Engelske bøger

What would you do if you found out magic is actually all around you?These twelve magical short stories are all about magic and how it can be found in unlikely places. The atmosphere of each story is similar to the fantastic universe of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.They all contain important lessons for children as well as adults. In "The Cat-hood of Maurice," the protagonist learns to see life through another perspective and appreciate beings who are different from him. In "Kenneth and the Carp," a boy turns into a fish in order to prove his innocence. The story called "The Aunt and Amabel" is said to have inspired C.S. Lewis’ famous Narnia-series because Amabel goes through a wardrobe and arrives in another world much like the Narnia children. A fairy-tale book like no other.Perfect for fans of Roald Dahl, Lyman Frank Baum and Dianna Wynne Jones.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

This novel is the aquatic adventure of a lifetime.Four siblings, Francis, Mavis, Bernard, and Kathleen set out to rescue the sister of a mermaid who is being held captive at a circus.But who is good and who turns out evil? As always, appearances may deceive, and all is not as it seems.Meeting many new friends and gaining access to a secret kingdom underneath the sea, the siblings find themselves caught up in a war to save their new friends - the merpeople. Now, the siblings must confront their loyalty to each other as they fight for the goodness of the world.A timeless book, perfect for fans of C.S. Lewis, Bethany C. Morrow and J.K. Rowling, or anyone looking for a little bit of magic in their lives.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

A pre-WWI thriller, ‘The Great Secret’ by E. Phillips Oppenheim follows the adventures of young Hardcross Courage. One night while staying at the Cosmopolitan Hotel he witnesses another man, Leslie Guest, fleeing capture from two attackers. Following his intervention, Hardcross finds himself unwittingly drawn into a world of international espionage. With plenty of danger, secrets, conspiracies, and a touch of romance - this is a classic spy novel from the Victorian author.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

Written and published during the early years of WWI ‘The Kingdom of the Blind’ by E. Phillips Oppenheim is set against the backdrop of this international conflict. Hugh Thomson is on the hunt for a German super-spy who seems able to cross international borders without detection. Contrasting the bloody battlefields with the ignorance and glamour of London high society, and the cowardice of politicians with the bravery of the military, this novel provides a fascinating insight into attitudes of the time, whilst also being a thrilling tale.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

Do you believe in magic? Then fasten your seatbelt and join the ride as The Three C’s – Charlotte, Caroline, and Charles - try to figure out where it can be found.Spending an adventurous summer while visiting their uncle, they discover both mysterious books and a wonderful garden that will change their lives forever. Especially one book catches their attention "The Language of Flowers" which seems to be an actual Spell book! As they try out some of the spells incredible things start to happen. Could this magic be real, or are the extraordinary events taking place merely coincidental? A fascinating book about the magic we can find in everyday life, and a story of what it means to be a child trying to find their way in an adult world.Great for fans of C.S. Lewis and Lewis Carroll.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

First published in 1905 ‘The Woggle-Bug Book’ by L. Frank Baum follows the humorous exploits of the Woggle-Bug – a quirky and eccentric character who first appeared in ‘The Marvelous Land of Oz’. In the ‘Woggle-Bug Book’ the Woggle-Bug (a fan of all things bright and colourful) falls in love with a beautiful dress that he sees in a shop window. He sets out to make the money to buy the dress – but when he returns it has already been sold! He is determined to track the dress down, going from owner to owner and even abroad in his quest to make the dress his own. A fantastical children’s tale from famous ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ author.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

