Historical Fiction
This novel takes us to Boston in the late 1870s, when Harvard student Theodore Roosevelt falls in love with Alice Hathaway Lee. Calvi’s careful descriptions of the dress, food, and manners of this era and her use of real letters exchanged by Teddy and Alice bring this era to life as we watch this slow, lovely romance wend its way to the altar. Calvi’s thorough research and her grasp of the sweetness and innocence of these two young people give readers historical fiction at its finest.
Classics
This collection contains some of the best verses from a masterful poet: “Break, Break, Break,” “The Lady of Shalott,” “Ulysses,” and more. Here also are excerpts from three longer works: “Maud,” “The Princess,” and “The Brook.” Grace in rhythm, beautiful words, and a regard for the nobility of the human spirit mark these poems. A Dover Thrift Edition, this thin, inexpensive volume is ideal both for travelers and for readers who enjoy scribbling marginalia or making note of favorite passages by pen.
Science
Sherlock Holmes, one of the world’s best-known fictional characters, became more famous than his creator, Arthur Conan Doyle, and continues to fascinate today. Brake looks deep into the Sherlock Holmes phenomenon and the science behind Holmes’s detection methods. He examines different aspects of Holmes and the different parts of Holmes’s world. An intriguing exploration of the times and the circumstances that thrust Holmes into prominence, it puts Holmes’s life and adventures in context.
Biography
George F. Kennan was one of the most important American diplomats of the 20th century, and with his conception of the containment policy against the Soviet Union, he may have been the most important. Costigliola has written an engaging biography of Kennan, whose love affair with both America and Russia exemplified deeper struggles. It’s a look at how honest this intriguing man was about himself, his famous policy, and his desires for his legacy. A thorough presentation of an important American.
Religious Studies
Noted religious historian Karen Armstrong draws on her vast knowledge of the world’s faith traditions to offer readers encouragement to renew nature’s deeply personal and powerful place in spirituality. Today, nature is rarely viewed as sacred, but it once was by all major faiths. Rediscovering nature’s inherent potency is restorative. Armstrong offers tips for rekindling spiritual bonds with nature and, in so doing, reigniting faith and a connection to a world beyond our self-centered selves.
For Kids
Frances Hodgson Burnett’s first novel for children depicts the story of young Cedric, who is sent from his New York City home to live with his sullen grandfather in a grand English manor after an unexpected inheritance of both title and wealth is thrust upon him. This classic featuring themes of nobility and kindness is excellent to read aloud.
