Last collection of books

Hermit Of Peking

1976, Hugh Trevor-Roper

"Hermit of Peking" is a captivating biography that explores the enigmatic life of Sir Edmund Backhouse, a British sinologist and orientalist who lived in Beijing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book delves into Backhouse's controversial career, including his role as a scholar, his

The Sea And The Jungle

1912, H. M. Tomlinson

"The Sea and The Jungle" is a travelogue that recounts the author's experiences aboard a steamship traveling from England to South America and then along the Amazon and Madeira Rivers. The narrative vividly captures the harsh realities and stunning beauty of the natural world, as well as the challen

Prisoner Without A Name, Cell Without A Number

1981, Jacobo Timerman

The book is a harrowing memoir of a journalist who was detained and tortured by the Argentine military government during the late 1970s. It vividly recounts his experiences of imprisonment, the brutal interrogation techniques he endured, and his observations on the political and social turmoil of Ar

The Great Good Thing

2001, Roderick Townley

"The Great Good Thing" is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Princess Sylvie, a character in a book who becomes self-aware and realizes that she and her fellow characters exist only within the confines of their storybook. As Sylvie becomes conscious of the world beyond the pages, she leads he

Her Smoke Rose Up Forever

1990, James Tiptree Jr.

"Her Smoke Rose Up Forever" is a collection of science fiction stories that explore complex themes such as gender and identity through a speculative lens. The anthology brings together some of the most powerful and thought-provoking short stories written by a pioneering author in the genre, known fo

Letters From The Earth

1962, Mark Twain

"Letters from the Earth" is a posthumously published work that consists of a series of essays written from the perspective of Satan, who, banished to Earth, writes letters to his fellow archangels about the curious practices, beliefs, and idiosyncrasies of humans. Through these satirical letters, th

The Surprise Of Cremona

1954, Edith Templeton

"The Surprise of Cremona" is a travel memoir that offers an engaging and vividly detailed account of the author's journey through Northern Italy, focusing particularly on the city of Cremona. Known for its rich history in violin making, the narrative delves into the city's artistic and architectural

Fame And Obscurity

1970, Gay Talese

"Fame and Obscurity" is a compelling collection of profiles and essays that delve into the lives of both renowned and ordinary individuals, exploring the nuances of public recognition and anonymity. The author masterfully captures the essence of his subjects, ranging from famous figures like Frank S

Map

2016, Wislawa Szymborska

"Map" is a thought-provoking collection of poetry that delves into the complexities of human experience, encompassing themes of history, individuality, and the mundane aspects of everyday life. The poet employs a unique blend of wit, irony, and philosophical insight to explore the vast landscapes of

Alice James

1980, Jean Strouse

This biography explores the life of Alice James, the sister of the renowned James brothers, William and Henry. Despite her own intellectual prowess, Alice struggled with the constraints imposed on women of her era and battled chronic illness throughout her life. The book delves into her personal dia

This One Summer

2014, Mariko Tamaki

"This One Summer" is a graphic novel that delves into the complexities of adolescence through the eyes of Rose, a young girl who spends every summer at a lakeside beach house in Awago Beach. This particular summer, Rose is caught between the innocence of childhood and the murky waters of adulthood a

A Child's Garden Of Verses

1885, Robert Louis Stevenson

"A Child's Garden of Verses" is a collection of poetry that delves into the imaginative and innocent world of childhood. The poems capture the joys and adventures of youth, from sailing boats down a river, to swinging in the garden, and pondering shadows. The verses beautifully encapsulate the child

A Woman, A Man, And Two Kingdoms

1991, Francis Steegmuller

"A Woman, A Man, and Two Kingdoms" is a collection of letters and reflections that delve into the intriguing relationship between Madame de Sévigné, a celebrated French aristocrat known for her wit and vivid letter-writing, and her cousin Bussy-Rabutin, a military man and writer. The correspondence

River Of Shadows

2003, Rebecca Solnit

"River of Shadows" explores the transformative impact of the 19th-century photographer Eadweard Muybridge on technology, art, and society. Muybridge's pioneering work in capturing motion prefigured the development of cinema and influenced the pace and perception of modern life. The book delves into

After Babel

1975, George Steiner

"After Babel" explores the intricate realm of translation, delving into its impact on communication, literature, and society. The book argues that translation is a fundamental aspect of human expression and understanding, shaping how we interact and exchange ideas across different languages and cult

