And as decade succeeded decade and visit followed visit, they created a unique record of a world transformed by time's passage- sometimes in subtle, almost imperceptible detail, at other times in ways nothing short of extraordinary.

Photographs:

'Then and Now' displays past and present side by side to produce a remarkable, resonant reflection of people and places as they were once, and as they are today. Culled from National Geographic's vast archive, these carefully selected pairs of photographs- one vintage, the other contemporary- take us to every part of our planet and show us what has changed and what has stayed the same.

Chapter by chapter, region by region, we see both time and the world itself unfold in unique perspective, a stunning panorama of images that's thought provoking and evocative, utterly fascinating and unforgettably spectacular.

This beautiful, large-format volume benefits from the quality of National Geographic's exceptional photo archives, though it reflects the oft-noted NG shortcoming of superb visuals burdened by less-than-inspired text. The value here is in the juxtaposition of historic photographs, some in black and white or sepia, with contemporary portraits of similar places and people. These images often portray cultures in transition.

The work, lifestyle, dress, and villages depicted in early prints as evidence of "purer" cultures now collide with the global materialism and corporate marketing that seem intent on bringing logo-drenched T-shirts and television to every corner of the world. The book is usefully divided by region: North America, Central and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, Oceania, and the Poles. Its strengths are the technical standard and quality of composition found in virtually every photograph. Recommended for its glimpses of cultures near and far, then and now.-

National Georgraphic began publication in 1888 and so can rightly boast of more than a century's penetration of American homes, waiting rooms, and libraries.

 National Geographic Society 0792272021 / 9780792272021
Hardcover As New Condition [Washington, D.C.] 

Price: 37.14 USD