What's better than diving into a new ebook? Knowing that you got it for free. Check out these fascinating history accounts that are free to download for the whole month.
Anabasis
An ancient Greek mercenary soldier's account of leading an army on a dangerous march from Babylon to the Black Sea.
Hired by a Persian prince hoping to take the throne from his brother, Xenophon was one professional soldier in an army of many when disaster struck and their leaders were killed or captured, leaving them stranded. Along with two others chosen by their fellow soldiers, Xenophon would lead the army to safety on the "March of the Ten Thousand." It was a harrowing journey, and they battled their way through harsh climates and hostile enemy territories—but eventually made it home. This memoir of the adventure, known for its clear language and directness, has become a classic for those interested in ancient Greek history and military culture.
The Memoirs of Casanova
The autobiography of a fascinating figure—as well as a rich, detailed portrait of eighteenth-century European society.
The Venetian son of a dancer and an actress, Giacomo Casanova is best known today for his legendary womanizing. But he also lived a remarkable life of adventure. A well-educated man and a gambler, Casanova worked in the church, joined the military, and became a musician, but he ultimately chose to live as a debauched nobleman, seeking pleasure wherever and whenever he could.
Casanova's travels brought him into contact with the wealthy and powerful of his day—from the pope to Mozart and Voltaire—and to numerous locations across Europe, often one step ahead of scandal, at one point even making a daring escape from prison. In these memoirs he shares his stories, providing unique insight into a singular figure in history.
The Land of Little Rain
A stirring tribute to the unique beauty of the American Southwest
In the region stretching from the High Sierras south of Yosemite to the Mojave Desert, water is scarce and empty riverbeds hint at a lush landscape that has long since vanished. But the desert is far from lifeless. For those who know where to look, the "land of little rain" is awash in wonders.
In this exquisite meditation on the people, flora, and fauna of the American desert, Mary Austin introduces readers to the secret treasures of the landscape she loved above all others. Her lyrical essays profoundly influenced the work of nature writers and conservationists, among them Edward Abbey and Terry Tempest Williams, and have inspired generations of readers to visit some of the country's most stunning national parks, including Death Valley and Joshua Tree.
Sketches in the History of the Underground Railroad
True stories drawn from the inspirational and heartrending history of the Underground Railroad
It is estimated that by 1850 over one hundred thousand slaves had escaped to freedom in the North via a network of safe houses and secret routes known collectively as the Underground Railroad. First published in 1879, Sketches in the History of the Underground Railroad chronicles the perilous journeys and thrilling adventures of nearly two-dozen escaped slaves and the brave souls who helped them along the way. Compiled by a conductor on the Railroad, these sketches bring the horrors of slavery to vivid life and serve as an enduring testament to the power of the human spirit.
Featured image: Pedro Fleitas / Unsplash