The Three Golden Keys

1994, Petr Sis

"The Three Golden Keys" is a beautifully illustrated children's book that blends a magical adventure with a deep sense of nostalgia. Set in the author's hometown of Prague, the story follows a man who returns to the city of his childhood only to find it deserted and his old house locked by three pad

Artful

2012, Ali Smith

"Artful" is a unique blend of fiction and essay, where a narrator haunted by the ghost of a former lover delves into themes of art, literature, and grief. Through a series of lectures that the ghost delivers, the book explores the connections between classical and contemporary works, weaving persona

Bread And Wine

1936, Ignazio Silone

"Bread and Wine" is a novel set in 1930s Italy during the oppressive regime of Mussolini. It follows the story of Pietro Spina, a revolutionary socialist who, due to his political activities, is forced to live in hiding. Disguised as an elderly priest named Don Paolo Spada, Pietro returns to his nat

Collected Letters

1972, George Bernard Shaw

"Collected Letters" is a compilation of correspondence written by a prominent playwright and critic, offering a detailed insight into his thoughts, personal relationships, and the development of his literary and social ideas over several decades. The letters reveal his witty, provocative, and often

Forms Of Devotion

1998, Diane Schoemperlen

"Forms of Devotion" is a collection of short stories and visual narratives that explore the complexities of human relationships and the search for spiritual meaning in everyday life. The book blends traditional narrative with innovative visual storytelling, using illustrations and typographical play

Saint Exupery

1994, Stacy Schiff

The biography "Saint Exupery" by Stacy Schiff provides an in-depth look into the life of the famed French aviator and writer, exploring his adventurous spirit, complex personality, and the turbulent times in which he lived. Schiff delves into his aristocratic upbringing, his pioneering contributions

The Memoirs Of George Sherston

1928, Siegfried Sassoon

"The Memoirs of George Sherston" is a semi-autobiographical series tracing the maturation and experiences of its protagonist, George Sherston, through his idyllic childhood, his participation in fox hunting, and his service in the British Army during World War I. The narrative delves deeply into She

Lost In Place

1995, Mark Salzman

"Lost in Place" is a memoir that delves into the adolescent years of its author, capturing his earnest and often humorous quest for meaning and identity in the suburban setting of Connecticut during the 1970s. As a young boy obsessed with the idea of becoming a kung fu master, which leads him into v

All Passion Spent

1931, Vita Sackville-West

"All Passion Spent" follows the story of Lady Slane, an elderly woman who, after the death of her controlling husband, decides to defy her children's expectations by renting a small house in Hampstead where she reflects on her past and embraces her newfound freedom. Throughout the novel, Lady Slane

Berlin Diary

1941, William L. Shirer

"Berlin Diary" is a firsthand account of the rise of Nazi Germany and the early years of World War II as witnessed by an American journalist living in Berlin. The diary entries, spanning from 1934 to 1941, provide a detailed and personal observation of the events and atmosphere in Germany and across

Landscape And Memory

1995, Simon Schama

"Landscape and Memory" is a profound exploration of how landscapes have shaped human culture and how human culture, in turn, shapes our views of nature and the environment. The book delves into the symbolic and mythological significance of different natural elements such as forests, rivers, and moun

The Sagas Of Icelanders

1000, Örnólfur Thorsson

"The Sagas of Icelanders" is a collection of epic tales composed during the 12th and 13th centuries, recounting the lives, struggles, and adventures of early Icelandic settlers around the 9th to 11th centuries. These sagas provide a rich narrative that blends history with mythology, offering insight

The Walls Came Tumbling Down

1957, Henriette Roosenburg

"The Walls Came Tumbling Down" is a gripping memoir that recounts the experiences of a Dutch resistance fighter during World War II who was captured and imprisoned by the Nazis. After surviving the harrowing conditions of the concentration camp, the narrative follows her and her companions' remarkab

Sparkle And Spin

1957, Ann Rand

"Sparkle and Spin" is a delightful exploration of the magic and wonder of words, aimed at young readers. Through engaging, rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations, the book delves into how words not only represent the world around us but also enhance our understanding of it. It celebrates the joy of

The Tuscan Year

1984, Elizabeth Romer

"The Tuscan Year" chronicles a year in the life of a rural Tuscan family as they navigate the seasonal rhythms of farming, cooking, and feasting. Through vivid descriptions and intimate storytelling, the book provides a detailed portrayal of traditional Tuscan culinary practices, ingredients, and re

