Alabama offers probably the best fishing waters in America. Fishing in Alabama is compensating in the size and populace of fish. Fishing in Alabama incorporates 47 repositories bigger than 500 acres of land. Also has 23 state public fishing lakes, and 77,000 miles of waterways and streams. 

Alabama additionally offers perfect scenes to fish, similar to mountain perspectives or sea side harbors. Alabama can be parted into three distinct districts for three totally unique fishing encounters. North Alabama offers extraordinary lakes while South Alabama offers the challenge of remote ocean fishing. All will challenge even the awesome fishermen.

North Alabama

Fishing in North Alabama can be summarized with the eight extraordinary lakes. These eight lakes incorporate Wheeler Lake, Wilson Lake, and Lake Guntersville. Most of these lakes are framed by dams based on the Tennessee River by the Tennessee Valley Authority for use in hydroelectric power. The lakes give sufficient coastline and cover to fish to raise, feed, and develop. 

Additionally, the current shaped by these dams give ideal regions to dupe to assemble. The catfish that live there are known to break records for size and weight. Fishing in Alabama’s northern area additionally profits by stream feeders which consider untouched fishing assets.

Central Alabama

In Central Alabama, fishing can be possible from the shore of little lakes, repositories, and streams. The Alabama River has various shore fishing spots and feeds numerous feeders and streams that consider fish of different types an ideal living space for development in both size and populace. Numerous valuable opportunities introduce themselves while picking any of the numerous extraordinary little pools of Central Alabama. 

Lakes like Lake Purdy and Perry Lakes are managed well overall. And have associations with Marion Fish Hatchery. Alabama has additionally worked really hard in making and remodelling regions to fish, for example, the Oak Mountain State Park fishing regions.

South Alabama

South Alabama offers the best of two universes with a muggy, delta freshwater environment set adjacent to the Mobile Bay and waterfront regions. The Mobile Delta comprises 20,323 sections of land of water arranged north of Mobile Bay. The Mobile Delta is second just to the Mississippi River Delta in size, with 30 miles in length and 12 miles wide of the stream. It has been named a National Natural Landmark and is one of just 600 locales to get such a qualification. The saltwater fishing industry has been hit hard, lately, due to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. Alabama has endeavoured to tidy up and reestablish the remote ocean fishing and waterfront fishing ventures to full wellbeing. 

Alabama has one of only a handful of exceptional sea life science research offices, in the country, on Dauphin Island. The sea life science focus makes counterfeit reefs and oversees untamed life to make an awesome encounter.

Fishing in Alabama is unwinding, simple to do, a good time for the family, and offers extraordinary conditions. These extraordinary fishing areas offer incredible spots to remain on long outings. The pools of Alabama have many state parks around them and incorporate setting up camp regions, lodge rentals, and boat rentals. Fishing in Alabama needs just to be capable to see how honoured this state has been with its waters. 

In the event that you have a family trip to plan, make certain to have an Alabama fishing area as a decision.

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Today, many people gamble online instead of visiting gambling houses or casinos. If you’re a beginner, there are websites about online casinos you can explore, learn more about gambling online, and even play a vast selection of slot games online on them for free. Given below is the list of top books, which can give you some insights into the world of gambling and casinos:

Casino Royale 

With the mention of this classic novel by Ian Fleming, Daniel Craig would immediately come to your mind. This was the first novel written by the British author. It narrates the story of the British secret agent called James Bond. He gambles to make a secret member of the Soviet state intelligence bankrupt at the casino in Royale-les-Eaux.

The book received many positive reviews from the critics at the time. After its release in the United Kingdom on the 13th of April 1953, the first edition was sold out in less than a month. It was adapted for the big screen for the first time in 1967 and later in 2006.

The Professor, the Banker, and the Suicide King  

The subtitle of this book reads ‘Inside the Richest Poker Game of All Time’. Released in 2005, it was written by Michael Craig. The book details a series of high-stakes poker games that billionaire Andrew Beal played with top professional poker players of Las Vegas. The title of this book describes some of the professional poker players involved in the series of games.

With regards to the title, the professor is Howard Lederer, a professional poker player with a mathematical mind. The banker is Andrew Beal and the ‘Suicide King’ is a reckless player called Ted Forrest. Andrew Beal vowed in March 2004 that he’d quit poker and never play it again. However, he returned to high-stakes poker in the year 2006.

Casino

This non-fiction book describes the time between the 1970s and early 1980s, when some of the Las Vegas casinos were controlled by the mafia. It was written by the crime reporter, Nicholas Pileggi, and was released in 1995. The book is focused on Frank ‘Lefty’ Rosenthal and his friend and Mafia member, Anthony Spilotro. While Rosenthal supervised the operations of casinos, Spilotro masterminded jewelry raids and provided protection and security.

A film of the same name was released a month after the book was released. Martin Scorsese, the director of the film, tried to persuade Pileggi to release the book after the film. However, the book released before the film. In the movie, the name of Rosenthal was Ace Rothstein and the name of Spilotro was Nicky Santoro. 

Bringing Down the House 

Though this book comes under the category of non-fiction, it contains many fictional elements according to the American daily, The Boston Globe. You’ll find the subtitle of this book ‘The Inside Story of Six MIT Students Who Took Vegas for Millions’ quite intriguing. The movies 21 and The Last Casino are based on this book.

It tells the story of the MIT Blackjack Team and its main character, Kevin Lewis, who is an MIT graduate. He was invited in 1993 to join the team, which was financed by a character called Micky Rosa. Members of the team eventually went separate ways owing to card counting deterrent efforts at the casinos and some conflicts in personality.

The Gambler 

Published in 1866, this novel written by Fyodor Dostoevsky narrates the story of a young tutor employed by a Russian general who was formerly wealthy. Dostoevsky was addicted to roulette and this inspired him, in a way, to write this book. He wrote this book under a strict deadline to pay off the debts that were accumulated as a result of his gambling. 

