Books with author Barbara Somervill

From 1900 to the present day, humanity and the world have undergone major changes. Drastic shifts in theories and practice tested the standards of personal freedoms and religious conventions as well as science, technology, and industry. The new mind-set of the modern world includes a focus on humanitarianism and the belief that a global economy has made the world a more connected place. Leadership and power were Indira Gandhi’s birthright. She was raised in a world of politics amid the struggle for independence. It was her destiny to lead India, but it would not be easy. She would sacrifice her personal life for her nation. She believed that all people could live together. But religious and cultural battles in her own region put her beliefs to the test. She loved her country, and she loved its people. She was Mother India.

Pierre-Auguste Renoir once wrote to a friend, Although we don t eat every day, I m still quite cheerful. Like many painters, Renoir was always happy with a paintbrush in his hand. He was a productive Impressionist artist, creating more than 7,000 paintings, drawings, and sculptures during his lifetime. Renoir is best known for portraits of engaging children, lovely women, and sensual nudes. After years of struggle to earn enough money to eat and pay the rent, Renoir began making a comfortable living painting portraits of wealthy patrons. His fame grew, and his paintings sold to rich collectors. Despite his growing fame, Renoir remained a shy, humble family man. He adored his wife Aline and his children. He maintained close friendships with other artists Monet, Sisley, and Bazille. He had no interest in fame, just in painting beautiful pictures. Why shouldn t art be pretty? he asked. There are enough unpleasant things in the world.