Books with title The Mississippi

Life on the Mississippi is a memoir by Mark Twain detailing his days as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River before and after the American Civil War. The book begins with a brief history of the river. It continues with anecdotes of Twain's training as a steamboat pilot, as the 'cub' of an experienced pilot. He describes, with great affection, the science of navigating the ever-changing Mississippi River. In the second half, the book describes Twain's return, many years later, to travel on a steamboat from St. Louis to New Orleans. He describes the competition from railroads, the new, large cities, and his observations on greed, gullibility, tragedy, and bad architecture. He also tells some stories that are most likely tall tales. Simultaneously published in 1883 in the U.S. and in England, it is said to be the first book composed on a typewriter.

Splash into River Royals: Master the Mississippi with Eliza Jane and Henry as they take a wild ride down the Mississippi River in hopes of being crowned King and Queen of the New Orleans Mardi Gras. Filled with local culture, geography and history of the Mississippi River Basin, this imaginative journey takes children through ten states where they meet colorful new friends who also want crowns. The travelers soon discover that in these great states, you don't need a crown to shine. The strength of the United States lies in the hearts and dreams of its people. Citizens from Lake Itasca to shining sea work together to make America shine. With the charm of Eloise and the audacity of Huckleberry Finn, River Royals: Master the Mississippi enchants and educates children ages five to eight as it introduces the vibrant communities along America's largest river system. Join this happy caravan as they explore the Mighty Mississippi and discover the wonders of America at every bend in the river.

In this special republication of the first edition, more than 300 atmospheric black-and-white illustrations complement the great American humorist's recollections of his pre–Civil War days as a steamboat pilot. Twain recounts his youthful training, describes the science of navigation on the mercurial river, narrates a passenger trip undertaken years later from St. Louis to New Orleans, and serves a hearty sampling of tall tales."Your true pilot cares nothing about anything on earth but the river," notes Twain, "and his pride in his occupation surpasses the pride of kings." The author's commentary sparkles with keen observations on increased competition from railroads, up-and-coming cities along the river, and incidents of greed, gullibility, and other human foibles.