In Utopia (1516) Thomas More concocts a place, an island, with what he considers to be desirable religious, social and political practices - a place very unlike where he actually lived. It is a place "like Plato's Republic, only better". Utopia is often discussed for its political ideas and is seen as the seed for communist political thought, it is a great piece of work that continues to generate political discussion. Thought provoking through the ages.

A tragicomedy that recounts the conflict between Catherine, a dull but sweet daughter, and her brilliant domineering father as Catherine slowly develops maturity and independence. "Everybody likes Washington Square, even the denigrators of Henry James," wrote critic Donald Hall.

Sienkiewicz received the 1905 Nobel Price in Literature for his "outstanding merits as an epic writer".

The novel follows the developing love between a Christian woman and a Roman Patrician in the time of Nero. The romantic story arc is set against the conflict of the moral systems of the long established Roman Empire and the developing Christianity. Sienkiewicz uses this setting to explore morality and power, and his observations remain relevant today.

The novel is based on extensive historical research and gives a good view of life in those times.

An account of Ruhl's experiences in almost all WWI's hot spots.

The personal account of a field ambulance commander. It’s full of humour and sympathy for both sides. The Australian love of swimming and the beach makes an appearance, even though the beach was in the line of fire of Turkish positions.

The first major writing to gain recognition for Ivan Turgenev these short stories reflect his own observations of the abuse of the peasants and the injustice of the Russian system. The publication of the stories led to his house arrest, and contributed to the abolishment of serfdom.