In 1815, in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, two of England's wealthiest lords place a high-stakes wager on whether a popular set of books, which claim that the author has traveled to many unknown corners of the globe, are truth or, more likely, wild fiction. First Light is an epistolary novel, told primarily through the eyes of former aide-de-camp Gregory Conan Watts, describing the journeys of the airship Dame Fortuna and its crew through journals and letters to his beloved fiancee. The first recruit is, necessarily, the airship's owner: war hero, famed genius, and literal knight in steam-powered armor Sir James Coltrane. Persuading him to lend his talents and refitted airship to the venture requires bringing along his sister, his cousin, and the crew that flew with him during the Napoleonic Wars. Only with their aid can they track down a Scottish rifleman, a pair of shady carnies, and a guide with a strong personal investment in the stories. When they set out, the wild places of the world, including the far American West, the Australian interior, darkest Africa, and other destinations are thought to be hostile enough. No one expects the trip to involve a legendary storm - or the Year Without a Summer of 1815-1816. The voyage is further complicated by the human element. Some parties are not at all happy with the post-war political map. Most problematic of all, the crew hired by the other side of the wager seem willing to win by any means necessary. Dawn of Steam: First Light follows these adventurers, as they open up the world. In the process, their journey helps lay the foundations for an age of enlightenment and technology to come.

How is the dependency on fossil fuels affecting our culture, health, wildlife and environment? An excellent source for students, and professionals in the health, energy and environmental industries. A "go-to" book for community leaders seeking further understanding of how fossil fuels can disrupt the health and environment of their locales. Fossil fuel has significant impact to our lives, from contamination to stimulation of the economy Historic oil and gas spills are tragic, but in contrast the unprecedented increases of natural gas and oil in the shale plays of North Dakota are a tremendous boost to economy This book also provides technical discussion on the impacts of hydraulic fracturing (fracking), and long-term strategic planning for energy solutions.

"Sundays With Daddy" highlights the bond between a father and child and their weekly tradition of watching Sunday football. This book reintroduces the prominent role that fathers play in the lives of their children. This book was uniquely written by a Reading teacher to include activity pages in the back of the book and provide parents and educators the opportunity to further engage their children through creative learning.