Engelske bøger

From satires of Sherlock Holmes to lectures in defence of fairy tales, this collection of essays brings to life the smallest of trifles and turns them into debates on the meaning of life itself.G. K. Chesterton was one of the most prolific writers of the 20th century and produced a treasure trove of over four thousand essays. Of these, ‘Tremendous Trifles’ selects thirty-nine gems of good advice, fantastical storytelling, and philosophical ponderings to delight the reader.Including ‘The Dragon’s Grandmother’, ‘A Tragedy of Twopence’, and ‘The Shop of Ghosts’, this work brings together the best of classic Chesterton that will continue to amuse and outwit readers right up to the modern-day.Gilbert Keith Chesterton (1874 – 1936) was an English writer, journalist, philosopher, and literary critic. An unparalleled essayist, he produced over four thousand essays during his lifetime, alongside eighty novels and two hundred short stories.Tackling topics of politics, history, philosophy, and theology with tenacious wit and humour, G. K. Chesterton was often considered a master of the paradox. Himself both a modernist and devout Catholic, he is remembered best for his priest-detective short stories ‘Father Brown’, and his metaphysical thriller ‘The Man Who Was Thursday’.In his lifetime, Chesterton befriended and debated some of the greatest thinkers of the age, such as George Bernard Shore, H. G. Wells, and Bertrand Russell, while his works went on to inspire figures including T. S. Eliot, Michael Collins, and Mahatma Gandhi.

'Rose Macleod' follows the relationship between grandmother and granddaughter Madam Fulton and Electra. Madam Fulton, a writer, receives acclaim for her writing but won't pursue it further much to her granddaughter's annoyance. While granny chooses not to pursue a writing career, Electra navigates relationships and begins to work apart from her beloved grandmother.Alice Brown is an American novelist and short-story writer. She is best known for her tales about New England and as a writer of local colour stories. Born in New Hampshire in 1857, Brown's stories often portray a female protagonist in a domestic setting. Her first novel, 'Stratford-by-the-Sea', was published in 1884. It cemented Brown as part of the Boston literary scene, but by the time she died in 1948 (aged 91), many of her stories had been forgotten about and were no longer being published.

J. Arbuthnot Wilson is about to spend a memorable New Year’s Eve. He and the group he is travelling with were going to visit the sealed pyramid of Abu Yilla on the next day but Wilson is so impatient that he decide to rush and climb the Egyptian pyramid all by himself. He finds a secret entrance and he enters a magical world full terrors and astonishments. What he sees there is far from what he expected. The mysteries he discovers are unexplainable. How will he ever get himself out of there? Find out in Grant Allen’s "My New Year's Eve Among the Mummies".Grant Allen was a Canadian writer who lived in the period 1848 – 1899. His writing career began around 1876 when he published a series of essays on science. His first books, "Physiological Aesthetics" and "Flowers and Their Pedigrees" took up this subject as well. Grant Allen was also a pioneer in science fiction. He wrote about thirty science fiction novels in the period 1884-1899. In his later works, Allen also took up some revolutionary theories for the time regarding marriage. "The Woman Who Did" which depicts the life of an independent woman who takes care of her child on her own became a bestseller.

Set just before the first world war as the onset of conflict looms, ‘Christopher and Columbus’ tells the story of seventeen-year-old twin orphans, Anna-Rose and Anna-Felicitas as they are thrust upon their relatives by their Uncle Arthur.Arthur, a patriot, is suspicious of their half-German heritage and worries that they may be spying. He ships the twins off to America, and on their voyage, they befriend Mr Twist.However, Twist has not considered the pitfalls of taking the young women under his wings, especially since they cannot behave with tact and will need continued protection long after the ship docks.In this witty and comic novel, the twins arrive in America and take on the nicknames of Christopher and Columbus, as the reader follows their adventures in a country poised for war.A fun and uplifting novel, ‘Christopher and Columbus’ will be enjoyed by fans of ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’.Elizabeth von Arnim was an English novelist – a cousin of the New Zealand-born writer Katherine Mansfield – born as Mary Annette Beauchamp in Australia in 1866. She married a German aristocrat and her earliest written works are set in Germany.Von Arnim launched her career as a writer with her satirical and semi-autobiographical work ‘Elizabeth and Her German Garden’, published anonymously in 1898. Although she was known by the name May in her early life, when she began writing, her success as ‘Elizabeth’ meant that her writings were ascribed to the name Elizabeth von Arnim.

