Sprogkvalifikatorer

‘A bloody nation, barbarous and rude’ is how Daniel Defoe describes England in his hilarious poem ‘The True-Born Englishman’. The poem is a satire about the stupidity of xenophobia. Defoe mocks the idea of a natural Englishman as they are a blend of Saxon, Danish and Roman. The poem ‘lampoons the nation’ and was celebrated at the time for Defoe’s use of wit and irony. This piece remains relevant in today’s highly fractured society and serves as an important and entertaining reminder that kindness is favourable to hate.Daniel Defoe (1660 – 1731) is one of the most important authors in the English language. Defoe was one of the original English novelists and greatly helped to popularise the form. Defoe was highly prolific and is believed to have written over 300 works ranging from novels to political pamphlets. He was highly celebrated but also controversial as his writings influenced politicians but also led to Defoe being imprisoned. Defoe’s novels have been translated into many languages and are still read across the globe to this day. Some of his most famous books include ‘Moll Flanders’ and ‘Robinson Crusoe’ which was adapted into a movie starring Pierce Brosnan and Damian Lewis in 1997. Defoe’s influence on English novels cannot be understated and his legacy lives on to this day.

Bram Stoker is primarily known for his infamous horror novel 'Dracula', and its 1931 film adaptation starring Bela Lugosi. But Stoker has also penned shorter works intertwined with peculiar and morbid themes which echo the writings of the American master of the macabre, Edgar Allan Poe.This consists of sinister stories published by Stoker’s widow following his death. For instance 'The Secret of The Growing Gold', a ghost story about revenge that will send shivers down your spine. Accompanied by the humorous albeit chilling 'The Coming of Abel Behenna' among others. This collection encapsulates the full scope of Stoker’s horror fiction at its finest.A must-read of the horror genre, with a touch of nostalgia.Abraham "Bram" Stoker was born in Dublin in 1847. Turning to fiction in his later years, Stoker published his first short story 'The Crystal Cup' (1872) in London Society magazine. In the 1880s and 1890s, he published 'Under the Sunset' (1882) and an adventure novel titled 'The Snake’s Pass' (1890).It was the publication of 'Dracula' in 1897 which launched Stoker into literary stardom.

Statt an der Detektivakademie für ihren Abschluss zu pauken, verschlägt es die ambitionierte Jungschnüfflerin diesmal an einen Lost Place, in ein ehemaliges Grandhotel nahe dem Zauberberg Semmering.In den alten Mauern wohnt seit vielen Jahren nur noch die Erinnerung – und neuerdings ein besonders hinterhältiger Mörder. Und dann ist da noch dieses seltsame Gerücht über ein Geheimversteck voller Diamanten ...Alex Wagner, geb. 1972, lebt in der Nähe von Wien, im Schatten einer alten Burgruine, wo man sich die schönsten Morde ausdenken kann. Sie schreibt Krimis - zeitgenössische und historische - ist aber auch gern einmal in anderen Genres unterwegs.

This collection contains 100 of the most celebrated quotes by the French poet, translator and art and literary critic Charles Baudelaire (1821 - 1867), best known for his controversial collection of poems 'Les Fleurs du Mal' ('The Flowers of Evil') and the quote, "The devil's finest trick is to persuade you that he does not exist."Charles-Pierre Baudelaire (1821 - 1867) was a French poet, translator and literary and art critic who is best known for his controversial collection of poems 'Les Fleurs du Mal' (1857; 'The Flowers of Evil').His poems exhibit a mastery of rhythm and rhyme that were based on the Frenchman’s observations of real life. ‘La Chevelure’ (‘The Head of Hair’), ‘Le Voyage’ (‘The Trip’) and ‘Le Cygne’ (‘The Swan’) are widely acknowledged as poetic masterpieces.Themes of sex, death, lesbianism, metamorphosis, industrialisation, lost innocence and alcohol, caused controversy at the time but also garnered Baudelaire many fans, and his original style has influenced a generation of poets including Arthur Rimbaud and Stéphane Mallarmé.Baudelaire is also responsible for many famous quotes such as, ‘The devil's finest trick is to persuade you that he does not exist’, ‘Be always drunken. Nothing else matters...’ and ‘Strangeness is a necessary ingredient in beauty.’

