Stephen R. Wilk

A collection of engaging essays that discusses odd and unusual topics in optics

Odd Excursions Into Optics

How the Ray Gun Got Its Zap

Medusa, the Gorgon, who turns those who gaze upon her to stone, is one of the most popular and enduring figures of Greek mythology. Long after many other figures from Greek myth have been forgotten, she continues to live in popular culture. In this fascinating study of the legend of Medusa, Stephen R. Wilk begins by refamiliarizing readers with the story through ancient authors and classical artwork, then looks at the interpretations that have been given of the meaning of the myth through the years. A new and original interpretation of the myth is offered, based upon astronomical phenomena. The use of the gorgoneion, the Face of the Gorgon, on shields and on roofing tiles is examined in light of parallels from around the world, and a unique interpretation of the reality behind the gorgoneion is suggested. Finally, the history of the Gorgon since tlassical times is explored, culminating in the modern use of Medusa as a symbol of Female Rage and Female Creativity.

Solving the Mystery of the Gorgon

Medusa

If you take Boston's Blue Line to its northern end, you'll reach the Wonderland stop. Few realize that a twenty-three-acre amusement park once sat nearby -- the largest in New England, and grander than any of the Coney Island parks that inspired it. Opened in Revere on Memorial Day in 1906 to great fanfare, Wonderland offered hundreds of thousands of visitors recreation by the sea, just a short distance from downtown Boston. The story of the park's creation and wild, but brief, success is full of larger-than-life characters who hoped to thrill attendees and rake in profits. Stephen R. Wilk describes the planning and history of the park, which featured early roller coasters, a scenic railway, a central lagoon in which a Shoot-the-Chutes boat plunged, an aerial swing, a funhouse, and more. Performances ran throughout the day, including a daring Fires and Flames show; a Wild West show; a children's theater; and numerous circus acts. While nothing remains of what was once called "Boston's Regal Home of Pleasure" and the park would close in 1910, this book resurrects Wonderland by transporting readers through its magical gates.

The Brief and Brilliant Life of Boston's Million Dollar Amusement Park

Lost Wonderland

Eric Choi

Demetri Capetanopoulos

Mike Adamson

J. Woolston Carr

Jason J. McCuiston

Michael D. Winkle

Gregory L. Norris

Corrie Garrett

James J. C. Kelly

Allison Tebo

M. W. Kelly

Andrew Gudgel

Maya Chhabra

Alfred D. Byrd

Nikoline Kaiser

150 years ago, we dived with him to the bottom of the ocean. Now Captain Nemo and his submarine sensation are back to entertain you again.Take a wild adventure through sixteen amazing short stories, all inspired by Jules Verne's enduring classic exploring the murky depths. What was behind the sightings of the mysterious vessel in Baltimore? What really happened in the aftermath of Nautilus' maelstrom misfortune? Will a courageous salvage mission dredge up disturbing secrets? With every story chosen for its tribute to the extraordinary adventures of the famed French master, you'll be whisked to 1870, across the globe, and even forward in time and space, as these historic seafaring exploits take unexpected twists and turns. With all sixteen creative tales ranging from alternative endings, freshly hooked monsters, and valiant forays into speculative storytelling, you'll soon be lost in new worlds that Verne himself would applaud. Will this daring plunge into perilous waters once again surface modern masterpieces of imagination? 20,000 Leagues Remembered is an astonishing homage to an incredibly robust original masterwork. If you like thought-provoking premises, inventive exploits, and adoring respect for the source material, then you'll love this whirlpool of wonders. Buy 20,000 Leagues Remembered to dive deep today!

20,000 Leagues Remembered

Stephen R. Wilk

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