This ancient Mesopotamian epic follows the story of Gilgamesh, a demigod king who rules over the city of Uruk. Unhappy with his reign, the gods create a wild man named Enkidu to challenge him. However, Gilgamesh and Enkidu become close friends and embark on several adventures together, including defeating the demon Humbaba and killing the Bull of Heaven. After Enkidu's death, Gilgamesh becomes obsessed with finding immortality, leading him on a journey to meet Utnapishtim, the only human who has been granted eternal life. The narrative explores themes of friendship, mortality, and the meaning of life.

This collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human emotions and social dynamics through the lens of early 20th-century life. The narratives, often focusing on moments of epiphany or poignant realizations, explore themes such as class distinction, innocence, and the passage of time. The titular story captures the contrast between the carefree world of the wealthy and the harsh realities of the working class, as seen through the eyes of a young girl. Throughout the anthology, the author's keen observations and vivid prose invite readers to reflect on the subtleties of everyday experiences and the intricate tapestry of human relationships.

This novel is a poignant exploration of the Withers family living in a small New Zealand town, focusing on the life of Daphne Withers, who is sent to a mental institution after a breakdown. Through lyrical and experimental prose, the narrative delves into themes of mental illness, societal expectations, and the struggle for individuality. It juxtaposes the harsh realities of institutional life with the rich inner world of its characters, particularly Daphne, who finds solace in the natural world and poetry. The book is a powerful critique of the stigma surrounding mental health and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

This book is a compilation of six essays that delve into the ideological and practical facets of communism. Each study examines different aspects of communist theory and practice, from its origins and evolution to its implementation in various countries. The authors critically analyze the successes and failures of communist systems, exploring the impact on societies that have adopted these principles. The essays also consider the psychological and sociological effects of living under communist regimes, providing a multifaceted perspective on one of the most influential political ideologies of the 20th century.

This anthology is a comprehensive collection that spans six centuries of poetry, offering readers a rich tapestry of poetic expression from the English literary tradition. Compiled by two of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century, the book serves as both a historical overview and a celebration of the art form, featuring works from the earliest English poets to contemporary voices. Through its carefully curated selection, the anthology highlights the evolution of poetic styles, themes, and the enduring power of poetry to capture the human experience in all its facets. It is an essential volume for both students and enthusiasts of poetry, providing a deep well of inspiration and a broad perspective on the development of English verse.

"Tahuri" is a poignant narrative that delves into the life of a young Maori girl navigating the complexities of her cultural identity and sexuality amidst the backdrop of contemporary New Zealand society. The story explores themes of tradition, family, and self-discovery as the protagonist grapples with the expectations placed upon her by her community and her own personal desires. Through her journey, the novel examines the intersections of indigenous culture and modern life, shedding light on the challenges faced by those striving to maintain their heritage while also seeking to forge their own path.

"Reynard the Fox" is a medieval European fable and folklore that follows the adventures of a crafty and mischievous fox named Reynard. Known for his cunning and deceitful ways, Reynard often finds himself in trouble with the King of the animal kingdom, Noble the Lion, but manages to outsmart his adversaries each time. Through a series of satirical and humorous tales, the story offers commentary on the hypocrisy of the nobility and the church, and explores themes of morality and justice.

"The Twelve Labours of Hercules" is a classic mythological tale that chronicles the exploits of Hercules, a Greek hero renowned for his strength and courage. The story revolves around twelve daunting tasks, known as labours, which Hercules is ordered to complete as a form of penance. These labours range from slaying ferocious beasts and capturing mythical creatures, to cleaning vast stables and fetching golden apples from a guarded tree. Through these trials, Hercules demonstrates his valor, cunning, and resilience, solidifying his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in Greek mythology.

"Memoirs of a Peon" is a fictional narrative that delves into the life of a laborer in New Zealand, offering a candid and often humorous account of his experiences and observations. Through a series of vignettes, the protagonist navigates the complexities of social hierarchy, economic hardship, and personal identity, all while working on a rural farm. The book provides a unique perspective on the working-class existence, exploring themes of resilience, camaraderie, and the quest for individual dignity against the backdrop of the early 20th-century New Zealand society.

This book critically examines the foundations of knowledge, blending philosophy with practical reasoning to navigate the concepts of common sense and scientific skepticism. It challenges readers to question how we distinguish between what is considered 'common sense' and what is scientifically proven, delving into the philosophical underpinnings of skepticism itself. Through a rigorous analysis, the text explores the limits and strengths of human understanding, encouraging a thoughtful reconsideration of how we accept or reject information in the realms of science and everyday life. It serves as both an introduction to philosophical skepticism and a deep dive into the epistemological questions that underlie our quest for knowledge.

This collection showcases a selection of short stories by a prominent Pacific writer, offering a vivid portrayal of Samoan life and culture. Through a diverse range of narratives, the author explores themes of identity, family, and social change, weaving rich, evocative tales that capture the complexities of traditional and contemporary Pacific Island society. The stories provide a deep insight into the human condition, set against the backdrop of Samoa's lush landscapes and the broader context of the Pacific Islands, making it a compelling read for those interested in the region's literature and cultural heritage.

"Dogside Story" is set in a coastal Maori community in New Zealand, where the residents grapple with issues of tradition, identity, and change. The narrative revolves around the tensions between the local community and external forces, including government authorities and developers. Central to the story is the protagonist's struggle to uphold his family's honor while navigating the challenges of modern life and maintaining cultural heritage. The novel explores themes of kinship, community resilience, and the impact of colonization, providing a rich portrayal of Maori life and the complexities of maintaining ancestral connections in a changing world.

