The combination of fascinating texts, critically up-to-the minute readings and Richard Jacob's engaging, lively approach makes this a book every fan or student of literature should own. Jacobs has assembled an invaluable collection of literary texts and provides accompanying commentaries designed to help you contextualize your own responses. This Introductory work brings together interesting texts and engaging commentary.
The Story of Ain't: America, Its Language, and the Most Controversial Dictionary Ever Published
The Story of Ain’t by David Skinner is the captivating true chronicle of the creation of Merriam Webster’s Third New International Dictionary in 1961, the most controversial dictionary ever published. Skinner’s surprising and engaging, erudite and witty account will enthrall fans of Winchester’s The Professor and the Madman and The Meaning of Everything, and The Know-It-All by A.J. Jacobs, as it explores a culture in transition and the brilliant, colorful individuals behind it.
Digging a swimming pool by hand in Key West, former military policeman Jack Reacher is not pleased when Costello, a private detective, comes nosing around asking questions about him. Determined to keep out of trouble, Reacher conceals his identity. But when he finds Costello dead with his fingertips sliced off, he realizes it is time to move on - and move on fast. Yet two questions worry him: who was Costello's employer, the mysterious Mrs Jacobs? And why is she determined to find Reacher? Moreover, who is Hook Hobie, the vicious and amoral manipulator in a Wall Street office who preys on other people's assets?
Quest for the African Dinosaurs: Ancient Roots of the Modern World
A leading American paleontologist records the landmark discoveries he has made on the continent of Africa, addressing, at the same time, many provocative questions about the world of paleontology in general. A enterprising editor might have boosted sales of this fine book using a different title. Steve Gould's Panda's Thumbs and Flamingo's Smiles do well. Jacobs' depiction of his search for African dinosaur fossils deserves no less.
W. W. Jacobs - The Monkey's Paw
Oxford Bookworms Library Level 1
You can make three wishes. You can ask for three things - anything in the world. You can wish for the moon, the sun, the stars. How wonderful, you say. But think about it for a minute. When your wish comes true, that is only the beginning. When you change one thing, then you change another, and another. Perhaps you don't want these other changes, but how can you stop them?
