The Lioness - Chris Bohjalian
Kate Raymer
I admit that I’m a big fan of Chris Bohjalian’s work from the first I was introduced to him by being gifted a copy of Midwives in the late 90s. I’m also a huge fan of historical fiction and The Lioness does not disappoint! Taking a luxury African safari in 1964 sets the stage for intrigue with a cast of Hollywood characters with believable and complex backgrounds.
When things take a deadly turn, this becomes a real page turner. Bohjalian is a craftsman with his words as he describes scenes that made my heart race and, if it was a movie, I probably would have had to close my eyes! Rumor has it (if you believe the internet) that this book has been picked up for a TV movie.
This is definitely one of those books that has you wanting to read just a bit more before calling it a night, so don’t open this one if you’re looking for sleep-inducing material. Through the conflicts of politics and nature, one is given a true sense of the Serengeti, which is still on my bucket list of things I’d like to see!
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Buildings Don't Lie - Henry Gifford
Buildings Don't Lie - Better Buildings by Understanding Basic Building Science is a comprehensive, no-nonsense description of issues that help and kill buildings. Henry Gifford is one of those encyclopedias of building science knowledge. Having taught classes with him, I know that he does not shy away from stating his opinion - an opinion that always comes from extensive experienc.
From the Amazon description, "A simple, clear, thorough, and complete explanation of basic building science applicable to any building in any climate. Over 1,000 large color drawings and photos, plus fun quizzes. No charts, graphs, or math. Read this book and become your own expert on making buildings comfortable, healthy, safe, durable, and very energy efficient, because you will understand the underlying science of the movement through buildings of heat, air, water, light, sound, fire, and pests, and how these can be controlled. This book also includes sections on designing building enclosures, indoor air quality, choosing heating and cooling systems, and how to ventilate, heat, and cool different types of buildings."
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