Barbara Crane Knihy

Hemmed in on three sides by the "El" and on the fourth by Lake Michigan, Chicago's downtown core is a vital conglomeration of architectural histories, from the birth of the skyscraper through to the perfection of International Style and onward toward post-modern eclecticism. The Loop, as the area is known, has long fascinated photographers; Barbara Crane is no exception. Between 1976 and 1978, she wheeled a bright-red leather golf bag around the neighborhood. It contained a 5-by-7 view camera, which she used to expose more than 500 negatives. Later edited down to a finished series of 90 pictures, and published here as a selection of 40, Crane's images capture the interstitial urban spaces that exist in between every building block of the Loop's circumscribed grid.Essay by Sarah Anne McNear. Foreword by Thomas C. Heagy. 11.25 x 10.5 in.40 duotone illustrations

Set against the backdrop of Chicago's summer festivals in the early 1980s, the book captures the vibrant essence of public celebrations through tightly cropped photographs. Barbara Crane's use of a Super Speed Graphic camera and Polaroid film allows her to intimately document the lively details of clothing, hairstyles, and gestures. The immediacy of Polaroid photography enhances the dynamic energy of the scenes, creating a mesmerizing collection that reflects the public expression of euphoria rather than specific events or personalities.

The story follows Rose Smith, who yearns to connect with ancient cultures. Her fascination with Machu Picchu leads her to Peru, where she meets Carlos Urbina Delgado, a university professor. Their romance blossoms during a journey along the Peruvian coast to Cuzco, prompting Rose to confront the stark realities of Inca heritage and the struggles of indigenous peoples. As she reflects on their resilience, she questions the world's future without these vital cultures, blending action with profound themes of love, history, and survival.

Recognized as the best Historical Fiction of 2016 at the Beverly Hills Book Awards®, this novel immerses readers in a richly detailed past. Through compelling characters and intricate storytelling, it explores significant historical events and their impact on personal lives. The narrative weaves together themes of resilience, love, and the quest for identity, offering a profound reflection on how history shapes individual destinies. Readers are drawn into a vivid world that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth.