White Star Publishers

Dazzling color photographs and an entertaining narrative tell the story of our love affair with cars. Close to 400 photographs in this handsome volume capture the excitement of automotive history, spotlighting the most innovative and important car design and their manufacturers, include many famous American models. The illustrations and words combine to re-create the adventures of designing the legendary cars that evolved into today’s indispensable, stylish, and efficient automobile. From Ghia, Farina, Giugiaro, and Bertone to General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford, the text traces the evolution of car production, while spectacular archival and specially commissioned photographs showcase the cutting-edge designs that have earned these manufacturers a major place in automotive history. A superb gift for automotive enthusiasts, this book brings to life the classic car models and their designers with very high quality pictures taken by famous car photographers.

With its mosques and palaces, vast deserts and exotic bazaars, Islam calls to mind romantic images straight out of The Thousand and One Nights. This fascinating volume chronicles the history of Islam, tracing its roots to Bedouin society, which was the cradle of Islam and which left a legacy of tribal social structure still valid today. Subsequent chapters explore major milestones in the history of ancient Islam, such as the defeat by the Arabs in the 7th century of the two great political and military powers of the time, the Byzantine Empire in the Near East and the Sassanid Empire in Persia and Mesopotamia.The authoritative text describes how, in these conquered lands, the Arabs founded the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates, the latter of which coincided with the golden age of Islam, a period in which Islamic culture — philosophical, scientific and literary — flourished. In 1258, the arrival of the Mongols in the imperial capital of Baghdad marked the decline of these enlightened rulers, whose authority had already been undermined by the rise of independent caliphates and sultanates that had fragmented the authority and power of the empire. The final chapter describes the main aspects of classical Islamic culture, knowledge of which is fundamental for an understanding of present-day Islam. Throughout the book, superb photographs help present a well-rounded view of medieval Islam.

Through stunning aerial photography of Ireland, this book captures the multitudes of colour and lushness of the country's natural landscape and heritage. All lovers of Ireland will enjoy this fantastic aerial trip over the green western outpost of Europe. The book offers readers hundreds of views over a sea of gentle hills and green meadows, desolate moors dotted with heather and gorse, and a jagged coastline tormented unceasingly by the ocean. Breathtaking images spring from the pages of this book, designed to capture an extraordinary plane journey over Ireland, and made even more captivating by the exceptional clarity and unusual perspectives of the photos taken by well known photographers. From the air, the reader can discover boundless landscapes and hidden corners revealed in all their stunning beauty.

Israel is the ancestral cradle of many contradictory elements. Its history is 5,000 years old, yet the nation itself is just over 50 years old. It is a melting pot of ethnic groups, cultures, and civilizations all drawn to this tiny strip of land by the promise of the Biblical prophecy. This addition to White Star's aerial presentation series takes readers on a memorable journey over this remarkable land, revealing, through hundreds of remarkable aerial photographs, the contradictions that comprise Israel. Sweeping over the ancient desert of biblical imaginings and the lush valleys that signify the progress of the modern state, the bird-eye images in this handsome volume present the varied landscapes that exemplify the very diversity of Israel, itself. Readers are witness to the incongruous juxtapositions that exist within Israel: the fruit orchards of the fertile Jordan Valley and the stark desert landscape of the Sinai, the ancient city of Hebron and the modern skyline of Tel Aviv. From the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, to the heights of Galilee, photographer Itamar Grinberg, a master of aerial photography, presents us with the rare opportunity to view an entire region at a glance. We admire the splendour of the Omar Mosque, one of the most sacred dwellings of the Islamic religion, and soar over the Mount of Olives cemetery, resting place of thousands of Jews. Centuries-old temples and archaeological sites where one can trace the roots of Christianity and Judaism make a fascinating contrast to the sleek skyscrapers of Israel's modern cities. Throughout the book, informative captions present a well-rounded picture of a young nation with an ancient history.

