This concise encyclopedia examines headwear around the world, from ancient times to the modern era, comprising entries that address cultural significance, religion, historical events, geography, demographic and ethnic issues, fashion, and contemporary trends. Are feathers from endangered bird species still commonly used on hats? Why do many Muslim women cover their heads? How has advancing technology influenced modern headwear? This concise encyclopedia provides the answers to these questions and many more regarding headwear and human culture in its examination of headwear around the world. It examines topics from ancient times to the modern era, providing not only detailed physical descriptions and historical facts but also information that addresses cultural significance, religion, historical events, geography, demographic and ethnic issues, fashion, and contemporary trends. The entries reveal fascinating insights into headwear as historical, aesthetic, fashion, utilitarian, mystical, and symbolic apparel, and supplies comprehensive analyses of hats across the globe unavailable in the existing literature.

Clothing for the fingers receives special treatment in this collection of 48 mitten patterns from all over the world. In fact, Lewandowski attempted to find at least one representative pattern for every cold-weather region--and has, for the most part, succeeded (except for the Far East and northern Africa). Geography and history lessons are also in evidence; we learn about Scandinavian and northern islanders' occupations, hobbies, and peculiar knitting habits (the process of felting wool for additional warmth and the technique of tufting, among others). Plus, each of the four dozen designs, though not labeled by level of difficulty, includes graphs or charts and adequate text to follow and is accompanied by good color photographs. A handoff for intermediate and advanced knitters. - Barbara Jacobs; 120p-

Contemporary garments that celebrate stunning results without complicated techniques are the focus of this collection. Step-by-step instructions, thorough materials lists, and a design notebook cover the ways to maximize style while simplifying knitting and finishing techniques. Requiring only a basic understanding of knitting, this guide is packed with clever design ideas such as innovative edgings, a well-placed band of color or texture, an unexpected yarn, and creative constructions that minimize seams or customize personal fit.

Thousands of festivals take place around the world every year. Some have cult followings with tickets that sell out instantly–forty thousand Burning Man tickets sold out in a manner of minutes—some are thrown in little-known faraway places—cities in Benin or San Marino. In this unique volume, Steve Davey, author of the 300,000+ selling book Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die, has created the ultimate, unparalleled book on the subject, showcasing a whopping 500 festivals in 121 countries—far and away more than any other book of its kind. To make it, he traveled the world, comprehensively researched its most dynamic events, and carefully selected the festivals with the most extraordinary highs, a life-affirming buzz. The result is scene-setting descriptions and 270 complementary jaw-dropping photographs—colorful images on every page. It’s an energetic celebration of events from Carnival in Rio to the Full Moon Party in Thailand, from the most brilliant Day of the Dead celebrations to the gooiest food fights, the most over-the-top costumes to the most daring displays of bravado. For ease of reference, the festivals are organized by continent, by region, then alphabetically by country. With dates and locations, they’re made accessible to those looking to enhance upcoming trips and those looking for their next big adventure. The compilation is also an instant thrill for the armchair traveler—immediate access to the world’s most joyful events. Around the World in 500 Festivals was published in a limited print-run in 2013. It’s now being given a comprehensive update and new packaging—a thrilling new offering for readers looking to experience new places and cultures when they’re most alive.