The narrative revolves around a young woman's complex journey through societal expectations and personal desires. Set against a backdrop of rigid social norms, the story delves into the protagonist's struggle to conform to the image of the "good girl" that her family and society demand, while also grappling with her own ambitions and desires. Through a series of events that challenge her perceptions and the expectations placed upon her, she embarks on a path of self-discovery, questioning the very foundations of her identity and the societal norms that shape it. The book explores themes of conformity, rebellion, and the quest for individuality in a world that often demands uniformity.

"The Apocrypha" refers to a collection of ancient Jewish writings that are included in some versions of the Bible, particularly in the Septuagint and the Latin Vulgate, but are not considered canonical by all Jewish and Christian traditions. These texts include a variety of genres such as historical narratives, wisdom literature, additions to canonical books, and apocalyptic visions. They provide valuable insights into Jewish thought and practice during the Second Temple period and are revered in some Christian denominations for their historical and spiritual significance, despite their varying levels of acceptance across different religious communities.

"The Poetic Edda" is a collection of Old Norse poems from the medieval manuscript Codex Regius, which is a crucial source of Norse mythology and Germanic heroic legends. Composed by various unknown authors over centuries, the compilation includes mythological and heroic poems that explore the creation and end of the world, the exploits of gods like Odin and Thor, and the fates of heroes such as Sigurd the dragon-slayer. Rich in metaphor and ancient symbolism, these poems are fundamental to understanding the beliefs, values, and storytelling traditions of the Viking Age and have had a profound influence on later literature, art, and culture.

"The Eunuch" is a classic Roman comedy that revolves around the convoluted romantic pursuits of several characters in ancient Athens. The plot centers on a young man who falls in love with a courtesan and, in an attempt to win her affections, disguises his slave as a eunuch to gain access to her household. Meanwhile, his friend is also enamored with the courtesan's ward, leading to a series of misunderstandings and mistaken identities. The play humorously explores themes of love, deception, and the social mores of the time, culminating in a resolution that restores order and reconciles the characters.

In a universe where necromancers hold power, Gideon, a skilled swordswoman, is reluctantly paired with her childhood rival, Harrow, to compete in a deadly trial that could grant them immortality. As they venture into an ancient, decaying mansion filled with secrets and puzzles, they must unravel the mysteries of their world and face sinister forces lurking within. With a blend of dark humor, complex characters, and a gripping plot, "Gideon The Ninth" is a thrilling and unique blend of science fiction and fantasy.

This book provides an in-depth exploration of Kabbalah, a mystical Jewish tradition. It delves into its historical origins, core philosophies, and spiritual practices, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of its principles and teachings. The book also discusses the Kabbalah's influence on various aspects of Jewish culture and its relevance in the contemporary world.

This book presents a thought-provoking exploration of the potential future of human evolution, focusing on the implications of advanced biotechnologies and artificial intelligence. The author argues that these technologies might lead to the emergence of posthuman beings—entities vastly more intelligent and possibly immortal compared to current humans. The narrative delves into the ethical, philosophical, and societal impacts of such a transformation, questioning whether this evolution would signify the end of humanity as we know it or the beginning of a new, unimaginable phase of existence. Through a careful examination of the potential benefits and risks, the book challenges readers to consider the value of human qualities and the essence of what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world.

"Zoology" is a comprehensive guide that explores the diverse world of animals, their behavior, and their habitats. From microscopic organisms to large mammals, the book presents a detailed overview of various animal species, their evolutionary history, and their ecological roles. With captivating illustrations and accessible language, the author delves into the fascinating aspects of animal anatomy, physiology, and adaptation, shedding light on the intricacies of the animal kingdom. Whether you are a student, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about the natural world, "Zoology" offers an engaging and informative journey through the wonders of the animal realm.

In this epistolary science fiction novel, two rival agents, Red and Blue, find themselves on opposite sides of a sprawling temporal conflict known as the Time War. As they carry out missions to manipulate the strands of history for their respective factions, their paths cross in unexpected ways. Through a series of secret letters left across time and space, what begins as taunting correspondence evolves into a deep, forbidden connection. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of time-travel and intrigue, exploring themes of love, identity, and the consequences of actions within the ever-shifting sands of time. As their bond deepens, Red and Blue must ultimately decide where their loyalties lie and what sacrifices they are willing to make for a chance at a future together.

Set in a dystopian future where the written word is forbidden and memories are washed away by the melodic power of the Chimes, the novel follows a young man with a unique gift for remembering the past. He joins a group of memory keepers who are fighting against the oppressive order that controls society through music. As he embarks on a journey filled with danger and discovery, he uncovers the truth about his own past and the potential to change the future. The narrative weaves a tale of resistance, the importance of memory, and the power of music to both dominate and liberate.

In this darkly imaginative and complex sequel, the protagonist, a necromancer with unmatched powers, confronts the aftermath of an epic space battle and the loss of her mentor. Now, she must navigate the treacherous politics of an immortal empire as its empress's right hand. While grappling with unreliable memories and a mind that seems to be unraveling, she faces internal and external threats, including potential madness and a lingering, enigmatic enemy. As she trains in the arcane arts of the dead, she must solve the mysteries of her past and the riddles of her present to protect the future of her world.