1 . By our very rough calculations, Reader’s Digest has published some 35,000 articles in nearly 1,200 issues. These small pages have held some very big names, including U.S. presidents, world leaders, sports legends, and, indeed, the biggest contributors of all, everyday Americans with a story to tell. These are some of our proudest moments.
How to Keep Young Mentally by Mary B. MullettThis first article in the first issue highlighted inventor Alexander Graham Bell and his belief in lifelong learning: “The first essential of any real education is to observe. Observe! Remember! Compare!” It was an appropriate beginning. reflecting our self-educated founder’s endless curiosity.
I’ve Come to Clean Your Shoes by Madge HarrahThe morning of a family funeral, an acquaintance shows up unannounced and says, “I’ve come to clean your shoes.” He spends the day quietly shining every pair in the house. The writer ends with: “Now, whenever I hear of an acquaintance who has lost a loved one. I try to think of one specific task suiting that person’s need. And if the person says, ‘How did you know I needed that done?’ I reply, ‘it’s because a man once cleaned my shoes.’”
Strange Encounter on Coho Creek by Morris Homer ErwinA miner spends days camping in the Alaskan wilderness, working hard to earn the trust of a mother wolf stuck in a trap before she and her four pups starve to death. Eventually, he is able to free her. Four years later, he encounters a wolf in the same meadow. Yes, the same wolf. When we shared this classic on rd.com in 2019, it went viral and it has now been read by many millions online and in print.
How Honest Are We by Ralph Kinney BennettOur famous “wallet drop” set up the ultimate test of honesty: If we left wallets in cities around the country, how many would be returned? Well over half, it turned out—67 percent. The most honest city? Seattle, whose upstanding residents returned nine out of ten wallets.
1. What do we know about the acquaintance in the story I’ve Come to Clean Your Shoes?| A．He shows concern by cleaning shoes. |
| B．He cleans shoes at the owner’s request. |
| C．He comforts the owner by telling his own story. |
| D．He visits the house where the owner is severely sick. |
| A．How to Keep Young Mentally. | B．I’ve Come to Clean Your Shoes. |
| C．Strange Encounter on Coho Creek. | D．How Honest Are We. |
| A．In a history book. | B．In a magazine. | C．In a novel. | D．In a brochure. |
2 . Most Scenic Train Rides in the World
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
Starting in the Scottish Highlands town, this train journey winds through green hills, crystal blue lakes, deep valleys, and odd villages. A highlight of the trip is the crossing of the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct (高架桥) with its graceful curves and towering columns, overlooking the Jacobite monument. Harry Potter fans will recognize this view as well as the steam engine and carriages which became the Hogwarts Express. The Jacobite Steam Train runs from April to October.
Grand Canyon Railway, United States
This round-trip journey begins about 30 miles west of Flagstaff and heads north to the Grand Canyon National Park. On the way, passengers are encouraged to get into the Old West spirit with musical entertainment, cowboy characters, and other surprises. In addition to the breathtaking landscape, guests might spot wildlife that includes mountain lions, deer, owls, etc. . The daily departure time is 9: 30 a. m. , and the trip takes two hours and 15 minutes.
Kuranda Scenic Railway, Australia
This journey takes guests through one of the world’s oldest rainforests in Queensland. The two-hour trip begins in Cairns and passes scenery that includes trees, waterfalls. mountains, and valleys. Barron Gorge, one of Queensland’s most popular national parks, can be viewed from the train or by driving a short distance from Kuranda at the end of the train line.
Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka
This seven-hour trip takes passengers through remote villages, past waterfalls and lush green hills, and through the tea plantations for which the country is known. The train is a favorite way to explore the country, view the varied scenery, and observe villages and local people along the way. Kandy is located in central Sri Lanka with sacred Buddhist temples and scenic Kandy Lake.
1. Which ride would appeal to Harry Potter fans?| A．Grand Canyon Railway. | B．Kuranda Scenic Railway. |
| C．Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka. | D．The Jacobite Steam Train. |
| A．Visit Buddhist temples. | B．Appreciate odd villages. |
| C．Enjoy the Old West feel. | D．Watch underwater life. |
| A．Barron Gorge. | B．Cairns. | C．Jacobite monument. | D．Kandy Lake. |
3 . Classes for overcoming shyness
Workshop Series
The workshop is designed for shy parents of shy children, with the unique emphasis on teaching specific methods of building your child’s self-respect and social comfort level, while at the same time building your own. Participants are chosen before being admitted to the workshop to help make sure the workshop is a good fit for your needs.
