Literature - Free e-Library - Recommended Books - Favorites
Were you to spend the rest of your life reading, it would not be a wasted life. You would die a rich and thoughtful person with a life filled with meaning.
Immediately below this is a brief, brief introduction to literature I made for some students that focus on a few classics from China, England and the U.S. and use very basic vocabulary.
Below that is a free (small but growing) e-library, some books for teens recommended by experts and then some of my favorites. .
Immediately below this is a brief, brief introduction to literature I made for some students that focus on a few classics from China, England and the U.S. and use very basic vocabulary.
Below that is a free (small but growing) e-library, some books for teens recommended by experts and then some of my favorites. .
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LIBRARY AND BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
It's my belief that nine out of ten books have wrong information, are out-of-date, or just boring and pointless, but one out of ten books is more than you can read in a lifetime!
Some of what's below are called "e-books." You can have them for free. Just download to your computer. If you've got the right kind of phone, you can take them with you anywhere. Books are doorways to other lives you'd otherwise never imagine. I hope everyone who comes here falls in love with at least one book.
Below this section is another section with books recommended for teens by experts, and below that are books that I have loved.
Gotta say I love the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy Series!
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The broad narrative of Hitchhiker follows the misadventures of the last surviving man, Arthur Dent, following the demolition of the planet Earth by a Vogon constructor fleet to make way for a hyperspace bypass. Dent is rescued from Earth's destruction by Ford Prefect, a human-like alien writer for the eccentric, electronic travel guide The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. (Source: Wikipedia)
At least some of this series of books can be bought on Taobao. They are extremely creative, colorful, and oddly philosophical in a funny way. Oops! Gotta wait 70 years for copyright to expire to download free versions of these GREAT books -->
My advice however, is don't wait, spend a couple of dollars and expand your minds, NOW! |
Reading books by Douglas Adams can double your IQ!!!!
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Below are some free downloads of "classic" literature... very cool!
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The first three books below are by Mark Twain
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Below are a few of my favorite Chinese classics (in English of course!)
Most of my favorite Chinese literary works I couldn't find in pdf format. But, I did find some truly great literature and philosophy I really enjoy. I'll keep looking for:
* Journey to the West
* Three Kingdoms
* Dream of Red Mansion
* Outlaws of the marsh
See below for a couple of downloads.
* Journey to the West
* Three Kingdoms
* Dream of Red Mansion
* Outlaws of the marsh
See below for a couple of downloads.
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Books For Teens
Recommended by amazon.com and book publishers
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Young women
Sloppy Firsts: A Jessica Darling
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Young Men
Enders Game by: Orson Scott
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Below are BOOKS I'VE READ AND LOVED...
Did you ever want to travel, or even time travel? With books you can. You can enter other worlds, other cultures and times, and experience rich feelings - all the joy and sadness of life without leaving a chair or even your bed. In some ways books are better than friends because you can take them anywhere. Also, reading speed and comprehension are the most important factors in academic success in American universities. So, I hope you choose a book, any book (in English that is) and enjoy it.
In my opinion, nine out of 10 books are boring, out of date and have wrong information. But, one out of 10 is more books than anyone can read in a lifetime. Why mention this? Because good books have to be chosen wisely! If the book you're reading doesn't speak to your heart, doesn't make you think, doesn't grab you and hold your attention, then... toss it in the garbage and get a different book.
In my opinion, nine out of 10 books are boring, out of date and have wrong information. But, one out of 10 is more books than anyone can read in a lifetime. Why mention this? Because good books have to be chosen wisely! If the book you're reading doesn't speak to your heart, doesn't make you think, doesn't grab you and hold your attention, then... toss it in the garbage and get a different book.
The following is one of the best history books I've ever read...
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The Silk Roads - A New History of the World, by Peter Frankopan
The Silk Roads always were, and still are the "Heart of the World."
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Below are books I enjoyed when I was a kid...
The Good Earth by Pearl Buck
I think this was the first full length novel I ever read, probably when I was about seven years old. It's a powerful story.
The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain
Another one of the first books I ever read. I HIGHLY recommend this to Middle and High School EFL students.
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe
Did you ever want to get away from it all and live on an island? Here's the story for you!
Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
Story of an orphan boy in 18th century England.
The first really long novel I ever read, probably at the age of 10 or so.
The first really long novel I ever read, probably at the age of 10 or so.
Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach and Russell Munson
Tranquility yields transcendence (idiom); quiet life of profound study
Still waters run deep
宁静致远
Still waters run deep
宁静致远
The Complete Chronicles of Conan by Robert Howard
This is probably more for the boys, but I like adventure stories. I found this series by Robert Howard when I was about 12.
