Leah Bendavid-Val Book order (chronological)

A collection of nearly three hundred photographs from National Geographic, representing the work of more than one hundred fifty acclaimed photographers, captures portrait images of people from around the world.

Propaganda & Dreams is a revealing portrait of two countries, the United States and the Soviet Union of the 1930s. This thought-provoking volume includes more than 200 photographs, all, says author Leah Bendavid-Val, "generated by governments for causes that were shared by the photographers who took the pictures, the authorities who funded them, and the publishers who disseminated them." These photographs all offer impactive realism, but it is "mingled [with] romance...in varying ways and degrees."

For over a century, National Geographic's writers and photographers have explored the most extraordinary corners of our planet, captivating readers and armchair travelers alike. This book invites you to delve into the rich diversity of the National Geographic archive, showcasing a journey through time and across the Earth. It features playful and surprising pairings of photographs—one from the past and one from the present—offering a dazzling perspective on how the world has changed. Witness New York's Flatiron Building, a modern marvel from 1917, juxtaposed with its 1989 image, now surrounded by towering skyscrapers yet retaining its unique charm. Discover Australian Aborigines in traditional ceremonial attire alongside their modern counterparts in contemporary clothing. Each striking image is accompanied by an essay from a knowledgeable writer, capturing the essence of the region with engaging eloquence. This panoramic and perceptive collection is a stunning celebration of our ever-evolving, endlessly fascinating world, showcasing the remarkable transformations that have occurred over time.