Two motherless sisters--Bean and Liz--are shuttled to Virginia, where their Uncle Tinsley lives in the decaying mansion that's been in their family for generations. When school starts in the fall, Bean easily adjusts and makes friends, and Liz becomes increasingly withdrawn. Then something happens to Liz and Bean is left to challenge the injustice of the adult world.

"Baseball Joe of the Silver Stars" continues the thrilling and inspiring "Baseball Joe" series written by Lester Chadwick. In this engaging installment, readers are taken on another exciting adventure as Joe Matson, the talented and dedicated baseball player, embarks on a new chapter of his career with the Silver Stars. The story unfolds as Joe Matson's remarkable journey in the world of baseball leads him to the Silver Stars, a team with its own unique challenges and opportunities. Joe's unwavering passion for the game and his exceptional skills propel him forward as he navigates the dynamics of a new team, forms new friendships, and faces a fresh set of opponents. The novel captures the essence of Joe's character as he strives to excel on the field while remaining true to his values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and dedication. Readers witness Joe's interactions with his teammates, coaches, and fans, gaining insight into the camaraderie that defines the world of baseball and the impact of Joe's leadership. "Baseball Joe of the Silver Stars" showcases the excitement of the game, the intensity of the matches, and the thrill of victory. Through vivid descriptions and engaging game sequences, the author transports readers to the heart of the action, allowing them to experience the exhilaration of the baseball diamond. As Joe Matson faces challenges and obstacles, both on and off the field, he continues to evolve as a player and as an individual. The novel explores themes of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence, highlighting Joe's growth as he overcomes adversity and seizes opportunities. Throughout the narrative, the Silver Stars' season unfolds, filled with ups and downs, rivalries, and pivotal moments that test Joe's skills and determination. The novel captures the spirit of competition and the bond that forms among teammates who share a common goal. Beyond the captivating baseball scenes, "Baseball Joe of the Silver Stars" delves into the personal lives of the characters, offering a well-rounded portrayal of their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The story celebrates the impact of sports on individuals and communities, showcasing the positive influence that athletes can have beyond the confines of the playing field. Lester Chadwick's expert storytelling brings the world of baseball to life, creating a narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. "Baseball Joe of the Silver Stars" is a testament to the enduring appeal of sports literature, offering a blend of thrilling athletic action, relatable characters, and valuable life lessons. In summary, "Baseball Joe of the Silver Stars" is a captivating addition to the "Baseball Joe" series, chronicling Joe Matson's journey as he joins the Silver Stars and faces new challenges on and off the baseball diamond. The novel celebrates the excitement of the sport, the power of teamwork, and the personal growth that comes from pursuing one's passion.

This handbook provides the reader with an historical and contemporary overview of the service by women in all branches of the U.S. military, tracing the causes and effects of evolving policies, issues, structural barriers, and cultural challenges on the record and in the future of the accomplishments by women warriors. Women in the United States Armed Forces: A Guide to the Issues covers over a century of accomplishments of military women, from the Civil War to the current wars in the Middle East. Readers will learn, for example, that during World War II, 565 women in the Women's Army Corps stationed in the Pacific theater received combat decorations, proving that women had the courage, strength, and stamina to perform in a combat environment. They will also learn that, perhaps surprisingly, it wasn't until the mid- to late 1970s that women had their first opportunities to serve at sea and as aviators (crew as well as pilots), albeit on noncombatant ships and aircraft. The book's final four chapters discuss the issues that continue to plague women in the military, including sexual harassment, noting that women's performance in America's two-front wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have made a positive difference in attitudes. The handbook closes with an epilogue that is at once a summary of the issues and a call for action.