The Cosmos

Chances are, you are reading this because you are aware that Jamestown, Virginia, celebrated its 400th birthday in 2007. It was the first "successful" English settlement in America. Although the colonists eventually moved upriver to be quit of the hard luck and difficult conditions on the small island, they left behind a trove of possessions - used, worn out, or forgotten. Did you ever stop to con...

Diggeldy Dan (rhymes with Wiggildy Wan) is a most ingenious fellow who lives in a circus called Spangleland. He looks like a clown because he perhaps is a clown but a very special clown who invites the Pretty Lady with the Blue Blue Eyes (a very special person herself) to meet with the animals of the circus. Many things happen that are just too amazing to talk about because you won't believe them...

This essay is one of a great number that endorse the principle of eugenics, a controversial study and practice that aims for society or government to 'self-direct' the course of human evolution. In this essay, one finds discussion of contraception, abortion, population growth and war, as well as questions of 'race.' One finds here a use of the term 'race' meaning something far different than what...

Set in 1752, "Black Moth" by Georgette Heyer weaves a tale of intrigue and romance as the Duke of Andover, known as Devil, clashes with highwayman Jack, the Earl of Wyncham, over the affections of a beautiful country squire's daughter. Amidst cheating at cards, complicated family dynamics, and overwhelming debts, the story explores themes of love, rivalry, and societal expectations. Heyer’s sharp...

"Adventure" by Eleanor Jourdain and Charlotte Anne Moberly recounts the fascinating Moberly–Jourdain incident, which took place on August 10, 1901, in the gardens of the Petit Trianon at Versailles. During their visit, the two academics experienced what they described as a time slip, witnessing figures from the past, including Marie Antoinette. Their compelling account, published under pseudonyms...

"Black Beauty" by Anna Sewell is a timeless tale that explores the life of a horse, told from his perspective. This poignant narrative highlights the importance of kindness, empathy, and the humane treatment of animals, themes that resonate deeply in today's world. As listeners journey through the trials and tribulations faced by Black Beauty, they are invited to reflect on the relationship betwee...

"Black Buccaneer" by Stephen W. Meader takes listeners on an adventurous journey as two teen boys are kidnapped by pirates along the Atlantic coast of the American colonies in the early 1700s. This captivating piece of YA historical fiction reflects the era's language and culture, offering a glimpse into the past while also confronting challenging attitudes towards Indigenous North Americans and A...

Join Billy Whiskers, the adventurous goat, along with his friends Stubby and Button, as they return from France to the bustling streets of New York, where new escapades await. From unexpected showers to thrilling rides in a dirigible and encounters in Chicago, this delightful tale promises a whirlwind of excitement and trouble. The timeless themes of friendship, adventure, and the unpredictability...

"Black Motor Car" by Harris Burland tells the gripping story of Jack Portheous, a man whose passionate love for the enchanting Mrs. de la Mothe leads him down a treacherous path of embezzlement and betrayal. When tragedy strikes on the eve of their escape, Jack's world unravels as he finds himself imprisoned, consumed by guilt and a thirst for revenge. This tale explores timeless themes of love, l...

The Adventures of Maya the Bee is a captivating story that invites listeners of all ages to explore themes of courage, wisdom, and the joy of experiencing the beauty of creation through the eyes of a bee. Maya's journey showcases her growth and development, highlighting her loyalty to her Nation of Bees, especially in the heroic moments that define her character. This timeless tale resonates with...

"Abe and Mawruss: Being Further Adventures of Potash and Perlmutter" by Montague Glass continues the humorous exploits of two characters navigating the challenges of the garment trade in early 20th-century New York. Drawing from his experiences as a lawyer, Glass crafts stories that reflect the intricacies of business and the immigrant experience, making them relatable to audiences even today. The...

"Adventures of Mabel" by Harry Thurston Peck invites listeners into a whimsical world where a curious five-year-old girl discovers her extraordinary ability to converse with animals. This enchanting tale not only sparks the imagination but also highlights themes of curiosity, friendship, and the magic of nature, making it a timeless story that resonates with audiences of all ages. As Mabel embarks...

"Black Beauty: The Autobiography of a Horse" by Anna Sewell is a poignant tale narrated from the perspective of a high-bred horse named Black Beauty. The story chronicles his journey from a carefree foal on an English farm to a life filled with hardship as he pulls cabs in London, ultimately finding happiness in retirement. Each chapter presents a different episode from his life, highlighting them...

