Nancy Marie Brown Knihy

After several visits to study Icelandic sagas, Nancy Brown returns to Iceland to search for the perfect Icelandic horse, one she can bring back to her Pennsylvania farm and make her own. To do so, she must become part of the country's tightly knit horse-breeding community, which can be wary of outsiders and extremely protective of the world-famous breed. In this clear-eyed, evocative account set against Iceland's austere and majestic landscape, she describes what makes Icelandic horses and their owners so distinctive. She also discovers her limitations as a horsewoman and learns much about what she is looking for-in a horse and in her life.

The narrative centers on Gudrid, a Viking woman who journeyed to the New World centuries before Columbus, as recounted in Icelandic sagas. Despite skepticism about her story, archaeological discoveries in Newfoundland and Iceland have revived interest in her life. Nancy Marie Brown collaborates with scientists to explore Gudrid's journey and the societal context of her time, revealing a complex, resilient woman whose experiences challenge historical narratives and highlight the factors leading to her society's decline.

The medieval Catholic Church, widely considered a source of intolerance and inquisitorial fervor, was not anti-science during the Dark Ages — in fact, the pope in the year 1000 was the leading mathematician and astronomer of his day. Called “The Scientist Pope", Gerbert of Aurillac rose from peasant beginnings to lead the church. By turns a teacher, traitor, kingmaker, and visionary, Gerbert is the first Christian known to teach math using the nine Arabic numerals and zero.In The Abacus and the Cross, Nancy Marie Brown skillfully explores the new learning Gerbert brought to Europe. A fascinating narrative of one remarkable math teacher, The Abacus and the Cross will captivate readers of history, science, and religion alike.

Exploring themes of discovery and mystery, this captivating narrative invites readers into a world filled with intrigue and adventure. The plot unfolds through unexpected revelations and challenges, engaging characters who navigate their journeys with curiosity and resilience. As secrets are unveiled, the story promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy tales rich in suspense and exploration.