Set in 1922, this beautiful romantic story follows four very different women who feel unhappy in rainy London. They rent a medieval castle in Italy for April, where they rediscover happiness amidst flowers and sunshine. Suitable for intermediate level readers (B1), targeting 8th to 9th graders.
Elizabeth von Arnim Books
Known as "Elizabeth and Her German Garden," this author captivated readers with her witty and observant prose. Her works frequently explore themes of solitude, the search for self, and the complexities of human connection, often within the constraints of societal expectations. She masterfully employs irony and subtle humor to portray characters navigating their quests for meaning and fulfillment in restrictive environments. Her distinctive style blends introspective depth with a light narrative touch.







Elizabeth and her German Garden (The Penguin English Library)
- 112 pages
- 4 hours of reading
' "Oh, my dear, relations are like drugs, - useful sometimes, and even pleasant, if taken in small quantities and seldom, but dreadfully pernicious on the whole, and the truly wise avoid them" ' Taking respite from the Man of Wrath, her children and her stifling household, Elizabeth discovers that the path to joy lies in having a garden, rather than a room, of one's own. This enchanting semi-autobiographical novel delighted readers when it first appeared in 1898 and has never been out of print since. The Penguin English Library - collectable general readers' editions of the best fiction in English, from the eighteenth century to the end of the Second World War.
Alternative Construction P
- 416 pages
- 15 hours of reading
This comprehensive guide explores the integration of traditional natural materials with modern construction methods, covering techniques like straw-bale, cob, and bamboo. It includes expert insights, ecological design principles, and over 200 visuals, making it essential for architects, designers, and homeowners seeking sustainable building solutions.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
The Letters of her Mother
- 234 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Verses
- 78 pages
- 3 hours of reading
Rebecca's Mid-Life
- 176 pages
- 7 hours of reading
The Enchanted April (1922)
- 368 pages
- 13 hours of reading
Set in a dreary women's club in London, the story unfolds when Mrs. Wilkins, seeking a brief escape from her mundane life, discovers an intriguing advertisement in The Times' Agony Column. This chance encounter sparks a journey that promises adventure and transformation, as she contemplates the possibility of a new experience away from her routine. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery and the pursuit of happiness amidst societal constraints.
The April Baby's Book of Tunes, With the Story of how They Came to be Written
- 130 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Featuring a delightful assortment of tunes and nursery rhymes, this collection showcases enchanting illustrations by Kate Greenaway. First published in 1900, it serves as a timeless treasure for parents, children, and enthusiasts of children's literature, celebrating the joy of storytelling through music and art.
The Pastor's Wife (1914)
- 496 pages
- 18 hours of reading
Christine, a young woman married to pastor Karl Albrecht, grapples with the expectations of her role and the isolation it brings. As she struggles to connect with the congregation's women, who prioritize gossip over support, her identity becomes overshadowed by her husband's reputation. Gradually, Christine questions her life as a pastor's wife and begins to explore her own passions, such as writing. This novel poignantly examines the pressures of traditional roles and the quest for self-discovery and fulfillment amidst societal constraints.