Drawing on colorful literary and historical references; this narrative guide to the U.S. Naval Academy grounds―known as the Yard―takes visitors on a prescribed path within the walls of a great Annapolis institution that has been educating midshipmen for more than 150 years. Visitors can move at their own pace as they immerse themselves in the Academy's culture; as described here; and linger over what appeals to them most; be it John Paul Jones' crypt; a collection of Currier and Ives prints at the Naval Academy Museum; or antique cannons from the Spanish-American War.The authors offer telling quotes from famous graduates; anecdotes about events that took place in various buildings; facts about the architecture; and simple instructions about the best place to stand to compare a modern-day view with a historic photograph
#609243 in Books Overlook TP 2012-04-24 2012-04-24Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.00 x .75 x 5.50l; .61 #File Name: 1590208501288 pages
Review
25 of 27 people found the following review helpful. A Perfect Graduation PresentBy Gregory F. TaylorWell; we've come a long way since Goethe said that a man who could not draw on three thousand years was living from hand to mouth. If our polls are to be believed; a significant portion of our high school students believe Lincoln led his nation to victory in World War II. With most colleges and universities selling their consumers Yugos for the price of Bentleys; and substituting training for lower middle management for real education; the closest many students get to the Classics is ordering a Caesar salad in the school cafeteria. For those sadly defrauded youth; help is at last at hand. Natalie Haynes has taken a deep study of Greek; Latin and Ancient History and produced a souffle-light confection with real nutritional value. She combines the felicity of allusion of a good stand-up comic (which she happens to be) with solid connections to the abiding issues which a classical education traditionally addresses. There is good scholarship here; but there is also laugh-out-loud inventiveness and a sharp appreciation of modern movie and TV culture. Most importantly; while providing a delightful entertainment; she whets the appetite for more serious readings; and establishes the framework for their pursuit. I would unreservedly recommend this book to both those fortunate few with a solid background in the Classics; who will much enjoy the wit; and to those only beginning an acquaintance with the treasures of our past; who will cherish the introduction.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy LLBest gift for teens or in-laws!3 of 4 people found the following review helpful. This lady is clever and funny.By Desmond CarberyHad great promise. I particularly like Natalie Haynes when I see her speak. She is clever and wise. The book could have been amazing; but it somehow never gets there. I guess in trying to keep it light; it somehow never really gets going in the way I had hoped.
