Biography
Samuel Ryan Curtis was one of the North’s most successful generals. He never lost a battle and was the victor at several key battles, including Pea Ridge. Late in the Civil War, he commanded Union forces in the Trans-Mississippi, managing to negotiate peace with the Sioux. He was a nationally known civil engineer, and he helped found the Republican Party. As the first biography of Curtis, it thoroughly examines the nearly forgotten Union general—his political, engineering, and military feats.
History
It’s 1682 in Restoration Britain. Charles II is ailing and invites his younger brother, James, Duke of York, to return from exile and prepare to take his rightful place as heir to the throne. The future king sets sail with a fleet of ships for Edinburgh. However, disaster strikes when his ship, the Gloucester, sinks along the Norfolk Coast. He is spared, but hundreds die in the calamity. Conspiracies abound about this frigate’s fateful passing. Diarist Samuel Pepys plays a role in the retelling.
Commentary
Long known as one of our finest living essayists, this collection of 143 pieces, what Epstein calls casuals, offers brief, pungent, and spot-on thoughts on contemporary culture and society. Titles like “Khaki-Pantsman,” “The Attack on the Hot Dog,” and “Spandexless” reveal the writer’s wit and the breadth of topics he covers. On subjects as varied as death and love, literature and film, and food and exercise, Epstein delivers insights and wisdom, all accompanied by a good dose of wry humor.
Fiction
It’s the first book of Cornwell’s medieval saga. The year is 866 A.D., and the Danes are rampaging through England, conquering town after town and humbling king after king. The narrator is the captured boy of English royalty who quickly gravitates to the ways of his captors, the Vikings. As his new friends march toward complete domination of England, he’s caught between loyalties. Cornwell captures the essence of the Vikings’ brutality and their endearing qualities. A fascinating and fun read.
Classics
First published in 1920, this guide to thinking, study, and work has proven an invaluable resource to generations of students, professors, and writers. Sertillanges offers many practical, concrete recommendations for a satisfying scholarly life while never forgetting to point to its noble ideals. One remark near the book’s end serves as its heart: “The reward of a work is to have produced it; the reward of effort is to have grown by it.”
For Kids
This classic is a celebration of kindness and generosity. While the farm animals banter about what to give the farmer for his birthday, the farmer celebrates by offering them their favorite treats. From horses to cows to chickens and more, each gets what it likes best. When the farmer returns home, he finds a special birthday treat awaits him.
