Hermann, Spring

The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug. Observations like this make Mark Twain the most widely read and quoted American author. This guide utilizes quotes, excerpts, biographical information, and critical analysis in examining Twain's vast output of novels, personal memoirs, social criticisms, and essays, both serious and hilarious. It also demonstrates how Twain carefully stored his life experiences in his mind, then mined and refined them years later, to bring us the timeless lessons he had learned. In all his works, students will find the underlying fears, disappointments, hopes and dreams he held for America, and he always found the right words to tell us.

As a child growing up in the Deep South, Tom "Tennessee" Williams escaped from his tumultuous home life by retreating into his imagination. His love for made-up stories would eventually translate into a propensity for writing drama and poetry. This compelling text places the playwright's work in the context of his life and times, allowing readers to gain a greater understanding of the two-time Pulitzer Prize winner. Featuring quotes, excerpts, and in-depth critical analysis of his most famous plays as well as his lesser-known works, the text provides an in-depth look at this hard-working, prolific playwright considered by many to be among the greatest of his time.

Examines black history from 1770 through 1870, discussing the lives of enslaved black men and women, acts of resistance and opposition to slavery, the Underground Railroad, the Emancipation Proclamation, and more; and includes a time line.

Examines black history from 1870 to 1940, discussing the discrimination following the abolition of slavery in the United States and globally, the founding of the NAACP, the Harlem Renaissance, musical traditions, sports, and related topics; and includes a time line.

Examines the life of the Apache chief Geronimo, who led one of the last Indian uprisings.

When ten-year-old Abby Carter attends the newly established school for the blind in Boston in 1832, she proves that blind people can learn and be independent.

Four girls whose family lives are difficult compete in gymnastics for their gym, Flip City, the place they feel most at home.

Covers the life and work of the contemporary Navajo artist, R. C. Gorman, from his childhood days on an Arizona reservation to his commercial success and the recognition of his artistic achievements.

A collection of stories about the struggle for equal rights among women and minorities, and addresses issues of slavery, segregation, the suffrage movement, and cultural identity.

Tells the life story of Anne Frank, the young Dutch Jewish girl who became famous for the diary she kept while hiding from the Nazis during the Holocaust; discusses her early years in Frankfurt and Amsterdam, her family's life in the Secret Annex, and her imprisonment in Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen.