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- The Hobo Philosopher
- Roughing IT
- Witty, Insightful, and Entertaining
- A Different Time
- Most amazing book ever...
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Roughing It (Enriched Classic Series)
Mark Twain
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The Innocents Abroad: or, The New Pilgrims' Progress (Modern Library Classics)
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ASIN: 0743436504 |
Amazon.com
There is no nicer surprise for a reader than to discover that an acknowledged classic really does deliver the goods. Mark Twain's Roughing It is just such a book. The adventure tale is a delight from start to finish and is just as engrossing today as it was 125 years ago when it first appeared.
Roughing It tells the true-ish escapades of Twain in the American West. Although he clearly "speaks with forked tongue," Roughing It is informative as well as humorous. From stagecoach travel to the etiquette of prospecting, the modern reader gains considerable insight into that much-fictionalized time and place. Do you know about sagebrush, for example?
Sage-brush is very fair fuel, but as a vegetable it is a distinguished failure. Nothing can abide the taste of it but the jackass and his illegitimate child, the mule. But their testimony to its nutritiousness is worth nothing, for they will eat pine knots, or anthracite coal, or brass filings, or lead pipe, or old bottles, or anything that comes handy, and then go off looking as grateful as if they had had oysters for dinner.
Roughing It is informally structured around the narrator's attempts to strike it rich. He meets a motley, colorful crew in the process; many mishaps occur, and it shouldn't surprise you that Twain does not emerge a man of means. But he withstands it all in such a relentless good humor that his misfortune inspires laughter. Roughing It is wonderful entertainment and reminds you how funny the world can be--even its grimmer districts--when you're traveling with the right writer.
Book Description
Though known throughout the world for his fictional novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain was also a skilled chronicler of his own life and experiences. In his youth, Twain traveled extensively throughout the untamed American West with his brother, working his way from town to town in a variety of jobs, including gold prospector, reporter, and lecturer. Roughing It is Twain's personal recollection of his wanderlust years. It is a wildly humorous adventure yarn that combines hard facts with a healthy dose of the author's unique perspective, one that helped define the course of American literature.
Pocket Books' Enriched Classics present the great works of world literature enriched for the contemporary reader. This edition of Roughing It has been prepared by Professor Henry B. Wonham of the University of Oregon. It includes his introduction, notes, selection of critical excerpts, and suggestions for further reading as well as a unique visual essay of period illustrations and photographs.
Download Description
Originally published over 100 years ago, Roughing It was Mark Twain's second major work after the success of his 1869 travel book, Innocents Abroad. This time Twain travels through the wild west of America. With relentless good humor, Twain tells of his misfortunes during the quest to strike it rich by prospecting in the silver mines. Wonderfully entertaining, Twain successfully finds humor in spite of his mishaps while also giving the reader insight into that time and place of American history. Marvelously illustrated with numerous pictures.
Customer Reviews:
The Hobo Philosopher.......2007-09-15
This is the first Mark Twain book that I ever read. It is about his "Going West Young man" around the time of the Civil War. If you like travel books this is a classic. America and Americans, people and human nature and Mark Twain's take on the whole bit. If you have never read any of Mark Twain's non-fiction this is a great place to start. I don't really know if America has produced and funnier, more cleaver humorist than this man. If we have I have yet to find him. This book will never die - not as long as there are humans around with a sense of humor.
Roughing IT.......2007-07-30
If you are into stories about the old west, Twain tells it like it was but with a great humorous twist. A great book, really enjoyed it. Wish I had found it years ago, but better late than never.
Witty, Insightful, and Entertaining.......2007-06-27
It appears as though Clemens was ahead of the times with this book. The relatively short chapters seem like they could entertain readers who know nothing other than Dan Brown. As anecdote spills in anecdote, readers can't help but keep reading this book. I was surprised by how many times I found myself laughing out loud either from witticisms or the situational irony throughout the book. Altogether, a great read, that has prompted me to buy Innocents Abroad.
A Different Time.......2007-06-27
This is a good read that describes life in a different time. Some of it is factual and some is stretched but it is all entertaining.
Most amazing book ever..........2006-09-26
Mark Twain has been my favorite author since I read Huckleberry Finn in sixth grade. I've tried extremely hard to read every single word he's written (besides, I assume, personal letters)...including, of course, the complete short stories (I love The Diaries of Adam and Eve, by the way)...but I digress.
Roughing It is one of my top three books of all time (the other two, in case anyone was wondering, are Les Miserables and Into Thin Air [didn't say it was from a literary standpoint, just my personal opinion]). This is mostly because of the remarkably sharp prose. I love that this stuff (or most of it) actually happened to him, that he doesn't mind putting himself down and doesn't even make a big deal out of it...and...of course...The Book of Mormon. Who in their right mind wouldn't immediately fall in love with Mr. Twain after reading his dissection of The Book of Mormon?
Other reviewers have mentioned the digressions that they feel take away from the overall book. The entire book, my friends, is a digression. That is the point of the book. Those years of his life had ABSOLUTELY NO POINT. He was digressing from his life. That's what makes it hilarious. He just jumps from place to place (the first part is all about his travels in a stagecoach to become the undersecretary, a position he desperately wanted, or at least sarcastically-desperately...and then when he finally gets to Carson he gets bored in about a chapter and leaves, and never goes back). I love how there's something quotably hilarious about every other paragraph, and the understatement of the humour just makes it more hilarious!
I've read this book three times in about four years, and I recommend it to about anyone interested in an extremely funny...diversion.
Customer Reviews:
Creative ideas for camping.......2006-06-19
This really is a cool book, with all sorts of ideas for cooking in the outdoors, many that I had never thought of, (like cooking eggs and bacon in a bag stuck on a stick over the fire). The first part of the book talks about outdoor cooking at home, and has some neat frugal ideas for outdoor parties, then the book delves into camping for a chapter or so. (Dian has some really good organizational ideas for large and small groups.) The last 3/4 of the book is devoted to camp cooking. The ideas for cooking over the fire are really cool, and for someone who has done only a bit of camping and car camping at that, really unusual. However, if you like your food fresh and not from a can or packet, the recipes are pretty useless. Here are your cakes made from cake mix and canned fruit, casseroles with cream of whatever soup and all sorts of seasoning packets. If this sort of thing does'nt bother you, then the book should be perfect, if you're a health nut like me, it will.
some innovative ideas.......2005-07-20
This book had many neat ideas to try with the kids while camping. I learned much about cooking actually in the coals and also using the dutch oven. I would reccomend this book to anyone new to camping or to intermediate campers who want to try new ideas.
Ideas galore to save money.......2003-02-17
I first read this book as a teenage boy scout. I had camped once a month for many years and had tried all kinds of tricks to save money when camping, make your own gear, fun outdoor recipes, etc. but this book had tons of new ideas I had never heard of. 20 years after the first edition of this book means the author has updated it to our times, but it still great. This has always been indespensable to me. It really has made camping more fun and I reccommend it to anyone that takes kids camping, but you don't have to have them to try this stuff.
Lots of delicious recipes and methods to cook, but other stuff on first aid and making your campsite comfortable in many ways is featured. Features many ways to build a fire, how to make firestarters to speed up your firestarting, make your own waterproof matches, make your own campstove.
She shows you how to make a meal in a hollowed orange (cake in an orange!)or onion nestled in the coals! Cook eggs on a flat rock, recipes to cook on sticks, in foil, etc. Lots of ideas for home made items that will save you time and money in the woods. A hot water tank that sits in the fire; an outdoor sink made in seconds with a shovel and garbage bag; how to keep your pans clean the easy way; packing lists; use a can for a rolling pin in a pich; how to make lanterns from cans. One of my favorits was the tiny stove you make out of a coffee can. How to make a reflector oven for the woods, and 3 more types of ovens. (how about a cardboard box for an oven, it works).
Other books published since have borrowed some ideas from this one, but they were here first. Pictures and sketches on nearly every page are very helpful. The writing style is fun and easy to read.
A good purchase.......2002-12-27
This is a good purchase for families who are hesitant to go "all out" on camping.
It's a wonderful start for beginners, and a great source for scout leaders who want to expand their cooking/camping library.
Good solid ideas for camping and preparedness.......2002-07-17
I don't have the new updated edition, but I bought the old edition when it came out in the 70's. Very useful ideas. I really like Diane Thomas' books. the best part is that her ideas are SIMPLE AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND.
--George Stancliffe
Book Description
Escape to the Great Outdoors in Style!
Fill your lungs with country air, ride horsebak through a lush valley, spy on starfish, or hike into the desert—and still return to a good meal, fresh sheets, and a hot shower. Our accommodations are handpicked according to four criteria—wilderness setting, serenity, seclusion, and environmental awareness—then divided into categories that describe the experience:
Family Hideout: Discover the great outdoors at full-service resorts and kid-friendly guest ranches with wholesome meals and organized activities like gold panning, lake swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Romantic Retreat: Explore a nearby nature reserve, enjoy rock-climbing class together, take an afternoon snooze by the lake. End your day in secluded adult-oriented accommodations with bubbles and bubbly in an outdoor tub.
Laid-back Adventure: Take it easy in a log lodge or lakefront hotel where activity staff can recommend river-rafting sites and gentle hikes. Return to a soothing back and hot meal.
Rustic Escape: Immerse yourself in nature while staying in a no-frills cottage or cabin. Fire farm-stand vegetables on the grill outside and make your own coffee, just the way you like it.
Luxurious Resort: Indulge yourself at lavish lodgings nestled in the mountains, miles from civilization. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace and a hotstone massage with a stunning river view.
Tranquil Outpost: Saunter along winding trails past glassy mountain lakes and herds of buffalo. Return to a hot tub and hearty meal in your cozy lodge tucked away in the woods
_________________________________________________________________
Enrich your experience, visit www.fodors.com
• Research and book airlines and hotels.
• Link quickly to other travel sites.
• Talk to your fellow Fodor's traveler.
Customer Reviews:
Great places if you really want to get away from it all!.......2006-10-29
A very interesting book. Some of the places are REALLY isolated. I'm always a little bit cautious about being so cut off from civilization, in case of a medical emergency. However, if you are young and healthy, the book is filled with great ideas.
Any journeying within the U.S. will relish this gathering.......2006-10-15
A further addition to the title in the form of a subtitle stating 'Within the USA' would keep travelers from anticipating a world-wide coverage of such nature spots: be that was it may, any journeying within the U.S. will relish this gathering of romantic lodges, cabins, out-of-the-way scenic park areas and more. Don't expect a single paragraph of description here: each listing includes multiple paragraphs describing the lodging, surrounding areas, price range, and outdoors services nearby.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
Spreads Itself Too Thin.......2006-08-06
The book is a good idea that disappoints. By covering all 50 states plus all the Canadian provinces, there is very little for each state. Typically, a state gets 2 to 4 entries. This concept might work better in a set of regional guide books.
great research.......2006-07-20
It is a nice overview and selection in helping choose a beautiful location yet away from the crowds if you desire. Thank you Fodors
Average customer rating:
- A COMIC GENIUS
- ROUGHING IT
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Roughing It (Mark Twain Library)
Mark Twain
Manufacturer: University of California Press
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Mark Twain's Letters from Hawaii
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No. 44, The Mysterious Stranger (Twain, Mark//Mark Twain Library)
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ASIN: 0520238923 |
Book Description
o Includes all 304 first-edition illustrations by True Williams, Edward F. Mullen, and others
o Provides the first and only text that adheres to the author's wishes in details of wording, spelling, and punctuation, restored from original sources.
o Features expert annotation, specially prepared maps, facsimile manuscript pages, and other supplementary documents
o Reproduces the text and notes of the Mark Twain Project's 1993 edition, winner of the Modern Language Association Prize for a "Distinguished Scholarly Edition"
Mark Twain's humorous account of his six years in Nevada, San Francisco, and the Sandwich Islands is a patchwork of personal anecdotes and tall tales, many of them told in the "vigorous new vernacular" of the West. Selling seventy five thousand copies within a year of its publication in 1872, Roughing It was greeted as a work of "wild, preposterous invention and sublime exaggeration" whose satiric humor made "pretension and false dignity ridiculous." Meticulously restored from a variety of original sources, the text is the first to adhere to the author's wishes in thousands of details of wording, spelling, and punctuation, and includes all of the 304 first-edition illustrations. With its comprehensive and illuminating notes and supplementary materials, which include detailed maps tracing Mark Twain's western travels, this Mark Twain Library Roughing It must be considered the standard edition for readers and students of Mark Twain.
Customer Reviews:
A COMIC GENIUS.......2006-11-17
(born Nov.1835, Florida, Mo.,US-died April 21,1910, Redding,Conn.)
-humorist,writer and lecturer.
'ROUGHING IT'is Twain's decription of his adventures in Nevada,Califonia,and the Sandwich Islands originally published in (1872).After the immediate success of the publication of 'THE INNOCENTS ABROAD'which firmly established Twain's reputation as a writer he was spurned on by the AMERICAN PUBLISHING COMPANY to bring out a volume based on his experiences in the west.Thus, 'ROUGHING IT' was created.A highly entertaining and humurous narrative of his escapades in the Western United States towards the end of the 19th Century.
A little taste:
from (copyright 1979 Running Press)
This is the before and after descriptions of a company of men lost in a snow storm-with little or no hope of survival.
Before (impending doom)
"...Poor Ollendorff broke down and the tears came.He was not alone,for I
was crying too,and so was Mr. Ballou.Ollendorff forgave me for things
I had done and said.Then he got out his bottle of whisky and said that whether he lived or died he would never touch another drop.He said he had given up all hope of life,and although ill-prepared,was ready to submit humbly to his fate-----------Mr.Ballou made remarks of similar purport,and began the reform he could not live to continue,by throwing away his ancient pack of cards--------My own remarks were of the same tenor as those of my comrades.We were all sincere,and all deeply moved and earnest,for we were in the precense of death and without hope.I threw away my pipe,and in doing it,I felt that at last I was free of a hated vice and one that had ridden me like a tyrant all my life.We put our arms around each other's necks and awaited the warning drowziness that occurs with death by freezing.
After-(Alive and Well)
After breakfast we felt better,and the zest of life soon came back.The world looked bright again,and existence was as dear to us as ever.Presently and uneasiness came over me-grew upon me-assailed me without ceasing.Alas,my regeneration was not complete-I wanted to smoke!
I resisted with all my strength,but the flesh was weak.I wandered away alone and wrestled with myself for an hour.I recalled my promises of reform and preached to myself persuasively,unbraidingly,exaustively.But all was in vain,I shortly found myself sneaking amoung the snowdrifts hunting for my pipe.I discovered it after a considerable search,and crept away to hide myself to enjoy it.At last I lit my pipe,and no human can feel meaner and baser than I did then.I was ashamed of being in my own pitiful company.Still dreading discovery,I felt that perhaps the further side of the barn would be somewhat safer,and so I turned the corner.As I turned the corner,smoking,Ollendorff turned the other with his bottle to his lips,and between us sat unconscious Ballou deep in a game of "solitaire" with the old greasy cards..."
Turn to Chapters 22 and 23 for a more cohesive description of this comic episode. Laughter is good medicine,and this is a fun read on one of those gloomy days you might encounter along your way. Enjoy.Good health!
ROUGHING IT.......2005-09-18
This "Mark Twain Project" paperback edition of ROUGHING IT is by far the best version for most readers. It is an excellent value. The 200 pages of "Explanatory Notes" at the end, add greatly to the modern reader's understanding of the 1860's "Wild West". The Early Western Mining Frontier comes vividly and colorfully to life, thanks to the Explanatory Notes' full illumination of the fascinating, often hilarious, eyewitness account of young Sam Clemens.
The 21st century reader now sees the momentous impact of Samuel Colt's "Navy Revolver" on frontier society, fully comprehends a "Stamp Mill's" importance to the silver mines of the Comstock Lode, and is in complete agreement about the "thoroughbrace's" necessity to the Overland Stage traveler's comfort! This edition also contains all 304 first edition illustrations, another great aid allowing the modern reader to take a virtual walk into a vanished time.