Classic Crimes

1951, William Roughead

"Classic Crimes" is a compelling collection of true crime essays that delve into notorious criminal cases in Scotland from the 17th to the early 20th century. Written by a prominent figure in the field of criminology, the book provides detailed accounts and analyses of various infamous crimes, inclu

List Of Books

1981, Frederic Raphael

"List of Books" is a curated compilation that offers readers a diverse selection of significant works across various genres and periods. The book serves as a guide, providing insights and summaries that help to contextualize each recommended work's importance in literature, history, and broader cult

The Medical Detectives

1980, Berton Roueché

"The Medical Detectives" is a collection of intriguing medical mystery stories that delve into the complex world of epidemiology and disease investigation. Each narrative unfolds like a detective story, where doctors and scientists act as sleuths to uncover the sources and causes of mysterious ailme

Period Piece

1952, Gwen Raverat

"Period Piece" is a charming and humorous memoir that offers a vivid portrayal of Victorian life through the eyes of the author, who grew up as part of a prominent intellectual family in Cambridge, England. The book provides a series of delightful vignettes that capture the eccentricities and peculi

Midnight In Sicily

1996, Peter Robb

"Midnight in Sicily" explores the rich and tumultuous history, culture, and politics of Sicily from the 1970s through the 1990s. The narrative delves into the island's deep-rooted Mafia presence, its influence on social and political spheres, and the courageous efforts of those who have stood agains

Explaining Hitler

1998, Ron Rosenbaum

"Explaining Hitler" is a comprehensive exploration into the various interpretations and theories surrounding Adolf Hitler's personality and the motivations behind his genocidal actions. The book delves into the debates and discussions among historians, philosophers, and writers who have attempted to

Village School

1955, Miss Read

"Village School" is a charming narrative set in the fictional English village of Fairacre. The story revolves around the daily experiences and challenges of the village schoolteacher as she navigates the academic year with her young students. Through her eyes, readers are introduced to a delightful

Tender At The Bone

1998, Ruth Reichl

"Tender at the Bone" is a memoir that chronicles the early life and coming-of-age of a woman who would become a renowned food critic. Through a series of humorous and poignant anecdotes, she shares how her passion for food was shaped by her experiences with family, friends, and various cultures. The

Medieval In La

1996, Jim Paul

"Medieval in LA" is a thought-provoking novel that juxtaposes the ancient with the contemporary by following the life of a medieval scholar living in modern Los Angeles. The protagonist, absorbed in the study of a 14th-century poet, finds unexpected parallels between the medieval world and his own l

The House Of Life

1958, Mario Praz

"The House of Life" is a scholarly exploration of the interior decoration of homes in the 19th century, focusing on how the aesthetic choices in home decor reflect the psychological and moral states of the inhabitants. The book delves into the cultural and artistic movements of the time, examining h

A Palpable God

1978, Reynolds Price

"A Palpable God" is a collection of thirty stories from the Bible, retold with vivid imagery and accessible language to bring out their emotional depth and humanity. Accompanying these stories are personal essays in which the author reflects on the significance and impact of these ancient texts. The

The Beast In The Nursery

1998, Adam Phillips

"The Beast in the Nursery" is a thought-provoking exploration of the themes of child development and creativity, delving into the ways in which our early experiences shape our adult perceptions and our creative impulses. The book examines the concept of the 'beast' within the context of our inner dr

The Bogey Man

1968, George Plimpton

"The Bogey Man" is a humorous and insightful exploration into the world of professional golf, chronicled through the author's participatory journalism approach. The author, an amateur golfer, embeds himself in professional tournaments, playing alongside legends of the sport. Through his experiences

Giving Up The Gun

1979, Noel Perrin

"Giving Up The Gun" explores Japan's unique historical decision to abandon the use of firearms in warfare after initially adopting them in the 16th century. The book delves into the social, cultural, and political factors that influenced this remarkable reversal, highlighting Japan's focus on tradit

A Reader's Delight

1988, Noel Perrin

"A Reader's Delight" is a collection of essays that explores the charm and significance of various lesser-known literary works. Each essay delves into a different book, offering insights into its content, themes, and the unique pleasures it can offer to readers. The author's thoughtful and engaging

