Lowell ThomasReseñas

Oral history from the perspective of German submariners, written by an American interviewer.

Signed by Author

This biography of T. E. Lawrence does not stand up well in today's literature. Lowell's views of Arabs and their culture are reflective of the era prevailing at the time of writing. It's a very laudatory, somewhat biased view of Lawrence's participation in this history of the Arab revolt during WWI.

Some mention of the other participants in fighting the Turkish occupants of the disputed area were interesting. Often the writing was overwhelmed with side events and turgid detail . Not to deny the fact that Lawrence wrote that way himself, especially in Seven Pillars of Wisdom. I prefer the story in Lawrence's own words, having read the abridged version of this history in T. E.'s book, Revolt in the Desert (published in 1927).

"India: Land of the Black Pagoda" is a travelogue written by Lowell Thomas, first published in 1930. In this book, Thomas takes readers on a captivating journey through the diverse and enchanting land of India.

Throughout the narrative, Thomas explores various regions of India, from the bustling cities to the serene countryside, uncovering the rich history, culture, and spirituality that define the country. He immerses himself in the vibrant tapestry of Indian life, offering a vivid and colorful portrayal of the people, traditions, and landmarks he encounters.

Thomas delves into the complexities of Indian society, shedding light on topics such as the caste system, religious practices, and the impact of British colonial rule. He provides valuable insights into the lives of ordinary people and their struggles, as well as the opulence and grandeur of India's royalty and ancient empires.

The book also showcases India's remarkable architectural wonders, including the iconic Black Pagoda in Konark and the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal in Agra. Thomas's descriptive prose allows readers to envision these magnificent structures and appreciate their historical and cultural significance.

Beyond the historical and cultural aspects, Thomas embraces the natural beauty of India. From the majestic Himalayan mountains to the serene backwaters of Kerala, he captures the essence of the country's diverse landscapes, highlighting its breathtaking scenery and ecological wonders.

"India: Land of the Black Pagoda" combines Thomas's own observations with historical anecdotes, interviews, and personal experiences. His writing style is engaging and accessible, enabling readers to feel as if they are accompanying him on his explorations.

Good introduction to T. E. Lawrence.

Collectible from the Lowell Thomas Library, featuring his time spent with Lawrence of Arabia.

Sixteen dramatic and historic adventures that opened aviation frontiers. Here are Bleriot, Byrd, Doolittle, Alcock and Brown, and the others; plus the 1965 round-the-world flight over both poles!

Short bios of important historical figures.

Years ago my grandfather's younger brother talked about meeting Count Luckner. Curiosity got me and I bought this book to find out what my great-uncle found so captivating with with this guy. Interesting reading.½

Illustrator reminds me of the tall timber books from Sekiu, WA / American wit and humor

"Se volete sapere una storia di strane avventure marinaresche, di naufragi, di ammutinamenti e di tifoni; se volete conoscere i più grandi raids della guerra, un'epica battaglia navale, storie di sommergibili e di navi misteriose e di fughe attraverswo mezzo mondo, dalla costa della Cina al mare del Nord, vi dirò io come dovete fare: andate a trovare il mio amico Capitano Lauterbach e da lui sentirete le vicende più emozionanti della guerra sui mari, connesse con la vita di un uomo," disse il conte Felix von Luckner autore del libro: "Il Pirata della Guerra Mondiale".

Excellent story by an enthusiastic aviator.

This was a great book!! It's the story of Count Luckner and how he took a sailing ship (yes a square rigger) and raided allied shipping during WW1. If that isn't enough he was awarded a humanitarian medal by the Pope after the war because while doing the raiding he never so much as hurt a ship's cat. He took on the crews of the ships he sank on his own ship and let them go as soon as possible.
The first few chapters Lowell tells how he met and befriended Luckner, then Luckner tells his story in his own words, not only of his raiding but also how he ran away from home at a young age (he didn't want to carry on the family tradition of being a calvary officer) and went to sea.

At first this book struck me as hero worship, but the further I read, I realized that Lowell Thomas was reporting events, and there was no getting around the super-nature of T. E. Lawrence and his accomplishments. Lowell's style of journalism is a bit flowery, as was usual in his time. Though some of his opinions seem harsh, that is how the Arabs and other races were perceived. He does a nice job of reporting facts and events, analyzing the significance of them and helping the reader to perceive the truth, whether it is flattering, harsh or beautiful. At times I was horrified by the nature of the Arabs and their ways, then, in the next chapter I would be moved to awe by their courage, stamina or philosophies. Lowell also tells about the other British soldiers who were in Arabia at the time helping to fight Turkey. A very interesting read, it was nice to have seen the movie, which seems to illustrate this book so well.

This is an interesting trip through history. Looking at the photos is somewhat eerie at times, intriguing and funny. There is a nice explanation of the MovieTone industry and how they did what they did at the beginning. All the photos have clear captions and I enjoyed it overall. Of personal interest to me, were the photos of Shasta Dam and Ernie Pyle.

Lowell Thomas was a superb story-teller and adventurer in his
own right. He was well qualified to recognize those qualities in
literature, and he is glad to share the best in concise volume of
sheer entertainment - in a few, easily digestible pages at a time.

29 Great Adventures in only 400 pp.!

RR-2

Not illustrated, no photographs

Signed by Author
"As the Spanish proverb says,
"He who bring home the wealth of the Indies must carry the wealth
of the Indies with him." So it is with traveling:a man must carry knowledge with him, if we would bring home knowledge.""

.Photo illustrations by H.A.Chase and the author

EXCELLENT CONDITION!