This anthology presents 58 essays organized around nine rhetorical patterns of development. Representing a range of topics and styles, the selections include such works as Orwell's "Shooting an Elephant" along with works like Caroline Rego's "The Fine Art of Complaining" and Art Carey's "When Things Fall Apart". In addition to demonstrating strong writing, the readings encourage students to think about the environment, politics, animal rights, and other significant issues.