From Charlie Chaplin's movie to today's high-tech blockbusters, this superb volume chronicles our favourite films through hundreds of vibrant images and an insightful text with an introduction by legendary director Franco Zeffirelli. Organised by era, Legendary Movies delves into such genres as romance, comedy, action, sci-fi, cult movies, and musicals. The author explores such elements as the thriving Hollywood studios of the 30s and 40s, the Bollywood phenomenon, the influence of international filmmakers, and much more. Readers will be introduced to the key players behind the camera as well as movie stars through the ages who are spotlighted in superb portraits and candids.The second part of the book provides a selection of 130 movies not to be missed. The list includes beloved classics as well as eclectic examples of groundbreaking movie-making technology and techniques. Throughout the book, reproductions of movie posters, movie stills, and other colourful graphics provide movie lovers with a wealth of information and hours of enjoyment.

Sailing enthusiasts will delight in this treasure trove of images and facts about the world's most spectacular sailboats. The three-dimensional format of White Star's CubeBooks is ideal for showcasing sailboats from a variety of perspectives. From luxury yachts to trim sailboats, this handsome, hefty little compendium spotlights a vast range of the world's most beautiful sailboats. Enthusiasts will appreciate the fine photography that showcases through a variety of perspectives the details on a vast range of boats. Close to 500 photographs portray the excitement of the world's legendary regattas, as well as sailboats in some of the world's most stunning seascapes. Accompanied by informative captions, the images in this volume will be of great appeal to sailing enthusiasts.

Precious metal and stone work is common to all the peoples on Earth, but in diverse forms depending on historical period and geographical location and has produced products of rare beauty through the technical skill of artisans gifted with creativity and style. While it is impossible in 330 pages to include all the jewellery and gold collections in the world, this volume will present some of the indisputably best ones in terms of size, elegance of execution, and historical importance. Brilliantly showcased in this book and following the chronological development of the goldsmith's art, in the places where these precious objects were created. We will see the celebrated, majestic, and intriguing gold mask of Tutankhamen, as well as gold from Greek and Roman workshops, skilfully moulded into precious objects for personal adornment as well as ritual and votive use. Our voyage continues as we retrace the steps of other Mediterranean peoples, Etruscans and Phoenicians, whose jewellery is uncommonly majestic, with gold relief and granulation.

Motorcycles evoke a romantic image of freedom; of cruising unencumbered down a highway towards unlimited possibilities. Songs have been written about them, fashion has been inspired by them, movies stars have made their name on them, and lifestyles have been built around them. No single manufacturer embodies the allure of motorcycles more than Harley Davidson. This magnificent book takes readers on a trip that traces the legendary history of one of most enduring icons of the 20th century.Blending entertaining anecdotes with a meticulously researched history accompanied by hundreds of archival photographs, «The Great Book of Harley Davidson» chronicles the evolution of the world's most famous motorcycle manufacturer. The history takes us from 1903, when the first Harley emerged from a wooden shed in the backyard of the Davison family, to the 1920s by which time Harleys were available in 67 countries worldwide, to the emergence of the chopper and finally the streamlined «hogs» of today. The text and photographs demonstrate the production process and innovative technology that have made Harley the most famous manufacturer in the world. The second part of the book spotlights the most cutting-edge HD customizers, including Arlen Ness, Cyril Huze, and their disciples, who turn a mechanical wonder into a work of art.

Colorful pictures take readers on a tour of China’s glorious natural resources and fascinating manmade wonders that range from ancient ornate temples to modern skyscrapers. A cultural overview includes time-honored religious rituals, theatrical arts, cuisine, and much more.

This book relates the compelling story of Fidel Castro through a wide variety of photographs and an insightful text from a veteran journalist. Tracing Castro's life from his childhood through his university years to his seizing of power, his decades of being one of history's most inflammatory political figures, and the recent years, this book reveals the influences in Castro's life and the events that shaped his long and controversial political career.Photographs of Castro playing soccer, meeting with world leaders, and relaxing with his ubiquitous cigar provide us with a well-rounded portrait of this ever-fascinating political leader.