Where: Karman Executive Center, Bellevue, Washington
When: From 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, from November 8th to 12th
Fee: $435
Intensive Training
The workshop is intended to meet the needs of adults who are unable to attend the Workshop Series due to distance and/or scheduling limits. It’ll help you learn the basic skills that help overcome shyness. Be prepared to come to class early and set aside time for homework on Saturday night.
Where: Karman Executive Center, Bellevue, Washington
When: Saturday & Sunday in spring
Fee: $1,150
Shake Shyness
Shy children need our help. In this class, we’ll cover the basics — the origins of shyness, methods of overcoming shyness, social skills you can teach in your home, and tips for working with teachers to help your child fit in at school, etc.
Where: Karman Executive Center, Bellevue, Washington
When: From 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, from November 16th to 18th
Fee: $95
Skills Training
This is a special class for adolescents designed to teach social skills shy people are afraid to use. We’ll cover everything from how to start conversations with strangers to ways to calm your nerves when you do. You’ll learn what makes some people more popular than others and simple things you can do to feel more like you fit it.
Where: Karman Executive Center, Bellevue, Washington
When: From 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, on December 18th
Fee: $57
1. Which may turn you down though you’re interested in it?| A．Workshop Series. | B．Intensive Training. |
| C．Shake Shyness. | D．Skills Training. |
| A．It focuses on speaking skills. | B．It is offered only at weekends. |
| C．It provides a lot of homework. | D．It is designed for shy children. |
| A．$1,150. | B．$435. | C．$95. | D．$57. |
4 . San Francisco Fire Engine Tours
San Francisco Winery Tour
Running: February 1st through April 30th
This delicious tour goes through the city on its way to Treasure Island where we will stop at the famous Winery SF. Here you can enjoy 4 pours of some of the best wine San Francisco has to offer. (Included in ticket price)
Departing from the Cannery(罐头食品厂): Tour times upon request
Duration: 2 hours
Price: $90
Back to the Fifties Tour
Running: August 16th through August 31st
This tour transports you back in time to one of San Francisco’s most fantastic periods, the 1950s! Enjoy fun history as we take you through San Francisco for a free taste of ice cream.
Departing from the Cannery: 5: 00 pm and 7: 30 pm
Duration: 2 hours
Price: $90
Frightening Halloween Tour
Running: October 10th through October 31 st
Join us for a ride through the historical Presidio district. True fire gear(服装)is provided for your warmth as our entertainers take you to some of the most exciting parts of San Francisco.
Departing from the Cannery: 6: 30 pm and 8: 30 pm
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Price: Available upon request
Holiday Lights Tour
Running: December 6th through December 23rd
This attractive tour takes you to some of San Francisco’s most cheerful holiday scenes. True fire gear is provided for your warmth as you get into the holiday spirit.
Departing from the Cannery: 7: 00 pm and 9: 00 pm
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Advance reservations(预订)required.
1. Which of the tours is available in March?| A．Holiday Lights Tour. | B．Back to the Fifties Tour. |
| C．Frightening Halloween Tour | D．San Francisco Winery Tour |
| A．Have free ice cream. | B．Go to Treasure Island. |
| C．Enjoy the holiday scenes. | D．Visit the Presidio district. |
| A．Take some drinks. | B．Wear warm clothes |
| C．Set off early in the morning. | D．Make reservations in advance |
5 . Events at the Fleet Science Center
Superpower Dogs
Join in an adventure to experience the life-saving superpowers of some of the world’s most amazing dogs on the big screen. No stranger to superheroes himself, Chris Evans narrates (讲述) this inspiring true story about remarkable dogs that save lives.
Time: March 2, 2:00 pm
Price: Adult (Age 13-65) $21; Junior (Age 3-12) $18; Senior (Age 65+) $19
The Sky Tonight
Early show: March 4, 7: 00 pm to 8: 00 pm
Late show: March 4, 8:15 pm to 9:15 pm
Join us for a tour of the solar system. Journey through the universe with us as we explore a new topic each month.
