Michael Jasper is captivated by the liminal spaces where the ordinary intersects with the strange. His narratives delve into the unexpected, challenging readers' perceptions of reality and exploring the uncanny within everyday life. Jasper masterfully blends humor with profound questions about existence, often highlighting the search for meaning in unconventional settings. His distinct voice is marked by sharp irony and an ability to uncover the extraordinary in the mundane.
Focusing on late twentieth century architecture, the book explores three key trajectories: the plan as a conceptual tool, a logic of sensation, and the role of temporalities. It delves into the underlying issues of the era while highlighting the untapped potential within modern architectural traditions and design principles, advocating for their future expression and relevance.
Focusing on the pivotal decades of Peter Eisenman's career, the book offers a detailed formal and thematic analysis of significant architectural projects and writings. It uncovers the essential characteristics that define his work, highlighting their continuity and transformative impact within the field of architecture.
On Kahn and Deleuze
Architectural Aesthetic Speculations expands our understanding of the role of formal aesthetic criteria in twentieth-century artistic practices and reveals potentially transformative aspects in the art of architectural composition. The book stages an encounter of philosopher Gilles Deleuze’s (1925–1995) constructivist sensibility and architect Louis Kahn’s (1901–1974) mode of architectural figuration. This book is of interest to architects, artists, historians and theorists and to those wishing to learn about contemporary aesthetic practice and theory.
The story delves into a father's harrowing quest to rescue his five-year-old son, who has disappeared in the ominous forest bordering their farm. As Gil Anderson confronts the weight of his guilt and the terrifying unknown, he grapples with the duality of heroism and cowardice. Unbeknownst to him, his wife and son are also navigating their own perilous paths. This novel intricately weaves elements of fantasy and horror, exploring themes of parental responsibility and the darkness that lurks within both the forest and the human psyche.
In a remote mountain town, two seasoned private investigators, Hank Johnson and Bim Mayer, face their toughest case yet: a series of disappearances involving elderly former professors from Appalachian State University. As they team up with new investigator Shelby and seasoned members Juan and Marly, they uncover unsettling connections to a mysterious figure linked to both Hank and Bim. Over three chaotic days, their friendship is tested as they navigate danger and the possibility that some missing individuals may not wish to be found, blending mystery with hints of the paranormal.
Set against the backdrop of snowy Chicago, an old man unknowingly harbors the secrets of sorcery, his memories clouded by past magical trauma. When two teens attack him, he inadvertently awakens his magical abilities, leading to an unexpected outbreak of magic in the city. This narrative offers an alternate take on the Contagious Magic story, featuring a different cast and plotlines while exploring themes of memory, transformation, and the unpredictable nature of magic.
Stranded in Dubuque, Iowa, Kelley and Jeroan face new challenges after losing their parents and allies to a vengeful Druid, recently freed from a 200-year banishment. As they navigate this perilous situation, the twins must unite once more to reclaim their lost magic before it's too late. This third installment of the Contagious Magic series blends adventure and urgency, appealing to readers of all ages.
Set in the near future, the story explores the first contact between humans and the alien race known as the Wannoshay, who arrive on Earth in massive ships. Father Joshua McDowell is thrust into the role of mediator when military communications fail. As he forms a bond with an alien named Johndo, he discovers that his understanding of the Wannoshay is far from complete. The narrative delves into themes of communication, misunderstanding, and the potential dangers of interspecies relations.
At thirty-six, JB has chosen an unconventional retirement, finding purpose in uplifting the elderly residents of Whispering Pines Rest Home. As he helps them engage with life, he grapples with his own decision to retreat from the world three decades early. When financial troubles threaten the Home, JB must confront his painful past and the reasons for his early withdrawal from life. This journey reveals that truly living often requires support and the courage to face one's history.
Struggling as a single parent, Tommy Roling grapples with the challenges of raising his infant daughter, Corinne, while battling a family curse that compels him to transform into a werewolf during full moons. When a murder occurs shortly after one of his transformations, Tommy must investigate to protect his daughter and their fragile existence. This paranormal mystery explores themes of fatherhood, responsibility, and self-determination, marking the beginning of a new "Rural Fantasy" mystery series.