{"title":"Michael Downes","description":"\u003cp\u003eWelcome to our curated collection of works by the distinguished author Michael Downes, whose unique voice has captivated readers worldwide. Specialising in Arts \u0026amp; Culture, Downes offers a profound exploration of the human experience through his meticulously crafted narratives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAmong his notable contributions, \u003cem\u003eStory of the Century\u003c\/em\u003e stands out as a testament to his expertise in capturing the essence of cultural phenomena. This book invites readers on a journey through time, examining pivotal moments and figures that have shaped our society in unparalleled ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Downes' writing is celebrated for its rich detail and engaging storytelling, making his books a treasured addition to any literary collection. Whether you are a seasoned reader or new to his works, you'll find his insightful perspectives both enlightening and inspiring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDive into the world of Michael Downes and discover why his work remains influential in the realms of Arts \u0026amp; Culture.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"story-of-the-century-by-michael-downes-9780571371990","title":"Story of the Century","description":"\u003cb\u003eA PRESTO BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e'Gripping.' \u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eFINANCIAL TIMES\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e'Breathtaking.' \u003cb\u003eSIMON CALLOW\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e'Vivid.' \u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eBBC MUSIC MAGAZINE\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eA colourful and concise telling of the fascinating story behind Richard Wagner's extraordinary masterpiece, \u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci\u003eRing of the Nibelung.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Ring\u003c\/i\u003e is one of the most epic and compelling stories of the nineteenth century, created by a composer who was, alongside Dickens, Tolstoy and Victor-Hugo, also one of the century's master storytellers. But the story of how Wagner created the work is one full of intrigue and triumphs against unlikely odds - as well as controversy, due to the composer's anti-semitic views and popularity with the Nazi party.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eStory of the Century\u003c\/i\u003e, Michael Downes combines cultural history and biography to offer this accessible and insightful introduction to \u003ci\u003eThe Ring\u003c\/i\u003e and its mythology. He tells the story of how and why this extraordinary masterpiece came into being, why it takes the form it does, why it fascinates and obsesses so many and horrifies others, and why it matters.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47363001647340,"sku":"9780571371990","price":55.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/11396013482391.jpg?v=1772910692"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.co.nz\/collections\/michael-downes.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}