French novelist, journalist and poet, Anatole France (1844-1924), was elected to the Académie Française and won the 1921 Nobel Prize for Literature. Best known for the novels ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881) and ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ (1893), he was a prolific writer responsible for many famous sayings, including "If a million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing," and "Nine tenths of education is encouragement."This is collection is a compilation of Anatole France’s most celebrated quotes.Anatole France, a pseudonym for Jacques Anatole Thibault (1844-1924), was a French novelist, journalist and poet. He was elected to the Académie française and won the 1921 Nobel Prize for Literature in recognition of his "brilliant literary achievements." France achieved his first commercial success with the novel ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881) and published his most celebrated work, ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ ('At the Sign of the Reine Pédauque') in 1893. His many other works include, 'Le Puits de Sainte Claire’ (1895) ('The Well of Saint Claire') ‘Le Lys rouge’ (1894) ('The Red Lily'), ‘La Révolte des Anges’ (1914) ('The Revolt of the Angels') and a biography of Joan of Arc (1908).

Frenchman André Paul Guillaume Gide (1869 – 1951), was an author and winner of the 1947 Nobel Prize in Literature. He published over fifty books, including 'Les Nourritures terrestres' (1897) ('Fruits of the Earth'), ‘Les Caves du Vatican’ (1914) ('Lafcadio’s Adventures'), ‘La Porte étroite’ (1909) ('Strait is the Gate'), 'La Symphonie pastorale' (1919), and the experimental ‘Les Faux Monnayeurs’ (1926). However, he is best known for ‘Corydon’ (1911), which he believed to be his most important work.This collection contains 100 of André Gide’s most celebrated quotes.André Paul Guillaume Gide (1869–1951) was a French author and winner of the 1947 Nobel Prize in Literature. Described as "France's greatest contemporary man of letters," Gide was known for his fiction and autobiographical works. He published over fifty books, including 'Les Nourritures terrestres' (1897) ('Fruits of the Earth'), ‘Les Caves du Vatican’ (1914) ('Lafcadio’s Adventures'), ‘La Porte étroite’ (1909) ('Strait is the Gate'), 'La Symphonie pastorale' (1919), and the experimental ‘Les Faux Monnayeurs’ (1926) ('The Counterfeiters'). However, the Frenchman claimed ‘Corydon’ (1911), was his most important work. In it, he used evidence from naturalists, historians, poets, and philosophers to back up his belief that homosexuality was not ‘unnatural’, arguing it was more natural than exclusive heterosexuality, which he believed to be a union created by society.

Child prodigy, Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) was a French mathematician, physicist, inventor, philosopher and writer, whose work and wisdom still resonates to this day.This is a collection of 100 of the Frenchman's most celebrated quotes.Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) was a French mathematician, physicist, inventor, philosopher, and writer. A child prodigy, he laid the foundation work for today’s modern theory of probabilities and formulated what came to be known as Pascal’s principle of pressure.The Frenchman also corresponded with Pierre de Fermat on probability theory, strongly influencing the development of modern economics. He is also one of the first two inventors of the mechanical calculator, having started pioneering work on calculating machines called Pascal's calculators or Pascalines.