Spartacus by Howard Fast
Though there are many books and movies about Spartacus, this one has always been my favorite. I first heard his story when I was about 7 years old traveling in Italy. It moved and inspired me then, and it it still does today. This book does not have all the gratuitous violence and sex found in the recent movie series, but this story is extremely powerful.
Freedom from the Known by Jiddu Krishnamurti
You can be free, but it takes courage and effort to let go of prejudices and step outside the boxes.
The Human Zoo by Desmond Morris (1969)
We are more like animals than anyone wants to admit.
On Aggression by Konrad Lorenz
The most amazing look into human and animal behavior. This guy is brilliant!
On Being Human by Ashley Montagu (1966)
We are not simply programmed by our DNA. We are really, mostly the products of our learning. And, we can control that. Montague disagrees a lot with what Konrad Lorenz writes. Both are brilliant.
Beyond Freedom & Dignity by B. F. Skinner
Skinner also argues that we humans really are the products of our learning.
But, he also argues that we are not free, and and free will does not really exist.
But, he also argues that we are not free, and and free will does not really exist.
Walden by Henry David Thoreau
America's greatest naturalist poet and philosopher, in my opinion. He loved nature and lived harmoniously with it.
The Dragons of Eden - by Carl Sagan
About the evolution of the brain and the role of corporations in the world.
Absolutely mind blowing!
Siddhartha by Herman Hesse
Definately was and remains one of my favorite books. Full of the meaning of life and enlightenment, friendship and freedom. First read about age 14. I read a lot of Zen poetry and also books by D.T. Suzuki about Buddhism.
The Tao Te Ching of Lao Tzu by Lao Tzu
I've read many translations of this book and just about memorized it. Short, powerful, filled with mystery. Can't say I understand it, but it's a reflection of nature as pure as moonlight on rippling water.
Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T.E. Lawrence
Fascinating look into old Arabia, by a man who loved the desert.
THE TWELVE CEASARS. by Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus
Stories of the Roman Ceasars.
Reading this ancient book one realizes what shallow idiots we modern people have become.
His insights and wisdom are astonishing.
Reading this ancient book one realizes what shallow idiots we modern people have become.
His insights and wisdom are astonishing.
BELOW ARE A FEW SCIENCE FICTION NOVELS that are GREAT!!!
The Foundation Trilogy by Isaac Asimov
Imagine being able to predict the future.
This series of books postulates the evolution of a science called: Psychohistory. With it a man predicted that the universe would go into another Dark Ages. It could not be prevented, but there was a way to shorten it. Amazingly intelligent, exciting, thought provoking. I read these during my teenage years.
This series of books postulates the evolution of a science called: Psychohistory. With it a man predicted that the universe would go into another Dark Ages. It could not be prevented, but there was a way to shorten it. Amazingly intelligent, exciting, thought provoking. I read these during my teenage years.
Dune by Frank Herbert
Another trilogy based on a future universe, but radically different from Foundation. Probably the single most brillian Science Fiction ever written, along side the Foundation Trilogy. Ideas about genetic memory, religious engineering for political purposes, and realistic potential special abilties of all kinds are harmonized into a believable story.
Many Sci Fi fans say Ray Bradbury is the greatest writer of all time, but personally I'll go with Asimov and Herbert!
Many Sci Fi fans say Ray Bradbury is the greatest writer of all time, but personally I'll go with Asimov and Herbert!
The Source by James Michener
Excellent fictional history of the three great monotheistic religions: Islam, Christianity and Judaeism.
I read several books by Michener and liked them all.
I read several books by Michener and liked them all.
Clear and Present Danger by Tom Clancy
Though Tom Clancy has been described as "The chief flag waver of the American military industrial complex," I rather enjoyed many of his books, especially this one. It's not colorful or brilliant, but it is gritty and realistic.
Goddesses in Every Woman: A New Psychology of Women
by Jean Shinoda Bolen (1984)
Fascinating exploration into the roots of religion and human nature.
Ancient Mirrors of Womanhood by Merlin Stone (1979)
Brilliant historical research on ancient Goddess religions.
Robert Ludlum's (TM) The Bourne Dominion (Jason Bourne) by Eric Van Lustbader
A new book I haven't read yet, but I'm going to because:
1. I liked the original Bourne series written by Robert Ludlum (I read them 20 years ago).
2. I read everything Eric Van Lustbader wrote, starting with: "The Ninja."
Robert Ludlum was a very good writer and the Bourne series was the first of the "government conspiracy" genre that I read.
1. I liked the original Bourne series written by Robert Ludlum (I read them 20 years ago).
2. I read everything Eric Van Lustbader wrote, starting with: "The Ninja."
Robert Ludlum was a very good writer and the Bourne series was the first of the "government conspiracy" genre that I read.
World Order by Andrew Goliszek
Another great government conspiracy novel.