Clorinda’s mother dies giving birth to her, and she grows up mostly raised by servants. Her absentee father eventually takes a shine to her at a young age, and she becomes a spoiled tomboy. She wears man’s clothes, smokes cigars, drinks and engages in other unladylike behaviour.However, when she turns 15, Clorinda decides to shed the man’s clothes and become a lady.Her beauty and grace takes everyone by storm. Soon, she is pursued by suitors from surrounding areas. With her sister Anne by her side, Clorinda navigates between her suitors, the expectations set on her by society and unexpected love."A Lady of Quality" is a Victorian gothic romance set in the late 1600s. Fans of the genre will likely enjoy the melodrama, questionable morals and ploys of the characters.For fans of Marissa Meyer, Tricia Levenseller and Ann Radcliffe.Frances Eliza Hodgson Burnett (24 November 1849 – 29 October 1924) was an American-English novelist and playwright. She is best known for the three children’s novels "Little Lord Fauntleroy" (published in 1885–1886), "A Little Princess" (1905) and "The Secret Garden" (1911). Born in Cheetham, England, Frances moved with her family to the United States after her father’s death in 1865. Burnett started writing at the age of 19 to help earn money for the family, she gained popularity writing both children’s fiction and romantic novels for adults.

First published in 1915, ‘The Double Traitor’ by E. Phillips Oppenheim is set in the weeks leading up the outbreak of WWI. Stationed in Berlin, young British diplomat Francis Norgate finds himself drawn into the world of espionage after overhearing a secret conversation on a train. Full of danger, double agents, and conflicting loyalties, this is a gripping tale, as well as a fascinating insight into the mood of the time.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

If you could create your own world from scratch what would it look like? In this story the brave characters find out.10-year-old Philip becomes concerned when his sister marries the father of a girl named Lucy, whom Philip does not get along with. In order to escape the situation, Philip creates a magical world entirely from his own imagination.However, Philip soon realizes that he has to come to terms with the world he has created in order to face reality.Step into a courageous adventure where objects come alive and dragons are slain, and still every page tells you something about your own life. Perfect for fans of J.K.Rowling and J.M.Barrie.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

First published in 1911, ‘The Sea Fairies’ is an underwater fantasy story for children by famous ‘Oz’ author L. Frank Baum. It follows the adventures of a young girl named Tiny Trot and her friend, the old sailor Cap’n Bill Weedles. They spend their days beside the sea, when one day Tiny Trot makes a wish to see a mermaid. Little does she know her wish will soon be granted, and Trot and Bill are whisked off on an underwater adventure, encountering beautiful mermaids, indignant octopuses, and an evil villain named Zog. A delightful children’s story, full of nonsense and magic.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

Poverty-stricken Arnold Chetwode heads to London to make his fortune. Whilst in the capital he is witness to a murder, drawing him unwillingly into a world of international intrigue. Who can he trust? And is anyone really who they claim to be? An engaging story of murder, mystery, and intrigue from popular author E. Phillips Oppenheim.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

Would you be happy if all your wishes could come true?Most people would assume the answer is "yes" but the five siblings of this story find out that it is not that simple.The adventure begins with a new carpet that has a glowing egg inside it and when it falls into an open fire it hatches a golden phoenix, the most famous of all mythical birds. The phoenix tells them that the carpet is enchanted, and it has the ability to grant the children three wishes every day.With the arrogant but wise bird by their side they go on amazing journeys. But not everything is as it seems, and the siblings learn that you have to be careful what you wish for.For fans of Frances Hodgson Burnett and Jonathan Rogers.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

‘The Furthest Fury’ is the sixteenth book in the popular Fleming Stone detective series by author Carolyn Wells. David Stanhope is visiting friends in Connecticut when he hears of the brutal murder of a brother and sister who live locally. Suspects are wide-ranging, including the son of one of Stanhope’s own friends. With only the bumbling local police to help him solve the case, Stanhope does not get very far and is forced to call on the investigative skills of Fleming Stone. With plenty of twists and turns, this is a gripping detective novel.Carolyn Wells (1862-1942) was a prolific American novelist and poet, best known for her children’s literature, mystery novels and humorous verse. Following school in New Jersey, Wells worked as a librarian, where she developed her love of reading. It was during 1896 that Wells' first book ‘At the Sign of the Sphinx’ was published. From 1900 she dedicated herself to her literary career, writing over 170 novels in total across a range of genres. Some of her most loved works include the ‘Patty Fairfield’ and ‘Marjorie Maynard’ series for girls, as well as the ‘Fleming Stone’ mystery series for adults. Wells is also well-known for her humorous nonsense verse, and was a frequent contributor of verse to magazines. She published an autobiography ‘The Rest of my Life’ in 1937. Wells died in New York City in 1942.