‘100 Quotations by Karl Marx’ is a collection of thoughts and theories by one of the most progressive thinkers of the 19th Century. Often witty, sometimes wry, but always thoughtful, you’ll find quotable lines on everything from politics to philosophy. A superb read for anyone with an interest in the founder of communism or those who want an introduction to one of the most complex minds in history.A philosopher, political activist, and revolutionary thinker, Karl Marx (1818 – 1883) was born in Germany. He was educated by his father until the age of 12 when he attended Trier High School. From there, he enrolled at the University of Bonn. While he wanted to study philosophy and literature, his father insisted that he study law.After moving to Berlin in 1836, Marx became enamoured of the teachings of George Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, a renowned German philosopher. After achieving a PhD from the University of Jenna, he moved to Cologne and worked as a journalist for the left-wing ‘Rheinische Zeitung’ newspaper, which allowed him to hone his socialist beliefs.Considered to be one of the founders of communism, and the eponymous progenitor of Marxism, Marx completed a number of important works in his lifetime, including ‘The Poverty of Philosophy,’ and ‘Value, Price, and Profit.’

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900-1944) was a French writer, aviator, adventurer, poet and author, whose love of flying influenced many of his works. He is best known for his story ‘Le Petit Prince’ ('The Little Prince') published in 1943, ‘Wind, Sand and Stars’ (1939), ‘Southern Mail’ (1929), ‘Flight to Arras’ (1942), ‘Letter to a Hostage’ (1942), and ‘Night Flight’ (1931).This collection contains 100 of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s most celebrated quotes.Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900-1944) was a French writer, aviator, adventurer, poet and author, best known for his story ‘Le Petit Prince’ ('The Little Prince') published in 1943, which became a modern classic. His novel ‘Wind, Sand and Stars’ (1939), was also a huge success, winning the Académie Française's Grand Prix du Roman (Grand Prize for Novel Writing) and the United States National Book Award. His other works include a memoir called ‘Southern Mail’ (1929), ‘Flight to Arras’ (1942), ‘Letter to a Hostage’ (1942), and ‘Night Flight’ (1931) which won the prestigious Prix Femina.

‘100 Quotes by Jean de la Bruyère’ is a collection of thoughts from the French philosopher, moralist, and author of ‘Caractères’.Known particularly for his satirical take on philosophy and ethics, Bruyère once wrote "Life is a tragedy for those who feel, and a comedy for those who think."‘100 Quotes by Jean de la Bruyère’ is the ideal read for those wanting an extra bit of motivation throughout their day.Jean de la Bruyère (1645-1696) was a French philosopher born in Paris. In 1684 he was introduced to the household of Louis, Prince of Condé, and became a tutor to the prince’s grandson, Louis de Bourbon. His critical and only book, ‘Caractères’, was published in 1688 and gained him many enemies.

Nachdem er und seine Frau lange darum gerungen haben, endlich Eltern zu werden, ist die Schwangerschaft viel zu schnell vergangen. Schwups ist das Kind da – und mit ihm die Frage: „Was für ein Vater will ich eigentlich sein?“
 So stolpert er durch den Familienalltag mit ganz neuen Fallstricken und Fettnäpfchen – immer mit der Angst im Nacken, von einem Säugling als Versager enttarnt zu werden.
Der zweite Band von Melanie Amélie Opalkas "Papa-Trilogie" erzählt den „unausgeschlafenen Imperfekt“ seines ersten Jahres mit dem eigenen Nachwuchs, von Kinderkrankheiten, Verwandtenbesuchen und anderen Katastrophen, die nur dank seiner persönlichen Superkraft „ungeahnter Genialität“ überlebt werden können.
 Und das alles, um am Ende zu einer überraschenden Erkenntnis zu kommen. Denn Vater werden ist nicht schwer, Vater sein dagegen sehr – ach, was!Auch wenn es sie beruflich und privat immer wieder in die weite Welt verschlägt, ist Hamburg seit 1976 Melanie Amélie Opalkas sicherer Hafen. Lyrik und Kurzgeschichten veröffentlicht sie seit 2004, seit 2013 auch Romane. 2015 initiierte sie den Hamburger Autorenstammtisch vom Bundesverband junger Autoren (BVjA).