From the roots of rock in the 1950s to the music of such contemporary favourites as Coldplay and Green Days, this spectacular celebration of rock and roll traces the history and highlights of this most enduring and most controversial of music. From beatniks to punks, and from hippies to rappers, rock has experienced and encouraged countless social and cultural transformations. It has recounted how the world was and how young people wanted it to be, helped several generations to dream and live and produced art and culture which have left an indelible mark on society.Organized chronologically, this comprehensive volume spotlights such pioneers as Elvis Presley, beloved storytellers like Bob Dylan, classic favourites including The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Who, punk rockers like Patti Smith and the Sex Pistols, grunge rockers including Nirvana and Pearl Jam, as well as perennial icons Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, and many more.Throughout the book, portraits, and vibrant pictures of the performers in concert as well as images of the greatest albums of all time supplement the entertaining text. With its great photographs, appealing factoids and wealth of titbits, this book will be irresistible to Baby Boomers and teens alike.

This book is a compact portfolio of images showcasing the world's finest motorcycles. An exciting addition to White Star's bestselling CubeBook series, this handsome, hefty little compendium spotlights a vast range of the world's most important and influential motorcycle designs. Enthusiasts will appreciate the fine photography that showcases through a variety of perspectives the details on a wide range of motorcycles. Archival photographs of motorcycles in advertising are supplemented by hundreds of specially commissioned photographs of motorcycles in internationally renowned races and traversing the world's most stunning landscapes.Custom motorcycles and some of the world's most legendary bikes from Harley Davidson, Triumph, and Guzzi are depicted in glorious full-colour, the images paying homage to the sleek design and unique characteristics of each. A chapter on the first motorcycles in history rounds out this celebration of the motorcycle. Accompanied by captions containing informative titbits and trivia, the images in this portable fantasy garage will appeal to motorcycle lovers both young and young at heart.

This superb photographic tableau showcases China from all angles with all the artistic insight and technical innovation worthy of this ancient and ever-fascinating country. All of China unfolds in this sumptuous collection of birds'-eye images taken by photographers whose knowledge of and affection for China are apparent in each picture. Hundreds of specially commissioned photographs explore every nook and cranny of this vast region to bring readers a wealth of perspectives on the country's immense and diverse range of breathtaking natural beauty and man-made attractions. Conveying the varying topographies of China's landscape as well as millennia-old monuments and modern architecture, the many facets of China, when viewed from above, create a wonderful kaleidoscope of colour and textures. Densely populated cities contrast with the forests and brilliant lakes of Sichuan, the Himalayan peaks, and the deserts and Blue Mountains of Xinjiang. From Zhenghou and its archaeological riches to Macao-the Las Vegas of the East, to the majesty of the Great Wall of China, these images present unexpected views of familiar landmarks as well as reveal to us obscure sights we would never experience without the benefit of these dramatic pictures. This impressive volume captures the many faces of China in ways that few books can. All of China's regions come to life gorgeously in a collection of photographs that present China, with its unique terrain, monuments, and people, as a veritable masterpiece.

This important work is a rousing “call to action” and conservation project that urges us to start preserving the world’s delicate ecosystems while there is still time. In an age where we have achieved a greater awareness of the Earth’s vulnerability and the uncertainty surrounding its future, this influential volume is both beautiful and topical. It is an excellent way to enjoy an “armchair tour” of the world’s most precious natural sites, without damaging their ecosystems. This book presents some of the world’s 200 most-endangered natural sites, which currently require greater protection. The multifaceted nature of the various eco-regions is illustrated with splendid color photographs, many in panoramic format, revealing the unique features of each area and the threats to it. The volume emphasizes the pressing need for each of us to take immediate action in order to preserve these irreplaceable natural resources. Vivid color photographs accompany the reader through the acacia savannas of East Africa, populated by extremely diverse fauna that is currently threatened by deforestation, farming, grazing and uncontrolled hunting. The tour continues with the Patagonian steppe, one of the most boundless and unique habitats in the world, which is home to many endangered indigenous species, and the reader will discover yet another rich, but as yet unprotected, region. From the forests of Borneo to the marine and nature reserves of the Hawaiian Islands, the Siberian taiga, and the Antarctic Peninsula, this book reveals the beauty, fragility and inestimable importance of the world’s eco-regions. The magnificent photographs and environmental message will appeal to conservationists, nature lovers and travelers alike. This book contributes to wwf italia’s ecoregional conservation project. The book is printed on paper certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)

