Anne of the Island

"Anne of the Island - A Dramatic Reading" by Lucy Maud Montgomery invites listeners into the enchanting world of Anne Shirley as she embarks on a transformative journey through her college years. This beloved classic explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the bittersweet nature of growing up, resonating with anyone who has navigated the complexities of young adulthood. Anne's vibrant imagination and unwavering spirit serve as a reminder of the importance of pursuing one's dreams and the power of resilience in the face of change. The narrative captures the essence of self-discovery and the enduring bonds of friendship, making it a timeless tale that continues to inspire and uplift. Through Montgomery's rich prose and the dramatic reading, listeners can experience the joys and challenges of Anne's life, reminding us all of the beauty found in embracing life's adventures.

Dr. Branner was a recognized authority on the geology of South American republics, especially Brazil, having organized and headed the Stanford Expedition to Brazil in 1911, among others. In 1910 he published this "little book", as the author himself calls it, for the use of English-speaking students who needed a fast and practical way of learning Portuguese. Contrary to the belief of many back then, John C. Branner claims that Brazilian Portuguese isn't "badly spoken Portuguese", and, even though using examples from both Portuguese and Brazilian writers, seems to give more prominence to Brazilian Portuguese. (Summary by Leni)

Around The World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne.

A Tale of the Great Plague. 1666 was a difficult year in London. With its sordid materialism and its coarse handling of things most sacred, not merely does Manning see, as an Englishwoman, the grandeur of its struggles, but she sees its best embodiment in the tragedy of an almost perfect life. In her description of the plague (much detail taken from the diarist, Pepys), followed by The Great Fire, Manning is taken out of her comfort zone to the sordid realities. Her answer is to take Mistress Cherry to a country house in Berkshire, where peace and tranquility are to be found. - Summary by Lynne Thompson

"Cherry and Violet" by Anne Manning delves into the harrowing experiences of London during the Great Plague of 1666, capturing the stark realities of a society grappling with both materialism and tragedy. Through the lens of Mistress Cherry, Manning transports listeners from the chaos of the city to the serene countryside of Berkshire, offering a poignant contrast between turmoil and tranquility. The vivid depiction of the plague, enriched by historical insights from diarist Samuel Pepys, resonates today as it reflects on human resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.