As soon as we sat on the ride I knew something was wrong. I couldn’t relax. I couldn’t hear the theme park music, the giggles of my two other children. I’d left my baby in someone else’s care. And I knew I’d made a mistake...With her two beautiful children and newborn baby Ella, Lily’s life is full of love and laughter. She gave up her job to be a stay-at-home mother, and though she sometimes envies the freedom of best friend Hannah, Lily wouldn’t trade it for anything.But Lily’s world implodes when Hannah disappears with Ella one day, and Lily fears from the text message she receives that Hannah doesn’t intend to come back:"You don’t deserve her."It’s true that Lily has been keeping secrets about her marriage from Hannah, ones she thought only she and her husband knew. Suddenly Lily realises that there are things she doesn’t know about Hannah too – and that by keeping her husband’s secrets, she might pay the ultimate price.A rollercoaster ride of emotions, "Save My Daughter" will break your heart. Fans of Jodi Picoult, Kate Hewitt and Diane Chamberlain will be swept away by Sam Vickery’s utterly gorgeous novel.What readers are saying about "Save My Daughter":‘Wow!!... Absolutely breathtaking and heart-stopping... Have your tissues at the ready ladies and gents cause this one is a complete tear jerker!!! It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions... It sucked me in from page one until the tear jerking ending... Jodi Picoult and Diane Chamberlain have some strong competition... gorgeous, heartbreaking, page-turning, tear-jerking and powerful.’ Bookworm 86, 5 stars‘Powerful, intense and an incredibly emotional read... some intense emotional scenes that totally tugged on my heart strings.’ Heidi Lynn’s Book Reviews, 5 stars‘Oh my word what just happened?... Nothing is what it seems in this book... wooow (read that 5 times)... make[s] you want to sob for a while and a little longer.’ Hey Anci.Reached the Amazon UK top 40Sam Vickery is an English author who loves gritty, emotional stories that can make you sob. As a child, she was forever getting in trouble for being caught with her nose in a book, and these days are no different. She lives on the south coast of England with her husband, two children and a cat that thinks it's a dog.

‘The Council of Justice’ is the second book in the ‘Four Just Men’ universe, which follows a group of wealthy vigilantes doling out justice. In this entry the vigilante group must face down the Red Hundred, a Bolshevik terrorist cell intent on wreaking havoc in London. However the Councils plans are thrown off the rails when one of their members is arrested by the very people they are fighting to protect. It is a roaring short packed with action, from assassinations to jail breaks and everything in between. If you loved Alexander Dumas’ ‘The Three Musketeers’ you’ll love this explosive short story.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) was an English writer, poet and journalist. He was such a prolific writer that his publisher claimed his work could account for a quarter of all books sold in England. He wrote countless books, screenplays, poems and historical non-fiction, spawning over one hundred and sixty films based on his work. He unfortunately passed away suddenly before he could see his most famous creation ‘King Kong’ come to life. It has been adapted several times over the years, notably by Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame, and more recently in ‘Godzilla vs Kong’ starring Millie Bobby Brown.

Monsters created in laboratories, love triangles, pirate attacks, shipwrecks and damsels in distress. Arthur Maxon has way too much to deal with, but ultimately he bought it all on himself!'The Monster Men' is a science-fiction novel by Edgar Rice Burroughs that depicts a scientist (Maxon) who wants to create artificial life. Set in the South Pacific, the story very much resembles H. G. Wells’ 'The Island of Dr. Moreau' and even Shelley’s 'Frankenstein'.Burroughs explores the social theme of racial bettering, also known as eugenics, and the moral theme of having a soul. A work of vast imagination, fast-paced narration, and suspense-packed episodes, 'The Monster Men' is a gem in Burroughs’ fictional pantheon, recommended to fans of sci-fi and adventure fiction.Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875-1950) was an American author, best known for his novel ‘Tarzan of the Apes’ (1914) and its sequels as well as the Barsoom series. During World War II, he was one of the oldest U.S war correspondents.Tarzan and his adventures are loved by both young and old, and are evergreen classics. Many have watched at least one Tarzan tv series or movie with the most popular probably being the Disney animation film from 1999 and 'The Legend of Tarzan' from 2016 starring Alexander Skarsgård and Samuel L. Jackson.