In the savanna’s sunburned yellow grass, two lion cubs play under the indolent gaze of their father, while a short distance away, a pack of hyenas fights over a gazelle carcass. Presenting a realistic, unflinching look at life on the African savanna, this fascinating volume by acclaimed naturalists Christine and Michel Denis-Huot reveals the many faces of this beautiful and challenging habitat. Capturing moments of peaceful harmony and episodes of harsh reality, these exceptional images offer readers a uniquely personal, up-close perspective on life in one of the world’s most intriguing and complex habitats. The Denis-Huots bring to this book the same depth of information and sense of respect and admiration for African wildlife that made their recent publication, Lords of the Savannah, so compelling. With their first-hand knowledge of the African savanna and ability to capture on film moments we would never ordinarily witness, they are uniquely equipped to chronicle the life cycles of the denizens of this truly wild world. Accompanying hundreds of photographs, the engaging text provides the latest finding on the habits and habitats of the savanna’s wildlife, and expresses the authors’ fascination with wildest Africa.

The Veneto is often defined as a polycentric region. Its provincial capitals, historic cities and hubs of industry distribute political, cultural and economic benefits equably and productively across the region. These considerations, however, are of little interest to the armies of tourists visiting Venice every year – at times straining her capacity to accommodate them. They take apartments overlooking the canals, dream of romantic gondola rides and frolic and laugh in St. Mark’s Square wearing Harlequin masks. The whole world knows that Venice is a capital of art, history, refinement, and pleasure. A magical twosome: Venice, one of the world’s most beautiful cities and the Veneto, a region whose great variety of landscapes and natural treasures include the Dolomites, the beaches of the Adriatic Sea, the rolling hills of the Center-North, and the splendid waterscapes of Lake Garda Lake, the Polesine area, the Po Delta and the Lagoon. This splendid Italian region is well portrayed in our itinerary and, thanks to the great merits of aerial photography, we have captured views of the Veneto in its entirety while clearly portraying individual features of the greatest interest. After flying high above the Serenissima and the Lagoon – the unique environment from which it arose to become a waterborne jewel – we continue our exploration of the Veneto by portraying its incredibly varied natural environment by going on to fly over the Veneto’s lesser-known areas to discover cities and towns, castles and abbeys, and picturesque villages, showing us that the so-called ‘lesser’ Veneto isn’t really ‘lesser’ at all!

White Star’s bestselling CubeBook series has earned a reputation for presenting high-quality images in an appealing, affordable format. Featuring exotic species and familiar favorites, these images capture fleeting moments in the lives of a vast international menagerie of wild animals. Readers experience untamed creatures caring for their young, hunting for food, basking in the sun, grooming, and in other everyday activities that, when viewed through the lens of these photographers, become very special indeed. We are whisked away on a tour of the world’s wild life, from the big cats and noble elephants of the African savanna to crocodiles and hippopotamuses and tropical-jungle monkeys to more familiar creatures such as bears and foxes that live in the northern forests. Presented in the trademark chunky, tactile format of the CubeBooks, these photos bring to life these animals’ physical beauty, and convey the unique qualities that makes each of them an integral part of our ecosystem. Animal lovers both young and young at heart will cherish this appealing book.

