Books with author Rob Bowden

The Middle East and North Africa forms a bridge between Europe, sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia. This unique position has made it an area of rich culture and an important center for trade. Its immense energy resources are also vitally important for the global economy. So how can the region solve its political and religious tensions and find national and regional peace?

We use energy every day; from powering our vehicles and factories to heating and lighting our homes, schools and offices. These needs are met mainly by stores of energy, such as coal and oil, which were built up over millions of years. Today, we are using these stores very rapidly, much faster than they can be replaced or renewed. These sources of energy are also very polluting and are known to contribute to global warming. This book considers examples from across the world that show there are alternative, sustainable ways to provide energy, without damaging the environment. These alternatives are known as sustainable energy, or renewable sources, and their use is growing rapidly as people become aware of the dangers of ignoring the energy problem. It also suggests some choices the reader can make to ensure a sustainable future. 'Databank' boxes give key facts, 'Opinion' panels highlight quotes from well-known speakers on the subject. There are also weblinks with useful website addresses which link to sites with more information about a particular topic.

Like the most seasoned en plein air painters, Robert Bowden has skillfully painted the Manhattan landscape and presents a watercolor chronicle that has a timeless quality. Bowden’s painting style and the charming medium gives his cityscapes both an intimacy and immediacy that perfectly capture the most alluring aspects of New York. Some subjects in this book are welcomely familiar, some are more anonymous, but all capture the heart and life of Manhattan. Landmarks include: The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Central Park’s Bethesda Fountain; The Guggenheim; the Flatiron building; the Central Park West skyline; Washington Square Park; and Vesuvio Bakery, to name only a few. Manhattan in Detail is a little jewel of a book perfect for the resident, visitor, or armchair traveler alike.

The Yangtze's importance to the Chinese economy has earned it the name of "The Golden Waterway." We follow its incredible 3,915 mile (6,300 km) journey through rice paddies, dramatic gorges, and vast plains until we reach the heavily urbanized delta, where the Yangtze ends its journey in the East China Sea. By 2009, a section of the river and its surrounding area will become part of the world's biggest reservoir. In a few years time, much of what we will see on this stretch of the journey may be changed forever.