This is a diverse collection of stories, each weaving its tapestry of human experiences and the intricacies of relationships. The stories go across the emotional spectrum, offering glimpses into individuals grappling with love, loss, redemption, and the enigmatic nature of existence. As characters confront their demons and celebrate shared memories, the stories interlace themes of hope, resilience, and the unpredictable journey of life. Set against varied backdrops—from the vibrant streets of Thessaloniki and Barcelona to a quiet village—the stories capture the essence of the human condition, inviting readers to reflect on the universal threads that connect us all.
Thirteen-year-old Tim discovers he may be the greatest wizard of his time when four strangers introduce him to the world of magic, taking him on a journey through the past, present, future, and Faerie realms, where danger threatens at every turn.
Unemployed after high school in the highly robotic society of 2154, Lisse and seven friends resign themselves to a boring existence in their "Designated Area" until the government invites them to play The Game.
From the author of the New York Times bestsellers The Paris Apartment and The Guest List, an evocative love story set along the Italian Riviera about a group of charismatic stars who all have secrets and pasts they try desperately — and dangerously — to hide. Rome, 1953: Hal, an itinerant journalist flailing in the post-war darkness, has come to the Eternal City to lose himself and to seek absolution for the thing that haunts him. One evening he finds himself on the steps of a palazzo, walking into a world of privilege and light. Here, on a rooftop above the city, he meets the mysterious Stella. Hal and Stella are from different worlds, but their connection is magnetic. Together, they escape the crowded party and imagine a different life, even if it's just for a night. Yet Stella vanishes all too quickly, and Hal is certain their paths won't cross again. But a year later they are unexpectedly thrown together, after Hal receives an invitation he cannot resist. An Italian Contessa asks him to assist on a trip of a lifetime -- acting as a reporter on a tremendous yacht, skimming its way along the Italian coast toward Cannes film festival, the most famous artists and movie stars of the day gathered to promote a new film. Of all the luminaries aboard — an Italian ingénue, an American star, a reclusive director — only one holds Hal in thrall: Stella. And while each has a past that belies the gilded surface, Stella has the most to hide. As Hal's obsession with Stella grows, he becomes determined to bring back the girl she once was, the girl who's been confined to history. An irresistibly entertaining and atmospheric novel set in some of the world's most glamorous locales, The Invitation is a sultry love story about the ways in which the secrets of the past stay with us — no matter how much we try to escape them.
Cult bestseller The Invitation is more than just a poem. It is a profound invitation to a life that is more fulfilling and passionate, with greater integrity. This book is a word-of-mouth sensation, whose truths have resonated with people all over the world, and is now reissued with a beautiful new cover design.
With humor, wisdom and tenderness, Ann Packer offers ten short stories about women and men--wives and husbands, sisters and brothers, daughters, sons, mothers, fathers, friends, and lovers--who discover that life's greatest surprises may be found in that which is most familiar. In the title story, on the anniversary of their father's suicide a young woman discovers that her brother may have found a "reason for living" in the love of a good woman. In "Nerves," a young man realizes that the wife he is separated from no longer loves him but that it is his own life he misses, not her. The narrator of "My Mother's Yellow Dress" is a gay man remembering his deceased mother and their vital and troubling intimacy. In "Babies"--which was included in the prestigious O. Henry anthology series --a single woman in her mid-thirties finds that everyone, including her best friend at work, is pregnant, and that their joy can only be observed, not shared. In these and six other stories, Ann Packer exhibits an unerring eye for the small ways in which people reveal themselves and for the moments in which lives may be transformed.
These quick, engaging activities help students enjoy the amusing literature of James Marshall. Cross-curricular before-, during-, and after-reading activities are provided for a comprehensive study of Rats on the Range and Other Stories.
The Grateful Indian And other Stories is a work by William Henry Giles Kingston. It depicts an Englishman befriending an Indian, who shows himself to have mystical powers.
Cicely & Other Stories" is a delightful collection of short stories written by the renowned American author Annie Fellows Johnston. Published in 1898, this compilation is a treasure trove of heartwarming tales that capture the innocence and wonder of childhood. Through a series of charming narratives, Johnston weaves a tapestry of friendship, family, and moral lessons, creating a literary experience that resonates with readers of all ages. Annie Fellows Johnston, known for her exceptional storytelling, brings to life a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique challenges, dreams, and adventures. The stories explore themes that are both timeless and universal, making them relatable to readers from various backgrounds and generations. The title story, "Cicely," serves as the centerpiece of the collection. In this narrative, young Cicely embarks on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the complexities of life with determination and courage. As she encounters obstacles and triumphs, Cicely's character blossoms, showcasing the transformative power of resilience and personal growth. The other stories in the collection are equally enchanting. From heartwarming tales of familial bonds to inspiring narratives of overcoming adversity, each story presents a valuable lesson in an engaging and accessible manner. Johnston's prose is characterized by its vivid imagery, evoking a strong sense of time and place that immerses readers in the world she has created. Throughout "Cicely & Other Stories," Annie Fellows Johnston's masterful storytelling and ability to capture the essence of childhood shine brightly. Her narratives highlight the importance of kindness, compassion, and the pursuit of one's dreams. The collection serves as a testament to Johnston's enduring legacy as a beloved children's author whose words continue to resonate with readers, reminding us of the timeless values that shape our lives. In essence, "Cicely & Other Stories" is a literary gem that transports readers to a world of innocence and wonder, where characters embark on journeys of self-discovery and growth. With its rich narratives and compelling themes, the collection remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate the hearts of readers young and old.
