Epoch Booklist: Recommended Reading For Aug. 1622.

By Proal Heartwell

In the summer of 1927, recent college graduate Robert Martin decides to rent a room in a boarding house in Lawrenceville, Virginia. His intention is to teach at the local high school, immersing himself in the unique time and atmosphere of the town. Through meticulous research, we are transported back to a bygone era, where we encounter a delightful array of characters with their customs, concerns, and attire. This captivating novel artfully blends quiet personal dramas with touches of humor, making it a truly classic read.

By K.C. Sivils

Johann Mueller, seeking refuge from the Nazis, flees Germany to America and finds work as a physicist for the U.S. government. On his way to a Colorado mining town aboard the San Juan Express, tragedy strikes when Mueller’s lifeless body is discovered near the train tracks. The question arises: Was it an accident or a deliberate act? With the narrow-gauge railroad tracks as the key to the truth, the FBI assigns the case to Special Agent Nelson Paine. Set against the backdrop of the 1940s, this riveting mystery will captivate fans of vintage suspense and railroad enthusiasts alike.

By William Stevenson

Introducing William Stephenson, a remarkable World War II spymaster who, under the codename INTREPID, was handpicked by Winston Churchill himself. Leading a clandestine spy network within the Nazi regime, Stephenson’s heroic efforts greatly contributed to the Allied victory. With larger-than-life stakes and daring escapades, William Stevenson’s true story reads like an enthralling work of fiction. Notably, it was said by James Bond creator Ian Fleming that the character of Bond was a highly embellished, romanticized glimpse into the world of true espionage, embodied by none other than William Stephenson.

By Larry J. Hughes

In 1940, Edwin Land, renowned for inventing polarized sunglasses, conceived an ingenious idea during the onset of World War II. He devised a gunsight utilizing the unique properties of polarized light. The Optical Ring Sight, leveraging the light-polarizing capabilities of calcite, displayed exceptional precision and doubled the accuracy achieved by earlier sights. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen complications and delays in its development, the gunsight became redundant by the time it entered production. This remarkable narrative offers profound insights into the promises and limitations of technology in times of war.

By Seneca

The lifelong involvement of Seneca in Roman politics, including his role as the chief advisor to Emperor Nero, lends immense weight to the wisdom contained within this work. Penned towards the end of Seneca’s life, these letters serve as a practical handbook of philosophy that resonates with modern readers. While addressing complex concepts such as wisdom, virtue, friendship, and the nature of time and mortality, Seneca’s letters are renowned for their pragmatic guidance, offering practical advice even on matters of personal style and home decor.

By Alice Dalgliesh and Helen Sewell

Jonathan grew up believing that Hemlock Mountain had no bears. However, when he embarks on a journey to borrow a pot for his mother, he discovers the truth. This charming and suspenseful adventure instills in readers a deep appreciation for family bonds and a love for the natural world. Whether enjoyed as an early chapter book for young readers or as a shared family read-aloud, this heartwarming tale promises to delight all who encounter it.