The Syndrome by John Case
Great conspiracy novel.
I wish the following were fiction, but alas, they unveil many thinly disguised truths.
Tragic as they are, it's better to know than not know in my humble opinion.
The Untold History of the United States by Oliver Stone and Peter Kuznick
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Former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev wrote approvingly of the book:
Oliver Stone and Peter Kuznick provide a critical overview of US foreign policy during the past few decades. ... Such a perspective is indispensable at a time when decisions are being taken that will shape America's role in the global world of the twenty-first century. At stake is whether the United States will choose to be the policeman of a "Pax Americana", which is a recipe for disaster, or partner with other nations on the way to a safer, more just and sustainable future. (Source: Wikipedia) My only criticism of this book is it goes a bit easy on democrats when they engage in mass genocides and the like. In other regards, it's a great book. |
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Killing Hope - U.S. and CIA Interventions since World War II by William Blum
This is a "classic text" for those who would like to know how the world really works, today.
His Anti-Empire Reports and other things can be found on his site: https://williamblum.org/ Unfortunately this great researcher, social commentator and writer passed away in December 2018. |
The Medieval Origins of the Legal Profession: Canonists, Civilians, and Courts by James A. Brundage
Of course the fact that this was my father's 13th book does not influence my belief that it's his best yet, though I have to admit I rather enjoyed his book: "Richard Lion Heart - A biography," not because it was dedicated to me, but rather because I saw it as a microcosm of European history - in terms of the colorful and detailed grandure and treachery.
Books I've read since moving to China include:
Journey to the West 西游记
(One of the four great novels of classical Chinese literature)
Written in the 1590s this is a fabulous and colorful story of magical monkey King, Sun Su Kong, the Priest Xuanzang and two others companions as they journey to India to bring back the greater vehicle sacred Buddhist sutras for the Emperor. They are helped by the Goddess Bodhisattva Guan
Yin on orders from the Buddha.
Even Chinese students might like these books in English because they're written in contemporary English, whereas most of the Chinese versions are written in very archaic form of Chinese and are difficult to read. (Three volumes)
Yin on orders from the Buddha.
Even Chinese students might like these books in English because they're written in contemporary English, whereas most of the Chinese versions are written in very archaic form of Chinese and are difficult to read. (Three volumes)
Romance of the Three Kingdoms 三国演义 by Luo Guanzhong
(Another of the four great novels of classical Chinese literature)
Written in the 14th Centurn this story is written at the end of the Han dynasty and the warring states period starting in the year 169 and ending in the year 280. Basically three men, Liu Bei, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei swear and alligence to help the country, and end up fighting a brilliant strategist named Cao Cao, the Emperors chief general and minister, who they believe is corrupt and really controlling the empire. (Three volumes)
The Outlaws Of The Marsh 水浒传 by Luo Guanzhong
(Another of the four great novels of classical Chinese literature)
Novel based upon a group of 108 outlaws in the mid-twelth century that fight against corruption in the government, though they always remain loyal to the emperor. (Three volumes)
Dream of the Red Chamber by Cao Xueqin
(Another of the four great novels of classical Chinese literature)
Composed in the mid-eighteenth century it describes the life and social structures of that time. It's kind of a tragic soap opera, with one beautiful girl after another killing herself, mainly by starvation and depression, though the story is centered around a spoiled but kind-hearted boy named Bao Yu, and his love for a girl named Dai Yu. It's definately brilliantly written though and well worth the read, even though it is four books.
The Core of Chinese Classical Fiction Edited by Jianing Chen
Great classical cautionary tales for everyone. Vaguely like Aesops fables - each short story teaches a valuable lesson. Colorful and evergreen!
But, I like contemporary works too, so...
China High: My Fast Times in the 010: A Beijing Memoir by ZZ(Mar 31, 2009)
Sometimes amusing and sometimes tragic story by a real life Chinese American that came back home to China. Full of fascinating insider perceptions about the modern China.
The Overton Window by Glenn Beck
This is a conspiracy theory novel about a very scientific and deliberate manipulation of public perceptions to make just about anything seem acceptable.
Du Fu A life in Poetry Translated by David Young
Possibly the greatest poet in Chinese history, Du Fu (712 - 770) gives sharp, soft, clear pictures and feelings of life, family relationships and nature, ripped out of the pages of time and packed into this eye and mind opening book of poetry.
