{"title":"Kassia St Clair","description":"\u003cp\u003eKassia St Clair is a distinguished author known for her intriguing exploration of history through the lens of everyday objects. With a flair for storytelling, St Clair delves into the fascinating intersections of culture, art, and history, making her works both enlightening and engaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAmong her acclaimed books, \u003cem\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/em\u003e offers a vibrant journey into the historical and cultural significance of hues, unveiling how they have influenced societies throughout time. \u003cem\u003eThe Golden Thread\u003c\/em\u003e weaves a captivating narrative about the indispensable role of fabric and textiles in human history, revealing stories from ancient civilisations to modern innovations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHer thought-provoking work, \u003cem\u003eThe Race to the Future\u003c\/em\u003e, further showcases her unique ability to blend historical insight with contemporary relevance, examining the dynamic evolution of technology and its impact on our world. Each of these works falls under the History \u0026amp; Military genre, providing readers with a richly detailed panorama of how seemingly ordinary elements have shaped extraordinary histories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSt Clair’s books are perfect for those who enjoy gaining unexpected insights into the historical narratives that continue to shape our present and future.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-golden-thread","title":"The Golden Thread","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eThe Golden Thread\u003c\/i\u003e, Kassia St Clair illuminates the captivating history of fabric, weaving it into the broader tapestry of human civilisation. From the discovery of ancient threads in a Georgian cave that date back 30,000 years, to the intricate linen wrappings found on Tutankhamun's mummy, this book unravels the threads that have shaped our world. Through tales of the Silk Roads that connected continents, the woollen sails that enabled Viking exploration of America long before Columbus, and the lace ruffs that incited Puritan outrage, St Clair paints a vivid picture of human innovation and cultural exchange.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs readers delve into this rich history, they are taken on a journey from the luxurious silk favoured by Chinese empresses to the durable fabrics worn by Richard the Lionheart. The narrative extends to the vital role textiles played in enabling enslaved people to escape, the summit of Everest, and even the moon, where astronauts relied on their specially designed suits. St Clair’s 'quietly feminist' perspective adds depth to the exploration, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of women in the development and crafting of these essential materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe history of fabric is not merely a chronological account but a story of resilience, ingenuity, and adaptation. Fabrics have allowed humanity to survive in the harshest climates, thrive in diverse cultures, and achieve monumental feats. The book also examines how materials such as Indian calico and chintz catalysed the Industrial Revolution, transforming economies and societies forever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSt Clair's storytelling is enriched with unexpected adventures and historical anecdotes. Whether it's climbing the heights of Everest or walking on the moon with astronauts, the book traces the threads that connect us to these historic moments. By touching on modern innovations in textiles, such as in sportswear, the narrative brings the story into the present day, showing how fabric continues to evolve and affect our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\"Fascinating... The history of the world through the eye of a needle... I recommend this book to anyone,\"\u003c\/b\u003e notes The Spectator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\"A charming, absorbing history that takes us on a journey from the silk roads to sportswear, from ruffs to spacesuits... I devoured this quietly feminist book,\"\u003c\/b\u003e says The Sunday Times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\"Joyful and beautiful,\"\u003c\/b\u003e praises Nature, highlighting the visual and intellectual delight of St Clair's work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\"Will make you rethink your relationship with fabric,\"\u003c\/b\u003e declares Elle Decoration, emphasising the profound impact of this book on its readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEngrossing and meticulously researched, \u003ci\u003eThe Golden Thread\u003c\/i\u003e is an extraordinary exploration of how textiles have shaped and continue to shape our world, threading through the very fabric of human history and innovation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette New Zealand Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45713949098220,"sku":"9781473659056","price":26.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781473659056.jpg?v=1726001455"},{"product_id":"the-secret-lives-of-colour","title":"The Secret Lives of Colour","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/i\u003e, penned by Kassia St Clair, offers a riveting exploration into the fascinating and unexpected stories behind the colours that shape our world. This compelling book takes readers on a vibrant journey through the history and significance of 75 unique shades, dyes, and hues, revealing how each colour has influenced various facets of human civilisation, from art and fashion to politics and war.\n\nAlong this chromatic voyage, discover how the subtle hue of blonde hair has been perceived through the ages, how the fiery tone of ginger hair sparked myths and legends, and how the utilitarian brown altered the course of battles. Uncover the stark white that provided protection during the plague, delve into Picasso's melancholic blue period, and trace the poignant charcoal drawings on the ancient cave walls of Lascaux. Further tales include the electrifying acid yellow, the rich vibrancy of kelly green, the notorious scarlet women, and the regal imperial purple.\n\nThroughout the narrative, St Clair demonstrates how these colours have weaved through the tapestry of human history, forming a bright thread that connects diverse eras and cultures. She brings a scholar's eye and an insider's knowledge to each story, transforming an ordinary palette into a window into human experience and culture.