The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County is an 1865 short story by Mark Twain. In it, the narrator retells a story he heard from a bartender, Simon Wheeler, at the Angels Hotel in Angels Camp, California, about the gambler Jim Smiley.
Literature
Immerse students in the power of words with a diverse collection of audiobooks, poems, and written works. These resources bring classic and contemporary literature to life, encouraging thoughtful discussion and a deeper appreciation for storytelling.
The Young Traveler’s Gift
In his senior year of high school, Michael hit rock bottom. After being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, he was suspended from the track team and lost his college scholarship. His coach was angry and his parents disappointed. He was diving headfirst into a downward spiral. Facing the bleak future ahead, he saw no way out and wondered if life was really worth living. But now, with some divine intervention, he’s been given a second chance and offered a once-in-a-lifetime journey of discovery.
Baseball, Boys, and Bad Words
In 1970, 11-year-old Andy Andrews and a group of friends began a Little League season they would never forget. All the usual ingredients were there⎯warming temperatures, freshly cut grass, and new uniforms. But the addition of a coach who was “new to the area” is what made this season truly unforgettable for young Andy.
The Velveteen Rabbit
First published in 1921, The Velveteen Rabbit was Margery Williams first children’s book. Voted #28 on the “Teacher’s Top 100 Books for Children,” this classic story about self-worth and acceptance follows a stuffed rabbit and his desire to become real through the love of a young boy.
The Kid Who Changed the World
The Kid Who Changed the World tells the story of Norman Borlaug, who would one day grow up and use his knowledge of agriculture to save the lives of two billion people. Two billion! Norman changed the world! Or was it Vice President Henry Wallace who changed the world? Or maybe it was George Washington Carver? But what about Susan Carver?
The Monkey’s Paw
Step into the eerie world of The Monkey’s Paw by W. W. Jacobs, narrated by the captivating Briley Crisafi. This spine-tingling tale follows the consequences of wishes granted by a cursed monkey’s paw. Briley’s exceptional talent shines as she skillfully brings the characters to life with her dynamic voices. With a blend of spooky allure and playful intrigue, her narration invites you to explore the fine line between desire and dread. Join us on the Audiobook Dock for a thrilling listening experience that will make you question the power of your own wishes.
Pegasus, The Winged Horse
Dive into Nathaniel Hawthorne’s mesmerizing tale, Pegasus, The Winged Horse. Join Bellerophon, a daring hero, as he partners with Pegasus, the celestial steed, on a quest to vanquish the fearsome Chimæra. Journey through ancient realms of myth and legend, where heroism, ambition, and wonder intertwine. With each twist and turn, Hawthorne’s poetic prose comes alive, transporting listeners to an age of monsters and heroes. Let your imagination soar and be captivated by this timeless tale, all narrated by the masterful voice of Andy Andrews!
The Cask of Amontillado
First published in 1846, this grim short story is told from the perspective of a man whose family name has been insulted by an arrogant wine enthusiast. Seeking revenge, a trap is set deep in the wine cellars below his sprawling estate. Care for a sip? Read by Andy Andrews, this classic tale will remind you why Edgar Allen Poe is the hair-raising maestro.
A Double Feature!
Robert W. Service was known as “The Bard of the Yukon” during the gold rush days. It was another way of saying he was like Shakespeare to the people who lived and worked in the frozen North. His first book of “story verse” was released in 1907, called Songs Of A Sourdough, and quickly sold more than three million copies! It seemed everyone loved his raw, outdoorsy stories with their perfect rhymes. We think you and your family will too!
Christmas in 1776
What might Christmas have been like for children during the Revolutionary War? While Washington’s army nearly froze, what did the kids know and how did they handle having a parent away from home serving the country? Snuggle up with your child and listen to this classic short story together—Christmas In 1776.
The Bet
A banker and a lawyer make a wager…would you spend 15 years in solitary confinement for two-million dollars in 1870 (nearly $50 million today)? Read here by Leslie Anne Tarabella, “The Bet” is a classic short story by Anton Chekhov.
The Greatest Teacher in the World
Never in my life had I encountered such beauty. Her perfect face, framed by long, blond hair, featured the most incredible green eyes I had ever seen. Her voice was a symphony and her movements . . . hypnotic.
“Linda Gail,” I wanted to say, “I love you. You were meant to be mine.” And then I would kiss her. And not just anywhere either. I would kiss her—on the mouth!