Ian Brennan Boeken

Focusing on the often-overlooked perspective of a partner affected by sexual violence, this novella explores the deep emotional turmoil and struggle to mend a relationship shattered by trauma. Its concise, untitled chapters create a stark contrast between life before and after the incident, leading the protagonist toward a fragile reconciliation with his past. The lyrical prose captures the complexities of love, loss, and healing, offering a poignant reflection on the ripple effects of such violence.

"Popular culture has woven itself into the social fabric of our lives, penetrating people's homes and haunting their psyches through images and earworm hooks. Justice, at most levels, is something the average citizen may have little influence upon, leaving us feeling helpless and complacent. But pop music is a neglected arena where concrete change can occur--by exercising active and thoughtful choices to reject the low-hanging, omnipresent corporate fruit, we begin to rebalance the world, one engaged listener at a time. Silenced by Sound: The Music Meritocracy Myth is a powerful exploration of the challenges facing art, music, and media in the digital era. With his fifth book, producer, activist, and author Ian Brennan delves deep into his personal story to address the inequity of distribution in the arts globally. Brennan challenges music industry tycoons by skillfully demonstrating that there are millions of talented people around the world far more gifted than the superstars for whom billions of dollars are spent to promote the delusion that they have been blessed with unique genius. We are invited to accompany the author on his travels, finding and recording music from some of the world's most marginalized peoples. In the breathtaking range of this book, our preconceived notions of art are challenged by musicians from South Sudan to Kosovo, as Brennan lucidly details his experiences recording music by the Tanzania Albinism Collective, the Zomba Prison Project, a "witch camp" in Ghana, the Vietnamese war veterans of Hanoi Masters, the Malawi Mouse Boys, the Canary Island whistlers, genocide survivors in both Cambodia and Rwanda, and more. Silenced by Sound is defined by muscular, terse, and poetic verse, and a nonlinear format rife with how-to tips and anecdotes. The narrative is driven and made corporeal via the author's ongoing field-recording chronicles, his memoir-like reveries, and the striking photographs that accompany these projects. After reading it, you'll never hear quite the same again."--Publisher's website

Focusing on the role of anger in personal dilemmas, this book offers a frank exploration of maintaining calm during crises. It emphasizes how emotions can cloud judgment, leading even the most knowledgeable individuals to make poor choices. By distilling universal structures underlying human problems, the author provides insights on overcoming emotional interference and making sound decisions, encouraging readers to engage in self-reflection and personal growth.

Addressing a common dilemma among magicians, this book offers practical solutions and insights to enhance their craft. It delves into techniques, performance strategies, and psychological elements that can elevate a magician's act. With a focus on both novice and experienced performers, it provides valuable tips to engage audiences and refine skills. Through a blend of theory and practice, readers are encouraged to explore their creativity and develop a unique style in their magical performances.

Focusing on the art of magic, this collection features essays and effects from Magic Circle Magician Ian Brennan. It offers valuable insights into character development, scripting, and performance style, providing readers with practical advice to enhance their magical presentations. The book serves as a resource for both aspiring and experienced magicians looking to elevate their craft.