A precocious take on the science fiction genre well before it rose to prominence - 'The Inheritors' single-handedly tackles the complex themes of corruption, social matters and traditionalism versus the encroachment of the technological age. Conrad successfully does so while describing the Inheritors as inter-dimensional beings that bear a close resemblance to modern-day terrorists as they aspire to a violent and chaotic takeover of the world.Social and colonial critique is intricately spun into the storyline with particularly potent criticism of humanity's greed and easily corruptible condition.A highly recommended read for those interested in classical novels that proffer a unique and enticing glimpse into the essence of life itself as viewed through a kaleidoscope of various contemporary issues.Joseph Conrad’s work and his compact, realist style went on to influence many noteworthy writers, including George Orwell, John le Carré and F. Scott Fitzgerald.Joseph Conrad (1857-1924) was a Polish-born author who left Poland in his teens to avoid enlistment in the Russian Army. He learned English aboard British ships and started writing in the language after settling in the UK. His most famous novel is ‘Heart of Darkness’ (1899), which was inspired by his experiences on the open sea.

‘The Vital Message’ is an essay on spiritualism by famous ‘Sherlock Holmes’ author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Doyle had publicly professed his belief in spiritualism many years earlier and was a keen proponent of the movement despite much public opposition and ridicule. In this essay, Doyle lays out his thoughts on religion and Christianity. He details his absolute belief in spiritualism through case studies and his own personal experiences. A fascinating insight into the world-renowned author.Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was a British author, best known as the creator of the world-famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he was educated in England and Austria before studying medicine at the University of Edinburgh. It was during his time at university that Doyle began writing short stories, submitting them to magazines and journals. His first Sherlock Holmes novel, ‘A Study in Scarlet’ was written in just three weeks and published in 1887 to favourable reviews, and more Sherlock adventures followed. By 1893, Doyle was growing tired of Sherlock and attempted to kill him off in the story ‘The Final Problem’, but public outcry caused him to resurrect the famous detective. He featured in a total of 56 short stories and four novels along with his trusty sidekick Dr Watson and made Doyle one of the best-paid authors of the time. The stories have been adapted multiple times; most recently in the successful BBC series ‘Sherlock’ starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Later literary works included the Professor Challenger series which began with ‘The Lost World’, in which Challenger sets out to find evidence of prehistoric life. The book inspired numerous adaptations, including the films ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘The Lost World’. In later life Doyle became captivated by the world of spiritualism and the occult and published non-fiction works about his beliefs including ‘The Coming of the Fairies’. Arthur Conan Doyle died at home in 1930.

‘The Abbot’ is a historical fiction novel about Mary Queen of Scots’ thrilling escape from prison and is considered by many to be one of Walter Scott’s finest works. The gripping novel continues the story of Halbert and Mary Glendinning from ‘The Monastery’ but can easily be read on its own. The protagonist is a poor orphan boy, Roland who is adopted by Halbert and Mary. Many years later, Roland is sent to spy on Mary Queen of Scots while she is imprisoned, but he falls in love with her attendant Catherine, and they plot to help her escape. ‘The Abbot’ features some of Scott’s finest dramatic writing as true identities are revealed, brutal battles ensue, and forbidden romances blossom over the course of the novel. Scott depicts the Scottish countryside beautifully with his poetic prose while providing a humanist perspective on religion and romance. Celebrated widely at the time of its release, ‘The Abbot’ remains entertaining to this day and should be read by fans of Scott and romantic adventures.Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) was a Scottish writer, poet, and historian. Fascinated by traditional storytelling, during the 1790s Scott dedicated himself to researching and collecting ballads and published the epic collection ‘Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border’ in 1802. A prominent poet, Scott also wrote and published a range of poems, including the popular ‘The Lady of the Lake.’ His first historical novel ‘Waverley’ was published in 1814, whereupon it was an immediate success, receiving critical acclaim and selling out many printings. His best-known work ‘Ivanhoe’ followed in 1820. Scott died in 1832 at the age of 61. He was commemorated after his death with monuments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York due to his impact on western literature. His literary works influenced and inspired many other great authors such as Virginia Woolf. Internationally renowned, Scott’s literary legacy continues to be felt all over the world to this day.

