A nomad and a swindler embark on an eccentric road trip in this picaresque, philosophical novel by the author of The Man Who Planted Trees. The south of France, 1950: A solitary vagabond walks through the villages, towns, valleys, and foothills of the region between northern Provence and the Alps. He picks up work along the way and spends the winter as the custodian of a walnut-oil mill. He also picks up a problematic companion: a cardsharp and con man, whom he calls “the Artist.” The action moves from place to place, and episode to episode, in truly picaresque fashion. Everything is told in the first person, present tense, by the vagabond narrator, who goes unnamed. He himself is a curious combination of qualities—poetic, resentful, cynical, compassionate, flirtatious, and self-absorbed. While The Open Road can be read as loosely strung entertainment, interspersed with caustic reflections, it can also be interpreted as a projection of the relationship of author, art, and audience. But it is ultimately an exploration of the tensions and boundaries between affection and commitment, and of the competing needs for solitude, independence, and human bonds. As always in Jean Giono, the language is rich in natural imagery and as ruggedly idiomatic as it is lyrical.

Zak's training is cut short when he is sent on his first mission. The King of Montevisto and his family have been threatened and the secret services believe the attack will take place on the family's forthcoming visit to the UK. It's vital that the trip goes smoothly and Zak is in charge of protecting the king's son. He soon finds he needs all his training and talents to outwit the enemy and save lives. A gripping new thriller in this fast-paced series. Perfect for young fans of 24.

The Most Wonderful Christmas Tales Of All Time stands as an unparalleled anthology, uniting the works of classic authors whose writings have shaped the literary landscape of Christmas storytelling. This collection showcases an array of styles, from the poetic musings of William Wordsworth and Emily Dickinson to the compelling narratives of Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky, offering readers a panoramic view of Christmas through various lenses of time, culture, and emotion. The anthology not only features tales of warmth and joy but also explores the depths of the human condition during this festive season, making it a profound study in the duality of the human experience. The ensemble of authors contributing to this anthology speaks volumes of its literary significance. Figures such as Charles Dickens, known for immortalizing Christmas in Victorian England, and Mark Twain, with his uniquely American perspective, come together with authors like Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm, who bring a touch of European folklore and fairy tale magic. This multicultural and multispectacular compilation aligns with movements ranging from Romanticism to Realism, reflecting the evolving narrative of Christmas and its universal appeal across different epochs and societies. This anthology is recommended for readers eager to delve into the rich tapestry of Christmas literature. It offers an educational journey through the ages, revealing the shift in themes and sentiments surrounding the holiday season. Each story, poem, and tale within its pages is a mirror to the world from which it originated, providing insights not only into the essence of Christmas but also into the historical and cultural contexts of its time. Engaging with this collection promises not only a festive literary adventure but also a deeper appreciation for the myriad ways Christmas has been celebrated, contemplated, and cherished in literature.

Get inspired and get ready to hit the road with the ultimate guide to America's best road trips! The Open Road: 50 Road Trips in the USA features: Strategic lists and road trip options: Choose from lists of the best coastal drives, cross-country journeys, trips for kids, awe-inspiring views, and more Flexible itineraries: 50 different road trips organized by region gear you up for any adventure, from a weekend getaway to a cross-country trip Can't-miss stops from coast to coast: Leaf-peep along the Blue Ridge Parkway, look for wildflowers on Arizona's Apache Trail, or gaze at the mysterious Marfa Lights blinking over the West Texas desert. Snap selfies with kitschy roadside attractions along Route 66, cross the Continental Divide in Colorado, and fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves at your campsite in Big Sur The best local flavors: Eat your way through Vermont's farms, dairies, orchards, and maple houses or indulge in gulf shrimp and fried okra in the South. Sample oysters and craft beers in Oregon or stop for shave ice along the scenic Oahu Coastal Loop Expert advice from seasoned road-tripper Jessica Dunham Comprehensive planning resources: Easy-to-use maps, helpful info on things to do, lodging, and dining for every route, clear directions to each route's starting point,and tips for minimizing your environmental impact along the way Gorgeous, full-color photos and a fold-out map Essential tips for health and safety on the road, navigating weather conditions, strategies for road-tripping with kids and four-legged friends, and playlists and podcasts to soundtrack your adventure Whether you're hugging the coast or driving the Loneliest Road, find your adventure with The Open Road: 50 Road Trips in the USA. For more in-depth information on a specific road trip, check out Moon's bestselling road trip guides. About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you. For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.

In 'The Big Book of Christmas Treasure Tales', Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson compiles an expansive anthology of the most beloved Yuletide narratives, encompassing a variety of genres including novels, short stories, poems, and carols that have shaped the literary canon of Christmas. Readers will discover a rich tapestry of festive classics, from the poignant 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry to the venerable verses of 'Ring Out, Wild Bells' by Alfred Lord Tennyson. Bjørnson's curatorial finesse is evident as he interweaves timeless works with lesser-known gems, all while capturing the diverse cultural essence of Christmas through the prism of literature. The collection is presented with an eye for both literary quality and seasonal charm, offering an immersive experience into the spirit of the holiday. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, a revered figure in Norwegian literature and a Nobel laureate, perhaps found inspiration for creating this collection from his own engagement with themes of identity, community, and tradition — concepts deeply entwined with the Christmas season. His personal literary footprint, characterized by a poetic realism and national romanticism, echoes through the selections, hinting at the universal longing for warmth, generosity, and connection during the holiday period. By encompassing works from international literary greats, Bjørnson underscores the shared human experiences central to Christmas, transcending any one tradition or geography. 'The Big Book of Christmas Treasure Tales' is a must-read for aficionados of classic literature and anyone looking to rekindle their holiday spirit. It is a literary hearth around which readers of all ages can gather, finding solace and joy in tales that celebrate the profound simplicity and deep complexities of the human experience. It is an invitation to revisit the storied past of Christmas traditions and to instill new memories with the turn of each page. For the literary connoisseur and the Christmas enthusiast alike, this anthology is a treasured addition to any winter library, promising to delight and inspire for generations to come.