans decamped. Yet one day, he began to consider how very little he knew about the ordinary things of life as he found it in that comfortable home. To remedy this, he formed the idea of journeying about his house from room to room to “write a history of the world without leaving home.” The bathroom provides the occasion for a history of hygiene; the bedroom, sex, death, and sleep; the kitchen, nutrition and the spice trade; and so on, as Bryson shows how each has fig­ured in the evolution of private life. Whatever happens in the world, he demonstrates, ends up in our house, in the paint and the pipes and the pillows and every item of furniture. Bill Bryson has one of the liveliest, most inquisitive minds on the planet, and he is a master at turning the seemingly isolated or mundane fact into an occasion for the most diverting exposi­tion imaginable. His wit and sheer prose fluency make At Home one of the most entertaining books ever written about private life.




The Complete Works of Henry James (Illustrated Edition)


Book Description

The Complete Works of Henry James (Illustrated Edition) is a comprehensive collection of the legendary author's oeuvre, showcasing his intricate prose style and insightful portrayal of complex social dynamics. Known for his exploration of psychological realism, James delves into the inner workings of his characters' minds, drawing readers into a world where subtle nuances and delicate emotions reign supreme. This collection serves as a window into the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offering a glimpse into the social mores and cultural zeitgeist of the era. From his iconic novels to his lesser-known short stories, this collection highlights James' unique talent for capturing the essence of human nature with unmatched precision. Henry James, one of the most influential American authors of his time, was driven by a desire to dissect the intricacies of human relationships and societal norms. His deep understanding of human psychology and his keen observations of social interactions informed his writing, allowing him to create rich and multi-dimensional characters that continue to resonate with readers today. The Complete Works of Henry James (Illustrated Edition) is a must-read for literature enthusiasts, offering a captivating journey through the mind of a literary genius and a profound exploration of the human experience.




The Waverly Novels - Complete Collection: 26 Books in One Volume (Illustrated Edition)


Book Description

Walter Scott's 'The Waverly Novels - Complete Collection: 26 Books in One Volume (Illustrated Edition)' is a literary masterpiece that encompasses a diverse range of historical fiction tales set against the backdrop of Scottish history. Known for his vivid descriptions and compelling storytelling, Scott intertwines themes of honor, romance, and adventure in a captivating narrative style that transports the reader to a bygone era. The book is a treasure trove of cultural and historical references, making it a rich tapestry of Scottish identity and tradition. With its intricate plots and well-developed characters, this collection is a must-read for any lover of classic literature. Walter Scott, a Scottish historical novelist, poet, and playwright, drew inspiration from his own country's history and landscape to create timeless works that continue to resonate with readers to this day. His deep understanding and love for Scotland are evident in the meticulous research and attention to detail present in 'The Waverly Novels.' Scott's passion for storytelling and commitment to preserving his nation's heritage shine through in this extraordinary collection. I highly recommend 'The Waverly Novels - Complete Collection' to anyone interested in historical fiction, Scottish literature, or classic novels. Walter Scott's enduring legacy as one of the greatest writers of the Romantic era is beautifully captured in this comprehensive edition, making it a valuable addition to any reader's library.




The Complete Works (Illustrated Edition)


Book Description

This ebook collection has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Content: Introduction: "Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell" Novels: Mary Barton The Moorland Cottage Cranford Ruth North and South Sylvia's Lovers Wives and Daughters A Dark Night's Work Short Stories & Novellas: Round the Sofa My Lady Ludlow An Accursed Race The Doom of the Griffiths Half a Life-Time Ago The Poor Clare The Half-Brothers Cousin Phillis Company Manners Mr. Harrison's Confessions The Sexton's Hero The Grey Woman Curious if True Six Weeks at Heppenheim Libbie Marsh's Three Eras Christmas Storms and Sunshine Hand and Heart Bessy's Troubles at Home Disappearances Lizzie Leigh The Well of Pen-Mortha The Heart of John Middleton Traits and Stories of the Huguenots Morton Hall My French Master The Squire's Story Right at Last The Manchester Marriage Lois the Witch The Crooked Branch The Old Nurse's Story Clopton House Crowley Castle Two Fragments of Ghost Stories The Shah's English Gardener Martha Preston The Deserted Mansion Uncle Peter A Visit to Eton The Cage at Cranford Some Passages from the History of the Chomley Family The Ghost in the Garden Room Poetry: Sketches Among the Poor Bran The Scholar's Story Other Works: The Life of Charlotte Brontë The Last Generation in England Cumberland Sheep-Shearers Traits and Stories of The Hugenots Modern Greek Songs French Life An Italian Institution Shams A Fear for the Future Biography: Mrs. Gaskell and Knutsford by George A. Payne Elizabeth Gaskell (1810-1865) was an English novelist and short story writer. Her novels offer a detailed portrait of the lives of many strata of Victorian society, including the very poor, and are of interest to social historians as well as lovers of literature. Some of Gaskell's best known novels are Cranford, North and South, and Wives and Daughters.




THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WASHINGTON IRVING (Illustrated Edition)


Book Description

Musaicum Books presents to you this carefully created volume of "THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WASHINGTON IRVING (Illustrated Edition)". This ebook has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Washington Irving (1783-1859) was an American author, essayist, biographer and historian of the 19th century. Contents: INTRODUCTION SPEECH: NEW YORK, FEBRUARY 18, 1842 by Charles Dickens COLLECTIONS OF SHORT STORIES: THE SKETCH BOOK OF GEOFFREY CRAYON, GENT. Rip Van Winkle The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Old Christmas Roscoe The Wife TALES OF A TRAVELLER Strange Stories by a Nervous Gentleman Buckthorne and His Friends The Italian Banditti The Money Diggers BRACEBRIDGE HALL The Busy Man The Widow The Lovers Family Reliques An Old Soldier WOLFERT'S ROOST AND MISCELLANIES THE CRAYON PAPERS TRAVEL SKETCHES AND MEMOIRS: TALES OF THE ALHAMBRA ABBOTSFORD AND NEWSTEAD ABBY A TOUR ON THE PRAIRIES SATIRICAL WORKS: KNICKERBOCKER'S HISTORY OF NEW YORK LETTERS OF JONATHAN OLDSTYLE, GENT. HISTORICAL WORKS: THE ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN BONNEVILLE ASTORIA CHRONICLE OF THE CONQUEST OF GRANADA LIFE OF OLIVER GOLDSMITH LIFE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON: VOLUME I THE STUDENT'S LIFE OF WASHINGTON DRAMAS: THE WILD HUNTSMAN ABU HASSAN POEMS: ECHO AND SILENCE ON PASSAIC FALLS RHYMED ADDRESS THE DULL LECTURE TO MISS EMILY FOSTER ON HER BIRTHDAY SONG THE LAY OF THE SUNNYSIDE DUCKS SIGNS OF THE TIMES WRITTEN IN THE DEEP DENE ALBUM EXTRACTS FROM ABU HASSAN SONG FROM THE WILD HUNTSMAN CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN WASHINGTON IRVING AND EDGAR ALLAN POE BIOGRAPHY: WASHINGTON IRVING by Charles Dudley Warner




CANDIDE (Illustrated Edition)


Book Description

Candide is a French satire that begins with a young man who is living a sheltered life in an Edenic paradise and being indoctrinated with optimism by his mentor, Professor Pangloss. The work describes the abrupt cessation of this lifestyle, followed by Candide's slow, painful disillusionment as he witnesses and experiences great hardships in the world. The Novel is characterized by its sarcastic tone as well as by its erratic, fantastical and fast-moving plot. It parodies many adventure and romance clichés, the struggles of which are caricatured in a tone that is mordantly matter-of-fact. Still, the events discussed are often based on historical happenings, such as the Seven Years' War and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Voltaire concludes with Candide, if not rejecting optimism outright, advocating a deeply practical precept, "we must cultivate our garden", in lieu of the Leibnizian mantra of Pangloss, "all is for the best" in the "best of all possible worlds". This satire on Leibniz's philosophy of optimistic determinism remains the work for which Voltaire is best known. François-Marie Arouet (1694-1778), known by his nom de plume Voltaire, was a French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher famous for his wit, his attacks on the established Catholic Church, and his advocacy of freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and separation of church and state. As a satirical polemicist, he frequently made use of his works to criticize intolerance, religious dogma, and the French institutions of his day.