Also published under the title ‘The Distributors’, ‘The Ghost Society’ by E. Phillips Oppenheim follows the story of secret society ‘The Ghosts’. Bored with London society, Lord Evelyn Madrecourt, along with seven like-minded individuals have founded this secret association. Seeking stimulation, the group decide to play fast and loose with the fortunes of others, making them enemies of many. There is romance as well as mystery along the way, in this enjoyable short story from the Victorian author.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

Young Rob Joslyn loves experimenting with electricity. One day, when trying to light-up a little cardboard house, he haphazardly connects different wires trying to get the right combination. With a bang and a flash, a mysterious creature called the Daemon of Electricity appears. Rob has inadvertently summoned him through his electrical wires. The Daemon informs Rob that he is entitled to three wishes each week for the next three weeks. There are lots of magical adventures in store for Rob in this captivating children’s book by popular author L. Frank Baum.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

‘The Surprising Adventures of the Magical Monarch of Mo’ is a collection of fourteen short stories for children by renowned ‘Oz’ author L. Frank Baum. The stories focus on the adventures of the Magical Monarch of Mo and his family, who inhabit a magical and nonsensical world where everything you could ever need grows on trees. The characters find themselves in all kinds of weird and whimsical situations, including a fight with a purple dragon and the invasion of a wind-up iron intruder. Full of magic and the absurd, this is a wonderful introduction to early L. Frank Baum.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

‘The Zeppelin’s Passenger’ by popular author E. Phillips Oppenheim was first published in 1918 and is set during WWI. When a Zeppelin crashes in a small English town the passenger escapes to wreak havoc. Dissatisfied in her marriage, local woman Phillipa finds herself attracted to the dangerous stranger and her allegiances are torn as she begins to help him with his espionage, despite her patriotic leanings. Will she really betray her country for the love of a stranger?E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

First published in 1922, E. Phillips Oppenheim set ‘The Great Prince Shan’ in an imagined future of 1934. Though WWI has ended, national security is still under threat. Great Britain has placed complete trust in the new League of Nations and disbanded its national security service. An amateur secret service takes it upon themselves to defend the country’s interests against enemy threats. An intriguing tale of danger and international espionage.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

‘The Boy Fortune Hunters in the South Seas’ is the sixth and final novel in the popular children’s series by ‘Oz’ author L. Frank Baum. Sam, Joe and Archie are transporting cargo from Australia to Columbia when they are shipwrecked upon a mysterious island during a typhoon. Much to the boy’s delight, the island happens to be overflowing with valuable pearls, but the islands inhabitants are unwelcoming and determined not to let any visitors get off alive. A perilous thriller from the prolific author.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

One of author E. Phillips Oppenheim’s earlier novels, ‘The Postmaster of Deignton’ is a mysterious whodunnit. Young doctor Norman Scott is treating Lord Humphrey Deignton for gout when he falls in love with his beautiful wife, Cora. When Lord Deignton is later murdered, Dr Scott is naturally the primary suspect. A gripping tale of love, jealousy, and revenge.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

‘The Daring Twins’ is a mystery novel by L. Frank Baum, first published in 1911. The story follows the adventures of twins Phil and Phoebe Daring, the eldest of five children in a once wealthy family. Following the failure of their father’s business and his subsequent death, the children are now penniless and find themselves living with their elderly grandfather. To help make ends meet Phil finds work in a bank – where he is wrongfully accused of stealing, and it is up to the plucky Phoebe to prove his innocence.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

A young baby named Claus is found abandoned in a forest. Claus is taken in by Ak, the Master Woodsman of the World and a wood nymph named Necile and has a happy upbringing away from other humans. When Claus moves away, he gains a reputation for kindness towards children, and starts carving toys to give them. The evil Agwas steal the toys as they are stopping the children from misbehaving, forcing Claus to enter homes through chimneys to deliver his gifts. There are plenty more adventures in store for Claus before he becomes Santa Claus, in this delightful festive children’s story from renowned author L. Frank Baum.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

