Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice
By Jane Austen
Read in 8th Grade
In the countryside of Britain, there lived a family named Bennet. Mrs.Bennet's only wishes were for her 5 daughters to marry well, for Mr.Bennet's estate was entailed to an entirely removed cousin. And their fortunes seem to turn up, for an affluent man by the name of Bingley soon arrives, and develops an affinity for the eldest daughter. His friend, however, despite being even richer than he, is a very proud man, rather uncivil. In fact, he, believing that Jane doesn't return Mr.Bingley's love, convinces his friend to leave her.

Anne of Green Gables

Anne of Green Gables

By L.M. Montgomery

Read in 8th Grade

Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert led a relatively quiet life - until Anne arrives at Green Gables. The old couple had wanted a boy to help them but they got Anne. Despite her rather sad upbringing at an orphanage, the Cuthbert mold her into a respectable, smart young woman, though not without some bumps along the way.
But none of them are ready for the final curve that life puts in their path. Anne wins a scholarship for college, and the whole town rejoices. This is good, because the Cuthbert finances are in a precarious state. They have all their money in one bank that is rumored to be shaky.

Need E-Books?

Need books during this difficult time but afraid to go to the library?
The National Archives have created a FREE E-library with unlimited access to books, called the National Emergency Library.
There are no waitlists through June 30, so you can get the book immediately.
There aren't quite as many current books as Overdrive or Hoopla, but there are many older books and magazine type of things.
Just click here.
(Note: You need to make a free account)

Guns, Germs, and Steel

Guns, Germs, and Steel

By Jared Diamond

Chapter 13: Necessity's Mother

We have often heard that "necessity is the mother of invention". But many things go unappreciated simply because its first model isn't very good. Take, for instance, the gas engine. It was made when horses were still in full swing and the engine was unnecessary. In fact, many objects come from a series of previous inventions that have gradually been improved. We must also get society to adopt our invention, by making it more effective or giving it social prestige. Also, the receptiveness of a society is very important. If the technology is unnecessary, a society will probably be less receptive.