His stenographer, Anna Grigoryevna Snitkina, helped him to finished his book. A year after the publication of this book, she became his second wife. His first wife, Maria Dmitriyevna Isaeva, had died in 1864. The Gambler later became an inspiration for many films and television series.

The Biggest Game in Town

In this cult classic, you’re taken through the dark and compelling world of high-stakes Vegas poker. This is a world where winning and losing is equally exciting and the book brilliantly captures the peculiar habits and psyches of professional poker players. You’ll surely be amazed and excited as you read about the World Series Poker event, which has some of the most eccentric poker players as its participants.

This book was released in 1983 and detailed the 1981 World Series of Poker. Written by Al Alvarez, it was the first book of its kind at the time of its publication. The book also began the genre of poker literature and is credited with bringing Texas Hold’em to a wider audience for the first time.

The World’s Greatest Blackjack Book

If you wish to learn the strategies and complicated details of blackjack, you’ll find this book extremely useful. You’ll have plenty of gambling tricks in it as well as the actions that are essential to put yourself at an advantage in the game. The book also has comprehensive explanations on cheating and betting processes, which will benefit both beginners and advanced players.

Originally published in 1980, this book was written by Lance Humble. His first encounter with the game of blackjack happened while teaching at Gambling York University. After making a small profit during his first game in Las Vegas, he went on to become a blackjack legend.

Roll the Bones

Written by David G. Schwartz, this book takes you on the journey of gambling right from its origins to the present day. It also looks at the development of casino gaming by discussing the beginning of casinos in Venice and their evolution to the modern-day gambling hubs of Las Vegas. The book also talks about the development of casinos in the Asian continent and the emergence of online gambling.

It was originally published in October 2006 and is full of intriguing anecdotes. You’ll also find a detailed explanation of what leads people to put their money at stake and the impact of gambling on society.

Gambling 102

Released in May 2005, this book has been written by Michael Shackleford who is known as ‘Wizard of Odds’ and ‘Wizard of Vegas’. He takes you to the next level of gambling, where you put in least number of efforts and play in the best way possible. You are given some proven strategies that can be used for all the casino games. 

The 19 chapters of this book get you right to the heart of casino games. You will learn to assess your odds and then to lower them to a great extent. This book is the result of deep mathematical analysis, computer modeling, and playing actual casino games.

Beat the Dealer

This book has been written by Edward O. Thorp, a mathematics professor, blackjack researcher, hedge fund manager, and author. He is sometimes referred to as the father of card counting. It is known as the book that made Las Vegas change its rules. 

Published in 1962, the book shares a revolutionary system that has been used successfully by many of the amateur and professional card players. With this book you’ll be introduced to the winning strategy for the game of 21 with the use of simple charts. It is considered as a bible for players of the game. 

The Greatest Gambling Story Ever Told 

You’ll find this inspiring personal narrative quite fascinating, as it tells the tale of a female horse that made her mark in the male-dominated horseracing arena. She was named ‘Winning Colors’ and her historic win served as an inspiration for the crowds of men and women who witnessed her race. 

The subtitle of this book by Mark Paul reads ‘A True Tale of Three Gamblers, The Kentucky Derby, and the Mexican Cartel’. The three gamblers in the book are Dino Mateo, Miami Paul, and Big Bernie. All of them believed that Winning Colors would emerge as an unlikely female winner in the 1988 Kentucky Derby and placed their bet with members of a suspected Mexican drug cartel.

The Smart Money – Michael Konik 

An amazing insight into the lucrative world of high-stakes sports betting, this book by Michael Konik is based on his personal experiences with the most successful sports gambling ring in the world. Konik is a journalist and an expert player of poker and blackjack. He had the opportunity to interview Rick ‘Big Daddy’ Matthews, believed to be the smartest sports better in the world.

Matthews created an expert group of gamblers called ‘The Brain Trust’ that had the expertise of beating the Vegas lines. Konik couldn’t resist the urge to make a little money when Matthews offered him the chance to be a part of the betting operation during the football season. He reveals in the book how he got rich along with them and the pros and cons of a lifestyle built around gambling.

Now that you’ve got the list of the greatest books on gambling and casinos, we’re sure you’d like to try your luck in the most exciting games. There some online casinos out there, where you can get started with blackjack, video poker and roulette casinos anytime, anywhere. 

Of course, you wouldn’t want to get adventurous if you’re a beginner and when there’s real money involved. The best way to get started is to visit a reliable website that has detailed information on some of the best online casinos. You’d want to learn responsible gambling as well. So, visit www.casinosjungle.com to find the most trusted online casinos that have been reviewed and rated by experts. You can also play the latest slot games on this website for free!

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Here are the thirteen greatest American authors of all time whom we’ve chosen…

1. Mark Twain (1835-1910)

His real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens. He was born on the 30th of November 1835 in Missouri. And had to leave school after the fifth grade to work as an apprentice for a printer. Later he started working as a typesetter as well as a printer. It was common for Twain to visit public libraries in the evenings to further educate himself. He craved access to wider information that conventional schools didn’t give to him. Before he adopted his pen name, Mark Twain, he had tried several other pen names beginning in 1852. He is considered the greatest humorist of the United States. William Faulkner had declared him the ‘Father of American Literature’. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn are two of his most popular novels.

2. Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

Thoreau was born into a modest family in New England. He is best known for his essay Civil Disobedience and his book Walden. He authored over 20 volumes of writings which include books, articles, journals, essays, and poetry. After graduated from Harvard College he then worked as a faculty of the Concord public school. After this, he started grammar school with his brother, John.

His writings reflected a close observation of nature, his poetic sensibility, personal experiences, and philosophical austerity. Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and Leo Tolstoy were among the ones who were heavily influenced by his philosophy of civil disobedience.

