Bookbot

John Fraser

    The Ends of the Earth
    Ghost Hunting
    Funeral for a Queen
    Poltergeist! A New Investigation Into Destructive Haunting
    The Chinese Portrait of a People
    The Social Value of Zoos
    • This book couples anecdotes with real data to help nature lovers, zoo staff, zoo fans, and even zoo foes understand the many ways zoos are conceptualized, used, and valued, unpacking what seems to happen in the minds of diverse zoo- goers to highlight powerful opportunities for learning, engagement, and activism.

      The Social Value of Zoos
      5,0
    • Funeral for a Queen

      • 100pages
      • 4 heures de lecture

      The death of the Queen was only the beginning for the men and women behind the Crown. On September 8, 2022, an announcement was posted on the gates of Balmoral Castle in Scotland and Buckingham Palace in London that Queen Elizabeth II, the longest serving monarch in British history, had died. That set in motion a remarkable ten days of official mourning and ceremony unlike anything seen in any nation for decades. Members of the royal family gathered-the new King Charles III and his Queen Consort Camilla; the newly-minted Prince of Wales, William and his princess, Kate; Harry the Bolter and his celebrity wife Meghan; and even the bad boy himself, "Prince" Andrew-along with hundreds of royals and heads of states from around the world. Hordes of people, many from overseas, spent long hours lining up in the rain to pay tribute to the beloved monarch, a presence in their lives for seventy years. On the scene for these events, renowned journalist John Fraser takes the reader from inside St. James Palace where the new King was proclaimed to Queen Elizabeth's final resting place at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, from deeply moving scenes to the occasional hilarious screw-up, capturing the magic of the occasion with trenchant observations and witty commentary informed by a lifetime's experience and curiosity about all things monarchical and his own encounters with the royals.

      Funeral for a Queen
      3,5
    • Ghost Hunting

      A Survivor's Guide

      • 192pages
      • 7 heures de lecture

      The Roman scholar Pliny the Younger wrote about ghost hunting—2,000 years later and the hunt still goes on. For all the thousands of hours spent by investigators in cold, dark houses, ghosts remain elusive and unproven. This book sets out to be a practical guide to show how ghost hunting can be done to best effect. Examining cases of ghost hunting in the past and present (including examples good, bad, and sometimes amusing), this guide asks if it is possible to find the answer to the age-old question of ghosts—and if so, how can progress be made on this intriguing and sometimes addictive quest? Packed with practical advice from John Fraser, the Vice Chair (Investigations) of the Ghost Club and now spontaneous case coordinator for the Society for Psychical Research, it is an essential purchase for all would-be ghost hunters.

      Ghost Hunting
      3,7
    • The Ends of the Earth

      • 222pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Three stories explore the theme of making the world uninhabitable, presenting various strategies to hasten or avoid this fate. This endeavor represents the pinnacle of an evolving species, surpassing creation itself and challenging the notion of a good life. The characters in these interconnected tales are precarious yet deeply human, facing extinction just as exploration of the planet begins. The world, though not flat, can be imagined as having ends. In one story, characters exhibit familiar traits—competition, jealousy, distraction—as they struggle to confront an uncertain end that arrives unexpectedly. Another tale features protagonists on the brink of modernity, seeking a ‘green’ space beyond exploitation and the confines of their work and relationships, achieving only partial success. The final story is set in an imagined ‘Cambodia,’ where the shadows of war and past atrocities loom over both new visitors and long-term residents. The preservation of ruins intertwines with the realm of Death, culminating in a parade that highlights the delicate balance between Death and human power, suggesting a temporary equilibrium in a world facing its potential demise.

      The Ends of the Earth
    • Unsteady States, Volume One

      • 294pages
      • 11 heures de lecture

      The first volume of John Fraser's selected short stories and novellas features: The White Room (from Animal Tales) Sheep (from Happy Always) The Scorpions (from Enterprising Women) Lenin in the Cinema (from Black Masks) Where the Philosophers Go (from Short Lives) Starting Over (from Blue Light) Broken Chords (from Three Beauties) John Fraser lives near Rome. Previously, he worked in England and Canada. Of Fraser's fiction the Whitbread Award winning poet John Fuller has written: 'One of the most extraordinary publishing events of the past few years has been the rapid, indeed insistent, appearance of the novels of John Fraser. There are few parallels in literary history to this almost simultaneous and largely belated appearance of a mature oeuvre, sprung like Athena from Zeus's forehead; and the novels in themselves are extraordinary. I can think of nothing much like them in fiction. Fraser maintains a masterfully ironic distance from the extreme conditions in which his characters find themselves. There are strikingly beautiful descriptions, veiled allusions to rooted traditions, unlikely events half-glimpsed, abrupted narratives, surreal but somehow apposite social customs.'

      Unsteady States, Volume One
    • Unsteady States, Vol. I

      Selected Short Stories and Novellas

      • 298pages
      • 11 heures de lecture

      This collection showcases John Fraser's talent through a curated selection of his short stories and novellas. Each piece reveals his unique narrative style and explores diverse themes, providing readers with a glimpse into his imaginative worlds. The volume serves as an excellent introduction to Fraser’s work, highlighting his ability to capture complex emotions and vivid characters in concise formats. Ideal for both new readers and long-time fans, it promises an engaging literary experience.

      Unsteady States, Vol. I
    • The Future's Coming Everywhere

      • 222pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the intricate interplay between technology and humanity, this novel delves into a near-future world where digital advancements challenge personal connections and societal norms. The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives, revealing the characters' struggles with identity and belonging in an increasingly interconnected yet isolating environment. Fraser's thought-provoking storytelling invites readers to reflect on the implications of progress and the essence of what it means to be human in a rapidly changing landscape.