In the "Foreword" to this edition, Editor Harriet Elinor Smith notes, " The vernacular style of ROUGHING IT often seems surprisingly fresh to modern readers.....". I'm betting that many readers, younger ones especially, may approach this book with dread, only to become immersed in the rollicking adventure, and reach the end of ROUGHING IT with regret. The readers who return for a second, third or more reading, will discover many levels of depth to ROUGHING IT that will continue to entertain and educate reading after reading, year after year.
From the "Foreword" to this edition, Editor Smith also observes, "Although readers have long been entertained by ROUGHING IT, it has gradually become part of all serious study of American culture. Students of history have come to rely on it for accurate information about the period, and it has played a major role in shaping the myth of the "Wild West".......No examination of American popular culture would be complete without Mark Twain's imaginative reminiscence of what it was like to be "on the ground in person"".
So, if you are tired of all this bickering between the North and South, and feel it may be healthier to get away from the tensions, I hear tell there's a great silver strike in a new territory called "Nevada", near a place called "Virginia City". It's July 1861 and there is an Overland Stage westbound, St Joseph, Missouri to Carson City, Nevada Territory.
Buckle on your Navy Colt and climb aboard!
Customer Reviews:
Recipe Book for Scouts.......2007-01-09
This is a great recipe book for scouting trips. Some classics are included that the boys really enjoyed (banana boats) as well as some really unique ideas that the boys are looking forward to trying - cooking a chicken in your backpack with hot rocks. Great purchase for camping recipes.
ITS OKAY!.......2005-12-04
I have three of her books and find the best one to be the backyard book and this one is good for the teaching and to get kids into of the cooking but some of them are a little hard for some if you don't bring all that you need to cook and she does repeet her shelf like she is looking for ideas or new food. In all I say its not bad for getting a dead line done.
Great Book for a camper!.......2005-11-22
If you camp with your family, this is great book to take along! It gives a lot of interesting ideas for the whole family! Dian Thomas' book Roughing It Easy is good, too!
same stuff as in first book.......2005-07-20
This book had many of the recipes that were in her first book, Roughing it Easy. Of the new recipes that we tried, most were edible, albeit difficult for camping.
Good Book not will.......2004-03-09
This book was the best book i have ever read. This had the best recipies for outdoor living. Espescially the backpack chicken. If you want a good cooking book, buy this!
Average customer rating:
- The Hobo Philosopher
- Perfect Gift
- Review of INNOCENTS ABROAD by Mark Twain
- As always a wonderful read
- Timeless Twain
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Mark Twain : The Innocents Abroad, Roughing It (Library of America)
Mark Twain
Manufacturer: Library of America
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Roughing It (Enriched Classic Series)
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Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World (Dover Books on Travel, Adventure)
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Twain: Collected Tales, Sketches, Speeches, and Essays: Volume 2: 1891-1910 (Library of America)
ASIN: 0940450259 |
Book Description
The Innocents Abroad is one of the most prominent and influential travel books ever written about Europe and the Holy Land. In it, the collision of the American “New Barbarians” and the European “Old World” provides much comic fodder for Mark Twain—and a remarkably perceptive lens on the human condition. Gleefully skewering the ethos of American tourism in Europe, Twain’s lively satire ultimately reveals just what it is that defines cultural identity. As Twain himself points out, “Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” And Jane Jacobs observes in her Introduction, “If the reader is American, he may also find himself on a tour of his own psyche.”
Customer Reviews:
The Hobo Philosopher.......2007-09-15
I think that I must be one of the few people who has read all of Mark Twain's non-fiction and practically none of his classic works of fiction. I think that Mark Twain is one of the cleaverst philosophers who has ever lived. There is more to be learned in reading Mark Twain than in reading Plato or Aristotle as far as I am concerned.
I think that this was the second Twain travelogue that I read. It is a laugh a minute. I just love this guy. When they say the "wit and wisdom" of Mark Twain they are not kidding. He is really too much ... and he is fun! How can you beat it.
Perfect Gift.......2007-03-05
If you don't know the person for whom you're buying a gift, well get them this. It's laugh-out loud funny even for someone who doesn't read much or who has never heard of Twain.
Review of INNOCENTS ABROAD by Mark Twain.......2007-01-15
In what must have been the first organized tour by Americans of the Old World, Mark Twain tells of his experiences as a member of a party of 150 taking a cruise steamer to tour the European mainland, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.