3. Emily Dickinson (1830-1886)

It was only after her death that the Americans came to know about her fascinating poems. Out of the 1,800 poems that she wrote, only 10 were published during her lifetime. The rest were discovered by her younger sister Lavinia. The first collection of poems was edited and published in 1890. 

Emily Dickinson’s poems had a cult following in the 1920s owing to the increasing popularity of modernist poetry. Many critics described her as a great woman poet. Her collection of poems was published in 1955 by Thomas H. Johnson as The Poems of Emily Dickinson.

4. T.S. Eliot (1888-1965)

Thomas Stearns Eliot is considered one of the major poets of the 20th century! He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his contribution to modern-day poetry in 1948. One of his best-known poems is The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock. It was published in 1915, it was hailed as a masterpiece of modernist poetry. Also, he wrote seven plays, including The Cocktail Party and Murder in the Cathedral.

He was born on the 26th of September 1888 to Henry Ware Eliot and Charlotte Champe Stearns. His love for literature developed from living in isolation which was due to a condition called a congenital double inguinal hernia. Sadly, he suffered from this condition as a child. Later, he graduated from Washington University and earned his Master of Arts in English literature from Harvard College.

5. Sinclair Lewis (1885-1951)

He was the first American writer to get the coveted Nobel Prize in Literature. Which was awarded to him for his ability to create new types of characters with wit and humour and his energetic and graphic art of description. Moreover, he was a strong critic of the capitalism and materialism adopted by America between the wars and his work reflect his views. 

Sinclair Lewis was born in Minnesota on the 7th of February 1885. Right from his childhood to the days at Yale University, he had trouble making friends. Nevertheless, he received his bachelor’s degree from the University in 1908. His first novel was Our Mr Wrenn: The Romantic Adventures of a Gentle Man. And in the 1920s, his novel titled Arrowsmith was awarded the Pulitzer Prize, which he declined.

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Your time in Alabama will be truly memorable if you choose to stay in one of its best hotels or apartments equipped with all the required amenities. Here we’ve chosen some of the best hotels and apartments in the state of Alabama, which will give you some excellent options to consider before booking your stay:

1. White Caps 1405

Less than a kilometer from Adventure Island is this fabulous apartment hotel, which features comfortable, air-conditioned rooms. You’ll also have an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center for some good workouts. 

Among the facilities provided in this apartment hotel are indoor pool, TV and Blu-ray player, free Wi-Fi, and private bathroom. As the property is close to Orange Beach, you’ll have the chance to indulge in some exciting water sports. You can also try snorkeling in the waters touching this beach. 

2. La Quinta by Wyndham Opelika Auburn

This hotel is located in Opelika, about 28 miles from the Columbus Metropolitan Airport. All air-conditioned rooms of this 3-star hotel have free Wi-Fi connectivity. Your stay in this hotel will be a pleasant experience with its amenities, such as a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, and a 24-hour front desk. 

La Quinta by Wyndham Opelika features a bar and provides an a la carte or continental breakfast. You can also use its business center if you’re a traveling business executive.

3. Drury Inn & Suites Huntsville

You’ll be staying close to some of the popular spots in Huntsville if you book your accommodation in this hotel. It is 6.2 miles away from Alabama A&M University and 3.7 miles from Von Braun Center. You’ll reach the hotel without any hassles, considering the fact that the property is just about 8.7 miles away from the Huntsville International Airport.

Drury Inn & Suites Huntsville provides a hot tub and a 24-hour front desk for its guests. While staying at this hotel, you’ll get to enjoy a buffet breakfast and some free toiletries in the private bathroom. An indoor pool and a business center have also been provided for the convenience of guests. 

4. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Montgomery Prattville/Millbrook

All the air-conditioned rooms of this 3-star hotel have a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen television, and a hairdryer. If you choose to stay in SpringHill Suites by Marriott, you’ll relish an American breakfast and have access to a 24-hour front desk and a fitness center. You can also find a shared lounge and business center during your stay.

This hotel is located in the city of Millbrook. You won’t have any problem reaching this airport as it is about 18 kilometers from the Montgomery Regional Airport.

5. Bill’s at Gulf Shores

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’d definitely like to stay in this apartment hotel. It allows you to enjoy fishing within its close proximity, while there’s a barbecue available on site. Gulf State Park Fishing Pier is about 4.1 kilometers away from the property. While staying at Bill’s at Gulf Shores, you’ll have greater convenience in visiting Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

You’ll never be far from the beach, as Gulf Shores Public Beach is just 90 meters from this property. Amenities at this apartment hotel include an outdoor swimming pool and a private beach area. The rooms also have a kitchen with a microwave and dishwasher.

6. Hyatt Place Huntsville

Hyatt is one of the most recognized brands in the hospitality industry and this hotel lives up to this reputation. The 3-star hotel is located about 6 kilometers from the University of Alabama, 7 kilometers from Pine Park, and 12 kilometers from the Huntsville International Airport. All its air-conditioned rooms have been provided with a private bathroom, a flat-screen television, and a hair dryer.

The hotel gives its guests access to an ATM machine, fax machine, and photocopier. You’ll be served a continental breakfast daily during your stay. A business center, free private parking, and a sun terrace are among the other offerings of Hyatt Place Huntsville.

7. Hampton Inn Wetumpka

While staying at this hotel in the city of Wetumpka, you’ll have access to some fantastic amenities like a fitness center, a sun terrace, outdoor swimming pool, and a 24-hour front desk. It offers air-conditioned accommodation and has tastefully-designed rooms with a television and a private bathroom. 

You’ll savor the continental and buffet breakfast served by the hotel every morning during your stay. The airport nearest to this property is Montgomery Regional Airport. You’ll also be offered free private parking, free Wi-Fi, and a business center by the hotel.

