I would be remiss if I did not mention the brilliant new C-SPAN series, "American Writers, a journey through history," that I've been watching diligently since it began this winter. 138 episodes starting with William Bradford and the Mayflower Compact at Plimoth Plantation and running through 1974, it features an American writer of influence and focuses on a major work of that author, as well as surrounding historical discussions. The live broadcast each Monday morning at 9 a.m. offers an interactive discussion with phone calls and e-mails accepted. Fridays at 8 p.m. a tape of the same week's author is rebroadcast. All have been marvelous...today was Mark Twain, "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," and the next two weeks offer Willa Cather, "O Pioneers!" and Black Elk, "Black Elk Speaks." Some of the most intriguing so far have been William Bradford, "The Mayflower Compact;" Thomas Paine, "Common Sense" ( I now believe Paine to be the true Founding Father!...he believed in the sovereignty of the individual!), Lewis and Clark,"The Journals of Lewis and Clark;" Emerson and Thoreau, "Nature" and " Walden;" Elizabeth Cady Stanton, "A Declaration of Sentiments;" Frederick Douglass, "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass;." and Mary Chesnut, "Diaries From Dixie." And in August the episodes will be re-aired from the beginning so those who missed all or some can catch up! This is an incredible project folks, make it a point to see some of it if you can! VCR Alert! Worthwhile TV if there ever was!

Here's the site URL for more information: http://www.Americanwriters.org/