There is a village ne'er-do-well in every small town. This one is the kind-hearted and unreliable Sam Lawson, who was such a fine storyteller it made him popular enough to have this book named after him.Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin', turned her husband’s (and her own) memories of growing up in New England into tales of eccentric relations and wonderful small-town characters leading to this interesting collection of short stories that needed to be told.Included inside 'Sam Lawson’s Oldtown Fireside Stories', are many literacy treasures such as; 'The Ghost in the Mill', 'The Widow's Bandbox', 'The Bull Fight' and 'How to fight the Devil'. I am sure after reading these you will not be able to decide on a favourite as they are all extremely entertaining.A thorn in the angry eyes of American slave owners, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist. Her novel 'Uncle Tom’s Cabin' (1852) became one of the most famous literary attacks on slavery at the time. The novel was also turned into a play and made into movies more than once. The latest version from 1987 features Samuel L. Jackson, one of the most popular actors of his generation.Stowe also wrote numerous travel memoirs, letters, articles, and short stories – all crucial to the depiction of the injustice of African Americans we still hear about today.

As if it wasn’t enough that he was born with a hump, Zia is forced to beg on the streets of old Bethlehem. Everything he earns is taken away from him by the wicked woman who keeps him, and in return she beats him daily.Being a hunchback in biblical times is far from easy. Especially if you happen to be cursed with a gentle soul and a kind heart, like Zia. When the people see him in the streets they shout "Unclean, unclean!" until he hurries away.‘The Little Hunchback Zia’ is a heartbreaking story of a small boy, born with deformity and orphaned, who must overcome many obstacles to change his life.The novel has the length of a fairytale and the depth of a classic work of fiction. Perfect as a bedtime story but brings to mind other classic titles such as ‘The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' by Victor Hugo and ‘Oliver Twist’ by Charles Dickens.Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.

'The Theory and the Hound' is anthologised in O. Henry’s short story collection 'Whirligigs', replete with a menagerie of eccentric characters, witty exchanges, vibrant personifications and endings bound to take you by surprise.Two friends are walking down a street "that parallels and parodies Broadway". In passing, one of them mentions a newly hatched theory he has started to work on. The other friend decides to extract the whole story behind it. He hardly realises what is yet to come in doing so.American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In this way he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

‘The Fortune of the Rougons' is the first novel in Zola's monumental 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series. The novel is partly an origin story with an enormous cast of characters, many of whom go on to become the main characters of later novels in the series. It is also a testament to the December 1851 coup d'état that gave rise to the Second French Empire, from the perspective of a large provincial town in southern France.As the title suggests. the protagonists Pierre and Felicité Rougon chase fortune in all its symbolic and tangible meanings in one grand, captivating and hilarious adventure. The title also pays homage to the fortunes of many different family members introduced in the novel, whose lives take on an integral importance throughout later books. An unquestionably successful foundation for the ensuing masterpieces of the series - 'The Fortune of the Rougons' is sure to be savoured by fans of 'Germinal' as an exciting and engrossing read.Nominated twice in the first two instances of the Nobel Prize in Literature, Zola is cited as a major literary influence on authors of the new journalism style of writing, namely Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. His literary topics address violence and its repercussions, alcoholism and issues within the family unit.

