As two modern-day men attempt to build a medieval siege engine or catapult, the author offers an imaginative, introspective reflection on the nature of war, the history of weaponry, and the nature of friendship

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Acting on a whim, Paul and a friend built a catapult modeled on the ancient siege engines that once made and defended empires. A sort of "Zen and the Art of Weaponry," this understated meditation can be read as a lament for the human race and its blood-soaked past, present (and future?). In his first book, Paul investigates "catapult consciousness" only to discover "there was no mask, no special weapon-maker's mind." His narrative interweaves an antic account of the hit-and-miss construction of the catapult with reflections on the creation and use of weapons from crossbows to Nike missiles. He also comes to terms with his "wooden" father, a WW II bombardier who opposed his resistance to the Vietnam War. The Roman siege of Jerusalem, Henry Bessemer's invention of long projectiles, Scottish Highlanders' uprisings and the development of the atomic bomb are signposts on this odyssey into the wellsprings of warfare and aggression. Author tour.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

While the author's purpose in building a catapult was to have fun tossing rocks into San Francisco Bay, his account is much more than that. It is a history of catapults from ancient times. It is a clear and joyous description of how to assemble the machine in this day and age. It is a musing on war and sieges--from Syracuse to Josephus's Jerusalem and beyond. It is a little biographical information. And it is the story of Paul and his partner's growing friendship and respect in sharing the project. With humor and an ingratiating style, Paul has produced a unique book that is enjoyable, informative, and at times inspiring. More literature than technology, this delightful book is highly recommended.
- Robert H. Donahugh, formerly with Youngstown and Mahoning Cty. P.L., Ohio
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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