A mother tries to protect her sons. One is just a boy of fourteen and vulnerable, the other is much older and deeply troubled, but in her efforts to control their fragile worlds, she opens wide a door to a scenario that is much worse. The naive boy is caught in a dire crosscurrent, being that he's been conditioned to step lightly around his brother (a pedophile) as not to push him over the edge-this, while a rapist is combing the woods nearby, looking for soft, compliant boys just like him. What can possibly bring clarity and light to a young man ripped to shreds by this unforeseeable predicament? The year is 1981. Years later, near the turn of the century, he is estranged by all. He goes alone into the realm of the mind and nature. He listens. He answers the challenge to observe life carefully, and then to dig down deep for the revelation his dogged perseverance will bring.

From his earliest days as a midshipman in the new American Navy to his eventual ownership of a vast shipping empire, Richard Holmwood displays an uncanny sixth sense for the sea and heroics. Richard battles Barbary Pirates off North Africa, then earns a fortune as a privateer during the War of 1812, where he is called “The Killdeer” by his enemies. At war’s end, the Navy sends Richard to defend the Great Lakes territory. At that remote outpost, Richard and his young wife and family struggle with unimaginably harsh weather and isolation, longing to return to their home in coastal Virginia. This sweeping story of American history shows personal triumph and frontier spirit that overcomes tragedy and loss.

Whether you’re a suburbanite looking to live more simply or a die-hard homesteader interested in taking your garden to the next level, this guide is packed with step-by-step instructions, useful tips, vintage photographs and illustrations, and time-honored wisdom—creating one of the most comprehensive books on country skills available. This book is compiled of tested and practical experience passed down from generations of farmers and homesteaders. Here readers can learn about: Creating a vegetable garden Canning and preserving Keeping poultry Soap making Natural medicine Bridge building Farm mechanics Crop rotation Cattle and dairying The basics of beekeeping Foraging for wild food Fertilizing, soils, drainage, and irrigation Building a barn And much, much more! Success comes to the person who works the most efficiently—not simply the person who works the hardest. Learn invaluable advice and tips for how to create a sustainable lifestyle and live off the land.

Beyond the ornithological exploration, the anthology delves into the symbolic and cultural dimensions of birds. The poets unravel the myths, folklore, and metaphors associated with different bird species, infusing the verses with layers of meaning. Birds become messengers, symbols of freedom, and reflections of the human spirit. The anthology becomes a repository of avian lore, enriching the reading experience with cultural resonance. The language used in these poems is as diverse as the plumage of the birds they describe. The poets employ a range of literary techniques, from vivid descriptions to rhythmic cadences, creating a mosaic of linguistic beauty. The result is a collection that not only celebrates the subject matter but also showcases the versatility of poetic expression.

James Fenimore Cooper's 'Ultimate Collection' is a comprehensive anthology of over 30 adventure novels, Western classics, and sea tales. Written in a captivating literary style, Cooper's works transport readers to the frontier landscapes of early America, exploring themes of heroism, nature, and the clash of cultures. With illustrations accompanying each story, the collection offers a vivid and immersive reading experience that showcases Cooper's mastery of storytelling and historical accuracy. The inclusion of travel sketches, historical writings, and biographies further enhances the rich tapestry of American literature presented in this volume. James Fenimore Cooper was a prolific American writer whose deep connection to the landscapes and history of his homeland inspired his literary pursuits. His extensive travels and firsthand experiences in the frontier regions of America informed his writings, allowing him to authentically portray the complexities of early American society. Through his works, Cooper aimed to capture the spirit of the American frontier and explore the moral dilemmas faced by its inhabitants, making him a significant figure in American literature. For readers interested in immersive historical fiction and adventurous tales of the American frontier, James Fenimore Cooper's 'Ultimate Collection' is a must-read. This anthology not only showcases the breadth of Cooper's literary talents but also offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of early America, making it a valuable addition to any literature enthusiast's library.