Sarah Johnston – författare

Fascinating texts written on small gold tablets that were deposited in graves provide a unique source of information about what some Greeks and Romans believed regarding the fate that awaited them after death, and how they could influence it. These texts, dating from the late fifth century BCE to the second century CE, have been part of the scholarly debate on ancient afterlife beliefs since the end of the nineteenth century. Recent finds and analysis of the texts have reshaped our understanding of their purpose and of the perceived afterlife.

The tablets belonged to those who had been initiated into the mysteries of Dionysus Bacchius and relied heavily upon myths narrated in poems ascribed to the mythical singer Orpheus. After providing the Greek text and a translation of all the available tablets, the authors analyze their role in the mysteries of Dionysus, and present an outline of the myths concerning the origins of humanity and of the sacred texts that the Greeks ascribed to Orpheus. Related ancient texts are also appended in English translations. Providing the first book-length edition and discussion of these enigmatic texts in English, and their first English translation, this book is essential to the study of ancient Greek religion.

Fascinating texts written on small gold tablets that were deposited in graves provide a unique source of information about what some Greeks and Romans believed regarding the fate that awaited them after death, and how they could influence it. These texts, dating from the late fifth century BCE to the second century CE, have been part of the scholarly debate on ancient afterlife beliefs since the end of the nineteenth century. Recent finds and analysis of the texts have reshaped our understanding of their purpose and of the perceived afterlife.

The tablets belonged to those who had been initiated into the mysteries of Dionysus Bacchius and relied heavily upon myths narrated in poems ascribed to the mythical singer Orpheus. After providing the Greek text and a translation of all the available tablets, the authors analyze their role in the mysteries of Dionysus, and present an outline of the myths concerning the origins of humanity and of the sacred texts that the Greeks ascribed to Orpheus. Related ancient texts are also appended in English translations. Providing the first book-length edition and discussion of these enigmatic texts in English, and their first English translation, this book is essential to the study of ancient Greek religion.

Create Breathtaking Landscapes the Easy WayIn this all-in-one guide to painting the most gorgeous acrylic landscapes, viral artist Sarah Johnston gives you all the tools to create your own nature-inspired masterpieces. There’s no such thing as being too new to the craft; with Sarah’s easy-to-follow instructions and detailed step-by-step photos, you’ll be supported through the entire painting process. Under her expert guidance, learn to paint awe-inspiring scenes like:Snow-Capped SunriseEnchanted GroveCelestial SkyMoody FieldsSun Setting in the TetonsLakeside PeaceFall Drive through the ForestWarm Winter CabinAnd there’s more! Sarah also includes a back-to-basics guide on art supply shopping, an essential lesson on color theory and several acrylic painting techniques to have you painting mist and greenery like a pro. And once you’re empowered with her lessons, Sarah’s Beyond the Book chapter helps you master the skills needed to design your own eye-catching nature scenes. There’s no better time to grab your paint brushes, clear your mind and create some stunning, one-of-a-kind paintings.

In a grade school classroom, furnished sparingly with a potbellied stove and several pull-down maps, and long before smart phones and Google, Lila and Violet discovered that they could communicate silently across the Ethernet with no notes or wires needed. Lila, bright and earnest, lived by the book and was held in place by earth''s magnetic spin while Violet, with her captivating smile, soared among the stars. They completed each other and together made a whole guidance system; their relationship of the heart, mind, and spirit was a forever bond. Violet''s family life was filled with many unusual events that Lila knew were extraordinary for the time. And in order to solve life''s problems, the two often hiked up to Caleb''s Lookout, mostly on Sunday, just like their Pennsylvania ancestors.

As their lives moved on, the two ladies moved apart, but the distance did not quench the spot in their hearts where the other one nestled. Every now and then, even with busy lives of their own, they managed a reunion, and Lila especially wanted to solve some childhood events that were never clearly defined for her. And Vinnie, always on the fringe, played his part by providing a whiff of romance and lending an arm of support when needed. In their search for answers, several other valley ladies were drawn into the vortex, revealing a life rich with possibilities, waiting to be acknowledged by the community at large. Even now, with Violet''s life-threatening illness, the two women hold fast to a relationship forged over forty years ago when they were barefoot and innocent.