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Dive into this riveting memoir that chronicles the trials and tribulations of an educated and worldly convict during his time in a London prison. Initially weighing in at 279 lbs, the authors physical transformation is less significant than his mental and emotional journey. Written with the keen insight of a seasoned journalist and the engaging flair of a skilled novelist, this narrative is as entertaining as it is insightful.

Immerse yourself in the world of young Jean-Jacques Rousseau who is swayed more by the slightest pleasures at his fingertips than all the delights of paradise. His emotional vulnerability leads him on a series of adventurous escapades with drifters and outcasts, always culminating in a reunion with his mother figure, Madame de Warens. In an unparalleled act of self-disclosure, Rousseau starts Volume 3 with a scandalously indecent act in a dark alleyway. This 1903 edition, failing to understand the comically strange tone of the passage, omits it to shield the reader. (Summary by Martin Geeson)

Explore the thrilling life of Captain John Smith, whose name is synonymous with the early colonization of Virginia and the exploration of New England. This gripping narrative delves into his eventful life, featuring his high-stakes battles with the Turks and his fateful encounter with the young Powhatan woman, Pocahontas. Dive into the lesser-known facets of Smiths life and embark on a journey through his extraordinary adventures.

Dive into the world of deception with Bram Stoker as he unravels the tales of infamous impostors who have cunningly manipulated their way into the pages of history. From financial fraudsters to political pretenders, and personal gainers, these individuals have existed since the dawn of time, providing the inspiration for many fictional characters. Stokers work sheds light on these crafty deceivers, making us question the very nature of identity and trust.

This poignant account details the experiences of a dedicated nurse who found herself in France at the outbreak of World War I, serving until May 1915. The narrative, pieced together from her letters home, paints a vivid and at times harrowing picture of the casualties of war during that period. Initially based at the General Hospital in Le Havre, she soon found herself as one of the few sisters working on ambulance trains, ferrying the wounded from front-line Clearing Hospitals to the larger General Hospitals in Boulogne and Le Havre. Toward the end of her tale, she recounts her time at a ...

Immerse yourself in the poignant life story of Emily Brontë, the revered author of Wuthering Heights. Born in 1818 in Yorkshire, England, Brontës life was marred by tragedy from a young age, with the loss of her mother to cancer when she was just three years old. Her experience at the Clergy Daughters School, where she faced harsh conditions and witnessed the death of two of her sisters, deeply affected her, an experience that her sister Charlotte echoed in Jane Eyre. Emilys artistic prowess emerged in 1846 when she published her poetry under the pseudonym Ellis Bell, shortly followed ...

Embark on the spiritual journey of Robert Hugh Benson, the youngest son of Edward White Benson, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and his wife, Mary. Despite being a renowned writer of his time, Benson is most known for his dramatic shift from Anglicanism to the Roman Catholic Church in 1903, followed by his ordination as a Catholic priest in 1904. In this book, Benson candidly shares his personal journey to the Catholic faith, offering intriguing comparisons between Catholicism and Anglicanism. Join us as we delve into Bensons profound spiritual transformation.

Esteemed writer G. K. Chesterton offers a compelling critique of the works of Charles Dickens, sharing his profound admiration and unique insights into Dickens literary genius in his distinct and engaging style. (Summary by Karen Merline)

Uncover the riveting true story of Mairi Chisholm and Elsie Knocker, two British nurses who defied the odds and changed the face of medical aid during World War I. Known for their audacity to treat wounded soldiers directly on the front lines, these women defied regulations and created their own first aid post, just a hundred yards away from the trenches in a town named Pervyse. This podcast dives deep into their three and a half year journey of courage and resilience, from fundraising for their self-run aid stations concrete reinforcement and steel door, to documenting their experiences ...

Journey back to 1911 with the adventurous Englishman, J. Smeaton Chase, as he travels the length of California on horseback, years before the creation of the iconic Highway 1. This enthralling podcast brings to life his 2000-mile trek from Mexico to Oregon, filled with quiet adventures, encounters at secluded ranches, and awe-inspiring coastal views. Originally from Islington, London, Chase spent most of his life in the Californian desert, capturing the spirit of early California in his travelog. Join us as we traverse through major landmarks, from El Monte to Laguna Beach, San Diego to San ...

