This book contains 50 years of photography by the author, a National Geographic photographer. He was a pioneer of color photography with a style that called for entering people's homes and hearts; by winning their confidence he was able to capture "off guard" moments, and reveal the depth of human nature. His work reveals beauty, mystery, and a sense of adventure. Part photography retrospective and part personal memoir, this book paints a full picture of the life of a globe-trekking photographer over the past half century.

Whether exploring the reclusive communities of the Amish and Hutterites, probing the gritty existence of the American cowboy, or revealing the quiet beauty of the Minnesota lakes, William Albert Allard has helped define America in all its diversity. From rodeos to blues singers, from William Faulkner’s Mississippi to minor league baseball, Allard has turned his camera toward parts of our heritage that are often overlooked. His other award-winning books include The Vanishing Breed and A Time We Knew. Portraits of America features 165 of Allard’s finest photographs. Presented in chronological order, with incisive introductions to each section written by Allard himself, these photographs show the creative development of a remarkably gifted artist. Pulitzer Prize­winning author Richard Ford contributes a foreword that places Allard’s photography within the context of the American experience. Art aficionados and lovers of Americana alike delight in this beautifully designed and thoughtful collection from a man who has become a legend in the world photographic community.

American photographers master series

Photographs from the archives of "National Geographic" share an array of work reflecting the themes of the land, underwater, science, the United States, and the world--by some of the world's finest photographers.

Read along with Hyperion! In this follow-up to Oliver and his Alligator, Oliver spots a rock on the playground. But it's not just any rock???he's sure it's a dinosaur egg. And once it hatches, he has the best new friend he could ask for. They sail to a deserted island and even launch into outer space. But as great as it is to travel with his dinosaur alone, something is missing....Follow along with word-for-word narration as Oliver realizes that it is even more fun when all of his friends bring their imaginations along for the ride!

The story of Léonie Gilmour (1873-1933)—partner of Japanese writer Yone Noguchi, mother of artist Isamu Noguchi and dancer Ailes Gilmour—a woman who chose a unique path to achieving her personal and professional goals, rising above poverty, racism and an ill-fated marriage to take up the challenge of raising two mixed-race children alone in distant Japan. Bringing together extensive research and lively storytelling, Leonie Gilmour: When East Weds West is the first complete portrait of the unique, pioneering American educator, editor and writer whose story inspired Hisako Matsui's acclaimed film Leonie, starring Emily Mortimer and Shido Nakamura. Gilmour's fascinating tale is told here through her own writings and those of her associates, including rare and unpublished stories and intimate correspondence, along with a detailed biographical account by Edward Marx.