Showing results for "Nature" in Social Sciences

Faced with the ceaseless stream of news about war, crime, and terrorism, one could easily think we live in the most violent age ever seen. Yet as New York Times bestselling author Steven Pinker shows in this startling and engaging new work, just the opposite is true: violence has been diminishing for millennia and we may be living in the most peaceful time in our species's existence.

Imagine a deep blue lake, embraced by lush green hills, dotted with islets—some revealing bare rock and others cloaked in vibrant shrubs. From these islets, steam rises from numerous openings, all while the foliage maintains its lushness. On the opposite shore, grand steps of white marble with a rosy hue lead down to a cascade of boiling water that spills into the lake below. This vivid scene captures Ernest Dieffenbach’s first encounter with the stunning White Terraces of Lake Rotomahana. Between 1839 and 1841, Dieffenbach journeyed through New Zealand as a naturalist for the New Zealand ...

Join Max, a spirited young artist, as he embarks on a thrilling trans-continental train journey to Paris. Along the way, he encounters Blake, a charming Irishman with a taste for the finer things in life. Together, they set up a vibrant studio in the heart of Montmartre, reveling in the magic of Paris and the blossoming of their friendship. But as the story unfolds, unexpected twists emerge, revealing that not everything is as it appears when a new figure enters their lives. - Summary by Simon Evers

Discover the remarkable life of Nellie L. McClung (1873-1951), a true Canadian icon known for her fierce advocacy for womens rights, social justice, and political change. After moving to Manitoba as a child in a pioneering family, McClung became a teacher in rural Manitoba, where she keenly observed the fabric of village life at the dawn of the 20th century. As a passionate suffragette, she was instrumental in Manitoba becoming the first province in Canada to grant women the right to vote in 1916—two years before it was recognized nationally and well ahead of both the US (1920) and UK (1928)...

Join Phineas Finn, the charismatic hero from an earlier installment, as he makes his triumphant return to London from Scotland, diving back into the tumultuous world of politics. Faced with challenges and obstacles, he manages to reclaim his seat in Parliament and reestablish his place in the social elite. As he navigates a web of intrigue and romance, Phineass journey is filled with excitement and unexpected twists. - Summary by Deon Gines

In Man from the North, Richard Larch, a spirited young man hailing from the north of England, ventures to London with dreams of striking it rich. By day, he diligently serves as a clerk in an office, but his true passion lies in writing. Alongside his literary aspirations, he is on a quest to find the perfect partner. This captivating tale chronicles Richard’s journey as he navigates the challenges of ambition and romance, drawing inspiration from Bennetts own life experiences in his debut novel. (Summary by Simon Evers)

Set against the backdrop of Kent in 1657, this captivating historical novel delves into the life of a cunning local nobleman driven by greed and the innocent ward ensnared in his treacherous schemes. As the puritan influence and societal customs of the time shape their lives, the story unfolds with rich detail and compelling drama.

Step into the Jubilee, a pivotal moment marking the fiftieth year of Queen Victorias reign. With a Dickensian flair, this narrative unravels the intricate tapestry of London life, exposing the stark realities and struggles of the lower-middle class at the close of the 19th century. (Introduction by S. Kovalchik)

In the heart of western Canada, Dave runs a bustling lumber mill, a cornerstone of the village of Malkern. While he has forged trusting bonds with some of his workers, others leave him uneasy, and some remain shrouded in mystery. Despite his ungainly appearance, Daves kind heart has endeared him to the locals, who recognize his significant contributions to their community. Among his friends is Betty, who has pledged her future to Jim Truscott, a man seeking gold in the Yukon to secure their dreams. Dave has promised to watch over Betty in Jims absence, but when Jim returns, he is a shadow of ...

Explore the fascinating journey of the banana, the worlds most beloved fruit, as we delve into its agricultural roots and how it has captivated hearts and kitchens globally. In 1913, seasoned cultivator William Fawcett shared his extensive knowledge gained over thirty years in Jamaica, offering a comprehensive guide to all aspects of banana cultivation. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind this extraordinary crop. - Summary by A. Gramour

Step into the world of Jabez Clegg, the quintessential Manchester man, as he floats down the River Irk during a tumultuous flood in 1799. His journey to commercial success parallels the citys own ascent at the heart of the Industrial Revolution. In this captivating historical novel, Mrs. George Linnaeus Banks (née Isabella Varley) expertly intertwines fact and fiction, crafting a fast-paced narrative filled with rivalry, passion, and intrigue. Jabez finds himself caught in a fierce rivalry with his nemesis, Laurence Aspinall, all while vying for the affections of the beautiful Augusta ...