The "innocents" of the title applies to Twain and his comrades. It shows partly in their naivete such as being flattered by a French shopkeeper into buying a tawdry piece of apparel, and in their assumption that every native guide must be telling the truth. It shows partly in their attempting behavior that seasoned travelers would not attempt, such as riding a donkey all day, or making an evening foray to the shore of Athens--in violation of the quarantine--to observe the Parthenon under the moonlight. It shows mainly in Twain's sense of wonder at the monuments of civilization which tower over him in what seems the first confrontation of American culture with Europe and the East.
There are some memorable moments: Twain's audience with the Czar in the Caucasus; his arduous trek through the Syrian desert to the Holy Land; his measuring the blocks of the Baalbek temples and deciding they were as big as railroad cars; his being harassed by beggars in every town in the Middle East; his being made a virtual prisoner by his guide as he labors up the great pyramid in Egypt. And we realize that throughout this tour of the antiquities, some things remain as they were in 1867. Tour groups are still largely made up of the gray-haired, the Louvre with its miles of art galleries is still overwhelming, the sphinx remains inscrutable, and Arabs still hate Christians.
INNOCENTS ABROAD is typical Mark Twain, full of his humor, irony, and exaggeration. Brevity is not its virtue, however.
I found this non-fiction work useful for its travel information, but even more readable for its digressions: those anecdotes, legends, spoofs, and mini-essays that liberally infuse the book. Twain's reproduction of a fancied playbill for the Coliseum of 2,000 years ago is hilarious. His well-evidenced argument that Egypt is the wellspring of western culture is a startling one. His portrayal of his experience in the Tomb of the Holy Sepulcher shows a devoutness that we do not associate with this American iconoclast. In fact, he marshals a fund of knowledge of the Bible and Christian history in demonstrating that Ephesus, now largely in ruins, is really the most important city in Christendom.
I purchased INNOCENTS ABROAD after I read it. It is the only book of Twain's that I own, because I will want to read its passages again and again, to myself and to others.
As always a wonderful read.......2006-12-02
Twain is not only timeless but his observations may seem all the more timely. This excellent read follows him on a journey to Europe and then the Middle East in the 1860s. We learn much about the time period and his observations are helpful in learning about the past, we see the brutality od the slave market in Istanbul where European slaves are sold, we see the arrogance of the europeans and we see the true view of the 'Holy Land' as Twain puts to shame former romantic accounts of the land of the Bible and brings it to life in its brutal squalor. Twain is ever cynical and whitty and in this the read sheds light on a nascent quinitsential Americanism. The American culture of Twain is not taken in with old europe, he is not impressed by luxory and he is not easily taken in with romance, there is no Lawrence of Arabia in Twain, there is skepticism about religion, about the Catholic church. People are not inherently good or evil, but jaded, Twain has a sense of justice but he dares to challenge his contemporaries and ironically the way his contemporaries viewed say the European or the Arab beoduin, has not changed in 140 years. Twain dared to challenge popular thought and in that he was one of the first Americans.
Seth J. Frantzman
Timeless Twain.......2006-11-14
Journey to the east in 1860's with the best travel writer ever, Mark Twain.
Colorful descriptions of people, places and events abroad with Twain humor. If you love travel stories, this will delight you.
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Mark Twain: 10 Books in 1. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Tom Sawyer Abroad, Tom Sawyer, Detective, Huckleberry Finn, Life On The Mississippi, The Prince ... Roughing It, and Following The Equator
Mark Twain
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Mark Twain's Helpful Hints for Good Living: A Handbook for the Damned Human Race
ASIN: 0954840186 |
Book Description
Ten of Mark Twain's best-loved works, each a classic of American literature, brought together for the first time in a single, great-value volume. An ideal gift for any fan of the wit and wisdom of Mark Twain.
Customer Reviews:
Large! - good value.......2006-11-08
A really big book, 10 works in one. Ideal for long journeys (which Twain took a few of himself!).
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- An interesting look at the "Play Kingdom" of Hawaii
- A very interesting look at Hawaii in the 1860s.
