Michael Benson Book order

The sensational, lurid, and wickedly entertaining true story of the brothers who invented Hollywood to become the godfathers of cinema - movie moguls Nicholas and Joseph Schenck - studded with glamorous stars, scandals, mobsters, murders, and one legendary blond bombshell. . . Groundbreaking pioneers of the Hollywood Dream Factory, Joseph and Nicholas Schenck may not have been household names like the Warner brothers or Louis B. Mayer, but they were infinitely more powerful, influential—and ruthless. A pair of Russian immigrants with giant ambitions, the Schencks turned their small nickelodeon business in New York’s Bowery into a partnership with Loew’s movie theaters and a controlling interest in three major studios: MGM, 20th Century Fox, and United Artists. They painted the silver screen silver, laid the foundations for the all-powerful studio system, and ruled a global movie empire from their Gatsby-sized mansions on the East and West coasts. The Schencks had become moguls. Their story is the stuff of legends—and their scandals are among the greatest stories Hollywood never told. This riveting, behind-the-scenes account reveals the suprising truth about: The union-busting mob deal that landed Joe Schenck in federal prison for four years—on tax evasion charges including deductions for a menage a trois. The cutthroat and merciless political maneuvering that defined the Hollywood studio heads. The lurid murder charges against silent film star “Fatty” Arbuckle—whose legal defense was paid for by Joe Schenck. Joe’s secret infatuation with Marilyn Monroe, even though Marilyn’s mother named her Norma after Joe’s wife! The brothers’ ingenious creation of the Academy of Motion Pictures and the Oscars—and indomitable control over the entire film industry. From the earliest days of silent films and the swinging era of the Roaring Twenties, through the Golden Age of the studio system and the patriotic call of WWII, to the Red Scare paranoia of the McCarthy years, the history of the Schenck brothers is the story of Hollywood itself—and the endurng power of the American Dream. Moguls is a must-read for film fans, history buffs, and anyone who loves the movies.

Set in the gritty past of Brooklyn, this book explores its transformation from a perilous area rife with mobsters and gangs to a vibrant neighborhood. It delves into the criminal activities that once plagued the streets, where violence and lawlessness were rampant, allowing heinous acts to go unpunished. The narrative captures the dark history of the borough, shedding light on the notorious figures and events that shaped its dangerous reputation.

We quite rightly celebrate human creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, but too often our triumphs in science, engineering and technology come at monumental cost. The human story is more often a tale of conflict and despair than of nurture, love, and coexistence. It would be easy to read the human story as one of tragic hubris. Yet it does not end here. We stand on the threshold of the future wondering which way the dice will fall. Our wager with posterity is that human ingenuity, intelligence, and resilience of spirit are powerful enough to insist upon a very different future for the human story. Prix Pictet. Human features over 100 outstanding works of contemporary photography by many of the world’s most acclaimed photographers. The PRIX PICTET aims to harness the power of photography to draw global attention to issues of sustainability, especially those concerning the environment. Founded in 2008 by the Pictet Group, the Prix Pictet has become the world’s leading award for photography and sustainability. To date, there have been ten cycles of the award, each with its own specific theme.

The rise of Nazism in America during the 1930s and 1940s is vividly portrayed through the lens of Jewish gangsters who courageously fought back against fascist sympathizers. Acclaimed author Michael Benson reveals how figures like Meyer Lansky and Bugsy Siegel organized a fierce resistance against the growing anti-Semitic sentiment and Nazi activism in the U.S. This gripping account details their ruthless tactics and the mobilization of ordinary Americans, offering a compelling narrative filled with surprising facts and unforgettable personalities.

The narrative delves into the life of Carmine "Sonny" DiBiase, a notorious Mafia hitman who transformed from a street punk into a feared killer. Known for his violent temper, especially when intoxicated, DiBiase's criminal journey includes a series of brutal acts, leading to his involvement in the assassination of Joey "Crazy Joe" Gallo during a Mafia turf war. The book reveals the complexities of DiBiase's life, including his time on the FBI's Most Wanted list and his controversial acquittals, ultimately shedding light on the true events surrounding Gallo's murder.

This guide offers practical strategies for effective money management, focusing on budgeting techniques, saving tips, and investment advice. It emphasizes the importance of setting financial goals and provides actionable steps to achieve them. Readers will learn how to track expenses, reduce unnecessary spending, and build an emergency fund. The book also explores the psychological aspects of saving and offers insights on maintaining motivation and discipline in financial habits, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their financial health.

"Celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the film's release, this is the definitive story of the making of 2001: A Space Odyssey, acclaimed today as one of the greatest films ever made, including the inside account of how director Stanley Kubrick and writer Arthur C. Clarke created this cinematic masterpiece. Regarded as a masterpiece today, 2001: A Space Odyssey received mixed reviews on its 1968 release. Despite the success of Dr. Strangelove, director Stanley Kubrick wasn't yet recognized as a great filmmaker, and 2001 was radically innovative, with little dialogue and no strong central character. Although some leading critics slammed the film as incomprehensible and self-indulgent, the public lined up to see it. 2001's resounding commercial success launched the genre of big-budget science fiction spectaculars. Such directors as George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott, and James Cameron have acknowledged its profound influence. Author Michael Benson explains how 2001 was made, telling the story primarily through the two people most responsible for the film, Kubrick and science fiction legend Arthur C. Clarke. Benson interviewed Clarke many times, and has also spoken at length with Kubrick's widow, Christiane; with visual effects supervisor Doug Trumbull; with Dan Richter, who played 2001's leading man-ape; and many others. A colorful nonfiction narrative packed with memorable characters and remarkable incidents, Space Odyssey provides a 360-degree view of this extraordinary work, tracking the film from Kubrick and Clarke's first meeting in New York in 1964 through its UK production from 1965-1968, during which some of the most complex sets ever made were merged with visual effects so innovative that they scarcely seem dated today. A concluding chapter examines the film's legacy as it grew into it current justifiably exalted status"-- Provided by publisher

The complete story of the prison break and manhunt that kept America spellbound

Focusing on the chilling mutilation murders of two young women in 1966, the narrative delves into the cold case through the collaboration of the author, a victim's mother, and a private detective. Their efforts uncover new leads and insights, reigniting interest in a long-unsolved crime and revealing the complexities of the investigation. The book not only explores the tragic events but also highlights the emotional impact on the victims' families and the quest for justice.

London's Somerset House is where John F. W. Herschel supposedly defined the term "photography" in 1839. So it's fitting that it is hosting London's biggest photography fair May 2015. Featuring three exhibitions, an installation, a program of special talks, and over 70 participating galleries from across the globe, Photo London will spearhead a citywide celebration of photography. Flipping through the pages of this tome, readers will glimpse the variety of works on display, from vintage images dating from the dawn of photography to boundary-pushing contemporary photos. With the support of the LUMA Foundation and collaborations with the esteemed Courtauld Institute of Art, Victoria and Albert Museum, and National Portrait Gallery, Photo London thoroughly reflects the city's place within the annals of photographic history.