Great lives : a century in obituaries /

A compendium of thoughtful eulogies, this book assembles 124 obituaries from London's The Times, offering insights into the 20th century's influential people--from Lord Kitchener to Elvis Presley, and from Mother Teresa to John Paul II. Arranged chronologically, the volume reminds readers of the dramatic dance of Margot Fonteyn, the dark musings of Jean-Paul Sartre, the grace of Jackie Onassis, and the leadership of General George S. Patton. A lengthy summation of Winston Churchill's life informs readers that he advised the military from the charge of lancers to the aftermath of the atomic bomb. A reflection on Ayatollah Khomeini's Islamic fundamentalism stresses his intent to destabilize world politics. An essay on Stanley Kubrick brands him as subversive and pessimistic. A tender glimpse of the Queen Mother stresses her enjoyment of life and her impeccable solidarity during WW II. Each entry sets an example of incisive essay writing and appreciation of human diversity. ^BSumming Up: Highly recommended. A splendid volume for academic, public, or home libraries; lower-/upper-level undergraduates and general readers. M. E. Snodgrass independent scholar