Laura Ingalls Wilder is best known for her Little House books, which tell the semi-autobiographical story of her pioneer family. These tales did not sprout fully formed from Wilder’s head — in fact, she originally penned them all together in a single autobiography she called Pioneer Girl. Wilder’s daughter Rose — a published author herself…
Tag: non-fiction
Review: Lincoln’s Melancholy
Most people know a few things about Abraham Lincoln: he was president during the Civil War; he “freed the slaves”; he made a killer speech at Gettysburg. But what most contemporary readers don’t know is that Lincoln was a profoundly melancholy man. Throughout his life he endured several major depressive episodes and suicide watches. Yet…
Review: The Poisoner’s Handbook
Poisons like arsenic, carbon monoxide, and chloroform have existed since the beginning of time, but it was only during America’s Jazz Age that scientists could begin to understand how these poisons affect the human body. Two men in particular — New York’s first chief medical examiner Charles Norris and toxicologist Alexander Gettler — were instrumental…
Review: Serving Victoria
“Your first duty is to God; your second to your Sovereign; your third to yourself.” Such was the belief of those who served England’s Queen Victoria throughout her 63-year reign. Their positions — governess, maid-of-honor, chaplain, physician — were dull and grueling, but gave them an up-close look at a world few could ever see….
Review: Jane Austen Cover to Cover
Jane Austen drew her last breath in 1817, and in the last 200 years her novels and stories have only grown more popular. Most Janeites love Miss Austen’s words, but Jane Austen Cover to Cover gives adoring fans a close look at the cover art — some amazing, some bewildering. Author Margaret Sullivan showcases covers…