Every Persian carpet has a story to tell -- from the remote villages of Afghanistan and Iran, down the ancient trade routes traveled for centuries, to the bazaars of Tehran and the markets of the Western world. Carpet-making is one of this tumultuous region's few constants, an art form that transcends religious and political turmoil. Part travelogue and part exploration into the meaning and worth of these mystical artifacts, The Root of Wild Madder presents practical information about carpets while exploring the artistic, religious, and cultural complexities of these enigmatic lands.

This book traces the patterns and impact of immigration to Australia since 1945, focusing on immigrants from non-English-speaking backgrounds who came to New South Wales. Australia has been diversified by the range of immigrants who have come to its shores, a diversification that has been welcomed by some and vehemently opposed by others. The book describes the personal experience of many newcomers to Australia, who came as displaced persons, refugees, on business migration programs or independently. Their testaments show that while some were invited and encouraged to share in the Australian...