Feedback Systems: An Introduction for Scientists and Engineers Review

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(More customer reviews)I used this book in a course on classical control theory. It's a great book for explaining concepts in control theory. You'll need background in calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra in order to understand it.
The book is great for giving you an understanding of control theory. Whoever said that there are errors in the book is correct, and you will notice errors if you choose to work out the steps that the author chooses to skip. The author has created a list of Errata to go through at [...]

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This book provides an introduction to the mathematics needed to model, analyze, and design feedback systems. It is an ideal textbook for undergraduate and graduate students, and is indispensable for researchers seeking a self-contained reference on control theory. Unlike most books on the subject, Feedback Systems develops transfer functions through the exponential response of a system, and is accessible across a range of disciplines that utilize feedback in physical, biological, information, and economic systems.

Karl Åström and Richard Murray use techniques from physics, computer science, and operations research to introduce control-oriented modeling. They begin with state space tools for analysis and design, including stability of solutions, Lyapunov functions, reachability, state feedback observability, and estimators. The matrix exponential plays a central role in the analysis of linear control systems, allowing a concise development of many of the key concepts for this class of models. Åström and Murray then develop and explain tools in the frequency domain, including transfer functions, Nyquist analysis, PID control, frequency domain design, and robustness. They provide exercises at the end of every chapter, and an accompanying electronic solutions manual is available. Feedback Systems is a complete one-volume resource for students and researchers in mathematics, engineering, and the sciences.

Covers the mathematics needed to model, analyze, and design feedback systems Serves as an introductory textbook for students and a self-contained resource for researchers Includes exercises at the end of every chapter Features an electronic solutions manual Offers techniques applicable across a range of disciplines

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The Forgotten Few: The Polish Air Force in the Second World War Review

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(More customer reviews)This book recounts the role of Polish pilots in the Allied war effort. It discusses how the Poles accounted for a disproportionate share of German planes downed over England. It also discusses the personal lives of the pilots, including the homesickness felt every Christmas. The all-but-forgotten sufferings of the Poles under both German Nazis and Soviet Communists is recounted in some detail. There is discussion of the heartbreak and outrage experienced by the pilots once they learned that the western Allies betrayed Poland to Soviet control after the war, ruling out a return home for most of the pilots. The postwar lives of some of the pilots are also recounted. The ingratitude of the British shown in politics was duplicated by much of the civilian population soon after the war. The short memory of the British, who forgot that Poles were fighting for the very survival of Britain a few short years earlier, were now clamoring for the Poles to go home. Other details are also provided. There is even mention of a Polish pilot, decades after the war, locating, in Bavaria, the German pilot he had shot down back in September 1939.

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The Last Great Quest: Captain Scott's Antarctic Sacrifice Review

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(More customer reviews)Sadly, this book is a disappointment. It starts interestingly enough, but becomes increasingly tedious as one reads further. The author continually repeats statements, quotations, and his own phrases - sometimes in the same paragraph! Chapters end with quick summations of what one has just read - entirely unnecessary, unless the author expected his readers to have attention deficit issues.
The writing style deteriorates at times into mere lists - how many photographs were taken of what subject, how many pounds went to which recipient, which plaques were erected where......
There are other flaws, for example, a statement that the "whiteness" of Scott's expedition must have fostered racial prejudice in Edwardian society - this, from the Programme Director for the MA in Modern British History at Manchester University, who should know that events, like works of art should be viewed in the context of their times - purportedly the (failed) purpose of this book - and that current "political correctness" is irrelevant. To back up this ludicrous statement, the author needed to present evidence that black applicants to the Antarctic Expedition were rejected in favor of white (not, as far as I know, the case).
A far better choice for those interested in Scott's last expedition would be Susan Solomon's "the Coldest March', a fascinating and well-written account.
The cover photograph of "The Last Great Quest" is great. Keep the jacket, discard the book.

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A Concise History of Poland (Cambridge Concise Histories) Review

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(More customer reviews)If you have no knowledge of Polish history, this book is a good place the start. The authors recommend Playground of the Gods if you are looking for a more detailed history of Poland, but I haven't read those yet so I can't "offically" recommend them.
This book covers basic events and ideas that occured in Poland for the past 1000 years. In addition to politics and military events, the authors attempt to list cultural figures, such as Chopin, and how those figures reflected or affected Polish events.
There were few details on events most people normally think about when they think of Poland, such as concentration camps and WWII. However, these issues aren't ignored entirely, just given the same coverage as other events in Polish history.

