Although he appeared to most observers to be white, American author Charles Waddell Chestnutt had some African-American ancestry and thus was subjected to the limited opportunities, discrimination, and segregated living conditions that faced African-Americans in the United States throughout his life. An accomplished writer, Chestnutt created The House Behind the Cedars as a means of trying to depict the multidimensional complexity of race relations in the nineteenth-century American South. Recommended for fans of literary realism and social issue novels.

Though originally intended for a younger audience, this masterpiece of historical children's literature is a delight for readers of all ages. The Little Duke tells the story of Richard the Fearless, the young Duke of Normandy who ascended to power at a very young age and was then imprisoned. Escaping with the help of a few key confidants, Richard fought to regain control of his kingdom. The Little Duke is gripping, engaging historical fiction that will keep you interested.