Absinthe & flamethrowers : projects and ruminations on the art of living dangerously /

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Bibliographic Details
Author / Creator:Gurstelle, William.
Edition:1st ed.
Imprint:Chicago, Ill. : Chicago Review Press, ©2009.
Description:1 online resource (xvi, 208 pages) : illustrations
Language:English
Subject:
Format: E-Resource Book
URL for this record:http://pi.lib.uchicago.edu/1001/cat/bib/11196314
Hidden Bibliographic Details
ISBN:9781569762745
1569762740
1306034043
9781306034043
9781556528224
1556528221
Notes:Includes bibliographical references and index.
Print version record.
Summary:Written for reasonable risk takers and suburban dads who want to add more excitement to their lives, this daring combination of science, history, and DIY projects explains why danger is good for you and details the art of living dangerously. All of the projects, from throwing knives, drinking absinthe, and eating fugu to cracking a bull whip, learning baritsu, and building a flamethrower, have short learning curves; are human-focused, as opposed to technology-centric; are affordable; and demonstrate true but reasonable risk. The guide maintains that risk takers are more successful, more interesting individuals who lead more fulfilling lives. What would the world be like if Thomas Edison retired after 30 years working for the railroad, it asks, instead of getting fired for blowing up a rail car with one of his experiments? Though the manual doesn't advocate getting fired, it does reveal that making black powder is pure excitement. Unlike watching an action movie or playing a video game, real, edgy life experience changes a person. Each potentially life-altering project includes step-by-step directions and illustrations along with sidebar tips from experts in the field.
Other form:Print version: Gurstelle, William. Absinthe & flamethrowers. 1st ed. Chicago, Ill. : Chicago Review Press, ©2009 9781556528224 1556528221