8. Crystal Shores West 202 

This 4-star apartment hotel is located just a few steps away from the Gulf Shores Public Beach. All its units comprise a living room with a sofa, a sauna, and a private bathroom with free toiletries, hairdryer, and a hot tub. The rooms have comfortable air-conditioning and have been provided with a balcony with excellent views of the sea. 

You’ll also enjoy free Wi-Fi and private parking during your stay at Crystal Shores West 202. Among the best attractions located close to this apartment hotel is the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, which is just 3.2 kilometers away.  

9. The Stricklin Hotel 

This elegant hotel is located at a distance of about 9 kilometers from the Northwest Alabama Regional Airport. During your stay at the hotel, you’ll be able to enjoy some exciting activities in and around the city of Florence, such as fishing, hiking, and cycling. The University of North Alabama is located just 800 meters away from this property.

All the air-conditioned rooms in The Stricklin Hotel have been provided with a flat-screen television. They also have a refrigerator, a coffee machine, a desk, hairdryer and a shower. Besides providing access to a business center and vending machines containing snacks and drinks, the hotel has a few other amenities like a restaurant, a shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, and a bar.

10. Lighthouse 714 

You’ll find a range of wellness facilities in this apartment hotel located in Gulf Shores, including a sauna and a hot tub. The property is just 100 meters away from the Gulf Shores Public Beach and has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. All rooms have a kitchen area, which has been provided with a microwave and a dishwasher. Lighthouse 714 offers an indoor as well as an outdoor swimming pool.

Its rooms also have flat-screen televisions, wardrobe, ironing facilities, a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries, and a seating area with a sofa. You’ll be provided with private parking during your stay at Lighthouse 714. Among the most popular attractions close to this apartment hotel are Gulf State Park Fishing Pier and Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

11. Village by the Gulf 

Another excellent apartment hotel you can consider for your stay during your visit to Alabama is Village by the Gulf. If you like playing golf, this would be the best place to book your stay as it has a mini-golf facility. Among the other facilities are a children’s playground, free private parking, and an outdoor swimming pool. 

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is about 4.4 kilometers and Gulf State Park Fishing Pier is about 5 kilometers away from this property. All the rooms have free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen television, a private bathroom, and a kitchen with a dining area and dishwasher. Outdoors will be great fun with a barbecue and some exciting activities like cycling and hiking.

12. Tradewinds Unit 406 

This apartment hotel is located a few steps away from the mesmerizing Orange Beach and is also close to Adventure Island and Orange Beach Waterfront Park. It’ll be great fun swimming in its indoor and outdoor pools. 

Your stay would be made pleasant and truly memorable with the facilities offered in your room. They include a balcony with views of the sea, a seating area, flat-screen television with cable channels, and a kitchen with a microwave and dishwasher. The rooms have also been provided with a private bathroom, which has free toiletries and a shower.

We’re sure you might’ve liked some of these gorgeous hotels and apartments. Which one of these is your pick for enjoying a memorable stay in Alabama? Let us know in the comment section below!

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Given below is the list of ten new book releases of 2021, which would make for some interesting reads:

1. A Swim in a Pond in the Rain by George Saunders (January 2021)

The actual title goes like this – A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life. Sounds a bit too long for a title, doesn’t it? Well, the title may be long, but it is certainly a masterpiece for all those budding writers out there.

George Saunders is a New York Times best-selling author and a Booker Prize winner. For anyone interested in knowing how fiction works and its importance in today’s times, this book would be priceless. It is, in a way, a literary master-class on all the ingredients that make great stories work and how they are our reflection and the world around us.

2. Let Me Tell You What I Mean by Joan Didion (January 2021)

One of the most respected writers in the United States, Joan Didion’s works mostly are fabulous portrayals of the modern-day culture of America. During her literary career spanning four decades, she has written some memorable and acclaimed novels, screenplays, and journalistic and personal essays. She was awarded the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award for her memoir The Year of Magical Thinking.

Let Me Tell You What I Mean is a collection of essays that give the reader a glimpse into her mind and her incisive reporting. They also articulately describe the most complicated and stubborn truths that she uncovered over the years.

3. How to Avoid a Climate Disaster by Bill Gates (February 2021)

In this book, Bill Gates reminds readers about the challenges faced by humanity with regards to climate change. He also suggests the steps that must be taken to stop a major environmental disaster. Some of these measures need to be taken by the government. However, individuals also need to play an active role in keeping themselves, their government, and their employers accountable.

Bill Gates needs no introduction. He is a co-founder of Microsoft Corporation and held the positions of chairman, CEO, and president until 2014. Over the last decade, he teamed up with subject-matter experts for investigating climate change, its causes, and effects.

4. The Committed by Viet Thanh Nguyen (March 2021)

The Committed is a sequel to Viet Thanh Nguyen’s debut novel, The Sympathizer. It is an excellent novel of ideas and a literary thriller as well. In this book, the protagonist arrives in Paris and begins his career in drug-dealing with his blood brother. The book was long-awaited after the critical acclaim and success of his first novel.

Viet Thanh Nguyen arrived in the United States with his parents as a refugee from Vietnam after the capture of Saigon in 1975. He got his Ph.D. in 1997 from the University of California in English. Today, he serves as a cultural critic for The Los Angeles Times besides teaching and writing.

5. How Beautiful We Were by Imbolo Mbue (March 2021)

Imbolo Mbue’s debut novel Behold the Dreamers won her a lot of praise from the critics and two prestigious awards. She is a short-story writer and novelist based in New York City and her works are mostly based on her experiences as an immigrant. How Beautiful We Were is her second novel.

It tells the story of people living in a fictional African village called Kosawa. They are constantly fearful of the environmental degradation an American oil company has caused. As a result of pipeline spills, their farmlands have become infertile. The villagers now have to fight back and also pay a price for their long struggle.

