National Network for Equitable Library Service

Frederick Douglass’s memoir depicts his life as a slave, from his birth into southern slavery to his inspiring fight to learn how to read, escape as a free man and become a leader of the abolitionist movement. One of the most influential pieces of literature, not only for fueling the abolitionist movement, but also for exposing the atrocities of slavery and illuminating the inner strength of an African-American born into an immoral, racist system.

Dana's Legacy is a mother's inspirational story of her first child, born with cerebral palsy—a journey from tragedy to triumph. A book of hope, Dana's Legacy shows how disability brings both tragedy and opportunity. Readers will come to cherish the person of worth and beauty living within the disabled child's body and see the critical importance of the family's attitude. This tough-but-tender story illustrates how families can not only endure trauma but grow because of it.

How did an ex-hippie chick Viet Nam War protester become a fierce soldier supporter, living in a combat zone in an increasingly unpopular war? From 2004 to 2007, Ali Elizabeth Turner had the chance of a lifetime to learn firsthand that freedom isn't free and to say a much belated "thank you" for her freedom by working in Morale, Welfare, and Recreation centers in Baghdad. She heard the stories of hundreds of Iraqis, Coalition soldiers, interpreters, Navy SEALS, Army Rangers, and contractors from around the world.

Most women think they know everything there is to know about the men in their lives. The truth is every man lives two lives. One is the deceptive illusion we are taught to present to society and the women in it. The second is the real man only seen by other men inside the code. We men discuss this subject openly in our social world, never to be revealed to a woman because that would break the male code. It’s between men and men only…Until now.

Stumbling into Infinity is the intimate and sometimes startling account of Michael Fischman’s spiritual journey and the encounter that changed his life forever. His story opens on a flight to India, as he reflects on the unusual chain of events that led him from a challenging childhood to his unexpected role as friend and helper to a renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader. Michael Fischman’s fascinating and personal memoir takes us into the compassionate and mysterious world of an enlightened seer.

The legendary Boss Tweed effectively controlled New York City from after the Civil War until his downfall in November 1871. A huge man, he and his Ring of Thieves appeared to be invincible as they stole an estimated $2 billion in today's dollars. In addition to the New York city and state governments, the Tweed Ring controlled the press except for Harper's Weekly.

The Boy on the Lake is the inspirational story of how one teenager faced down two bullies: brain cancer and an emotionally abusive father. Born into a family of professional baseball and big macs, his courageous journey leads him from a small town in the mountains of Idaho to the biggest stage of all: the United States Congress where a bill he helped create awaits passage. It is called Trevor’s Law.

Hooten—one of radio's most successful on-air personalities—battled alcoholism his entire life. With this work, he hopes to reach those "functioning" alcoholics who want a better life for themselves and their families.

Glenn Gould (1932-1982) was a prodigy who loathed the word, a brilliant pianist who disliked performing, and a public figure who craved solitude. With his recording of the Goldberg Variations by J.S. Bach, Gould became an international celebrity. Gould's unusual interpretations, quirky stage mannerisms, and teasingly contrarian pronouncements fascinated and annoyed audiences and critics. He gave concerts in Canada, the United States, and abroad for several years.

Sandford Fleming knew fame and many honours later in life, but the path was not always easy. His beginnings are revealed in these early diaries that record his thoughts as an eighteen-year-old leaving his family home in Scotland for Canada. After unsuccessful attempts to get work as a surveyor, he finally made important contacts in Toronto, and through involvement with the Mechanics' Institute and the (Royal) Canadian Institute, became connected to the leading architects and engineers in the community.