Böcker av Steve Braunias

As prize-winning journalist Steve Braunias stands on an apartment balcony on a sultry summer evening, a black-backed gull flies so close he is instantaneously bowled over with happiness. "I thought: Birds, everywhere. I wanted to know more about them." This book is the result - a wondrous personal journey into the amazing world of birds, and the people ensnared, captivated and entranced by them: the passionate tribe of bird-watchers and twitchers.

Music is a key to culture, no matter where in the world you are from and New Zealand is no exception. In the decades from 195787 the LP was king of New Zealand recorded music. To sell the music cover art was needed, and the book showcases 100 of the best examples at full LP size. Divided into themes, Cover Story brings Braunias inimitable wit and empathy to bear on the artistic flair, fashion and occasional gaudiness these album covers represent. Based on interviews and his own experience collecting over 800 albums from op-shops around the country, he reflects on what they say about our popular culture. Several hundred words accompany each of the albums -- from Bill & Boyd to Tina Cross, Christian music to punk -- while Katrina Duncans sharp design lets the art leap from the page. This is a big book in every sense, one that is a visual delight and full of quirky information, but that doesnt take its subjects or itself too seriously.