6. Caul Baby by Morgan Jerkins (April 2021)

In her first work of fiction, New York Times best-selling author Morgan Jerkins tells the tale of magic, secrets, intrigue, and betrayal surrounding an enigmatic and powerful family. The author takes the readers through the darkest corners of human hearts, the search for family connections, and the power of tradition. As a result, they’ll surely find this book unique and page-turning.

Morgan Jerkins has a Creole ancestry and began writing at the age of fourteen. It was her means of escape from the horrible thoughts she had after her experiences with bullying in school. Her first book This Will Be My Undoing was a non-fiction and a New York Times best-seller.

7. Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri  (April 2021)

The central character of this novel is a woman who moves between an unchanging state and movement, the need to belong and unwilling to form lasting bonds. This is Jhumpa Lahiri’s first Italian novel translated into the English language. It is filled with the protagonist’s impulse to transcend barriers.

Jhumpa Lahiri won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the PEN/Hemingway Award for her collection of short stories titled Interpreter of Maladies. She was also a finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction and the Man Booker Prize for her second novel, The Lowland.

8. While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams (May 2021)

Stacey Abrams was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 2021 for her efforts in the presidential election held in the previous year. She is an American politician, voting rights activist, lawyer, author, and the founder of Fair Fight Action, which is an organization that addresses voter suppression. 

While Justice Sleeps is a brilliantly written novel with an excellent cast of characters and some great twists. It uses the settings of the US Supreme Court and her inside knowledge of the court and the prevailing political landscape. The book also showcases her exceptional talent in crafting a suspense thriller.

9. The President’s Daughter by Bill Clinton and James Patterson (June 2021)

What happens when a former US president who served for two consecutive terms teams up with a renowned author to write a book? Obviously, the result is a thrilling political drama! This is what happened when the co-authors created The President Is Missing in 2018. The book was a major success and sold over three million copies.

Now they are back with their second book, which is about the kidnapping of an American president’s daughter. The main character is a former US president who decides to keep a low profile after losing a second term. He is, however, forced into action after his daughter is under an imminent threat.

10. The Turnout by Megan Abbott (July 2021)

In the years when she was growing up, Megan Abbott was intrigued by the movies from the 1930s and 1940s that she used to watch at a Grosse Pointe movie theatre. These movies developed a lifelong interest in her for crime fiction. Her two previous novels The Song Is You and Bury Me Deep has references to notorious crimes. The Turnout is an inside look at family ties, sexuality, femininity, and power. It tells the tale in a chilling and irresistible fashion with hypnotic writing.

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However, the pandemic did give something valuable to a whole lot of people – time. So, many of the Americans utilized their time reading some excellent books penned by some of the modern greats. As a result, the year also saw the online sales of some titles soar over the months. 

Here are the top 10 books of 2020, which won the hearts of booklovers in the United States and went on to become bestsellers of the year:

1. A Promised Land by Barack Obama

This book was published by Crown Publishing Group on the 17th of November 2020. It is a memoir authored by Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. It takes the reader through his life right from his early years and describes some important events in his political career. In its concluding parts, the book gives an insight into the killing of Osama bin Laden in 2011.

It was highly anticipated even before its release and almost everyone was certain that it would be the year’s top-selling book. By the end of November 2020, the book had sold more than 1.7 million copies in North America alone. No wonder it has been in the New York Times best-seller list for eight consecutive weeks in the non-fiction category!

2. The Return by Nicholas Sparks

This is the 21st novel of Nicholas Sparks. It is a moving story about Trevor, an army doctor, who is badly injured in a motor blast and the two women who would change his life. Those who have read the previous novels of Nicholas Sparks know that he writes slow-paced, prose-heavy stories. This is what his fans love and makes his books so soothing to read.

Readers who don’t like reading very intense novels would certainly like this book. While reading the book, it may not come across as a page-turning stuff. However, you’ll still find it quite pleasant to read.

3. Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Untamed made its debut at the number one position on the New York Times best-seller list in the non-fiction category. It is a memoir written by Glennon Doyle and was published by The Dial Press on the 10th of March 2020. Within about 20 weeks of its release in March 2020, a million copies of this book have been sold.

Glennon Doyle’s writings reflect her perspective of how women have been raised in the society and how being sensitive must not be perceived as a weakness. So, all those who have read a lot of self-help books on the empowerment of women will surely fall in love with Untamed. 

4. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins

A prequel to The Hunger Games, this novel tells the story of Coriolanus Snow while reintroducing readers to Panem. It narrates the former life of Coriolanus before he became Panem’s tyrant president. After reading this book, the readers will be left wondering whether or not Coriolanus Snow was a true villain. 

Suzanne Collins was named one of the most influential people of 2010 in the Time magazine as a result of the massive popularity of The Hunger Games trilogy. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes was released on the 19th of May, 2020. It was reported that the book sold over 500,000 copies within a week of its release.

5. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

Brit Bennett is known for her ability to follow her curiosities and find answers to more complex questions. After having garnered a lot of acclaim from book critics for her first novel, Brit Bennett came up with this wonderful novel on the 2nd of June 2020. 

The Vanishing Half debuted at the number one position on The New York Times best-seller list and sold over 400,000 copies by the end of August 2020. The book tells the tale of Desiree and Stella Vignes, the two twin sisters who witness the terrible sight of their father getting lynched in the 1940s. 

6. One by One by Ruth Ware

In this suspense-filled thriller, Ruth Ware gets you hooked with all the exciting stuff of locked room mystery with the touch of her brilliance. You’ll be transported to the French Alps as you follow the group of co-workers of a start-up heading to a ski chalet in the mountains. The book released on the 8th of September 2020 and made it to the New York Times best-seller list soon after.

Before she became a full-time writer, Ruth Ware had been into different professions. She was a waitress at one point, she has been a bookseller, and even worked as an English teacher and a press officer. She loves writing thrillers as she believes they engage the readers intellectually in solving the mystery.

7. Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline

Released on the 24th of November 2020, this science fiction novel by Ernest Cline is the sequel to his 2011 novel, Ready Player One. His first book was a critical and financial success. The book debuted at the number one position on the New York Times best-seller list, but slipped to the number four position in its sixth week. 

Ernest Cline was addicted to movies and video games in his youth. This led him to write his first science fiction novel, which released in 2011. It went on to sell 1.7 million copies and was also adapted into a film directed by Steven Spielberg.

8. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey is one of the finest actors in Hollywood. He has given some memorable performances in films like The Wedding Planner and Interstellar. His performance in Dallas Buyers Club won him the Academy Award for Best Actor. 

To write Greenlights, he spent fifty-two days in a desert without electricity. He took references for the book from his journals spanning 36 years. The book debuted at the number one position on The New York Times best-seller list in the non-fiction category soon after its release on the 20th of October 2020.

9. Forgiving What You Can’t Forget by Lysa Terkeurst

Forgiving What You Can’t Forget released on the 5th of November 2020 and soon made it to the New York Times best-seller list. This book will be of immense help for those who have been stuck in a cycle of pain that has not been resolved and keep playing the dark past over and over in their minds.

Lysa TerKeurst has written twenty-one other inspirational books. She has been through her share of personal troubles. But discovered how to let the bound-up resentment go during the course of her journey. Along with all the inspiring words, she will also help you discover what the Bible truly says. About forgiving and the sense of peace that comes with it.

10. Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam

Packed with suspense and provocation, Leave the World Behind covers the complexities of race, class, and parenthood. It narrates how the closest bonds are affected and unexpected new bonds are created in the moments of crisis. 

An American author of Bangladeshi origin, Rumaan Alam studied writing at Oberlin College. He has also authored ‘That Kind of Mother’ and ‘Rich and Pretty’. Leave the World Behind is his third book and was critically acclaimed and nominated for the National Book Award of 2020. 

The post Top 10 Best-selling Books of 2020 in the United States appeared first on bienvillebooks.com.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of top travel books that would inspire you to escape the monotonous routines of your life. And explore some fascinating places. So, are you ready? Here we go!

Destinations of a Lifetime

When the National Geographic Society comes up with a book on travel, you can expect to have some of the most spectacular destinations in the world included in it. This book was released in 2015 and it takes you on a visual trip to some charming destinations around the globe. 

You’ll get inspired almost instantly to pack your bags and get to any of those places. The images in Destinations of a Lifetime will be a treat to your eyes. They include mesmerizing islands, amazing artwork, scenic cityscapes, white-sand beaches, rainforests, and ancient structures.

The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho is one of the most respected authors in the world today and his books are loved by millions. He wrote this literary phenomenon in just two weeks! He claims that The Alchemist was written in his soul and this is why he was able to write it in such a short time. You’ll be glad to know that he is an avid traveller.

The book follows the adventures of a young shepherd from Andalusia called Santiago. He travels to the pyramids of Egypt in search of a treasure, of which, he had recurring dreams. You are taken on a journey from Spain to the streets of Tangier. And then to the desert of North Africa as Santiago sets out to realize his dream.

Shantaram

An Australian convicted of bank robbery escapes from the Pentridge Prison and goes to India. He is a heroin addict and arrives in Bombay (now Mumbai) with a fake passport bearing the name Lindsay Ford. Bombay was actually a stopover on his journey to Germany, but he decides to stay in the city. He hires a guide named Prabhakar, who becomes his good friend. 

The book then takes you through the terrible life he lives in Bombay. He is protected by an Afghan mafia don and gets to visit Africa and Afghanistan with his travels commissioned by the mafia. Shantaram is influenced by the real-life events of its author, Gregory David Roberts. It was described as a page-turning debut in the British newspaper, The Independent, upon its release.

Eat, Pray, Love

The book’s subtitle says it all – One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia. Eat, Pray, Love is a memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, an American journalist and author. It takes you through her journey across the world after getting divorced. You’ll also get to know what she discovered during all her travels.

This book was on The New York Times Best Seller list for many weeks! And the rights for a movie were purchased by Columbia Pictures. Also, the film version of this book was released on the 13th of August 2010 in theatres. It starred Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem.

Seven Years in Tibet

Based on the real-life experiences of Heinrich Harrer, the author of this book, it was a best-seller in the United States upon its release in the country in 1954. Seven Years in Tibet covers the escape of the author and his companion named Peter Aufschnaiter from an internment camp run by the British in India. They travel across Tibet and spend many years in its capital, Lhasa.

The book gives you a glimpse of the independent Tibetan state before it was invaded by the Chinese army. A message from the 14th Dalai Lama was included in its Flamingo edition, which praised Harrer for his contribution to the cause of the Tibetans. A film version of this book was released in 1997 starring Brad Pitt and David Thewlis.

The Beach 

Set in Thailand, The Beach narrates the story of a young backpacker who goes in search of an idyllic and isolated beach. He comes in contact with a French couple who join him in his quest for the untouched paradise of white sands. Upon reaching this hidden beach, they discover a considerably large group of backpackers. They had been living there for 6 years under the de facto leadership of an American woman and her South African boyfriend. 

The book was written by the English author Alex Garland and was published in 1996. It received praise from The Washington Post, Sunday Oregonian, and Publishers Weekly. A film adaptation of this book was released with the same title in 2000 featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tilda Swinton.

The Motorcycle Diaries

A memoir by Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara, the world-renowned Marxist revolutionary, this book details his early travels with his friend Alberto Granado. Guevara was a 23-year-old medical student back then and Granado was a 29-year-old biochemist. It describes how Guevara undergoes a personal transformation upon witnessing the social injustices on the way. 