Born into the squalor and humiliation of slavery, Frederick Douglass seemed destined for a lifetime of misery. So how did he break the shackles and become a world-famous abolitionist, author and statesman?In 'Frederick Douglass: A Biography', Charles W. Chesnutt recounts the remarkable life story of a man who left a permanent mark on the ongoing struggle for freedom and civil rights.Writing in a pacy style that does justice to the near-unbelievable events, Chesnutt tells of Douglass's escape from slavery in Maryland and his perilous and fearless journey to become the leader of the abolitionist movement.His brilliant oratory and leadership skills were a resounding counter-punch to slaveholders' and many others' arguments that enslaved people did not have the intellect to become American citizens.Chesnutt goes on to tell how Douglass courted controversy by engaging with slave owners, saying: "I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong."'Frederick Douglass: A Biography' will delight readers of 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead and 'The Interesting Narrative' by Olaudah Equiano.Charles Waddell Chesnutt (1858-1932) was an African-American writer, political essayist and lawyer. He was best known for novels and short stories that confronted and explored post-Civil War racial and social identity issues.His best-known works include 'Frederick Douglass – A Biography', 'The House Behind the Cedars' and 'The Colonel’s Dream'.He gained new fame during the US civil rights movement in the 20th century, with many of his books being republished.In 2008, he was the subject of a commemorative stamp.

G. K. Chesterton’s ‘The Uses of Diversity' is a collection of essays from the "Prince of Paradox". Written by the English writer and philosopher, Chesterton’s essays are full of exciting points, intelligent jokes, and intriguing insights, and beautifully showcase Chesterton’s thoughts and beliefs.Some of the essays featured in the collection include: ‘On Seriousness’, ‘Tennyson’, ‘The Japanese’, ‘Christian Science’, ‘The Evolution of Emma’, ‘Questions of Divorce’, ‘Mormonism’, ‘Dickens Again’, ‘George Wyndham’, and ‘On Monsters’.A superb collection for readers of Chesterton, which covers a wide array of topics on everything from religion and nationalities to poltics and different influential novelists.Known as the ‘Prince of Paradox,’ Gilbert Keith Chesterton (1874 – 1936) was an English author, philosopher, and literary critic. An unparalleled essayist, he produced over four thousand essays during his lifetime, alongside eighty novels and two hundred short stories.Himself both a modernist and devout Catholic, he is remembered best for his priest-detective short stories ‘Father Brown’, and his metaphysical thriller ‘The Man Who Was Thursday’.In his lifetime, Chesterton befriended and debated some of the greatest thinkers of the age, such as George Bernard Shore, H. G. Wells, and Bertrand Russell, while his works went on to inspire figures including T. S. Eliot, Michael Collins, and Mahatma Gandhi.According to his autobiography, Chesterton and Shaw also played cowboys in a silent movie that was never released.

You are invited on a voyage to the high seas in the most amazing, spectacular and wondrous adventure yet! Hold tight, and look out for your furry friends – and fishy foes, for animals and humans alike are welcome in Lofting's second instalment to the Doctor Dolittle series. Winner of the 1923 Newbery Medal, ‘The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle’ is a must read for animal fans with a big heart.Returning from his latest voyage, it isn’t too long before Doctor Dolittle sets sail on his next. Young Tommy Stubbins needs his help, and is about to discover Doctor Dolittle’s incredible gift in the process. But with stormy weather on the horizon, the crew rock up on a mysterious Spidermonkey Island. Happening upon the Great Glass Sea Snail, further secrets lie ahead. Doctor Dolittle’s magic will be enlisted to crack the case and bring the animals to safety. But with all this monkeying around, will the shipshape gang make it back in time for tea? Ideal for wonder-seeking fans of Robert Downing Jr.’s 2020 ‘Dolittle’ film."Doctor Dolittle" is a children’s fantasy series set in Victorian England, featuring the famous English physician who can speak to animals. His adventures are compelling, humorous, and quite extraordinary, turning the series into a children’s classic. Adapted into numerous animations and movies, the most recent one being the 2020’s version starring Robert Downey Jr. and Antonio Banderas.Hugh Lofting (1886-1947) was an English civil engineer turned author. Creator of the classic children’s character ‘Doctor Dolittle’, he is celebrated today as an important pioneer of the children’s and YA fiction genres. His other fantasy works include ‘The Story of Mrs Tubbs’, ‘Noisy Nora’ and ‘The Twilight of Magic’. Winner of the 1923 Newbery Medal, Lofting remains an influential cultural figure, with Robert Downing Jr.’s 2020 ‘Dolittle’ film enchanting children and adults alike.

The first book in the ´Sanders of the River´ series and set in the Edwardian era, ‘Sanders of the River’ focuses on the eponymous Governor of Nigeria.Commissioner Sanders struggles to balance the requests of The Crown against the needs of the natives.As he strives to juggle the demands from both parties, Sanders finds himself facing political turmoil that might push his colony to the brink of war.As a story, the reader is introduced to the struggles faced by an invading force. As a historical piece of fiction, this is an important document of the impact British colonialism had on West Africa.An excellent introduction to one of the most opinionated minds of the 20th Century.‘Sanders of the River’ is ideal for those interested in literature with a British Colonial setting.Prior to the success of ´King Kong´, which he co-created, Edgar Wallace published a selection of tales about Commissioner Sanders and his adventures in Africa under British rule.Born in London, Edgar Wallace (1875 – 1932) was an English writer so prolific that his publisher claimed that he was responsible for a quarter of all books sold in England.Leaving school at the age of 12, Wallace made his first steps into the literary world by selling newspapers on the corner of Fleet Street.He worked as a war correspondent after joining the army at age 21, which honed his writing abilities. This led to the creation of his first book ‘The Four Just Men.’Wallace is best remembered as the co-creator of ‘King Kong,’ which has been adapted for film 12 times (most notably directed by ‘Lord of the Rings’ director, Peter Jackson, and starring Jack Black and Naomi Watts).However, he leaves behind an extensive body of work, including stories such as ‘The Crimson Circle’ and ‘The Flying Squad’.

For Western lovers and old romantics, 'Under the Toto Rim' follows schoolteacher Lucy Watson as she integrates into a backwoods community.Following her father's death, young Lucy Watson takes on the newly founded position as a welfare officer to help an isolated society. Her job is to help them both mentally and physically.Lucy's bravery and fearless attitude towards the isolated help win over locals, as they realize the practical results of her work.A page turner about morals, love, strength of character and cultural identity.Zane Grey (1872-1939) was a popular American author, best known for his adventure novels and short stories. The topics of the American West and the Frontier were central to his writings, and Grey became totally engrossed within the Western genre.Many of his novels were written from the perspective and experience gained from his hunting and travelling trips all around the West. Some of Grey’s most famous novels include 'Riders of the Purple Sage', 'The Last Trail' and 'Valley of Wild Horses'.His novels and stories were adapted to more than 100 movie and television productions with the most well-known being the movie Riders of the Purple Sage (1996) starring Ed Harris, Amy Madigan and Henry Thomas.

The only novel published under the pen-name Alice Cholmondeley, ‘Christine’ gives insight into von Arnim's thoughts about the atrocities of World War I.The story is told through a series of letters to her mother in Britain from the titular Christine, an English girl who is studying in Germany in 1914 in the lead up to World War I.Initially marketed as non-fiction, this novel could be a semi-autobiographical account of von Arnim’s own daughters, Beatrix and Felicitas, who were living in Germany during World War I.‘Christine’ will be enjoyed by fans of 'The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society'.Elizabeth von Arnim was an English novelist – a cousin of the New Zealand-born writer Katherine Mansfield – born as Mary Annette Beauchamp in Australia in 1866. She married a German aristocrat and her earliest written works are set in Germany.Von Arnim launched her career as a writer with her satirical and semi-autobiographical work ‘Elizabeth and Her German Garden’, published anonymously in 1898. Although she was known by the name May in her early life, when she began writing, her success as ‘Elizabeth’ meant that her writings were ascribed to the name Elizabeth von Arnim.

