"The reading experience of a lifetime ..."--The Washington Post The National Book Award winner takes readers inside the epic fighting retreat of the Nez Perce Indians In this new installment in his acclaimed series of novels examining the collisions between Native Americans and European colonizers, William T. Vollmann tells the story of the Nez Perce War, with flashbacks to the Civil War. Defrauded and intimidated at every turn, the Nez Perces finally went on the warpath in 1877, subjecting the U.S. Army to its greatest defeat since Little Big Horn as they fled from northeast Oregon across Montana to the Canadian border. Vollmann’s main character is not the legendary Chief Joseph, but his pursuer, General Oliver Otis Howard, the brave, shy, tormented, devoutly Christian Civil War veteran. In this novel, we see him as commander, father, son, husband, friend, and killer. Teeming with many vivid characters on both sides of the conflict, and written in an original style in which the printed page works as a stage with multiple layers of foreground and background, The Dying Grass is another mesmerizing achievement from one of the most ambitious writers of our time.

This commentary views the Song of Songs as a collection of love poems that pays tribute to mutual love, and it carefully examines features of Hebrew poetry in order to uncover the delicacy of their expression. It is unique in the attention that it gives to the obvious feminine perspective of the poems and to their ecosensitive character. Whether it is the woman in awe of the strength and splendor of her lover or the man praising her physical charms, the descriptions all call on elements from the natural world to characterize the feature being described.

"A Girl in Spring-Time" by Mrs. George de Horne Vaizey is a charming and evocative novel that captures the essence of youth, love, and the enchantment of the changing seasons. Set against the backdrop of spring, the story follows the journey of a young girl as she navigates the complexities of growing up and discovering the joys and challenges of life and love. The narrative unfolds during the vibrant and rejuvenating season of spring, symbolizing a time of renewal and new beginnings. The title "A Girl in Spring-Time" suggests that the story revolves around a young protagonist and her experiences during this season of transformation. The novel beautifully portrays the girl's coming-of-age journey, filled with innocence, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. As she interacts with the world around her, readers witness her blossoming into a young woman, gaining insights into herself and the world. At the heart of the story is the theme of love, which is often intertwined with the metaphorical imagery of spring. The girl's encounters and relationships with others, particularly with potential romantic interests, reflect the tender and delicate nature of budding emotions. Through her interactions and experiences, readers are invited to explore the complexities of young love and its impact on personal growth. The setting plays a significant role in the narrative, as the lush landscapes and vibrant colors of spring create an enchanting backdrop for the characters' journeys. The changing seasons mirror the characters' evolving emotions and experiences, creating a sense of harmony between the external environment and their internal worlds. As the girl navigates the challenges and joys of her journey, she learns important life lessons and gains a deeper understanding of herself and those around her. The novel celebrates the beauty and fleeting nature of youth, as well as the transformative power of love and the seasons. In "A Girl in Spring-Time," Mrs. George de Horne Vaizey masterfully captures the essence of spring as a metaphor for youth, growth, and love. Through the girl's experiences and emotions, readers are transported to a world of beauty, emotion, and the timeless enchantment of a girl's journey into womanhood.

Text is a series of reflections on biblical passages written for children and adults.