\n\n\u003ci\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/i\u003e extends beyond mere historical anecdotes, offering an insightful commentary on the profound psychological and social impact colours have had. This unique study delves into the origins of colours, whether it's Van Gogh's resplendent chrome yellow sunflowers or the rebellious spirit encapsulated in punk's fluorescent pink.\n\nAn inspiring primer for anyone with a curiosity about the world around them, this book is as informative as it is entertaining. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys a beautifully written tale, Kassia St Clair's work is bound to leave a lasting impression on your perception of colour and culture.\n\n\u003cem\u003e\"A mind-expanding tour of the world without leaving your paintbox. Every colour has a story, and here are some of the most alluring, alarming, and thought-provoking. Very hard painting the hallway magnolia after this inspiring primer.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e - Simon Garfield\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \n\nThe brilliantly colourful journey through \u003ci\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/i\u003e will utterly transform the way you see and appreciate the spectrum of hues that surrounds us every day.\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette New Zealand Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45714352046316,"sku":"9781473630833","price":22.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781473630833.jpg?v=1726005311"},{"product_id":"the-race-to-the-future-by-kassia-st-clair-9781529386073","title":"The Race to the Future","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eAn incredible and stirring story . . . a mix of competition, camaraderie as well as a larky sense of adventure . . .\u003c\/b\u003e Down goes the flag. Smash goes the bottle. Shards of emerald glass and champagne spume catch the light. The race from Peking to Paris has begun. \u003ci\u003eSpectator\u003c\/i\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAnd it's Go, Go, Go . . . A captivating history of a seemingly impossible journey\u003c\/b\u003e and one of the most challenging endurance trials in the history of motoring. \u003cb\u003eSkillful researcher and fine storyteller, St Clair's narrative is full of surprises . . . Fabulous . . .\u003c\/b\u003e She hopes to follow Prince Borghese on his \u003cb\u003eheroic\u003c\/b\u003e journey and - if you share my absorbed interest in her adventurous narrative you may want to emulate her. See you there? Miranda Seymour, \u003ci\u003eLiterary Review\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e10 June 1907, Peking. Five cars set off in a desperate race across two continents on the verge of revolution.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn Italian prince and his chauffeur, a French racing driver, a conman and various journalists battle over steep mountain ranges and across the arid vastness of the Gobi Desert. The contestants need teams of helpers to drag their primitive cars up narrow gorges, lift them over rough terrain and float them across rivers. Petrol is almost impossible to find, there are barely any roads, armed bandits and wolves lurk in the forests. Updates on their progress, sent by telegram, are eagerly devoured by millions in one of the first ever global news stories. Their destination: Paris.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMore than its many adventures, the Peking-to-Paris race provided the impetus for profound change. The world of 1907 is poised between the old and the new: communist regimes will replace imperial ones in China and Russia; the telegraph is transforming modern communication, and the car will soon displace the horse. In this book, bestselling author Kassia St Clair traces the fascinating stories of two interlocking races - setting the derring-do (and sometimes cheating) of one of the world's first car races against the backdrop of a larger geopolitical and technological rush to the future, as the rivalry grows between countries and empires, building up to the cataclysmic event that changed everything - the First World War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Race to the Future\u003c\/i\u003e is the incredible true story of the quest against the odds that shaped the world we live in today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette New Zealand Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46024151695596,"sku":"9781529386073","price":29.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781529386073.jpg?v=1734489682"},{"product_id":"bulgari-polychroma-by-kassia-stclair-9788891844484","title":"BULGARI Polychroma","description":null,"brand":"Unknown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46779016085740,"sku":"9788891844484","price":250.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/26010973485353.jpg?v=1756696556"},{"product_id":"secret-lives-of-colour-by-kassia-st-clair-9781399823586","title":"Secret Lives of Colour","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'A mind-expanding tour of the world without leaving your paintbox. Every colour has a story, and here are some of the most alluring, alarming, and thought-provoking. Very hard painting the hallway magnolia after this inspiring primer' SIMON GARFIELD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTHE MODERN CLASSIC, NOW BOLDER, BRIGHTER AND WITH 25 NEW COLOURS.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe history of colour tells the vivid story of civilisation. From \u003cstrong\u003escarlet\u003c\/strong\u003e women to imperial \u003cstrong\u003epurple\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eleaf green\u003c\/strong\u003e to the \u003cstrong\u003ewhite\u003c\/strong\u003e paint that protected against the atom bomb, Picasso's \u003cstrong\u003eblue\u003c\/strong\u003e period to the \u003cstrong\u003epink\u003c\/strong\u003e Barbie claimed for feminism, \u003cem\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/em\u003e offers a bright thread throughout human history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKassia St Clair's lifelong fascination with colours and where they come from (whether Van Gogh's chrome \u003cstrong\u003eyellow\u003c\/strong\u003e sunflowers or Dorothy's \u003cstrong\u003eruby\u003c\/strong\u003e slippers) takes us on an unforgettable journey through our past, present and future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette New Zealand Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46811897856236,"sku":"9781399823586","price":70.