"Embark on a literary voyage spanning two decades with Rudyard Kipling in 'Letters of Travel (1892-1913).' This collection offers readers a captivating glimpse into the renowned author's observations and experiences as he travels across various continents. As Kipling traverses diverse landscapes and encounters different cultures, 'Letters of Travel' is more than a mere travelogue—it's a literary journey that reveals the keen insights and reflections of one of the greatest storytellers of the 20th century. Join Kipling on this literary expedition where each letter unfolds a new chapter of discovery, making 'Letters of Travel (1892-1913)' an essential read for those captivated by tales of exploration and the nuanced perspectives of a masterful writer."

A small canoe carved by an Indian boy makes a journey from Lake Superior all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

"Idylls of the Sea and Other Marine Sketches" by Frank T. Bullen is a captivating collection of maritime tales that immerses readers in the rugged beauty and perilous adventures of life at sea. Bullen's prose transports readers to the vast expanse of the ocean, where they encounter a diverse cast of characters and experience the thrill of nautical exploration. Through vivid descriptions and vivid storytelling, Bullen captures the essence of seafaring life, from the tranquil moments of idyllic beauty to the intense storms that test the resolve of sailors. The genre of "Idylls of the Sea and Other Marine Sketches" can be described as maritime literature, offering a blend of adventure, exploration, and reflection on the human experience against the backdrop of the sea. Bullen's expertise as a sailor enriches his narratives, providing authentic insight into the challenges and triumphs of life on the ocean. Whether recounting tales of daring rescues, encounters with exotic wildlife, or the camaraderie among shipmates, Bullen's storytelling prowess shines through, captivating readers with each page. "Idylls of the Sea and Other Marine Sketches" stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the sea and the timeless appeal of maritime literature.

Dive in for hours of fun and creativity as your artwork appears like magic while you learn about 20 of the ocean's most fascinating creatures.

The cold, stygian dark of the extreme sea depths is home to some of our planet’s strangest creatures. Even their names evoke a science fiction adventure: dragonfishes, greeneyes, viperfishes, mirrorbellies, lanternfishes. Marine biologist Henry “Hank” Compton (1928–2005) of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Rockport Marine Lab was present on some of the earliest Gulf of Mexico cruises on which these fishes were collected for the first time in Texas waters. Upon returning, Compton would retire to the darkroom he had constructed beneath a stairwell at the lab and photograph the specimens. A talented artist, Compton then painted watercolors based on his photographs. He allowed free rein to both his scientific judgment and his artistic vision as he constructed representations of how the specimens might have appeared in the crushing pressure of their alien environment. Compton dubbed the series of deep-water paintings “Fire in the Sea” because of the shimmering bioluminescence common to these deep-water species. Then, along with taxonomic descriptions, he drafted fanciful narratives to accompany the paintings: quirky, humorous, and sometimes cryptic stories of the fishes in their unreachable habitat. Professor, researcher, and author David A. McKee has taken Compton’s work, discovered in cardboard boxes following his death, and, along with others, provided chapters on bioluminescence, life in the deep, taxonomic arrangement, and life history information.