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The second edition of this guide to Poland has been updated to take account of the years from 1989-2005. This period marked its liberation from the Soviet Union, the birth of Poland's 'Third Republic' and, recently, its accession to the European Union in 2004. Poland's history has been marked by its resilience. Once a dominant force in central and eastern Europe and home to a remarkable experiment in consensual politics, it was excised from the map by its neighbours in 1795. Resurrected in 1918, partitioned afresh during the Second World War, it survived to become a satellite of the Soviet Union. Yet in the 1980s, it was Poland which blazed the trail in casting off communism, and was finally able to reassert its Christian heritage. With its updated bibliography and new chronology, the book is the ideal companion for all looking for a comprehensive survey of this fascinating country.

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Analog Circuits (World Class Designs) Review

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(More customer reviews)World class? Here's a review of some of the chapters: Review of Feedback systems....Basic Operation Amplifier Topologies....review of passive components and a case study in PC board layout, 4 chapters if you can believe it--on filter design, a chapter on noise....all of these represent basics, rudimentary material an EE grad should have mastered...and can hardly be considered world class. Some of the remaining chapters: How to Design Analog circuits without a computer....My approach to feedback design...Jim Williams "zoo circuit", while having their merits....can all be found in the "EDN series for
design engineers". And to publish Pease's notes on Vbe.....Pulease, Pease.... "What's all this vbe stuff" can be found online for free.
In summary, this text will help augment an undergraduate EE's education. It might be useful for non-hardware or digital designer types who have to stray out of their comfort zones, into the analog domain. But there is little in this text that actually world class. Williams Zoo circuit is the the only world class design. Everything else is either rudimentary, or a rip off of other previous published material.
I downgraded the text to 3 stars because the text is somewhat deceptive as to what it purports to be. It should be more appropriately titled: "Analog Circuits: Basics To Be Mastered". The authors are competent, and well known in the field, so it wasn't downgraded any further.

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Newnes has worked with Robert Pease, a leader in the field of analog design to select the very best design-specific material that we have to offer. The Newnes portfolio has always been know for its practical no nonsense approach and our design content is in keeping with that tradition. This material has been chosen based on its timeliness and timelessness. Designers will find inspiration between these covers highlighting basic design concepts that can be adapted to today's hottest technology as well as design material specific to what is happening in the field today. As an added bonus the editor of this reference tells you why this is important material to have on hand at all times. A library must for any design engineers in these fields. *Hand-picked content selected by analog design legend Robert Pease*Proven best design practices for op amps, feedback loops, and all types of filters*Case histories and design examples get you off and running on your current project

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Audel Electrical Course for Apprentices and Journeymen, All New Fourth Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)I've got 10 guys in line to get their license on my crew but not a lot of time to go to school. And if they're going to school get the school to use this book. If you've got the same situation, just have your guys pick this coursebook up. It's amazing and from a great old electrical name-Audel!

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Spend your study time wisely As you advance from student to apprentice to journeyman status, you log a lot of study hours. Make the most of those hours with this fully updated, sharply focused self-study course. It contains everything you need to know about electrical theory and applications, clearly defined and logically organized, with illustrations for clarity and review questions at the end of each chapter to help you test your knowledge. Understand electron theory and how electricity affects matterRecognize applications for both alternating and direct current Comprehend Ohm’s Law and the laws governing magnetic circuits Learn from detailed drawings and diagrams Explore trigonometry and alternative methods of calculation Identify instruments and measurements used in electrical applications Apply proper grounding and ground testing, insulation testing, and power factor correction

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Sail and Rig Tuning Review

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(More customer reviews)Ivar is right about this being the best illustrated manual. The concise, easy to understand text followed by beautifully understandably illustrations, have taken sail and rig tuning for me out of the black arts. Amazing how he fits all of this into an 80 page paperback....which makes it easier to fit into your seabag.

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"Illustrated Sail & Rig Tuning" ISBN 1 898660 67 0An uniquely illustrated sailing manual on sail trim and rig tuning both for the racing and cruising yachtsman. 150 descriptive colourillustrations.shows you the art of trimming sails and tuning of rigs for optimum performance.Sail trim and Rig tuning made easy!

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Building a Shed: Siting and Planning a Shed, Building Shed Foundations, Adding Custom Details (Build Like a Pro Series) Review

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(More customer reviews)
I've looked at several books on sheds and this is the best one I've found!
The author is a real craftsman. His background in cabinetmaking shines through in his attention to detail. He doesn't take shortcuts, as a matter of fact he takes the extra minute or two to do it right. Little tips like painting T 1-11 before installing it is helpful, but pointing out the value of painting the edges too, (to help preserve the wood over time), is the difference between a shed and a quality shed.
There are several step by step sheds to build, and each one offers numerous photos and tips. I would suggest reading the entire book and then building your shed. You will find different tips in each plan and can use them in building your shed.
Some of the outstanding features of this book:
ProTip - On nearly every other page the author offers a ProTip. They are not brain surgery, but if are new to construction you will find them helpful.
Trade Secret - Also on nearly every other page there is a Trade Secret. Here are the kind of tips that the old-timers offered. It's like having a master carpenter give you all the advise you'll ever needed.
Photos - Lots of them, but most importantly, they are from the part of the project the author is explaining. It's like being on the job site and seeing the project in action.
Details - The author is very good at describing the process of building a shed.
Disadvantage to this book:
The plans for the sheds are not included. You must purchase them from other sources listed in the back. It is possible to figure it out by combining different descriptions and sketches together, but if your are new to construction you may be better off ordering the plans.
After reading this book you will never buy one of those superstore sheds. You'll want the very best, and if you build it yourself you can get it for less than the superstore! Enjoy!

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This well-illustrated guide offers a range of building options, with complete instructions and plans for four popular projects: saltbox potting shed, garden storage shed, storage barn, and lean-to tool locker. Author Joe Truini walks the reader through each step, from evaluating storage needs to basic construction to putting the finishing touches on the roof. Over 350 color photos and black-and-white illustrations are included.

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Phaselock Techniques Review

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(More customer reviews)I am gladly surprised to see how the author has taken the effort, not just to make a routine revision of the classic book, but to write a completely different book. Non interesting material has been removed, while new up-to-date topics have been added (for instance Charge Pump PLL), based on the own author research, and other published papers.
The approach of some classic analysis has also changed. In particular the approach to the so called Loop Filter as a controller and not as a filter.
In summary, a very valuable addition to PLL literature, worth to buy even by readers that own previous editions.


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A greatly revised and expanded account of phaselock technologyThe Third Edition of this landmark book presents new developments in the field of phaselock loops, some of which have never been published until now. Established concepts are reviewed critically and recommendations are offered for improved formulations. The work reflects the author's own research and many years of hands-on experience with phaselock loops.Reflecting the myriad of phaselock loops that are now found in electronic devices such as televisions, computers, radios, and cell phones, the book offers readers much new material, including:* Revised and expanded coverage of transfer functions* Two chapters on phase noise* Two chapters examining digital phaselock loops* A chapter on charge-pump phaselock loops* Expanded discussion of phase detectors and of oscillators* A chapter on anomalous phaselocking* A chapter on graphical aids, including Bode plots, root locus plots, and Nichols chartsAs in the previous editions, the focus of the book is on underlying principles, which remain valid despite technological advances. Extensive references guide readers to additional information to help them explore particular topics in greater depth.Phaselock Techniques, Third Edition is intended for practicing engineers, researchers, and graduate students. This critically acclaimed book has been thoroughly updated with new information and expanded for greater depth.

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Bamboo Fences Review

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(More customer reviews)here in Rio de Janeiro we have a marvelous bamboo course that drove me to look for bamboo books.
when I bought both "bamboo fences" and "building bamboo fences" my eldest daughter has asked me why bamboo fences by the same author(isao yoshikawa)?
This wonderful way to "look inside" the books gives us the unique chance to choose without a blind system.
bamboo fences is a remarkable photo book about this milenar japanese technique.in the building bamboo fences half the book is another basket of splendid fence photos and the other half the drawings show how to do them.
My advice: buy both together and do not tell your kids.

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Algebraic Curves and Riemann Surfaces (Graduate Studies in Mathematics, Vol 5) Review

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(More customer reviews)If you want to learn the basic properties of compact Riemann surfaces this is the book to read. If you want to know the "motivations" of modern Algebraic geometry this is again a book to read.
First of all the pace and the style are very casual. You really don't feel overwhelm by a mountain of definitions. The author always favor simplicity and concreteness instead of abstractions and generality. This is really a book that I should have read before taking a class on Schemes. For exemple in the context of Riemann surfaces an "very ample divisor" is simply a linear system without fixed base point that gives rise to an holomorphic embedding. This definition (at least for me) is much much more satisfactory and illuminating than the definition of a very ample sheaf that you can find in Hartshorne (even though his definition is much more general).
There is a very nice chapter on meromorphic differentials which explains how those object can be used to define line integral on any riemann surface. Topics like divisors, Riemann-Roch and curves are treated with a lot of depth. There are not a lot of pictures but having pictures supported by an unclear text is quite useless. Here the writing is so clear (not to say flawless) that on the first reading you really get the idea of what's going on.
There are very few mistakes in this book which is another reason why I like it. I'm really pissed off by those mathematicians
that are rushing to publish their books crowded by mistakes.
But don't get me wrong, I don't have anything against mathematicians that are writing books (this is a learning experience) but don't feel force to publish them unless they are very polished and "innovative".
Finally the last chapters treat of Abel's theorem ( which tells us exactly when a divisor is principal), Sheaves, Cech cohomologies and line bundles. Again the exposition is very well
motivated with a good supply of interesting exemples.
This is the best book that I read on subject and honestly if professor Miranda is writing another book related to my field of research you can be sure that I will have it my collection.
Hugo Chapdelaine,
McGill



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In this book, Miranda takes the approach that algebraic curves are best encountered for the first time over the complex numbers, where the reader's classical intuition about surfaces, integration, and other concepts can be brought into play. Therefore, many examples of algebraic curves are presented in the first chapters. In this way, the book begins as a primer on Riemann surfaces, with complex charts and meromorphic functions taking center stage. But the main examples come from projective curves, and slowly but surely the text moves toward the algebraic category. Proofs of the Riemann-Roch and Serre Duality Theorems are presented in an algebraic manner, via an adaptation of the adelic proof, expressed completely in terms of solving a Mittag-Leffler problem. Sheaves and cohomology are introduced as a unifying device in the latter chapters, so that their utility and naturalness are immediately obvious. Requiring a background of a one semester of complex variable! theory and a year of abstract algebra, this is an excellent graduate textbook for a second-semester course in complex variables or a year-long course in algebraic geometry.

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Tomb Raider: Legend: The Complete Official Guide Review

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(More customer reviews)Inevadibly, as with most Tomb Raider games, most players need to use the guide. While for Legends, the game is pretty straightforward enough that you don't really need a guide, but if you're a perfectionist who likes to know where ~every~ secret of the game is then this book is for you. Certainly, you don't need to know where all of the secrets are to get through the game, but hey...if you want to see Lara run around in a near skin toned bikini you have to know what to do to get that, right? (And yes the game does have a near skin toned bikini for Lara to wear).
But it tells you more than just how to move the blocks around properly to see her in a bikini, there is also he story of the evolution of the game from the first 1996 adventure to the present and a 12 page behind the scenes look at the present game.
Unlike some of the previous TR guides that are somewhat hard to follow, this has a format that is certainly easy to follow, which includes maps and notes on specific problem areas.
All in all, well worth the extra few bucks you put out for the game and the book.

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The Legend Uncovered·Highlighted references lead to the 49-page Extras chapter, which not only explains how to collect each Gold, Silver, and Bronze reward, but also reveals every single unlockable feature in Tomb Raider: Legend.·Back cover foldout features multiformat control instructions and a map legend for easy reference.·Piggyback's signature three-level tab system facilitates easy access to all sections of the guide, such as the illuminating How to Play chapter, individual level walkthroughs, the Secrets section, and the revealing Behind the Scenes interview feature.·Concept art, sketches, renders, and illustrative hi-res screenshots make every page an individual and visually rich experience.·Authoritative, all-encompassing walkthrough offers step-by-step guidance, plus advanced strategies and tried-and-tested techniques refined over months of dedicated play.·Dozens of detailed annotated maps provide an at-a-glace guide to every locale Lara visits. All maps feature key information for each area, including checkpoints, reward locations, and the ideal route for Lara to follow.

