Pines and Plains Libraries

A wealthy American who sees marriage to a French countess as his crowing acquisition finds that he is no match for the machinations of her realtives.

The Devil's Dictionary (1906) is a work of satire by Ambrose Bierce. Although he is commonly remembered for his chilling short stories on the experiences of Civil War soldiers, Bierce was recognized in his day as a leading journalist and humorist who spent decades ruffling feathers and drawing laughter with his witty opinion columns, poems, and definitions. Toward the end of his career, he decided to compile these satirical definitions into a book,...

The Charterhouse of Parma (1839) is a compelling novel of passion and daring, of prisons and heroic escape, of political chicanery and sublime personal courage. Set at the beginning of the nineteenth century, amidst the golden landscapes of northern Italy, it traces the joyous but ill-starred amorous exploits of a handsome young aristocrat called Fabrice del Dongo, and of his incomparable aunt Gina, her suitor Prime Minister Mosca, and Clelia, a heroine...

"This title highlights major destinations within Mexico and the people who shape the nation's culture. Readers will learn about the geography, wildlife, history, people, and economy of Mexico, gaining an understanding of what life looks like in the country today. Features include a glossary, a map, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of...

This book examines critical debates on the death penalty, presenting arguments for and against the death penalty and discussing legislation that has shaped this controversial issue at the present time.

First published in 1799, Charles Brockden Brown's "Edgar Huntly, Or Memoirs of a Sleep Walker" is the story of its title character, who upon learning of the death of the brother of his friend and love interest, Mary Waldegrave, visits where he died in the woods in rural Pennsylvania. There he discovers a man, Clithero, a servant from a nearby farm, suspiciously lurking about near the scene of Waldegrave's murder. Suspecting Clithero, Edgar begins...

This volume provides a look at the history, causes, and possible solutions to the problem of homelessness.

Describes the abuse of animals in laboratory experiments, the fur industry, and product testing procedures, and the actions people are taking against such activities.