Price: Adult (age 13-65) $19; Junior (Age 3-12) $17; Senior (Age 65+ ) $18
Make-It Workshop
We invite you to stop by Studio X to try your hand at making things. Make-It Workshop activities change monthly and fees vary.
Participants can purchase tickets at Studio X on the day of the workshop.
Time: March 7, 11:30 am to 3:30 pm
Suds & Science
Sometimes, the most interesting discussions occur over a beer or a glass of your favorite wine. That’s the concept behind Suds & Science, a monthly event that brings scientists face-to-face with the general public in a neighborhood bar.
Location: Thorn Brewing, 3176 Thorn St, San Diego, CA 92104
Time: March 8, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Price: $6 at the door. Food & drinks are available for purchase. Please come early to place your orders at the bar, as staff will not be available to take orders during the event.
1. What can participants do at the event of Suds & Science?| A．Learn something about the solar system. |
| B．Make something by themselves. |
| C．Hold a party with their friends. |
| D．Communicate with scientists. |
| A．$35. | B．$36. | C．$37. | D．$38. |
| A．At 7:00 pm. | B．At 6:30 pm. |
| C．At 2:00 pm. | D．At 8:15 pm. |
6 . With so many NYC museums to choose from, it’s hard to begin. The good news is, you’re in the right place. Below is a highly selective list of museums in New York City.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Occupying two million square feet, with a permanent collection of over two million works of art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (founded in 1870) is one the largest galleries in the world. This famous fine arts museum in NYC possesses works from classical antiquity (古物), ancient Egypt, Asia, Byzantium, and Europe, with nearly all of the European masters represented.
American Museum of Natural History
Originally founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world. Located in park-like grounds across the street from Central Park, the museum complex consists of 28 interconnected buildings housing 45 permanent exhibition halls. As a popular family-friendly NYC attraction, the American Museum of Natural History is as fun as it is educational.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
One of the mid-twentieth century’s most important architectural landmarks, the iconic Solomon R. Museum was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright spent 15 years designing the building and gave up 700 sketches and six sets of working drawings in the process. He died six months before the doors were opened.
New York City Fire Museum
The New York City Fire Museum (set up in 1934) is a charming alternative to the more expensive museums of New York. Here you will find art and artifacts that celebrate the history of firefighting and the New York City Fire Department, including modern-day firefighting equipment and real New York fire equipment from 1790.
1. What do you know about the American Museum of Natural History?| A．It consists of 28 exhibition halls. | B．It lies in the middle of Central Park. |
| C．It is fit for parents and their kids. | D．It is the largest museum in the world. |
| A．The New York City Fire Museum | B．The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum |
| C．The Metropolitan Museum of Art | D．The American Museum of Natural History |
| A．In a guidebook | B．In a history book |
| C．In an art review | D．In an official report |
7 . Are you tired of staying in a hotel when exploring a foreign city? Do you want to feel the real life in a local community? If so, you may log onto Airbnb for a good pick if you are planning for your next week-long holiday in Toronto.
* * *
Homey and Lovely Downtown Condo Next to CN Tower
Entire rental unit hosted by Duan
2 guests * studio * 1 bed * 1 bath
Directly located in front of the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and Rogers Center, minutes away from Union Station.
Safe, secure and easy self-check-in procedures with 24/7 building security.
Completely private space. The entire unit is yours to enjoy. There isn’t anyone else to share the space with you.
Other things to note
We observe Airbnb’s new pilot program in Toronto that requires guests to be 25+ to book entire homes. We will regrettably not be able to host your stay if your group is mostly under 25.
* * *
Comfy Bedroom + Stunning View ♥ Downtown!
Room in a unit hosted by Attilio
1 queen bed * dedicated bathroom * host and other guests may be here
This accommodation consists of a bedroom with a private bathroom — you will be also able to use the kitchen and living room (shared), plus all the apartment facilities.
Start the day with a workout in the fully equipped gym. Explore downtown from this modern, comfy apartment. In the evening, stretch out on the nice sofa and admire the city lights from the window.