"The Adventures of Jimmy Skunk" by Thornton W. Burgess invites listeners into the enchanting world of Green Meadows and Green Forest, where Jimmy Skunk interacts with beloved characters like Reddy Fox and Peter Rabbit. Through these delightful encounters, the story imparts valuable life lessons about temperance, the importance of keeping promises, and the consequences of practical jokes. As Jimmy...

C. W. Leadbeater's "Astral Plane: Its Scenery, Inhabitants, and Phenomena" delves into the mystical realm that exists beyond our physical world, exploring the astral plane and its various inhabitants, including ghosts, fairies, and mythical creatures. As he attempts to scientifically explain phenomena often dismissed by skeptics, Leadbeater addresses profound topics such as the journey of the soul...

Alice's Adventures Underground is the whimsical tale that began as a handwritten gift from Lewis Carroll to a young girl named Alice Liddell, inspired by a boat trip on the Isis River. This enchanting story features a curious little girl who embarks on a quest for adventure, captivating her audience with its imaginative narrative and charming illustrations by Carroll himself. The themes of curiosi...

"Black'erchief Dick," the debut novel by noted mystery writer Margery Allingham, transports listeners to a British island in the 17th Century, weaving a tale rich in romance and adventure. Written when Allingham was just 18, this swashbuckling narrative captures the spirit of youthful daring and the timeless allure of exploration and love. Its themes of bravery and the quest for identity resonate...

"David Crockett: His Life and Adventures" by John Stevens Cabot Abbott chronicles the remarkable journey of Davy Crockett, an iconic figure of 19th century America known as the “King of the Wild Frontier.” This narrative delves into his upbringing, the challenges he faced, and his multifaceted life as a frontiersman, soldier, and politician, culminating in his heroic stand at the Battle of the Ala...

"Marvels of Machinery in Space Ed Reads Short Sci-fi vol X" presents a captivating collection of thirteen science fiction short stories that explore the wonders and complexities of technology and machinery in the cosmos. Each tale invites listeners to ponder the interplay between humanity and the vast, often mysterious universe, showcasing imaginative scenarios that resonate with our ongoing quest...

"Black Star: A School Story for Boys" by Andrew H. Walpole invites listeners into a thrilling school adventure set against the backdrop of Australia, where secret societies and bullies create an atmosphere ripe for mystery and excitement. The arrival of a new student, who refers to everyone as comrade, adds an intriguing dynamic to the mix, while themes of camaraderie and rivalry resonate strongly...

A researcher embarks on a quest to uncover "The Tablets of the Gods," which have haunted his dreams since childhood. Upon discovering these tablets, he and his companion, Dr. Laidlaw, are confronted with a horrifying truth about humanity's purpose in the cosmos, a revelation so devastating that it obliterates hope and sanity. This tale exemplifies the essence of cosmic horror, where the true terro...

"Bacteria in Daily Life" by Grace Coleridge Frankland offers an insightful exploration of the burgeoning field of bacteriology at the dawn of the twentieth century, detailing significant advancements in understanding and preventing diseases like tuberculosis and diphtheria. The book delves into the transmission of diseases through close contact and contaminated resources, highlighting practical to...

"Adventures of Sally" by P.G. Wodehouse is a delightful romantic comedy that follows the life of a young American girl named Sally, whose inheritance of a considerable fortune dramatically alters her circumstances. The story is filled with Wodehouse's signature humor and charm, featuring an engaging cast that includes Sally's ambitious brother, a variety of theater personalities, and an assortment...

"Adventures of a Suburbanite" by Ellis Parker Butler takes a humorous look at everyday life in suburbia, exploring the quirky obsessions of neighbors, the quest for a good gardener, and the age-old debate over holiday traditions like having a Santa Claus at Christmas parties. Written in 1911, this charming narrative captures the essence of suburban life with wit and insight, revealing how these se...

"Bears of Blue River" by Charles Major is a captivating tale centered around young Balser Brent, a spirited boy who has an uncanny ability to encounter bears, often leaving them worse off than his brave self. This exciting adventure is perfect for both boys and girls who crave thrilling escapades and showcases themes of courage and resilience. The story's enduring charm lies in its ability to tran...