One of the many pleasures of visiting Italy is the unique opportunity to walk amongst traces of the past: millennia-old columns appear in the middle of busy city streets and ancient stone bridges, water channels, and basins appear throughout the country. This welcome addition to White Star's acclaimed Italy from Above aerial photography series uncovers archaeological sites scattered throughout the modern landscape of the Italian peninsula. Hundreds of full-colour photographs whisk readers over northern, southern, and Central Italy and back in time to discover archaeological sites of different historical periods.In addition to depicting spectacular examples of intact archaeological sites, Italy's foremost aerial photographers have made use of cutting edge techniques to reveal sites the human eye couldn't normally distinguish from the surrounding landscape. From the 5,000 year-old megalithic civilization of the Valle d'Aosta region to the cultures of the late Middle Ages, this book showcases superb archaeological sites from each region and epoch, bringing history to life.

Australia is the world's smallest continent but the world's largest island, unsurpassed in its diversity of cultures and natural wonders. Aerial photographer Klaus D. Francke invites readers to explore this vast and beautiful land through this superb collection of bird's-eye photographs that spotlight Australia's fascinating contrasts. He spent close to 200 flying hours-and countless more waiting for the wind to calm and the sun to strike the right angle-to capture the images in this book. The result is a spectacular portfolio of pictures that give us a rare glimpse of Australia's complex beauty. This book transports readers to the remote reaches of this country: from the boundless expanses of the Outback to the incomparable sapphire blue of the Great Barrier Reef. Readers experience the heat of scorching deserts dominated by rocks of bizarre shapes and otherworldly colors, dive into bountiful waterfalls and salt lakes, and encounter exotic animals and futuristic cities. They also evoke the idiosyncratic personality of each of the country's major cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide, which, when viewed from above, are all the more compelling.

New York is a city of unexpected juxtapositions: centuries-old landmark buildings rub elbows with sleek, state-of-the-art skyscrapers; world-renowned monuments are just around the corner from local neighborhood shops; and a kaleidoscope of diverse shops, restaurants, and cultural centers can all be found within a very concentrated area. More than 550 vibrant photographs capture the unique character of New York City as seen through the lens of today s top aerial photography experts.

The savannahs of the Rift Valley, the rainy mountains of Rwanda, the impenetrable jungles of the Congo, isolated villages, the infinite Sahara Desert, the many-hued waters of the great rivers…. Over 500 photographs, taken from an aircraft over the course of a far-ranging photo-reportage project, add brilliant illustration to a book never compiled before: one dedicated to the radiant light and clear skies of the African continent. The volume’s album-style format enhances the panoramic quality of the images; concise, informative texts accompany and explain them, enhancing Africa through the gift of a magical new dimension.

Through its illustration of puppies of many species, this book will bring back our memories of the joys and challenges of infancy. The heart-warming pictures by famous nature photographers catch the most intimate and entertaining moments of puppies’ lives, including birth, first explorations of the surrounding world, their relationship with their parents and siblings, «close encounters» with puppies of other species, their comical expressions, their play and sleep, and hunger and thirst. The book’s innovative cube format both enhances the images and makes the volume a small work of art.

For most people, Canada evokes the mighty peaks of the Rocky Mountains, prairies stretching as far as the eye can see, boundless forests of dark conifers, and the vast, austere frozen northern reaches: a country dominated by the untouched natural world. But Canada also has bustling modern metropolises which overlook the Great Lakes and dominate the broad St. Lawrence River. This book, which comes in a handy album format, takes you on an illustrated journey of nearly 650 pages, across the skies of Canada in search of the most spectacular natural landscapes, cityscapes, and astonishing vistas, accompanied by the guiding words of a leading authority on this great North American country.

Automobile aficionados will delight in this treasure trove of images and facts about the world's most spectacular cars. The three-dimensional format of White Star's CubeBooks is ideal for showcasing cars from a variety of perspectives. This handsome, hefty little compendium spotlights the world's finest cars. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the fine photography that showcases through a variety of perspectives the details on a vast range of classic cars, dream cars, sport cars, luxury automobiles, and exotic cars. Accompanied by informative captions, the images in Cars will appeal to car lovers both young and young at heart. This is a portfolio of stunning pictures of the world's finest cars in the classic CubeBook format. This is a new title in this best selling, collectable series.