North and South is a captivating social novel that explores the stark contrasts of the industrial North and its societal conflicts in mid-19th century England, all through the eyes of a sensitive outsider from the South. The story follows Margaret Hale, the daughter of a Nonconformist minister, who relocates to the fictional industrial town of Milton after leaving the Church of England. Inspired by Manchester, where author Elizabeth Gaskell lived as the wife of a Unitarian minister, the narrative reveals Margarets profound shock at her new surroundings. As she empathizes with the struggles of ...

Dive into the captivating world of Frances Hodgson Burnett, a celebrated author best known for her enchanting childrens stories, yet whose literary prowess also shines in her historical novels. First serialized in 1920 in Scribners Monthly, The Head of the House of Coombe quickly captured the hearts of readers and was fully published in two volumes by 1922. The first part intricately weaves the social fabric of London during the transitional years from the late Victorian era to the reign of Edward VII, leading up to the tumultuous summer of 1914—a time when the world was on the brink of ...

Step into the opulent world of Marie Antoinette, where she reigns as the beloved Queen of France. Yet, as the tides of revolution rise, her idyllic life is shattered. Follow the poignant journey of her son, Louis Charles, as he navigates the profound changes brought on by the tragic loss of his parents. Discover a story that reveals the untold struggles and unexpected realities faced by a royal heir in tumultuous times.

In Island Pharisees, Richard Shelton grapples with his conscience amidst the opulence of the British Empire at its zenith. As a member of the elite class, he begins to peel back the layers of his luxurious existence and confront the stark realities faced by the lower classes. Engaged to the affluent Antonia, Richards encounters with those less fortunate challenge his beliefs and lead him to reject the notion that his class is inherently virtuous, ultimately positioning him as a moral outcast. This thought-provoking narrative is a biting satire that explores the complexities of societal norms ...

My Ántonia captures the poignant journeys of immigrant families who venture into the heart of rural Nebraska in search of a new beginning. At the center of this narrative is the Bohemian Shimerda family, particularly their spirited eldest daughter, Ántonia. The story unfolds through the eyes of Jim Burden, who arrives in the fictional town of Black Hawk, Nebraska, on the same train as the Shimerdas, seeking solace with his grandparents after the loss of his parents. As Jim navigates his feelings for Ántonia—an intricate blend of admiration and familial affection—the reader is drawn into...

Dive into the gripping world of the Reconstruction era with The Leopards Spots, the first installment in a powerful trilogy that includes The Clansman and The Traitor. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of North Carolina, this novel delves into the intense social and racial conflicts of the time. As the Confederates wrestle with the challenges of rebuilding the war-torn South and confront the controversial race question, the story raises an enduring question can a leopard truly change its spots? Meet a cast of unforgettable characters, including the sinister Reconstruction leader Simon Legree...

In this gripping tale, Florent, an escaped political prisoner, seeks refuge with his half-brother Quenu and his wife Lisa Quenu, a member of the Macquart family. As he navigates life in Paris, he secures a position as a fish inspector at the bustling Les Halles markets, where his past and present collide in unexpected ways. - Summary by Mark Leder

Delve into one of Balzacs most celebrated novels, set against the backdrop of 1815, a time marked by the resurgence of the Bourbon monarchy following Napoleons defeat. This poignant tale, which inspired literary giants like Charles Dickens and Henry James, masterfully captures the intricacies of human relationships and the stark realities of society. Explore the shifting social dynamics and moral landscapes of the era as Balzac offers a powerful commentary on ambition, sacrifice, and the bonds of family. (Summary by JCarson)

In Freelands, we delve into the complexities of the Freelands family, a diverse clan navigating the turbulent waters of their time. Tod Freeland, a gentle giant with few words, contrasts sharply with his passionate and outspoken wife, Kirsteen. Their family is a tapestry of personalities Felix, the introspective literary soul, Stanley, the astute businessman, and John, the politically-minded member. Their mother, a practical yet uncomprehending matriarch, adds another layer to this multifaceted narrative. Meanwhile, the younger generation, Nedda and Derek, find themselves swept up in a ...