- Mark Twain Does Hawaii
- Very Interesting and Informative
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Mark Twain in Hawaii: Roughing It in the Sandwich Islands
Mark Twain , and
Day A. Grove
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The Betrayal of Liliuokalani: Last Queen of Hawaii 1838-1917
ASIN: 0935180931 |
Customer Reviews:
An interesting look at the "Play Kingdom" of Hawaii.......2007-05-04
Mark Twain provides a good treatment of the whole Hawaiian experience and pokes fun at missionaries, the royal family, and just life in general. The introduction to this edition makes it very readable. My only disappointment is that the "Letters from the Sandwich Islands" published by Twain in 1866 are not included; at least one should have been used to illustrate the two different writing styles Twain used. The short description in the introduction probably don't do the original letters justice.
A very interesting look at Hawaii in the 1860s........2003-10-06
It was particularly interesting to read Mark Twain's account of the lava flowing in Kilauea crater. That was a much more active time for Kilauea that the current lava flows there. I also very much enjoyed Twain's humor.
Mark Twain Does Hawaii.......2002-03-13
I picked up this book at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu and read it while touring around Oahu and Molokai in late 2001. Having been to all the islands of Hawaii I can say this work really catches the flavor of the place. Twain narrates his own adventures as well as providing his unique commentary on the customs, culture and history of the islands.
A very entertaining piece, particularly for those who have been to Hawaii or are planning a trip.
Very Interesting and Informative.......2000-06-11
This is a book taken from the letters of Mark Twain during his visit to the Sandwich Islands,which are now Hawaii. It is a very interesting and informative look at Hawaii in the 1800's. Mark Twain uses his usual humorous and lively writing to tell of his experiences and adventures while there. Experiences from the humorous writing about his horse "Oahu" to his adventures touring the islands and volcanos by horseback and entering an active volcano crater at night! He also tells of the great beauty of the islands and rain forests. Very good book and easy to read and understand.
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Roughing It (Dover Value Editions)
Mark Twain
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ASIN: 0486427048 |
Book Description
These memoirs recount the writer and humorist's scuffling years with spirited travels across the American West and all the way to Hawaii. From the stage drivers and desperadoes of the Great Plains and the mines and miners of Nevada to the climate and characteristics of San Francisco and the amusing and unexpected traits of Sandwich Island civilization.
Customer Reviews:
its ok.......2001-12-15
i read this book and i learned alot thank you
Great ideas for novice and experienced outdoor cooks.......1998-03-02
As an outdoor trainer, I find this (and other Dian Thomas books) invaluable parts of my personal training library. She offers many simple yet intriguing ideas for outdoor cooking fun, suitable for novices or experienced cooks who want to add flair to their outdoor cooking experiences. My particular favorites are the wheelbarrow grills (great when the local ordinances will not allow us to build a fire on the ground) and the turkey cooked hung from a tripod (We fed 15 people with a "bird" done this way. It took a lot of work to set it up, but we were paid off in oohs & ahs for our inventiveness!)
"Roughing It Easy" is da bomb!!!!.......1997-11-29
Roughing it easy was problably the best camping book I have ever read. It had lots of inovative ideas that made my camping experience very memroable. Another book I might recomend is Roughing it Easy 2.
One of the few down to earth fun camping/cooking books ever!.......1997-03-04
I have over 35 years experience in camping, hiking, survival
training and having fun and a great experience in the back yard
and the wilderness. This book offers a smile and easy fun for
enjoying the rough aspects of the outdoors. I am sincerely
disappointed that it is out of print. It must be that the
publishers has his/her toenails done daily, because he/she
has no clue as to what enjoyment this book can bring away from their overdomestication. I have
worn out my first copy (the one with the colored pics), but
smiled doing so.
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- Sales Dogs : You Do Not Have to Be an Attack Dog to Be Successful in Sales (Rich Dad's Advisors series)
- Sandworms of Dune
- Seize the Work Day: Using the Tablet PC to Take Total Control of Your Work and Meeting Day
- Speaking of Slavery: Color, Ethnicity, and Human Bondage in Italy (Conjunctions of Religion and Power in the Medieval Past)
- Tales of Hoffmann (Penguin Classics)
- Tess of the D'Urbervilles (Penguin Classics)
- The Aeneid
- The Age of Innocence
- The Assistant: A Novel
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