Showing titles in Literary History & Criticism

Delve into the poignant memoir of Robert James Manion (1881-1943), a Canadian doctor who selflessly volunteered for the medical corps during World War I. This captivating narrative not only recounts his harrowing experiences on the front lines but also explores his journey into politics after the war, where he served in various Canadian governments. Notably, the memoir omits references to American soldiers, as it was penned before the United States entry into the conflict. Join us as we uncover the life and legacy of a remarkable figure through the eyes of David Wales, the narrator.

Theodore Winthrop (1828 – 1861) was a dynamic writer, lawyer, and globe-trotter whose life was tragically cut short during the American Civil War. Serving as one of the first Union officers, he met his fate at the Battle of Big Bethel in June 1861. Winthrop contributed two insightful articles to The Atlantic Monthly, part of an intended series capturing the early days of the war. Unfortunately, he was unable to complete the third installment before his death. This Librivox recording features his finished articles along with an obituary from The Atlantic Monthly that includes the essence of ...

In December 1942, patrol flights launched from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal and U.S. fleet carriers encountered a significant threat the Japanese were diligently constructing a well-camouflaged airfield at Munda on New Georgias northern tip. This new airfield not only jeopardized the ongoing Allied efforts to secure Guadalcanal but also demanded urgent action. Reports from U.S. pilots indicated another airfield nearing completion on Kolombangara, just across the Kula Gulf from New Georgia. In response to these emerging dangers, Operation Toenails was meticulously planned, aiming to capture ...

People of the Black Circle is a captivating novella featuring Conan the Cimmerian, penned by the legendary American author Robert E. Howard. First published in three installments in Weird Tales magazine in September, October, and November of 1934, this tale transports readers to the adventurous Hyborian Age. The story unfolds as Conan embarks on a daring quest to rescue a regal princess of Vendhya (an ancient India) and thwart the sinister ambitions of the Black Seers of Yimsha, who are bent on world domination. Celebrated for its grand narrative and unique Hindustan influences, this story is ...

Dive into the thrilling world of Pellucidar, the mysterious hollow center of the Earth, where savage tribes and prehistoric monsters roam. Here, the Buried People and the terrifying Korsars dominate the seas, while dinosaurs and saber-toothed tigers rule the land. Join Tanar, a brave young chieftain, and Stellara, a fearless cave girl, as they fight for survival against a host of perilous threats. This epic adventure, penned by the creator of Tarzan, is a journey into a realm where danger lurks at every turn.

Dive into the vivid world of the second Boer War through the eyes of Australian expatriate artist Mortimer Menpes. As a correspondent for the London weekly Black and White magazine, Menpes not only showcased his artistic prowess with 99 stunning watercolours in his book, War Impressions, but also captivated readers with his engaging storytelling. His unique perspective offers a glimpse into the lives of key military leaders and notable figures like Cecil Rhodes, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Rudyard Kipling, all while painting a picture of life behind the British lines. Although he witnessed little ...

Dive into the powerful rhetoric of Prince Bismarck through this captivating collection of his speeches, expertly translated by art historian Edmund von Mach and published in 1914 as part of THE GERMAN CLASSICS—an ambitious twenty-volume anthology featuring 487 works from ninety-two influential figures. According to von Mach, Bismarck rarely wrote down his speeches; instead, published accounts are derived from official stenographic reports. The titles attributed to the speeches reflect their content and eloquence. In this volume, youll find significant addresses such as Salus Publica – ...

Regina Miriam Bloch stands as a captivating yet elusive figure in the realm of Weird Fiction, having produced just two slender volumes The Swine-Gods and Other Visions and The Book of Strange Loves. Yet, her unique language and the powerful impact of her writing style are unparalleled. The Swine-Gods and Other Visions is a mesmerizing collection of eerie and otherworldly fables, brimming with pagan deities, strange allegorical tales, and vivid imagery that was unprecedented at the time. Bloch invites readers into her dreamlike landscapes, where priests offer souls to boar-headed gods, demons ...

While he is primarily celebrated for his groundbreaking fantasy works, Lord Dunsany also penned a series of poignant sketches during World War One. This collection of essays, crafted during his time in France in 1916, reveals a deeper, more reflective side of the author—one that captures the somber realities of war with a profound sense of melancholy. - Summary by Alan Winterrowd

In a captivating tale that laid the groundwork for modern high fantasy, Hallblithe, a brave warrior of the House of Raven, embarks on a daring quest to rescue his kidnapped troth-plight maiden, the Hostage. Captured himself, he finds unlikely companionship with the giant Puny Fox as they set sail for the Isle of Ransom. Their journey leads them to the enchanting Land of the Glittering Plain, where Hallblithe must choose between the seductive offer of eternal youth and the hand of the Kings daughter or the unwavering pursuit of his beloved. Originally published in 1890 in the English ...