Journey through the tumultuous reign of King Henry III in this riveting sequel to Alexandre Dumas Marguerite de Valois. Set four years after the sudden demise of King Charles IX, the story unfolds amidst the chaos of the War of the Three Henries, a power struggle involving King Henry of Navarre, the Huguenots leader and Henry I, Duke of Guise, the Catholic Leagues head. Dumas intricately intertwines two captivating narratives - a blossoming romance between le Comte de Bussy and la Dame de Monsoreau, and the unique friendship that develops between King Henry III and his one-of-a-kind jester, ...

Dive into the captivating lectures of Col. Ingersoll, a renowned orator of his era and a close acquaintance of Mark Twain and General Grant. Ingersoll discusses the invaluable contributions of men and women of genius to our world, and what would be left in their absence. His series of lectures explores the lives and works of luminaries such as SHAKESPEARE, ROBERT BURNS, ABRAHAM LINCOLN, VOLTAIRE, and WALT WHITMAN. He also delivers a thought-provoking discourse on THE GREAT INFIDELS, a comparison of science and superstition, and a discussion about THE HOLY BIBLE. This collection features each ...

Dive into the fascinating life of Abraham Lincoln with The Boys’ Life of Abraham Lincoln, a captivating biography filled with intriguing anecdotes. Although the title suggests a focus on Lincolns childhood, it provides a comprehensive, albeit condensed, account of his entire life. Expertly written and delightfully narrated by Tom Weiss, this biography draws largely from the works of Helen Nicolay, whose father, John George Nicolay, served as Lincolns private secretary. Experience a unique perspective on the thoughts, character, and convictions of one of Americas most iconic figures.

Dive into the riveting life story of Cockney Tom in his autobiography. Set against the backdrop of 1800s England, South Australia, and Victorias goldfields, witness his struggles and triumphs that uphold the age-old wisdom - honesty is indeed the best policy. This audio experience is further refined by the proof-listening skills of Ann Boulais and Betty.

Embark on a journey into the life of Ali Tepeleni, the notorious Pacha of Janina, who ruled with an iron fist in one of the Ottoman Empires most chaotic territories, Albania, during the early 1800s. Known as the Lion of Janina, Ali Pachas reign was as brutal as it was relentless, drawing parallels with the savage nature of a lion. In this captivating essay, Dumas uncovers the vast array of heinous crimes committed under Ali Pacha, a ruler whose ambition knew no bounds, fueled by his mothers ruthless advice stating that success justified everything, and everything is permissible to him who has ...

Delve into the fascinating early lives of Dante, as depicted in two biographical accounts penned by influential Florentine literary figures. Giovanni Boccaccio, a pioneering Italian poet renowned for his monumental work, The Decameron, was one of the first to employ the Italian vernacular in literature, like Dante himself. Lionardo Bruni, a respected historian and man of letters, drew inspiration from Boccaccios account but sought to correct what he saw as a misrepresentation of Dante - an over-emphasis on Beatrices influence. This collection also features insightful articles by Florentine ...

A collection of stories narrated by Paige Drake.

Dive into the captivating life of Henry IV, the first Bourbon King of France and Navarre. Raised as a Protestant, Henry narrowly escaped the brutal St. Bartholomews Day massacre and led the Protestant forces during the fierce French Wars of Religion. Deciding that Paris was well worth a mass, he renounced the Calvinist faith, effectively bringing an end to the relentless warfare tearing through France. Known as Good King Henry, he is celebrated for his bravery, affability, and his deep care for his people. Despite surviving numerous assassination attempts, his life was cut short by Fran√...

Discover the fascinating life of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a literary prodigy who earned nobility by the age of 25. This second volume of his autobiography, written between 1811 and 1833, reveals his intriguing life in Weimar, his accomplishments as a member of Dukes council, and his administrative reforms at the University of Jena. Goethes unique perspective and compelling observations on life, language, and human nature provide a rich narrative. Through his words, we glimpse the Sturm und Drang literary movement, his collaborations with Herder, and the thought-provoking discussions on the ...

This podcast vividly narrates the inspiring stories of remarkable Americans who displayed exceptional character and bravery in both life and death. These individuals exemplified the perfect blend of strength, gentleness, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to their ideals. Their tales of courage and personal accomplishment during critical moments in our nations history serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by many in service to their fellow countrymen. This podcast is a tribute to those who have given everything for the United States, in times of both war and peace.