Other things to note
Check-in time will be any time after 4PM and check-out time by 11AM.
1. In which aspect are the two units different from each other?| A．Number of guests to host. | B．Bathroom for private use. |
| C．Distance to the downtown. | D．Space to share with others. |
| A．Backpackers wanting to meet other guests. |
| B．Teenagers on a high school graduation trip. |
| C．A family in search of separate rooms and beds. |
| D．A couple needing a place close to the landmarks. |
| A．Check-in time. | B．Price. | C．Service. | D．Privacy. |
8 . Programs Allow You to Explore Canada and Learn French
Are you open to exploring Canada for a few weeks, meeting new friends, learning French and participating in unforgettable worthy adventures? Are you looking for something longer-term where you can dive deep into another language and culture? Explore Programs may be right for you!
Explore Programs
Offered during every summer and every winter to people with any level in French, Explore Programs are language programs which allow you to discover another area of Canada while learning French. There is a three-week Explore (aged 13 to 15) program and an Explore program if you’re a 16-year-old or older student.
Fees
The three-week Explore program: $2,000(taxable income).
The Explore program: $2,800 (taxable income).The fee covers the major expenses for participating in the program: tuition, teaching materials,workshops, accommodations, and most of your activities. Aside from personal spending (on snacks or souvenirs, etc.), you will need to pay registration fees and travel expenses.
Eligibility Criteria (资格标准)
In order to qualify for Explore Programs, you must:
——be a Canadian citizen(those studying in Canada on a student visa are not eligible);
——meet the age limits by the time your Explore course begins;
——have been a full-time student for at least one term during the present school year.
There are no grade or language skill requirements for the programs. However, you must have met all of the above criteria for the entire duration of the program. Usually, the application should be finished before February 15, 2019. However, for the Explore program: applications after February 16 will still be considered on condition that there are still places available.
For more information, please visit www.my explore.ca.
1. What can people do in Explore Programs?
| A．Go abroad. | B．Meet old friends. |
| C．Take adventures. | D．Improve their English. |
| A．$2,800. | B．$4,000. | C．$4,800. | D．$5,600. |
| A．the language level requirement | B．the application deadline |
| C．activities accessible | D．registration fees |
Summer Culture Welcome a student from France or Spain into your family!Exchange (交换) students from Spain and France are looking for welcoming, fun and loving hosts who will share life and culture with them for a few weeks in June, July and August. Stays can be from 4 to 6 weeks. What to do with your exchange student:Movies/ Museums/ Beach/ Cooking/ Community projects/ Volunteering/ Shopping/ anything you can think of... |
| Requirements to hosts: Loving and active family One stay-at-home host parent Willing to take students to places of interest once a week Contact information: If you are interested and would like more information, please contact: Shirley Wentzell 909-918-6715 Email: Shirley(@uceus.com |
| A．10 days. | B．5 weeks. | C．2 months. | D．1 year. |
| A．be rich and well-educated. | B．have good full-time jobs. |
| C．speak Spanish and French. | D．take students on a trip every week. |
| A．letter | B．notice | C．poster | D．diary |
10 . Children’s Day is coming. Here is some information about children’s books in our bookshop.
All I Want for Christmas Is You Writer: Mariah Carey Age: for 3-7 years Price: $ 17. 99 It is one of the bestsellers. It brings Christmas joy to readers. Its beautiful lyrics(歌词) will bring that same holiday spirit to readers in this picture book about a young girl whose wish is for a new little dog. | A Bear’s Year Writer: Kathy Duval Age: for 4-8 years Price: $ 18. 99 When spring arrives, the mother bear and her kids wake up, and as the weather warms to summer, the mother bear teaches her kids to fish. In autumn, as food grows less, the family prepares for the coming winter. |
The Little Prince Writer: Exupéry. S Age: for 11-14 years Price: $20. 99 The little prince lives on a small planet alone. One day he decides to leave his planet in search of the most important thing in his life. At last he finds out the answer from a fox of the Earth: the power of love. | |
| A．Children. | B．The elderly | C．The youth. |
| A．Mariah Carey. | B．Exupéry. S. | C．Kathy Duval. |
| A．A Bear’s Year. |
| B．The Little Prince. |
| C．All I Want for Christmas Is You. |
