A vivid investigation of how blues music teaches listeners about sin, suffering, marginalization, lamentation, and worship.

This unique book shows those suffering from depression that they are not alone as it explores eleven prominent Bible figures who also struggled with depression.

"... Ahmad has created a novel that looks at race and culture and the changing face of America. It's a story that's easy to devour but hard to forget... " - Richmond Times-DispatchRanjit Singh, a former Indian Army Captain trying to escape a shameful past, lives with his family among the migrant workers of Martha's Vineyard, working as a caretaker of the vacation homes of the rich and powerful. Needing a place to stay, Ranjit moves his family into an empty Senator's home. Happily, but illegally ensconced in the house, he tries to forget his brief affair with Anna, the wife of an African-American senator, and focus on providing for his family. But one night, their idyll is shattered when mysterious armed men break into the house, looking for an antique porcelain doll. Forced to flee, Ranjit is pursued and hunted by unknown forces, and becomes drawn into the Senator's shadowy world. To save his family and solve the mystery of the doll, he must join forces with Anna, who has her own dark secrets. As the past and present collide, Ranjit must finally confront the hidden event that destroyed his Army career and forced him to leave India.Tightly plotted, action-packed, smart and surprisingly moving, The Caretaker takes us from the desperate world of migrant workers to the elite African-American community of Martha's Vineyard, and a secret high-altitude war between India and Pakistan.

“A passionate, arresting, and entertaining book of verse . . . The images are vivid and the voice is honest and powerful” (Stephen King). This is the debut collection of poetry by singer/songwriter Ryan Adams, acclaimed for albums including Cardinology, Cold Roses, and Prisoner. His work in this volume rings with emotional authenticity—and provides perhaps an even deeper insight into the man than is revealed through the songs that have resonated with fans the world over. “Ryan Adams writes with equal parts precision and recklessness; the blood he draws from the text is easily as unnerving as its unapologetic tenderness. He is proof that poetry will find its writer.” —Mary-Louise Parker “Infinity Blues is Ryan Adams at his personal, unforgettable best. Strong and beautiful and funny and pure. Like all his work, it’s soul poetry of the highest order.” —Cameron Crowe “This is much better than reading a friend’s journal. It’s more like watching somebody you love in the bathtub talking to himself. You’re like, wow, he’s even good at taking a bath. After reading Infinity Blues (which I think is a great title), I give Ryan Adams the best compliment I ever got—and the only reason for reading anyone’s poetry. Ryan, I really like your mind.” —Eileen Myles

Collects interviews and commentary on blues and gospel music from the Mississippi Delta area, and discusses how race relations, connections to the sacred, and Southern life helped mold this style of music.

From Africa through the spirituals, from minstrel music through jubilee, and from traditional to contemporary gospel, "People Get Ready!" provides, for the first time, an accessible overview of this musical genre.

We all need inspiration and encouragement to be courageous-to face our battles victoriously and to exert more power in our lives. Draw strength from these wonder women of the Bible. "We shake our heads in genuine puzzlement at supercapable women who have much to teach us," says author Brenda Poinsett. From a brief Scripture backdrop, Brenda gleans personal truths from these heroes. Recall how God chose to involve women in His plans in daring, yet ordinary life moments. Be inspired that He will work in your life as you reflect on the discussion questions for each woman: Discover what encourages or discourages you as you face threats, with Rahab. Embody a bold, assertive, likable nature as you prepare for battle, with Deborah. Embrace your good works for what they are as you minister, with Dorcas. Escape what hinders your worship as you dwell in God's presence, with Anna. Grasp true wisdom and courage as you walk, with the Wise Woman of Abel. Book jacket.