      The Future's Coming Everywhere
    • Fake Fur

      • 220pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the theme of complicity, this collection features two novellas by John Fraser that delve into the intricate dynamics of human relationships. Each story presents characters entangled in morally ambiguous situations, prompting readers to reflect on their own roles in the events that unfold. Through rich prose and thought-provoking narratives, Fraser invites an examination of guilt, responsibility, and the choices that bind individuals together in unexpected ways.

      Fake Fur
    • Behaving Well

      • 222pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the theme of morality and human behavior, Behaving Well presents three interconnected stories that delve into the complexities of ethical dilemmas and personal choices. Each narrative offers a unique perspective on how characters navigate their circumstances, revealing the nuances of right and wrong in everyday life. Through rich storytelling, the book invites readers to reflect on their own values and the impact of their decisions on themselves and others.

      Behaving Well
    • Thinking Scientifically

      • 214pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the intersection of scientific thought and human behavior, this collection features three interconnected stories: 'The Opera', 'Round the World', and 'The Shaft'. Each narrative delves into the complexities of applying scientific reasoning to our lives, questioning whether we can embody the principles of science beyond mere intellectual understanding. John Fraser's innovative storytelling invites readers to reflect on the nature of thought and action in a world increasingly influenced by scientific paradigms.

      Thinking Scientifically
    • True Stories

      • 262pages
      • 10 heures de lecture

      Exploring the complexities of contemporary existence, this collection features three captivating narratives that delve into the lives of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary situations. Through rich character development and poignant storytelling, John Fraser highlights themes of resilience, connection, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Each story offers a unique glimpse into the human experience, making the collection both relatable and thought-provoking.

      True Stories
    • The Cure

      • 196pages
      • 7 heures de lecture

      Exploring the complex relationship between ailments and their remedies, the book delves into the struggles of a son seeking a cure for his father's impending death and the burdens of their shared past. As he navigates his life—breaking horses and interacting with a charismatic gangster named Emily, who aspires for power—various attempts at healing lead to new challenges. The second novella, "Seals," offers a global perspective on suffering and remedies, culminating in a suggestion of therapy that transcends individual afflictions.

      The Cure
    • Exploring the Clouds

      • 202pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the relationship between happiness and the passage of time, this book emphasizes the importance of understanding one's past to cultivate a fulfilling present. It delves into how memories and experiences shape our emotional landscapes, suggesting that reflection on history is essential for personal growth and joy. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, it encourages readers to embrace their journeys and learn from their experiences to enhance their overall well-being.

      Exploring the Clouds
    • The Test

      • 158pages
      • 6 heures de lecture

      Exploring profound themes, the first tale delves into the concept of life as a test, prompting reflection on personal challenges and growth. The second story examines the implications of casual sex, inviting readers to contemplate the emotional and social nuances involved. Together, these narratives offer a thought-provoking look at human experiences and relationships.

      The Test
    • Unsteady States, Vol. II

      Selected Short Stories and Novellas

      • 300pages
      • 11 heures de lecture

      This collection showcases John Fraser's talent through a variety of short stories and novellas, highlighting his unique narrative style and thematic depth. Readers will encounter diverse characters and intricate plots that explore human experiences and emotions. The volume promises to captivate with its blend of wit, poignancy, and insight, making it a compelling addition to the literary landscape. Each piece reflects Fraser's ability to craft engaging tales that resonate with readers on multiple levels.

      Unsteady States, Vol. II
    • The Beach

      • 220pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Two new tales from John Fraser explore themes of adventure and introspection set against the backdrop of the beach. The narratives delve into human experiences, capturing the essence of life by the sea, where characters confront personal challenges and discover deeper truths. Each story offers a unique perspective, blending the tranquility of coastal life with the complexities of the human spirit. Fraser's evocative writing invites readers to reflect on their own journeys while enjoying the beauty and mystery of the shore.

      The Beach
    • Strangers and Refugees

      • 214pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Khalil's journey unfolds through two interconnected narratives, exploring the challenges and resilience of a refugee's life. In "The Refugees," readers witness his struggles and hopes for a better future, while "Travels with Strangers" delves into the relationships he forms along the way. John Fraser weaves themes of displacement, identity, and the human connection, offering a poignant reflection on the refugee experience.

      Strangers and Refugees
    • Paradise

      • 214pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the concept of duality in human experience, the book delves into how individuals navigate their various roles and aspirations while yearning for a more fulfilling existence. It reflects on the tension between reality and desire, highlighting the hope for a resolution that allows the positive aspects of life to flourish while shedding the negative. Through this lens, it examines the complexities of identity and the universal quest for a better life.

      Paradise
    • Wisdom

      • 224pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Featuring two novellas, this collection showcases John Fraser's distinctive narrative style and originality. Celebrated by poet John Fuller, Fraser's work delves into complex characters and thought-provoking themes, offering readers a unique literary experience that challenges conventional storytelling. Each novella presents a fresh perspective, highlighting Fraser's talent for weaving intricate tales that resonate deeply.

      Wisdom
    • Mercenaries

      • 216pages
      • 8 heures de lecture

      Exploring the gritty world of mercenaries, this collection features four gripping tales by John Fraser. Each story delves into the lives of these complex characters, highlighting their moral dilemmas and the harsh realities of their profession. With a blend of action and psychological depth, Fraser crafts narratives that examine loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a world where the lines between right and wrong are blurred. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey through conflict zones and personal struggles, showcasing the human side of mercenary life.

      Mercenaries