• The Compleat Angler Cover
      by LovelyMay The Compleat Angler by Izaak Walton is a timeless celebration of the art of fishing, blending practical advice, philosophical reflections, and pastoral poetry to explore the harmony between nature, leisure, and the human spirit.
    • The Commissioners Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin In the chapter titled "The Commissioners," set between March 9 and March 13, the Confederate commissioners in Washington become aware of the potential evacuation of Fort Sumter by Lincoln’s administration. Rumors of this move incited criticism from Northern critics who saw it as a betrayal of Lincoln's inaugural pledge to maintain federal properties. Despite this backlash, the commissioners felt optimistic, believing they could leverage the situation to their advantage. They conveyed to Robert Toombs,…
    • The Commissioners Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin On March 15, 1861, two prominent figures, Justice Samuel Nelson from New York and Justice John A. Campbell from Alabama, visited Secretary of State Seward to discuss the status of the Confederate commissioners amid rising tensions. They wished to facilitate a peaceful negotiation to avert war. However, Seward, despite his political savvy, informed them he could not arrange an interview with President Lincoln due to opposition within the Cabinet. Instead, he attempted to calm both sides by suggesting that…
    • Chapter

      The Chasm

      The Chasm Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin In June 1858, following James Hammond’s departure from Washington, Abraham Lincoln captured attention at the Republican Illinois State Convention by securing the nomination for the U.S. Senate. Aged forty-nine, Lincoln was set to face the younger Democratic incumbent, Stephen Douglas. Their competition fostered significant interest, especially given their contrasting physical presences—Lincoln’s height of six-foot-four surpassing Douglas’s stature significantly. During the convention closing,…
    • The Body Shop Doesn’t Do Car Repairs?? Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin In "The Body Shop Doesn’t Do Car Repairs??," the narrator reflects on her life choices following the departure of her husband, Jeffrey, and her unexpected return to her parents' house. Despite feeling discontent, she does not initially consider alternative options like seeking a job elsewhere or experiencing independence. As she adjusts to this familiar but uninviting environment, she finds solace in sending surprises to Jeffrey, which highlight their emotional bond despite the physical distance. Her…
    • The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk explores how trauma impacts both the brain and body, offering insights into healing through therapies like mindfulness and yoga. A powerful, essential read for understanding and overcoming trauma.
    • The Bhagavad-Gita Cover
      by LovelyMay The Bhagavad-Gita, a revered scripture in Hindu philosophy, is a spiritual dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Through this profound discourse, Krishna imparts timeless wisdom on duty, righteousness, selflessness, and the paths to spiritual liberation, blending philosophy, ethics, and devotion into a guide for living a meaningful life.
    • The Bab Ballads Cover
      by LovelyMay The Bab Ballads by W. S. Gilbert is a delightful collection of humorous and satirical poems accompanied by the author’s own whimsical illustrations. Originally published in the late 19th century, the poems are known for their clever wordplay, absurd scenarios, and sharp wit, showcasing Gilbert’s talent for blending humor with social commentary. Many of these pieces served as inspiration for the celebrated operas he later created with composer Arthur Sullivan. Filled with quirky characters and entertaining narratives, The Bab Ballads remains a timeless classic of light verse and Victorian humor.
    • Chapter

      The Awakening

      The Awakening Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin James Henry Hammond, an atypical planter in the South during the 19th century, was a prominent figure influenced by his minority status at birth. Born in 1807 to a failed father, Hammond was instilled with immense ambition and a yearning for recognition. Educated at a modest preparatory school, he attended South Carolina College thanks to his father’s role as a steward there. The college maintained strict rules to uphold gentlemanly behavior while fostering a fierce sensitivity to honor among its male…
    • The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession Cover
      by testsuphomeAdmin The Art Thief by Michael Finkel tells the true story of Stéphane Breitwieser, a notorious art thief who stole hundreds of priceless pieces across Europe. The book delves into his obsession with art, the personal costs of his crimes, and the fine line between passion and crime.
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