The Wicked Pavilion

1954, Dawn Powell

"The Wicked Pavilion" explores the vibrant and often hidden lives of the patrons of a popular café in New York City's Greenwich Village. The novel delves into the dreams, disappointments, and intricate relationships of artists, writers, and actors who frequent this bohemian spot, revealing the illus

Heisenberg's War

1993, Thomas Powers

"Heisenberg's War" is a compelling historical account that delves into the moral and scientific complexities faced by Werner Heisenberg, a prominent German physicist, during World War II. The book explores Heisenberg's role in Nazi Germany's atomic bomb project, examining whether he actively sabotag

The Cosmic Code

1982, Heinz R. Pagels

"The Cosmic Code" explores the foundations and implications of quantum physics, aiming to make this complex field accessible to a general audience. The book delves into the history and development of quantum mechanics, examining the scientific and philosophical questions that arise from its study. I

The Most Of S. J. Perelman

1970, S. J. Perelman

"The Most of S. J. Perelman" is a collection that showcases the wit and satirical genius of one of the twentieth century's most celebrated humorists. This anthology compiles a wide range of Perelman's work, including essays, sketches, and parodies that originally appeared in publications like The Ne

History Of The Conquest Of Mexico

1843, William H. Prescott

This book provides a detailed historical account of the Spanish conquest of Mexico, primarily focusing on the period from 1519 to 1521. It narrates the dramatic encounters between the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and Aztec emperor Montezuma, set against the backdrop of the complex political an

The Origins Of European Thought

1951, R. B. Onians

"The Origins of European Thought" explores the intellectual history of ancient Europe, focusing on how the Greeks and Romans conceptualized the mind, soul, and body, and how these ideas were influenced by earlier cultures. The book delves into a variety of sources, including philosophy, linguistics,

The Village Of Waiting

1988, George Packer

"The Village of Waiting" is a reflective memoir about the author's experience as a Peace Corps volunteer in Togo, West Africa. The book delves into the daily challenges, cultural complexities, and personal transformations faced during his time in a remote village. Through vivid descriptions and thou

Mrs. Adams In Winter

2010, Michael O'Brien

"Mrs. Adams in Winter" is a captivating historical narrative that follows Louisa Catherine Adams, the wife of John Quincy Adams, on her perilous winter journey across Europe in 1815. Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, Louisa travels from Russia to France to reunite with her husba

War In Val D'orcia

1947, Iris Origo

"War in Val d'Orcia" is an enthralling diary that provides a vivid account of life in the Tuscan countryside during World War II. Written by an Englishwoman living in Italy, the diary spans the years 1943-1944, detailing the daily challenges faced by local peasants, the author's efforts to aid escap

Merry Hall

1951, Beverley Nichols

"Merry Hall" is a delightful narrative that chronicles the author's experiences as he restores a Georgian house and its gardens, which he recently acquired. Set in the post-war English countryside, the book combines gardening wisdom with humorous anecdotes involving eccentric neighbors and challengi

The Little Red Chairs

2015, Edna O'Brien

"The Little Red Chairs" is a novel that explores the impact of a charismatic stranger who arrives in a small Irish village, claiming to be a healer and spiritual leader. The community, particularly a local woman named Fidelma, is drawn to him, but his mysterious past soon catches up with him, reveal

The Hunger Angel

2009, Herta Müller

"The Hunger Angel" is a poignant novel that explores the harrowing experiences of a young man deported to a Soviet labor camp after World War II. The narrative delves into the psychological and physical toll of life in the camp, where the protagonist grapples with extreme hunger, harsh conditions, a

Portrait Of A Marriage

1973, Nigel Nicolson

"Portrait of a Marriage" is a revealing exploration of the complex relationship between Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, a prominent couple in early 20th-century British society. The book, based on Vita's own diaries and letters, delves into their unconventional marriage, marked by mutual re

Are You Somebody?

1996, Nuala O'Faolain

"Are You Somebody?" is a candid and introspective memoir that delves into the life of an Irish woman who navigates the complexities of growing up in a large, troubled family in mid-20th century Ireland. The author reflects on her journey through various personal and professional challenges, explorin

Dakota

1993, Kathleen Norris

"Dakota" is a reflective and poetic exploration of life in the rural plains of South Dakota. Blending memoir with historical and spiritual insights, the book delves into the author's personal experiences and observations after moving from New York to her ancestral home in the Dakotas. It examines th