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The Polarity Process: Energy as a Healing Art Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the best introduction to Polarity Therapy there is. It is easier to understand than Dr. Stones works. It is more direct than Bruce Bergers 'The Body As Consciousness'. If you are interested in Polarity Therapy this is the place to start.

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In this thorough, award-winning explanation of the theory and practice of polarity, cranial osteopath Franklyn Sills guides the reader through Dr. Randolph Stone’s mapping of humans’ subtle energies. Popular in Europe, polarity incorporates holistic health, diet, exercise, massage, and spiritual practice. This is an approachable introduction to a form of bodywork that therapists and lay individuals interested in alternative health practices will find useful.

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Driving Force: The Natural Magic of Magnets Review

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(More customer reviews)The author starts this book by the story of Albert Einstein at the age of four or five, when his father showed him a compass needle. The behavior of the needle gave a deep and lasting impression on young Einstein. Then the author describes ten facts about the magnetic force in earlier chapters. Using these facts, he gives detailed explanations on the workings of various magnetic devices and the modern technologies of magnets in plain words. The topics covered includes superconducting magnets, magnets in motors, speakers, TVs, toys, fiction, magic and weapons, magnetic recording, magnets in medicine, biomagnetism, and so on, namely everything about magnets. The book is also interspersed with humorous comments. In the last chapter the author goes back again to young Einstein's wondering at a compass needle. The reader notices here that the title of the book has the triple meaning. This is one of the most educational and well written books I have ever read in the genre of science for laypersons.

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Transformers and Motors Review

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(More customer reviews)Very detailed with invaluable schematics, maintenance procedures, and safety rules to remember. A must to have in your library as a reference guide.

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Transformers and Motors is an in-depth technical reference which was originally written for the National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee to train apprentice and journeymen electricians. This book provides detailed information for equipment installation and covers equipment maintenance and repair. The book also includes troubleshooting and replacement guidelines, and it contains a minimum of theory and math.In this easy-to-understand, practical sourcebook, you'll discover:* Explanations of the fundamental concepts of transformers and motors* Transformer connections and distribution systems* Installation information for transformers and motors* Preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair tips and techniques* Helpful illustrations, glossary, and appendices* End-of-chapter quizzes to test your progress and understanding In-depth source for installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, repairing, & replacing transformers & motors. Reviewed by the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for the Electrical IndustryDesigned to train apprentice and journeyman electricians.

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The Art of Emily Carr Review

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(More customer reviews)An incredible book fulfilling every Carr fans wishes. Truly a beautiful piece of literature and visuals. I was very impressed with the depth of knowledge the Author had of Ms. Carr and the extensive listing of pictures from private ownership and many Galleries. Contains a complete history of her life, travels, writing and of course her unwavering pursuit of success. An absolute must have for anyone who is a Carr fan. Thoroughly enjoyable.

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Emily Carr (1871-1945) traveled to remote regions for inspiration for her art, vibrantly chronicling the rich culture of Northwest indigenous people and the dense forest of the West Coast. Carr's spiritually infused work was controversial in its day; today she is considered a master of the style. This book reflects more than a decade of meticulous research and includes reproductions of over 200 paintings, charcoals, and drawings, as well as extensive quotes from the artist, who was also a writer.

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The Desert of Ice Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the second of two volumes of the "Voyages and Adventures of Captain Hatteras". It was first published in magazine form between March 20th, 1864 and December 5th of 1865, and in Book form on May 4th, 1866. Together with "At The North Pole" it forms the second adventure story by Jules Verne.
This book does not stand on its own, you need to read "At The North Pole" first. This book picks up right after the cliff-hanging ending of the first book. Where the first book was fairly repetitive, this book has a much better variety of difficulties for the characters to overcome. Obviously the cold is still a significant obstacle as is food, but to these are added predatory bears, and the mutinous crew is replaced by a rivalry between Captain Hattaras and the American Captain Altamont.
For me, this book had a much better pace than the first book. The characters are not just sitting around waiting for things to happen as much as they were in the prior volume. Despite some glaring factual errors which date the book, and a somewhat anti-climactic ending, I found this to be more entertaining than "At The North Pole", and I give it the higher rating of the two volumes.

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Translated from the French, with 126 illustrations.

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