What is the most valuable thing in the world? Is it material things like money, or is it things that cannot be counted like love and friendship?This is the question the brave Bastable siblings face in Nesbit’s first children’s book, which served as an inspiration for C.S. Lewis’ famous Narnia-series. The siblings set out on a mission to regain their family’s wealth after their mother dies and their father’s business collapses. As the six children go on humorous adventures, they are determined to turn their luck around by coming up with all sorts of crazy ideas for making money. Although they are having fun, nothing is really working. That is, until one journey takes an unexpected turn.A greatly inspirational and uplifting story that will warm your heart. For fans of C.S Lewis, Lemony Snicket and J.K. Rowling.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

When beautiful actress Louise Maurel’s car breaks down in the middle of the countryside she is fortunate to find herself in the vicinity of the home of the Strangeways brothers. Though prejudiced and misogynistic, the brothers soon find themselves softening thanks to Louise’s influence. Romance and love-triangles ensue in this charming novel from prolific author E. Phillips Oppenheim.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

Set during WWI, 'Our Sea' (or 'Mare Nostrum') is a moving romance by Spanish author Vicente Blasco Ibanez. Working as a secret agent for the Nazis, Freya Talberg makes a potentially fatal mistake when she falls in love with a Spanish sea captain, but will love conquer all in the end? Full of passion, adventure, tragedy, and betrayal, this is a gripping love story and coming of age tale from the famous author. The story was turned into a Hollywood silent film of the same name in 1926.-

'Tales and Fantasies' is a short story collection by much-loved Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson. Published posthumously in 1905, the collection included the farcical 'The Misadventures of John Nicholson', the supernatural 'The Body Snatcher' and the moralistic 'The Story of a Lie'. A humorous, charming collection from the famous 'Treasure Island' author. -

What makes a villain a villain? If you find a questionable main character intriguing, this social satire is perfect for you.The atypical character Lillie is a spoiled and self-absorbed young woman. She marries an aristocratic man who expects her to live up to his ideals of the perfect wife, but soon he finds out that she is nothing but trouble, manipulative, dishonest and money-driven.A clear villain you might think, but as always things are not as simple as they may seem.. The story criticizes social standards and norms, emphasizing the ridiculous expectations set for both men and women, and how they largely influence each other. For fans of Jane Austen, Jojo Moyes and Amy Tan. -

Imagine the most dramatic romance you know. Now forget that one, because after reading this book, you will permanently be thinking of this one instead! The story about the young and beautiful Agnes, daughter of a Roman prince. The tale takes place in Italy, at the infamous court of Pope Alexander VI. In secrecy, Agnes' father marries a young girl less fortunate than him, but suddenly leaves her again. When her mother dies of misery Agnes faces more trouble than she had never dreamt of.Her grandmother takes her to the stunning coastal town of Sorrento, where Agnes finds that her beauty and humble lifestyle attracts many suitors. But like in real life not all of high quality.. This catapults her life into a series of dramatic and suspenseful adventures. For fans of The Bronte sisters, Nicolas Sparks and Julia Quinn. -

What are your sunny memories? In this book, Stowe shares hers as she goes on a bright trip to Europe, writing about her experiences through journals, diary entries and letters to her friends.Visiting many different countries she offers picturesque details of different cultures, norms, and lifestyles. Never failing to state her opinion on each nation and its people, she paints a breathtaking picture of Europe.Written through the eyes of an American woman, this book is an interesting guide and travelogue perfect for history-lovers and people full of insatiable wanderlust. -

In a series of biographical sketches, Stowe weaves a story of womanhood, describing Christianity's influence on the female image.This religious portrayal begins with the Biblical story of Abraham's wife Sarah, working its way up to the heroines of the New Testament, most notably King Herod's Daughter, Mary Magdalene and Mary, mother of Jesus.The book portrays the relentless spirit of females in everything they have had to endure and conquer throughout history. While at the same time creating a connection between these historical figures and modern day women in the exploration of themes such as family and identity.Preceding any modern feminist revolutions, Stowe's collection is a must read for anyone who wants to learn about the history and expectations of half the population: women. -