Of course the above list isn’t comprehensive. As a teenager I also read hundreds of novels and biographies (i.e. I especially liked Abraham Lincoln & Gandhi) and a lot of Chinese and other Asian philosophy, including Confucius, Mencius (Mèng Zǐ), Mo Zi (my favorite, i.e. 兼愛, jiān ài) as well as Lao Tzu, Chuang Tzu, Sun Zi, I-Ching, and so on, in addition to Khalil Gibran, Allen Ginsberg, Miyamoto Musashi, and others, and Western philosophers like Plato, Socrates, Aristotle, Friedrich Nietzsche, Kant, Renee Descartes, Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Goethe, John Locke, Benedict de Spinoza, Hermann Hesse, Aldous Huxley etc.
Of course I read a lot of classical literature, like Aesop, Homer, Herodotus… and Austen, Lewis Carroll, Cervantes, Samuel Clemens, and Defoe, (many times!) and especially liked Charles Dickinson, and Hawthorne, Aleixandre Dumas(!), Faulkner, Kipling, Norman Mailer… but didn’t care too much for Hemingway who I thought was a bit heavy.
I think all the holy books, from the Hindu Bhagavad Gītā, to the Buddhist Sutras (especially the The Heart Sūtra: Prajñāpāramitā), Dao De Jing, Jewish and Christian Bibles (as well as Talmud and the Gnostic texts) and the Quaran (and Hadith) have great wisdom and are definitely worth reading.
As a child my parents were rather strict and we were not allowed much T.V. But, in the U.S. I had access to wonderful libraries that opened my eyes to the world, history and many possible futures, and overseas as a child I had American clubs that usually had really cheap used paperbacks. I traveled a lot as a kid and books are nice because they fit in suitcases, whereas friends unfortunately, don’t.
If friends can open our eyes, heart and mind to the potential grandeur of human nature and the universe, all the great artists, painters, poets, musicians, and writers are our best friends.
“What do you think an artist is? An imbecile who has only his eyes if he is a painter, or his ears if he is a musician, or a lyre at every level of his heart if he is a poet, or, if he is merely a boxer, only his muscles? On the contrary, he is at the same time a political being, constantly alert to the heartrending, burning, or happy events in the world, molding himself in their likeness.” (Quote by Pablo Picasso)
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Piece of an old poem...
Later, just the two of us
talk together from the heart
I came to your gate at dusk
and knocked, a stranger
scarcely thinking that I'd fall
straight into this deep friendship
that nothing else
would really matter
my life just filling up
with goodwill and sheer happiness
a friend I could admire
from whom I could take comfort
while all the disease of all my wanderings
could drop away from me
and this world's superficial friendships
could cease to matter
too bad we meet in my old age
but better late than never
men such as you exist
mainly among the ancients!
Part of a poem by Du Fu
...who found good hospitality at Zizhou in the person of the wealthy vice prefect Yan.
Translation by David Young - P. 149
Of course I read a lot of classical literature, like Aesop, Homer, Herodotus… and Austen, Lewis Carroll, Cervantes, Samuel Clemens, and Defoe, (many times!) and especially liked Charles Dickinson, and Hawthorne, Aleixandre Dumas(!), Faulkner, Kipling, Norman Mailer… but didn’t care too much for Hemingway who I thought was a bit heavy.
I think all the holy books, from the Hindu Bhagavad Gītā, to the Buddhist Sutras (especially the The Heart Sūtra: Prajñāpāramitā), Dao De Jing, Jewish and Christian Bibles (as well as Talmud and the Gnostic texts) and the Quaran (and Hadith) have great wisdom and are definitely worth reading.
As a child my parents were rather strict and we were not allowed much T.V. But, in the U.S. I had access to wonderful libraries that opened my eyes to the world, history and many possible futures, and overseas as a child I had American clubs that usually had really cheap used paperbacks. I traveled a lot as a kid and books are nice because they fit in suitcases, whereas friends unfortunately, don’t.
If friends can open our eyes, heart and mind to the potential grandeur of human nature and the universe, all the great artists, painters, poets, musicians, and writers are our best friends.
“What do you think an artist is? An imbecile who has only his eyes if he is a painter, or his ears if he is a musician, or a lyre at every level of his heart if he is a poet, or, if he is merely a boxer, only his muscles? On the contrary, he is at the same time a political being, constantly alert to the heartrending, burning, or happy events in the world, molding himself in their likeness.” (Quote by Pablo Picasso)
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Piece of an old poem...
Later, just the two of us
talk together from the heart
I came to your gate at dusk
and knocked, a stranger
scarcely thinking that I'd fall
straight into this deep friendship
that nothing else
would really matter
my life just filling up
with goodwill and sheer happiness
a friend I could admire
from whom I could take comfort
while all the disease of all my wanderings
could drop away from me
and this world's superficial friendships
could cease to matter
too bad we meet in my old age
but better late than never
men such as you exist
mainly among the ancients!
Part of a poem by Du Fu
...who found good hospitality at Zizhou in the person of the wealthy vice prefect Yan.
Translation by David Young - P. 149