Showing titles in Literary History & Criticism

Dive into the captivating life of Richard II, born in 1367 in Bordeaux, France, who ascended to the throne as King of England. This compelling narrative, narrated by Cathy Barratt, brings to life the trials, triumphs, and tumultuous reign of a monarch whose story is steeped in history.

In Silas Strong, the author shares a poignant narrative that reveals the somber tale of the wilderness through the eyes of a woodsman. Silas Strong, a passionate guardian of his beloved forest, grapples with the relentless tide of modernization that threatens to erase the beauty of his natural surroundings. With a strong desire to impart the value of nature to the younger generation, Silas takes it upon himself to teach them the importance of appreciating the gifts of the earth. This rich story, penned by Addison Irving Bacheller, an influential American journalist and writer who pioneered the...

At just 18 years old, Leander Stillwell was a farm boy from Illinois, living a simple life in a log cabin when the U.S. Civil War erupted. Driven by a strong sense of duty to help preserve the nation, Stillwells youthful patriotism was laced with a mix of bravado; the thought of remaining at home to toil in the fields while the sound of cannons echoed nearby was simply unbearable. In January 1861, he enlisted in the 61st Illinois Infantry. However, his romanticized view of soldiering quickly shattered at the Battle of Shiloh, where he witnessed the brutal realities of war for the first time. ...

The Book of Ser Marco Polo, the Venetian, concerning the kingdoms and marvels of the East, Volume 1. "Books of the Marvels of the World" or "Description of the World" (Divisament dou monde), also nicknamed "Il Milione" ("The Million") or "Oriente Poliano", but commonly called "The Travels of Marco Polo", is a 13th-century travelogue written down by Rustichello da Pisa from stories told by Marco Polo, describing the travels of the latter through Asia, Persia, China, and Indonesia between 1271 and 1291.It's been a very famous and popular book since the 14th century, creating the image of ...

Join John Muir on his remarkable journey to Alaska in 1879, where the awe-inspiring living glaciers ignited his passion for exploration and science. These majestic ice formations served as a vital backdrop for Muir to validate his groundbreaking theories on glacial action. He returned time and again to this breathtaking laboratory of landscapes, ultimately dedicating the final months of his life to crafting his reflections on these travels. The most famous tide-water glacier now proudly bears his name, a testament to his enduring legacy. (Summary by William Frederic Bade)

In this vibrant and engaging autobiography, Theodore Roosevelt invites us into the remarkable life of one of Americas most dynamic and outspoken presidents. Discover the evolution of his political ideals alongside his deep passion for the frontier and the great outdoors. (Summary from Bartleby.com)

Explore the captivating life of Robert Louis Stevenson in this concise early twentieth-century biography, crafted by polymath G.K. Chesterton and acclaimed journalist J. H. Nicoll. Often referred to as ‘The Characteristics of Robert Louis Stevenson,’ this collaboration features distinct sections by each author, offering unique insights into Stevenson’s remarkable character. This recording presents the third edition, which includes structural changes and additional material not found in the first edition. Join David Wales as he brings this literary exploration to life.

Published in 1899, Stalky & Co. by Rudyard Kipling transports readers to an English boarding school nestled in the coastal town of Westward Ho!—a place notable not only for its quirky name but also for its literary origins, inspired by Charles Kingsleys novel. This captivating collection of linked short stories follows the adventures of the titular character, Stalky, alongside his companions, exploring the complexities of adolescence. With Beetle, a character reminiscent of Kipling himself, and Stalky possibly based on Lionel Dunsterville, these tales delve into themes of bullying, ...

In a quest that began twenty years ago, I sought to uncover the intricate relationships Charlotte Brontë shared with Monsieur and Madame Heger during her time in Brussels from 1842 to 1846. Drawing from my own experiences as a pupil at the historic Pensionnat in the Rue dIsabelle, I aimed to illuminate the emotions and challenges she faced, which are crucial to understanding her genius. My insights, rooted not in divination or psychological prowess, but in personal knowledge and the invaluable support of the Heger family, have recently been validated by compelling evidence. This revelation...

