As in film westerns, the western novel has been revived in newer and unconventional ways in recent years. There has been the rise in popularity of the “weird western”: a hybrid genre which blends elements of the traditional western (a lawless frontier, a hero pit against all odds) with those of other types of fiction such as noir, mystery, horror and science-fiction (namely, the alternate Victorian universe known as steampunk).

Films within the noir genre are quite diverse, but have a few things in common: a dark and brooding atmosphere, a cynical protagonist with a complicated past, and plotlines that are fatalistic. Noir fiction has developed alongside these films since the 1930s and 1940s and has the same characteristics. Although classic noir novels by such authors as Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett are detective stories, others are written in the form of psychological thrillers, and horror, western and science-fiction novels.

Where fantasy and science fiction come together like clockwork!

In October 1920, Agatha Christie's first mystery novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles was published. To read, listen to, or watch one of her many stories, take a look below! Titles available in print, large print, eBook format, audio or eAudio, or as a film. Some titles also available in French or Korean.

Print magazines for grown-ups in English, French and Chinese languages.

Print magazines in English and French languages.

The permanently attached VOX Reader transforms an ordinary print book into an all-in-one read-along. No need for computers, tablets, or CDs—children simply push a button to listen and read! Includes titles in Chinese, Korean, French, and Spanish.

Novels based on incredible women who rocked science, engineering, politics, human rights, the Arts, and more. Probably all while making sure dinner was on the table.

HCOS Science Unit Book Ideas