New Book Review! In The Heart of The Rockies
June 05, 2009


A new book review has been posted about G.A. Henty's In The Heart of The Rockies. This Henty book tells of the adventures of sixteen-year-old Tom Wade as he explores the Rockies of North America. This is another great historical/geographical novel by the prince of storytellers. To read the book review by Brandon Smith, you can click here.

Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 03:40 PM |

Book Review of In The Heart of The Rockies

By Brandon Smith — June 04, 2009

At the start of the book, Tom's parents are dead, leaving his five sisters and himself to fend for themselves. Tom, restless with the life in England, sails for [Read more...]

True Politeness and Etiquette
June 03, 2009

You might have guessed that a lot has been going on here at BTB-HQ. And that would be a good guess. Most of May we were on the road hopping conferences and events. (I think we covered at least 6 states in May.)

A big project has been preparing for the upcoming Reformation 500 event which is to be held in Boston July 1-4. As I have been studying historical characters, one of the things I have been reading about has been pre-modern etiquette. Modern Americans lack appropriate etiquette, and so I have found it fascinating to see how truly gallant Americans once were.


One of my favorite reads for the year was Martine's Hand-Book of Etiquette and Guide to True Politeness. This is a great book and has shown me so many areas where I could definitely add some refinement.

Martine has some very good quotes in his book dealing with the art of gentlemanliness.

Gentility is neither in birth, manner, nor fashion--but in the mind. A high since of honor--a determination never to take mean advantage of another--an adherence to truth, delicacy, and politeness toward those whom you may have dealings--are the essential and distinguishable characteristics of a gentlemen.

If you have a friend that will reprove your faults and foibles, consider you enjoy a blessing, which the king upon the throne cannot have.

In private, watch your thoughts; in your family, watch your temper; in society, watch your tongue.

This is an absolute must read for anyone who wishes to be a "decent chap or lass". Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 08:20 PM |