This reference analyzes and chronicles the Soviet occupation of and withdrawal from Afghanistan in the period from 1973 to 1990 by an observer in the area who relied on a variety of sources and cross-checked them carefully. The analysis of events leading to the Soviet withdrawal covers the important negotiations and relates them to the historic changes that were taking place in the Soviet Union and in its relationships to the rest of the world. This analysis and chronology is indispensable to students and researchers assessing the final years of the Soviet Union, events in Afghanistan, and current problems.

A brief introduction precedes a discussion of the international implications of Soviet policy in Afghanistan, a description of the negotiations following years of crisis from 1973 to 1986, an analysis of the Soviet decision to withdraw, and the final years from 1988 to 1990. The chronology covering the Soviet intervention and withdrawal is detailed and occupies the main portion of this reference. An index makes important detail easily accessible to students and researchers in history, political science, military studies, and Soviet and Asian affairs.

John Berryman (1914-1972) was one of the most important American poets and men of letters of the twentieth century. A major preoccupation of his work was his life-long quest for religious truth, in particular, his critical investigations into the claims of his lost Christian faith - a faith he portrays as being extinguished at the age of twelve by his father's suicide, but dramatically reawakened four decades later by his encounter in the alcoholics' ward with the 'God of Rescue'. This book constitutes the first full-length study to be published on this important, yet often neglected, aspect of Berryman's writings. The author establishes a narrative of conflict and conversion in Berryman's poetry, which explores the mysterious relationship between grace and free will, and the limits both of the will and of belief that the poet encounters in the face of human suffering and the existence of evil. The closely researched commentary takes the reader from Berryman's largely uncharted early verse through to The Dream Songs and his final 'post-conversion' poetry. Drawing on many previously unpublished writings by Berryman, the author demonstrates how the poet's religious experiences and research are crucial for an informed interpretation of this often challenging body of work.

Alex Douglas always wanted to be a hero. But nothing heroic ever happened to Alex. Nothing, that is, until his eleventh birthday. When Alex rescues a stray dog as a birthday gift to himself, he doesn't think his life can get much better. Radar, his new dog, pretty much feels the same way. But this day has bigger things in store for both of them. This is a story about bullies and heroes. About tragedy and hope. About enemies with two legs and friends with four, and pesky little sisters and cranky old men, and an unexpected lesson in kindness delivered with a slice of pizza. This is "Eleven" the journey of a boy turning eleven on 9/11.

A beautifully illustrated funny alphabet, full of delightful quirky details and unusual characters. The most entertaining alphabet in the world ever.