The book was published in 2003 by Che Guevara Studies Center and Ocean Press in Havana. It has been described as a classic coming-of-age story and a voyage filled with adventure and the process of discovering one’s self. The Motorcycle Diaries has been on The New York Times Best Seller list several times since it was first published.

Arabian Sands by Wilfred Thesiger

Published in 1959, this book is considered a classic in the world of travel literature. It was written by Wilfred Thesiger, who is also known as Mubarak bin London in the Arab world. He was a British military officer, explorer, and travel writer. Arabian Sands is an insight into the massive developments in most of the Arab world after the Second World War and the rich Bedouin culture that was largely lost as a result.

It describes the traditional life of the Bedouins and is considered one of the finest literary works about Arabia. In the British newspaper The Guardian, Michael Asher described the book as a tribute to a world that was now lost forever.

Down Under by Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson is a best-selling writer who writes on a variety of non-fiction topics, including travel and science. Down Under is his travelogue about Australia and was released in 2000. It was published in the United States and Canada with the title, In a Sunburned Country. 

In the book, the author describes about his travel throughout Australia. It details his interactions with people who belonged to different walks of life, and about the geography, history, flora, and fauna of the country. It also describes his impressions on the culture and amenities in each of the localities in Australia he had visited.

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Jon Krakauer expanded his 9000-word article titled Death of an Innocent, which resulted in this non-fiction book and a film adaptation of it later on. Into the Wild was published in 1996 and went on to become an international best-seller praised by many of the reviewers. In 2019, the online magazine Slate placed it among the 50 best works of the past quarter-century in the non-fiction category.

The book describes the death of Christopher Johnson McCandless, who hitchhiked to Alaska’s snow-covered Stampede Trail. His body was found on this trail in an abandoned bus. He survived for 113 days on wild plants and an assortment of game and died eventually due to the consumption of a toxic plant.

These were some of the best books on travel, which are either based on the personal experiences or are biographies of those with a love for travel. We are all gifted with this small life and there’s much to explore in this world. So, embark on your journey to some unexplored places; but, while doing so, be alert and take good care of yourself!

By the way, which of these books did you find interesting?

The post Top 10 Books on Travel That Have Inspired Millions appeared first on bienvillebooks.com.

At a certain point of time in the past when the great civilizations were born, writing systems were also developed. The earliest form of writing was the pictographic script. Humans in those times wrote on several objects, such as stones, bones, tree bark, clay, and metal sheets. By the time paper was invented, the writing systems were much more advanced. Manuscripts were created and then bunched together to form books.

Since then, books became the best sources of knowledge for mankind. However, there came a time when there was a need to make books accessible to a community or the general public. Thus, the idea of creating spaces for housing a collection of books or archives of manuscripts was born. These spaces came to be known as libraries.

The founding of libraries

The earliest libraries consisting of written books were found in the 5th century BC in classical Greece. The great libraries were also established in Constantinople, Alexandria, and Timbuktu. The first public library is believed to have been established in the 11th century by Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, a Fatimid Caliph. In this library, even members of the general public could choose the books they wanted and have a copy of them made for free by public scribes.

The first community-run public library was established in the mid-15th century in Cesena, Italy. It offered both religious and secular texts in the Greek, Latin, and Hebrew languages. Many public libraries were founded in Great Britain in the 17th century. The oldest public library in the English-speaking world is considered to be the Chetham’s Library, located in Manchester. 

In the 18th century, libraries were increasingly becoming public and were lending books. The modern public library grew at a faster pace in the English-speaking world towards the end of the 19th century. The world’s first modern public library was the Peterborough Town Library located in Peterborough, New Hampshire.

Bookstores

The commercial trading of books began towards the end of the republic in Rome. The trade of books flourished with the increasing demand for copies of Gospels and other sacred books. Modern system of bookselling began with the advent of printing. During the 16th and 17th centuries, the countries in north-western Europe’s coastal lowland region became major centers of bookselling.

Along with the technological advancements came the internet, which revolutionized the publishing and sale of books. Today, there are online stores like Amazon that sell almost all the book titles. One can also benefit from their affiliate programs and online publishing tools.

Types of bookstores

The size of the bookstore determines the number of book titles it can accommodate. Small bookstores generally house a few hundred titles, while the larger bookstores can offer more than a hundred thousand titles. As internet is easily accessible today and people can now afford the best smartphones and e-readers, books are being increasingly bought online. 

One can either choose to buy past and present books from a brick-and-mortar bookstore or an online bookstore.

Brick and mortar bookstores

Online bookstores have made it possible for people to buy their favorite books from the comfort of their homes. However, the brick-and-mortar bookstores are still important for the book publishing industry. They not only sell books but also help the publishers and authors by hosting promotional events. Some of these events include author readings, book signings, and endcap promotions.

Generally, there are three different types of brick-and-mortar bookstores:

Independent bookstores: These are bookstores with one or more localized outlets. Although they not usually as big in scale as the bookstore chains, they are important to the publishing industry. This is mainly because of their reputation among their community and a loyal customer base.

Bookstore chains: Publishers and authors hold all the major bookstore chains in high regard, as they carry the potential to buy and sell large quantities of books. They can also promote the books for publishers or authors on a bigger scale through book-promotion events across their outlets.

Used bookstores: Also called ‘second-hand bookstores’, they specialize in buying and selling used books. These books may either be in print or out of print. While these bookstores may not bring any financial benefits for the authors and publishers, they may help in spreading the word. They also help in maintaining the circulation of old and rare titles.

Online bookstores

The online bookstores came into existence with the growth of the internet and e-commerce. They eliminated the need for people to physically visit a bookstore near them to get their desired book. Now, booklovers can buy their favorite books from the comforts of their homes. Sometimes, they even get some fabulous discounts on their purchases. 

