Stoned

[Stoned] romps through the stories of eight jewels. -- New York Times A lively, incisive cultural and social history. -- Kirkus History enthusiasts will be entertained by Raden's knowledge of famous names as well as her narrative approach to the topic. Occasional injections of humor will keep readers interested. -- Library Journal Raden's commentary on the often ugly side of human desire through the ages is consistently captivating, and her witty delivery makes the material shine. -- Publishers Weekly Riveting, erudite. -- MORE Magazine Raden brings impeccable credentials to the task at hand. She also writes with a blithe and breezy deftness, peppering her narrative with snarky but substantive footnotes that recall the insouciance of Mary Roach. A gem of a study into all that enchants and bewitches. -- Booklist Aja Raden must be a kick at dinner parties ... She's also an appealingly informal, effortless storyteller, fascinated by the stories she tells. -- Seattle Times a populist history told with humor and great relish... Profanely funny. -- David Duchovny, author of Holy Cow Money, power, sexual politics, and jewelry! Isn't this what makes the world go 'round? What more could I ask for in a book -- Madonna 'Stoned' has its own special vitreous luster, just as any emerald worth its salt - an illumination into what makes us irrationally human. -- Minneapolis Star Tribune