'The Conqueror' is a biographical account of Alexander Hamilton's life, the very same Hamilton who achieved fame as one of the American Founding Fathers, and whose life and times inspired the award-winning Broadway musical 'Hamilton'.For lovers of American history and aspiring Alexander Hamilton buffs, 'The Conqueror' is the perfect addition to your bookshelf, shedding light on this important and one-of-a-kind historical figure. By intertwining fascinating biographical details with exciting and sensational historical fiction, the novel constantly engages the reader with the plot line for an overall page-turning experience.Gertrude Atherton was an American author who lived in the period 1857-1948. She wrote novels, short stories, essays and articles, and her work often dealt with feminism and politics. Her personal life inspired her to write about women and their rights as she felt genuine disappointment in her own marriage, because her husband was not willing to let her be a writer. After his death, Atherton opened up to the world and started developing her career as a novelist. She is best known for the novel "Black Oxen" which was published in 1923. The work was so well accepted by the public, that it was made into a silent film the same year. In 1946 she published the autobiography "My San Francisco: A Wayward Biography".

'The Rush for the Spoil' is the second novel in Zola’s 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series. It is set in Paris during the reign of Napoleon III and focuses on the modernization and evisceration of the ancient city.Aristide Rougon leaves the countryside for the city in order to climb the social hierarchy and improve his financial conditions - but what lengths is he wiiling to go? It is in this artificial world at the turn of the 20th century where Aristide’s wife Renne steps in, a diametric opposite personality to her husband.Depicting the greed of its main characters combined with their cynical attitudes, this is a dark, disturbing yet highly engaging read with an ironic and chilling finale.It's an example of Zola at his best: prose that is strong and compelling yet poetic and atmospheric, as well as psychologically complex characters - Zola's hallmark social critique and a heavy dose of sensationalism. Acclaimed writers that cite Zola among their main influences include Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most important representative of French naturalism. His literary topics include violence and its repercussions, alcoholism, and the problems within the family unit. Zola was nominated twice in the first two instances of the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Is it okay to judge another? Should we really forgive another's sins? Should criminals be punished or rehabilitated? What morals do you live by?"The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky’s final and one of his most popular works. Philosophical and humane, the novel delves deeply into discussions about God, free will, and the repercussions from one’s actions.It is the story of the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich and how the way he has treated the children throughout their lives now decides the fate of how their lives unfold. Has one of the children killed the father? Does Smerdyakov, the unrecognised illegitimate child, have a hand in the events that occur?A compelling and haunting novel about the dysfunctionality of a Russian family, where everyone struggles in their own way – often in the darkest corners of their consciousness. Definitely recommended for fans of the great Russian writers and grand works of literature in general.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich.'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

Love, hate, deceit and greed. Throw in a sprinkling of comedy and you have the recipe for an entertaining and humorous novella."Uncle’s Dream" is a story by Fyodor Dostoevsky that follows the return of a Russian prince and an old aristocratic woman who wants him to marry her 23-year-old daughter. Her cunning plan, however, does not go as smoothly as expected and the Prince’s life and his surroundings turn into a comedy.Psychological and deeply philosophical, "Uncle’s Dream" is a provincial tale of complicated social issues, humorous escapades, and satirical situations. Even though Dostoevsky is not known for his comedies, his ironic stance is obvious in this novel, creating a lighthearted story of memorable characters and funny twists. Fans of humour and short stories will not be disappointed.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich.'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

Evil gold-diggers, sacrifices, blood-thirsty priests and slave owners make for some life and death adventures for our hero Tarzan.Being the fifth novel in the series, 'Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar' traces Tarzan’s adventures on his return to the fictional lost city of Opar, whose people are engaged in mining gold. However, he is being followed by two greedy men. What is more, the priests of the flaming god are trying to lure him into their trap so they can sacrifice him.'Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar' is a nice adventure reading, perfect for your summer holiday or the long and gloomy winter months.Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875-1950) was an American author, best known for his novel ‘Tarzan of the Apes’ (1914) and its sequels as well as the Barsoom series. During World War II, he was one of the oldest U.S war correspondents.Tarzan and his adventures are loved by both young and old, and are evergreen classics. Many have watched at least one Tarzan tv series or movie with one of the most popular being the Disney animation film from 1999 and 'The Legend of Tarzan' from 2016 starring Alexander Skarsgård and Samuel L. Jackson.