Amazon, for instance, sells its own range of e-readers called ‘Kindle’. Users of this device can browse through a variety of titles in the e-book format, buy, download, and read them. They can also use Kindle to download and read newspapers and magazines. 

Today, there are online bookstores for new as well as used books. They may not give book lovers the chance to feel a book and browse through its pages while sitting on a couch, but they certainly save time. However, there are many across the world who would still love to visit a brick-and-mortar bookstore to buy a book. In the end, it’s all a matter of choice.

The post A Walk Through the Past and Present of Books appeared first on bienvillebooks.com.

This beautiful state is named after the Alabama River. The name ‘Alabama’ comes from two words of the native Choctaw people – Alba and Amo. The Choctaw word ‘Alba’ means ‘plants’ or ‘vegetation’ and ‘Amo’ means ‘ picker’ or ‘gatherer’. These two words aptly describe the native Alabama Indians, as clearing and farming the land was what they did back in the day. 

The climate of Alabama is characterized by mild winters and hot summers with a lot of precipitation. The southern portion of the state enjoys up to 300 days of the growing season as a result of its annual rainfall, which amounts to 1,400 mm. You can head south for warmer temperatures, but if you wish to stay cool, make a trip to the state’s northern parts.

Culture of Alabama

You’ll find a lot of folklore and music in this American state, thanks to its rich cultural traditions. The rural life of Alabama has influenced many of the nation’s popular music genres, such as country music and jazz. The state has also made significant contributions to the world of literature. Among the prominent figures from Alabama who made it big in the literary world was Harper Lee. I mean, who can forget her classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird?

As you begin exploring Alabama, you’ll come across many wonderful art museums. Some of the major ones will be found in the cities of Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery and Mobile. Besides the museums, there are many historic places worth exploring in the state! Such as the Confederate fortress called Fort Morgan. If you’re a history buff, you’ll certainly feel delighted to visit these places.

The people of Alabama have done well to leave the dark days of the Civil War behind and embrace various other cultures. It is more apparent in the annual international festival of Birmingham. The people of Alabama also enjoy some exciting recreational activities like stock-car racing, boating, and waterskiing.

History of Alabama

Alabama was inhabited by indigenous people from many different cultures before the colonial rule was established. They had been living in the region for many years and had trade relations with the north-eastern tribes. Some of them residing in present-day Alabama include the Cherokee, Muskogean, Choctaw, and Koasati people.

The first Europeans to reach Alabama during the 16th century were the Spanish. However, the French were the first Europeans to settle in the state. Later, it came under the occupation of British West Florida between 1763 and 1783. It was briefly occupied by Spain until the U.S. forces took control over the territory in 1813. 

After the American Civil War, the industrial development in the World War era made Alabama quite prosperous. The racial segregation that had plagued the state since the colonial rule came to an end in the mid-1960s. The traditional lumber, textile, and steel industries made way to industries associated with manufacturing and technology. Today, finance, aerospace, mineral extraction, education, healthcare, and retail also contributes greatly to the state’s economy.

Best places to visit in Alabama

You’ll have a variety of places to explore in Alabama, as it houses tourist attractions for all ages. There are museums for history buffs, lovely beaches for the beach bums, and some recreational centers for families. 

There are some great casinos as well. Although you can have sizable free bonuses only in online casinos, you’ll certainly have a good time trying your luck on the machines and gambling tables.

Here are some of the popular attractions you can visit while getting around in Alabama:

Memorials of Montgomery: There are two intriguing memorials you can explore upon visiting the city of Montgomery. One is the Civil Rights Memorial, which is located close to the Civil Rights Memorial Center. It features a black granite sculpture, built in the memory of those who were killed during the Civil Rights Movement. 

Another memorial is the National Memorial of Peace and Justice. It includes sculptures, artwork, and monuments honoring prominent people of the Civil Rights Movement.

McWane Science Center: This family-friendly attraction houses several exhibits and interactive experiences for kids as well as adults. It has soared in popularity over the years owing to its range of offerings, which include an aquarium and an IMAX theater.

Mobile Bay: A scenic area adorning the state’s coastline, Mobile Bay has some fabulous beaches and historic places. They attract both tourists and locals every year. You’ll have a good time exploring Dauphin Island, which is a barrier island having a small town. If you wish to indulge in some recreational activities like playing golf and cycling, head to Fairhope Pier.

Gulf State Park: If you love camping and day-trips, Gulf State Park is the one you must explore. It has many facilities and over two miles of white-sand beaches. The amenities offered in this vacation spot attracts quite a lot of families every year. You’ll also be delighted to find guided Segway tours and paddle-board and kayak rentals while in this park.

Other interesting facts about Alabama

The ghost town: What was Alabama’s first permanent state capital in the early 19th century is now a ghost town. Cahaba was chosen as the site for the state’s capital in 1818 and became functional by 1820. However, the capital had to be relocated from there after five years owing to frequent floods.

World’s largest cast iron statue: Did you know that the statue of Vulcan in Alabama is the world’s largest cast iron statue? This statue of the Roman god of fire and forge is located in the city of Birmingham. It was built in the beginning of the 20th century and had won the ‘Grand Prize’ at the 1904 World’s Fair.

Hodges meteorite: On the 30th of November 1954, Alabama’s Ann Elizabeth Fowler Hodges was struck by the Sylacauga meteorite while she was napping on the couch. This incident received so much attention that the meteorite came to be known as the Hodges meteorite.

Coon Dog Cemetery: Located in the Colbert County of Alabama, the Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard is a cemetery reserved particularly for the burial of the ‘coonhound’ dog breed. The place was a popular hunting camp until Key Underwood established this cemetery in 1937.

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