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/5973199f8f6d94e9aa2d928b9b170146.jpg?v=1757882795"},{"product_id":"the-secret-lives-of-colour-by-kassia-st-clair-9781473630819","title":"The Secret Lives of Colour","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'A mind-expanding tour of the world without leaving your paintbox. Every colour has a story, and here are some of the most alluring, alarming, and thought-provoking. Very hard painting the hallway magnolia after this inspiring primer.' — Simon Garfield\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/em\u003e tells the unusual stories of the 75 most fascinating shades, dyes, and hues. From \u003cstrong\u003eblonde\u003c\/strong\u003e to \u003cstrong\u003eginger\u003c\/strong\u003e, the \u003cstrong\u003ebrown\u003c\/strong\u003e that changed the way battles were fought to the \u003cstrong\u003ewhite\u003c\/strong\u003e that protected against the plague, Picasso's \u003cstrong\u003eblue\u003c\/strong\u003e period to the \u003cstrong\u003echarcoal\u003c\/strong\u003e on the cave walls at Lascaux, \u003cstrong\u003eacid yellow\u003c\/strong\u003e to \u003cstrong\u003ekelly green\u003c\/strong\u003e, and from \u003cstrong\u003escarlet\u003c\/strong\u003e women to \u003cstrong\u003eimperial purple\u003c\/strong\u003e, these surprising stories run like a bright thread throughout history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book, Kassia St Clair has turned her lifelong obsession with colours and where they come from (whether Van Gogh's \u003cstrong\u003echrome yellow\u003c\/strong\u003e sunflowers or punk's \u003cstrong\u003efluorescent pink\u003c\/strong\u003e) into a unique study of human civilisation. Across fashion and politics, art and war, \u003cem\u003eThe Secret Lives of Colour\u003c\/em\u003e tells the vivid story of our culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46829343899884,"sku":"9781473630819","price":49.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/18445713482712.jpg?v=1758240539"},{"product_id":"the-race-to-the-future-by-kassia-st-clair-9781529386066","title":"The Race to the Future","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn incredible and stirring story . . . a mix of competition, camaraderie as well as a larky sense of adventure . . .\u003c\/strong\u003e Down goes the flag. Smash goes the bottle. Shards of emerald glass and champagne spume catch the light. The race from Peking to Paris has begun \u003ci\u003eSpectator\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd it's Go, Go, Go . . . \u003cstrong\u003eA captivating history of a seemingly impossible journey\u003c\/strong\u003e and one of the most challenging endurance trials in the history of motoring. \u003cstrong\u003eSkillful researcher and fine storyteller, St Clair's narrative is full of surprises . . . Fabulous . . .\u003c\/strong\u003e she hopes to follow Prince Borghese on his \u003cstrong\u003eheroic\u003c\/strong\u003e journey and—if you share my absorbed interest in her adventurous narrative—you may want to emulate her. See you there? Miranda Seymour, \u003ci\u003eLiterary Review\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e10 June 1907, Peking. Five cars set off in a desperate race across two continents on the verge of revolution.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn Italian prince and his chauffeur, a French racing driver, a conman, and various journalists battle over steep mountain ranges and across the arid vastness of the Gobi Desert. The contestants need teams of helpers to drag their primitive cars up narrow gorges, lift them over rough terrain, and float them across rivers. Petrol is almost impossible to find, there are barely any roads, and armed bandits and wolves lurk in the forests. Updates on their progress, sent by telegram, are eagerly devoured by millions in one of the first ever global news stories. Their destination: Paris.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMore than its many adventures, the Peking-to-Paris race provided the impetus for profound change. 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Smash goes the bottle. Shards of emerald glass and champagne spume catch the light. The race from Peking to Paris has begun. \u003ci\u003eSpectator\u003c\/i\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAnd it's Go, Go, Go . . . A captivating history of a seemingly impossible journey\u003c\/b\u003e and one of the most challenging endurance trials in the history of motoring. \u003cb\u003eSkillful researcher and fine storyteller, St Clair's narrative is full of surprises . . . Fabulous . . .\u003c\/b\u003e She hopes to follow Prince Borghese on his \u003cb\u003eheroic\u003c\/b\u003e journey and - if you share my absorbed interest in her adventurous narrative you may want to emulate her. See you there? - Miranda Seymour, \u003ci\u003eLiterary Review\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e10 June 1907, Peking. Five cars set off in a desperate race across two continents on the verge of revolution.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn Italian prince and his chauffeur, a French racing driver, a conman and various journalists battle over steep mountain ranges and across the arid vastness of the Gobi Desert. The contestants need teams of helpers to drag their primitive cars up narrow gorges, lift them over rough terrain, and float them across rivers. Petrol is almost impossible to find, there are barely any roads, armed bandits and wolves lurk in the forests. Updates on their progress, sent by telegram, are eagerly devoured by millions in one of the first ever global news stories. Their destination: Paris.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMore than its many adventures, the Peking-to-Paris provided the impetus for profound change. 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It presents the very latest examples of Liberty design alongside prints, drawings and samples from the company's outstanding archive, telling an inspiring, century-long story of manufacturing quality and design excellence.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Thames and Hudson (Australia) Pty Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47288556323052,"sku":"9780500028858","price":110.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/109443482366.jpg?v=1770562909"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.pro\/collections\/kassia-st-clair.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}