Add a few lovers, plenty of ridiculous adulterous husbands, a drop of misunderstanding and a little touch of jealousy and you have the makings of a hilarious comedy.Outrageously funny, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s story is an excursion into the mind of a man who suspects his wife of cheating, but is unable to face it. The naivety of the misfortunate husband’s jealousy gets him into all sorts of crazy situations.A recommended reading for comedy and theatre fans. Also for fans of Fyodor Dostoevsky who are interested in seeing another side to this great author.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel "Crime and Punishment" with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich."The Idiot" has also been adapted for films and TV, as has "Demons" and "The Brothers Karamazov".

‘The Conquest of Plassans’ is the fourth novel in the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, returning the reader to the fictional Provencal town of Plassans. It follows the Mouret family as their lives are forever upended by the arrival of an unscrupulous and sinister cleric. The devious cleric manipulates the townsfolk and the Mouret family in particular, for his own political intrigue and to build clerical power in the provinces. The struggle for power between the clergy and government becomes secondary to the human drama unfolding before us as the unassuming town of Plassans is torn apart in a complex web of greed, evil and faith. It is an astonishing drama built on the strength of it’s characters and the pace of it’s plot, perfect for anyone who loved ‘Les Miserables’.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

‘Memoirs of a Madman’ is a fascinating short following Poprishchin, a minor civil servant, as he descends into insanity. Unique in Golgol’s collection, it is the only story he wrote completely from the first person in the form of a number of diary entries. Constantly ridiculed by friends and repressed by the government of Tsarist Russia, he confides all in his journal documenting his slow decline in to insanity. As the only account we have is Poprishchin’s, we have no idea if the continually fantastical events happening before us are real or simply figments of his imagination. It is a fascinating novel, equally humourous as it is farcical, from talking dogs to tea-thirsty cows if you liked Leonardo Dicaprio’s ‘Shutter island’ you’ll love this short.Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol was one of the first writers to adopt surrealism and the grotesque in his work. As well as being one of Russia’s most acclaimed authors, he is acknowledged as one of the founders of the short story genre alongside Nathaniel Hawthorne and E.T.A Hoffman. His early writing was largely inspired by his time spent growing up in Ukraine, it’s culture and it’s folklore, while his later writing targeted and satirised the political corruption of the Russian Empire. His unique and strange form of writing similar to the ‘ostranenie’ technique, allowed his audience to see familiar topics and stories from a completely new perspective. Acknowledged for his brilliance by many acclaimed authors such as Fedor Dostoevsky his best works include ‘Dead Souls’, ‘Taras Bulba’ and ‘Evenings on a Farm Near Dikanka’.

In this tale the Duchesse de Langeais leads General Armande de Montriveau by the nose in her distinct coquettish yet grandiose manner. But as a member of the Thirteen, Armande kidnaps the Duchesse and threatens to have her branded as a criminal. However, he returns her unscathed.Suddenly the Duchesse develops feelings for Armande, who now will have nothing to do with her. After sparking rumours in Paris that she is visiting him, she disappears. Then Armande realises that he wants her more than ever before...A romantic and greatly tumultuous tale with an unexpected ending.A perfect fit for readers seeking a romance novel infused with notes of irony and the supernatural. A critically-acclaimed film adaptation of the same name was released in 2007, starring Jeanne Balibar, Guillaume Depardieu, Michel Piccoli and Bulle Ogier.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for his collection of novels and plays, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His detailed observation of humanity and realistic depiction of society makes him one of the earliest representatives of realism in Europe. He was a master-creator of complex characters that often found themselves in ambiguous moral dilemmas.