Kate Chopin was one of the best female writers of her era, and was a literary pioneer for the feminist movement. Many of her stories are written in the Louisiana area, specifically New Orleans (The Awakening) and the Acadian area (The Acadian Ball), and as someone who has been to these places, these stories are very moving for me. These stories are especially poignant due to the devastation wrought by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to these areas. Chopin has captured the spirit of Louisiana in her time--the spirits of the white, black, and French Creole people.
I would also recommend a French-English dictionary, as Chopin frequently wrote Cajun French words into her works, giving the stories the Southern regional color she is famous for.
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This edition of 'The Best American Erotica' series is on the cutting edge of the short story genre, not just erotica. This collection of short stories is one of the finest I have come across, with such authors as John Updike and comedian David Sedaris. It ranges from both the gay and straight genres of erotica, as well as the shaky middle ground. The stories in the book are realistic in the sense that the sex is just a vehicle for other emotions the characters are feeling. A highly recommended read when you're feeling a little naughty, but not recommended for anyone with any close-minded ideas about sexual relationships.
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Sophie's World is a history lesson disguised as fiction. The author, Jostein Gaarder, wrote the book so his philosophy students could better understand the history of philosophical thought. However, even if you are just interested in a great plot with lots of twists and turns, this book is highly recommended. I would also recommend this book to children as well--it can really teach them how to think about the world around them
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