Outer Spaces - Diarmuid Gavin

Advantages: Wonderful read, well-researched
Disadvantages: None

...In the 1400s, China was a powerful, seagoing nation, with a massive empire. However, China's empire was not one based entirely on conquest it was much more subtle than that. Although China used the might if its army and navy when it felt it was required to make a point, it was much more interested in utilising diplomacy and trade. In his book "1421, The Year China Discovered The World" Royal Navy trained navigational expert Gavin Menzies explores the controversial idea that China sent out massive fleets of gigantic ships to explore the world in an attempt to bring other nations into its sphere of influence by trading peaceably with them. Menzies describes how the voyages took some two years to complete and that during that time the fleets were able to map out the world in very accurate detail. Far beyond the capabilities... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Great pictures
Disadvantages: A bit expensive

...From start to finish you are dazzled with never before seen pictures of the marvelous planets in our solar system and beyond. Our closest neighbours, on a galactic scale that is, are pictured and facts and figures are provided for most objects that our featured in this book. A beautiful book exploring the many wonders that our universe has to offer. Through elaborate and out-of-this-world type pictures do the marvels of our solar system and the outer reaches of space have to offer. If you want to relax, then this book is a good choice. This book will appeal very much to those of us interested in space and will play a good role in any space book collection - highly recommended.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average off topic

Advantages: Lovely story, Great photos
Disadvantages: Sad in bits

...The Otter's tale This is an enchanting true story of Gavin Maxwell's life with the three otters that he kept as pets. It has gorgeous photos in the middle, which are taken by the author, and it describes the enormous changes the otters prompted in Maxwell's life. At times amusing, at times heart warming, at times heart breaking. This book will take you through a whole host of emotions. I remember getting this book out at my school library and reading it in a weekend, then going out and buying it. A brilliant classic for anyone to read, especially animal lovers... Read review

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