This definitive manual details everything there is to know about maintaining security aboard the "Babylon 5" space station, from complete descriptions of the station's structure, technical operations, personnel, and population to portraits of the 40+ key types of lifeforms throughout the galaxy. Maps.

A comprehensive episode-by-episode guide to the first thrilling season of Babylon 5! Babylon 5: Signs and Portents, kicks off with a foreword by actor Michael O'Hare, better known to viewers as Commander Sinclair, and features a fascinating look at how series creator J. Michael Straczynski brought his ambitious vision to the screen. Then launch into a comprehensive overview of the groundbreaking premiere season, including in-depth, episode-by-episode summaries of all of the first twenty-two shows—from the pilot, “The Gathering,” through the climactic season finale, “Chrysalis”—with analysis by author and B5 expert Jane Killick. Veteran viewers or first-time fans, relive the adventure—or find out what you've been missing—with the complete companions to Babylon 5!

Whether you are studying the Bible for the first time or you're simply curious about its history and contents, you will find everything you need in this "accessible, well-written handbook to Jewish belief as set forth in the Torah" (The Jerusalem Post). George Robinson, author of the acclaimed Essential Judaism, begins by recounting the various theories of the origins of the Torah and goes on to explain its importance as the core element in Jewish belief and practice. He discusses the basics of Jewish theology and Jewish history as they are derived from the Torah, and he outlines how the Dead Sea Scrolls and other archaeological discoveries have enhanced our understanding of the Bible. He introduces us to the vast literature of biblical commentary, chronicles the evolution of the Torah’s place in the synagogue service, offers an illuminating discussion of women and the Bible, and provides a study guide as a companion for individual or group Bible study. In the book’s centerpiece, Robinson summarizes all fifty-four portions that make up the Torah and gives us a brilliant distillation of two thousand years of biblical commentaries—from the rabbis of the Mishnah and the Talmud to medieval commentators such as Rashi, Maimonides, and ibn Ezra to contemporary scholars such as Nahum Sarna, Nechama Leibowitz, Robert Alter, and Everett Fox. This extraordinary volume—which includes a listing of the Torah reading cycles, a Bible time line, glossaries of terms and biblical commentators, and a bibliography—will stand as the essential sourcebook on the Torah for years to come.

The year is 2258, ten years after the Earth-Minbari War. In an effort to prevent further bloodshed the Earth Alliance created the Babylon project. Positioned in a key sector of the galaxy, the Babylon 5 space station serves as a space-born port-of-call for diplomats, traders, hustlers, and travelers. Its aim: to exist as a natural place where humans and aliens can work out their differences peacefully. Yet in reality the station is a focus of tension, malice, and intrigue--with all the wondrous excesses of a galactic cultural melting-pot. In Creating BABYLON 5 author David Bassom takes an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the seminal series. From plot development to the show's ground-breaking special effects methods, Bassom covers all aspects of Babylon 5's production. Interviews with all the main cast and key production crew combine with page after page of stunning photography and essential details about the Babylon 5 universe. Creating BABYLON 5 is the only book to chart the birth and creation of the science fiction phenomenon of the decade.

As the Shadows gather for their ultimate victory over the galaxy, Galen, the possessor of the unstoppable Spell of Destruction, leaves the stronghold of the techno-mages to lend his assistance in the final, apocalyptic battle against the evil of the Shadows.

A richly illustrated collection of the newest and most exciting talent in sci-fi art and illustration. SCI-FI ART NOW brings together for the first time the finest, freshest, and most exciting talents in the world of sci-fi illustration. Artists from around the world-from China and Singapore to the United States and Europe-are represented in this volume, which focuses on the latest and most imaginative work being produced today. This book brings to light the most groundbreaking and talked about sci-fi art, ranging in media from comic books, movies, and TV programs to art, posters, toys, literature, collectibles, board games and video games. SCI-FI ART NOW is a comprehensive compilation that reveals fascinating background information, anecdotes, ideas, and inspirations relied on by the crÈme de la crÈme of contemporary science fiction painters, illustrators, and creators (whether established professionals such as Brett Norton, Liam Sharp, Paul McCaffrey, Klaus Hutter, and John Picacio, or brave new talents forging into the future). By analyzing how technique, tools, materials and media are applied to popular sub-genres such Sirens of Sci-Fi, Spacecraft and Astronauts, Aliens and Alien Worlds, Radical Robots, Incredible Cities, Future War, and Steampunk, each chapter illustrates the astounding artistry and diverse imagination behind this perennially popular genre. Crammed full of exquisite art from around the world and fascinating insights from the artists and creators, SCI-FI ART NOW is perfect for the many fans of science fiction.