Award-winning ornithologist Tim Birkhead’s THE GREAT AUK is a masterfully researched and evocative book that brings fascinating descriptions of bird life to the page, as well as the somber assessment of humanity’s central role in its disappearance serves as a warning for humans to take seriously their responsibilities toward the natural world. It’s a sobering wake-up call” according to Publishers Weekly.

The great auk was once a thriving, nonflying seabird, perfectly adapted to life on the ocean. But by the early 19th century, hunting and the booming trade in natural history specimens had driven the species to the brink. By 1844, the great auk was gone. But its story didn’t end there. In a remarkable and at times unsettling afterlife, the bird’s remains—skins, eggs, skeletons—became objects of obsession for collectors, a frenzy that continues even today.

This tale of the life, death and afterlife of one of the true icons of extinction remains a symbol of human folly and the necessity of conservation.

The great auk was a flightless, goose-sized bird superbly adapted for life at sea. Fat, flush with feathers and easy to capture, the birds were in trouble whenever sailors visited their once-remote breeding colonies. Places like Funk Island, off north-east Newfoundland, became scenes of unimaginable slaughter, with birds killed in their millions. By 1800 the auks of Funk Island were gone. A scramble by private collectors for specimens of the final few birds then began, a bloody, unthinking destruction of one of the world’s most extraordinary species.

But their extinction in 1844 wasn’t the end of the great auk story, as the bird went on to have a remarkable afterlife; skins, eggs and skeletons became the focus for dozens of collectors in a story of pathological craving and unscrupulous dealings that goes on to this day.

In a book rich with insight and packed with tales of birds and of people, Tim Birkhead reveals previously unimagined aspects of the bird’s life before humanity, its death on the killing shores of the North Atlantic, and the unrelenting subsequent quest for its remains.

Chipotle Bitchin’ Sauce is nuts…truly. Dip, spread or smother on your favorite savory food. The base of every Bitchin’ Sauce tub is raw, California-grown almonds—always natural, steam-pasteurized or blanched, and never roasted. These high-quality almonds create the rich, creamy texture and unmistakable smokey flavor that make this sauce so irresistible. Bitchin’ Sauce is completely Kosher and vegan, meaning it’s entirely egg and dairy-free. It’s the perfect plant-based option without compromising on bold, delicious flavor. A great fit for any diet, whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a tasty, nutritious snack. Bitchin’ Sauce is made in a dedicated gluten-free facility. They take extra care to ensure their sauce is free from any gluten-containing ingredients. It’s the perfect choice for anyone following a gluten-free lifestyle.

Available in six zesty flavors:

Original – The OG. Where Bitchin’ began. Creamy lemon and garlic. Simple and Satisfying.

Chipotle – The Crowd Pleaser. Southwest delight with a heat that’s just right. Bold and Smoky.

Cilantro Chili – California Love. Going green never felt so Bitchin’. Fresh and Zesty.

Spinach Artichoke – The Arti-Party. Appetizing mainstay for all your festive gatherings. Tasty and Irresistible.

Buffalo – The Buff Stuff! Perfect for gameday… or any day. Savory and Traditional.

Roasted Chili and Pepita – The Gold Medalist. Loved and admired by critics and fans alike. Smooth and Mild. The single serve 1.75 oz cups are very convenient for travel, school or office. http://www.bitchinsauce.com. Chipotle has officially landed at Peet’s Coffee, bringing a saucy kick to your coffee run. Available now in California locations, and soon to roll out in select stores nationwide.

Takenaka Bento box is thoughtfully designed, durably made, reusable containers with inspiration drawn from our Japanese roots. Eco-friendly, sustainable and made from recycled PET bottles, these stylish bento boxes inspire healthy living and creativity in your day to day life.

A recently exciting collaboration with the Los Angeles-based design studio, Poketo, has created even more stylish ways to pack and store food. Takenaka x Poketo will offer two sets of Bento Boxes, chopsticks, and Furoshiki (a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth traditionally used to transport gifts and other goods) in two distinct designs that are perfect for any picnic, food storage or food on-the-go. With Poketo spearheading the design and Takenaka managing production, these new items are not only striking and unique but also 100% safe for its users and the environment.

These Takenaka Bento boxes are thoughtfully designed, durably made, reusable containers with inspiration drawn from Japanese roots. Eco-friendly, sustainable and made from recycled PET bottles, you will find them stylish additions to inspire healthy living and creativity in your day to day life. http://www.packit.com

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BURGUNDY by Richard L. Chilton Jr. adroitly demystifies Burgundy with clarity bringing to life this fascinating and complex region where some of the world’s greatest wines are produced. History, geography, the art of wine making, the people–are all explored in a way that makes understanding this seductive beautiful wine region a pure joy. Chilton explains the role of the negociant, how to navigate the producers, and who are the new rising stars of Burgundy. This essential book features a reference section on the best group of producers from within Burgundy and describes their wine making philosophy, terroir, and top vintages. Illustrated with 100 dazzling photos.