John Briscoe Ordine dei libri

Verse collection by Northern California poet John Briscoe. Cover art by William Wolff. This book is Number 14 in The Page Poets Series.

The narrative explores the remarkable journey of California wines as they rose to prominence in the global wine industry. It delves into the historical, cultural, and economic factors that contributed to this transformation, highlighting key figures, innovative practices, and pivotal moments that shaped the landscape of winemaking in California. Through compelling storytelling, the book captures the passion and dedication of those behind the vineyards, celebrating their triumphs and challenges along the way.

Valerius Maximus' work is a significant yet underexplored text in classical literature, offering a collection of moral anecdotes and historical examples from Roman history. This book provides a comprehensive commentary that delves into the themes of virtue, morality, and the lessons drawn from historical figures. It aims to illuminate the relevance of Maximus' insights for contemporary readers, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Roman history and ethics.

At the core of this work are seven poems created by generations of San Francisco school children. In the week leading up to Christmas, these children paired iconic local food and drink with each day, showcasing their affection for the culinary traditions and festive spirit of their city. The author, John Briscoe, recalls his own experiences as one of those children, describing how they crafted playful verses to celebrate each day's food or beverage soulmate. From various neighborhoods, the best of these youthful creations emerged—sophisticated comic verses that evoke a forgotten San Francisco, rich with innocence and unique culinary delights. This book serves as a celebration, a feast that promises to enchant readers. It appeals to those with a love for San Francisco, its food, drink, and history, as well as to those captivated by its legends and whimsy. The title is a nod to Dylan Thomas's "A Child's Christmas in Wales," best enjoyed through his own reading. While this book touches on the city's broader historical significance—from the gold rush to its role in global events—it also captures moments of nostalgia for childhood experiences in San Francisco, offering a glimpse into a time that may never have truly existed.