Join Ralph Keeler on a captivating journey through his life, filled with humor, adventure, and a touch of literary brilliance. Once a struggling novelist, Keeler found his voice in this autobiography, which showcases his connections with notable figures like satirist Bret Harte and essayist William Dean Howells. Mark Twain was so taken with Keeler that he penned an essay titled Ralph Keeler in his honor. In a dramatic twist, Keelers life took a perilous turn in 1873 when a Spanish loyalist threw him overboard during his voyage to Cuba, protesting his support for the revolutionary anti-Spanish ...

Discover the enchanting town of Stratford-upon-Avon and its picturesque surroundings through a delightful exploration of its rich history and captivating architecture. This 1913 gem offers an engaging portrait of William Shakespeares life, filled with intriguing insights and entertaining anecdotes. The author also addresses the passionate skeptics who question Shakespeares authorship, artfully debunking their claims. Join us as we delve into the lore and charm of this literary landmark. ~ Lee Smalley

Join Theodore Roosevelt as he recounts his thrilling experiences with The Rough Riders, the legendary 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry formed in 1898 for the Spanish-American War. As Lt. Colonel and second-in-command, Roosevelt vividly portrays the brave men and their spirited horses, the challenges they faced, and the fierce battles they fought in Cuba. He paints a picture of soldiers forged from the rugged wilderness, accustomed to the wild and the unpredictable. With a passion for adventure and an eagerness for action, these “grim hunters of the mountains” were ready to face ...

Journey back in time with Ki no Tsurayuki, a celebrated waka poet of the Heian period, as he recounts his captivating voyage from Tosa province to the bustling capital of Kyoto. Commissioned in 905 to help compile the Kokinshu - Collected Japanese Poems of Ancient and Modern Times and revered as one of the Thirty-six Poetry Immortals of Japan, Kis major work, the Tosa Diary, was penned in 935. This enchanting account not only details his battle with seasickness and fears of pirates but also captures the breathtaking coastal scenery and the rituals performed to appease the sea gods. Written ...

Join Susanna Moodie as she vividly recounts her experiences navigating the challenges of life in the unforgiving woods of Upper Canada. As an Englishwoman embarking on a homesteading adventure, her narrative serves as a candid counter to the misleading tales spun by European land agents about the New World. With a blend of humor and honesty, her story captured the hearts of readers upon its publication in 1852, making it a literary sensation. (Summary by Moira Fogarty)

Step into the enchanting world of King Arthur and his legendary Knights, rooted in rich Celtic history. These captivating tales, adapted from the Book of Romance by ANDREW LANG, transport you to a time just after the Romans departed from Britain. Here, the Britons rose against the marauding Saxons, led by Arthur, who is believed to have lived in the sixth century—a period marked by heroism and chivalry. From the mouths of minstrels to the pages of literature, these stories have been passed down through generations, preserving the valor of Arthur and his companions. The narratives not ...

Drums of Jeopardy is a captivating 1920 novel by Harold MacGrath that first captured readers imaginations through serialization in The Saturday Evening Post. The story not only transitioned to the Broadway stage in 1922 but also inspired two film adaptations, one in 1923 and another in 1931. Interestingly, this novel played a pivotal role in the evolution of actor Boris Karloffs career; he adopted his stage name from a character named Boris Karlov, a mad scientist featured in MacGraths tale. While the characters name was altered to Gregor Karlov in the 1923 film, the 1931 version restored it ...

Buy the book on Amazon : https://amzn.to/41EhmIzIn Unfair Advantage: The Power of Financial Education Robert underscores his messages and challenges readers to change their context and act in a new way. Readers are advised to stop blindly accepting that they are ‘disadvantaged’ people with limited options. They are encouraged to act beyond their concept of limited options and challenge the preconception that they will struggle financially all of their lives.Robert’s fresh approach to his time-tested messages includes clear, actionable steps that any individual or family can take, ...

Join British naval historian Julian Stafford Corbett as he delves into the thrilling life of Sir Francis Drake (1540-1596). From humble beginnings as a farmers son to becoming Queen Elizabeths most formidable privateer and daring naval commander, Drakes journey is one of adventure and audacity. In search of the gold and silver of Spanish Peru, he bravely navigated the treacherous waters of Cape Horn, enduring losses of both men and ships in the relentless battles against nature. After seizing a treasure ship from the astonished Spaniards, he became the first Englishman to circumnavigate the ...

A fan podcast reviewing all of the Aubrey-Maturin novels by Patrick O'Brian, beginning with the first - Master and Commander. Support us at https://www.patreon.com/lubbershole