Classic Authors
Celebrate classic books by authors born in April. Explore timeless thoughts from these literary giants enriching your reading with historical depth and enduring themes.
Marcus Aurelius - April 26, 121 A.D.
William Shakespeare - April 23, 1564
William Wordsworth - April 7, 1770
Booker T. Washington - April 5, 1856
Eudora Welty - April 13, 1909
Harper Lee - April 28, 1926
Meditations
The most famous discourse on the philosophy of Stoicism, which asserts that human happiness arises in part from man's acceptance of his duties and responsibilities. The author advises that one should accept calmly what cannot be avoided and perform one's duties as well as possible.
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Digital Book Number: DB018831
The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
A tragic drama about a young prince attempting to avenge his father's murder. His uncle has seduced Hamlet's mother, killed his father, and usurped his claim to the crown. Hamlet's melancholic, irresolute temperament, however, inhibits decisive action and contributes to more calamities.
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Digital Book Number: DB024285
Selected Poetry
A selection of the work of the English Romantic poet arranged chronologically from 1787-1834. The preface to the second edition of "Lyrical Ballads," dated 1800, is also included.
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Digital Book Number: DB025601
Up from Slavery
The autobiography of the man who was born into slavery, educated himself, and went on to found Tuskegee Institute. 1901.
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Digital Book Number: DB032540
The Optimist's Daughter
Laurel Hand, a middle-aged widow since World War II, returns home to a small Mississippi town after the death of her beloved father, a judge. There she confronts her past to gain a better understanding of herself and her parents. Pulitzer Prize, 1973.
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Digital Book Number: DB031668
To Kill a Mockingbird
Six-year-old Scout and her brother Jem are intrigued by their reclusive neighbor. Meanwhile, their father Atticus, an attorney, defends a black man charged with raping a white woman in their small Alabama town. Some violence and some strong language. Pulitzer Prize. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1960.
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Digital Book Number: DB077672