When people think of the Great War, their minds often drift to the horrors of trenches, barbed wire, and relentless machine gun fire. Yet, the seas were equally tumultuous, with ships playing pivotal roles in military engagements during the early 20th century. Stories of the Ships is a captivating 1919 collection of first-person accounts from those who braved the battles of World War I on the water. This compelling narrative offers listeners a richer understanding of the conflicts that shaped the most devastating war in history. Lewis Ransome Freeman (1878 – 1960), an American explorer, ...

In the midst of the Spanish-American War, Naval Constructor Hobson U.S.N. crafted an audacious plan to scuttle a ship in the channel to Santiago harbor in Cuba, aiming to trap the Spanish fleet anchored in the bay. This captivating book unfolds Hobsons personal account of the daring operation and the dramatic events that followed. (Delmar H. Dolbier)

In this captivating LibriVox recording, we delve into chapters 22 and 23 of General William Tecumseh Shermans renowned Memoirs, chronicling his pivotal March to the Sea from Atlanta to Savannah during November and December of 1864. As one of the Norths foremost generals, Sherman took command of the western theater after Ulysses S. Grant, leading his troops to the crucial capture of Atlanta—a victory that significantly influenced President Abraham Lincolns re-election. His relentless march through Georgia and the Carolinas not only devastated Confederate resources but also shattered their ...

Step into the enchanting world of Tales of Wonder, originally published as The Last Book of Wonder, the tenth installment and sixth collection of original short stories by the celebrated Irish fantasy writer Lord Dunsany. Renowned for his profound influence on literary giants such as J. R. R. Tolkien, H. P. Lovecraft, and Ursula K. Le Guin, Dunsanys work captures the imagination like no other. First released in hardcover in London by Elkin Mathews in October 1916, with a Boston edition following shortly after, this collection showcases Dunsany’s preferred title in its American release. ...

Dive into the enchanting world of Chinese folklore with Lafcadio Hearn, a renowned writer who masterfully weaves together a collection of mysterious and magical tales from China. Join Ben Tucker as he brings these captivating stories to life, inviting you to explore the rich tapestry of cultural legends and ethereal encounters.

Join LibriVox volunteers as they present 15 captivating recordings of The Smoke Upon Your Altar Dies, a thought-provoking poem by Rudyard Kipling. This collection was part of the Weekly Poetry project for January 6, 2013. Kipling, an esteemed English writer, is best known for his evocative tales and poignant verses that explore the experiences of British soldiers in India and resonate with children and adults alike. Renowned for his literary contributions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kipling was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1907, becoming both the first ...

Join the author on an engaging journey through the tumultuous waters of World War I, where youll discover the remarkable ships and their courageous crews as they confront the menacing German U-boats. Each compelling short story offers a complete narrative, bringing to life the bravery and ingenuity of those who sailed the seas during this pivotal time. Not only is the author a talented storyteller, but he is also a celebrated Olympic athlete, boasting a bronze, silver, and gold medal from the 1896 Athens Olympics, along with a silver medal from the 1900 Paris Games. (Summary by wtomcho)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of George MacDonald, a master of fantasy whose influence can be felt in the works of renowned authors like C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Madeleine LEngle. This captivating collection features six mesmerizing short stories, including The Cruel Painter, a chilling vampire tale; The Castle, a journey into mystery; The Wow ORiven, a poignant love story; The Broken Swords, a powerful narrative of war and redemption; The Gray Wolf, a thrilling werewolf saga; and Uncle Cornelius His Story, a unique perspective on life. Experience the magic and depth of ...

Alexander W. Drake, a celebrated illustrator and engraver known for his work with the esteemed Scribners Monthly (which later transformed into The Century magazine), harbored a lesser-known talent for storytelling. Over the course of a few months, he penned three short stories that reveal an enchanting and mysterious exploration of the human experience. One tale follows a mans obsession with crafting the ultimate haunted house, while another introduces a peculiar vehicle designed to capture ephemeral moments of beauty. Theres also the poignant story of a songbird who unexpectedly takes flight,...

In Not for the Night-Time, Dorothy Boulger, writing as Theo Gift, weaves together a captivating collection of four original short stories that delve into the realms of the supernatural and the unsettling. Prepare to be drawn into tales that will linger in your mind long after the last word is read. - Summary by Sonia