‘Lady Audley's Secret’ by Mary Elizabeth Braddon is a Victorian sensation novel and her most famous and well-known work.In this story, which combines elements from detective novels, psychological thrillers, and romance, the heroine Lady Audley is living an upper-class life with seemingly no secrets.Soon, however, truths of bigamy, arson, and murder are uncovered, as the assumptions of femininity are challenged.This novel will surely delight fans of Thomas Hardy’s ‘Far From the Madding Crowd’.Mary Elizabeth Braddon was a popular English novelist writing in the Victorian era. She is best known for her sensation novel ‘Lady Audley's Secret’, published in 1862, which has been dramatised for TV and film several times.While this was the novel that found her fortune as a bestseller, Braddon continued to publish works until her death in 1915, penning several works of supernatural fiction, ghost stories, and historical fiction.

Considered an enduring classic, ‘Budgetary Control’ sees McKinsey put years of practical accounting experience down on paper.One of the pioneers of ‘management theory,’ his observations, methodology, and approach are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published.´Budgetary Control´ is essential reading for anyone with an interest in what goes on behind the scenes of any successful business.James Oscar McKinsey (1889 – 1937) was born in Missouri and went on to found the management consulting firm, McKinsey & Company. The son of James Madison and Mary Elizabeth Logan McKinsey, he had a modest upbringing and was raised in a three-room house in the Ozarks.After finishing high school, he attended Warrensburg Teachers College and earned a Bachelor of Pedagogy. Subsequently, he enrolled at the University of Arkansas to study Law, Bookkeeping at the St. Louis University, and Philosophy and Commerce at the University of Chicago.In 1919, McKinsey wrote the first textbook about managerial accounting. After serving in the First World War, he lectured in accounting at Columbia University. During that year, he published his major work, ‘Budgetary Control.’McKinsey & Co. was founded in 1926, and he worked there until 1935.

A man and his guide enter the vast, labyrinthine Mammoth Cave. However, this is not an advert for Visit Kentucky, so you can predict the next plot line.The man loses his guide. Then his torch goes out. Lost in the pitch dark, he hears "non-human" footsteps approaching...'The Beast in the Cave' was written by HP Lovecraft when he was 14 years old.The ending belies his age, though, with a shocking twist to make spines tingle.The story has echoes of the Greek myth 'Theseus and the Minotaur', set in the Labyrinth of Crete, but will also appeal to fans of JRR Tolkien's 'The Hobbit'.Howard Phillips (H.P.) Lovecraft (1890-1937) was an American author famed for his horror and fantasy fiction.Born in Rhode Island, he became a pioneer of ‘cosmic horror’, conjuring up the lore of supernatural creatures who exist beyond our understanding. His best-known stories include "The Call of Cthulhu", "At the Mountains of Madness" and "The Colour Out of Space".While he was a mainstay of pulp magazines, Lovecraft never achieved wider literary recognition in his lifetime. But his posthumous influence has been profound. It can be found in everything from the fiction of Stephen King and Neil Gaiman to the HBO series "Lovecraft Country".

Often referred to as the sequel to ‘The Two Dianas,’ ‘The Page of the Duke of Savoy’ tells the story of the Duke of Savoy and his mysterious page.The Duke decides to fight the French at the Battle of St. Quentin, with potentially disastrous consequences. In typical Dumas style, this story is rife with political intrigue, double identities, and swashbuckling swordplay.However, at its heart, this is a historical romance which shows the lengths people will go to for love.A real page-turner for fans of Dumas and those who want an introduction to his work.Alexandre Dumas (1802 – 1870) was one of the most popular French authors and playwrights of the 19th Century. After the death of his father, Dumas travelled to Paris where he eventually decided to work in the theatre. He first came to public attention at the age of 27 with his first play, ‘King Henry III and his Courts.’After a succession of successful stage plays, Dumas turned his hand to writing novels. Many of these were serialised in newspapers, such as ‘La Comtesse de Salisbury; Édouard III,’ and ‘Le Capitaine Paul.’Many of Dumas’ later works have been hailed as timeless classics and adapted for television and the silver screen, such as ‘The Three Musketeers’, starring ‘Lord of the Rings’´ Orlando Bloom, and ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’, starring ‘Superman’ star, Henry Cavill.

Suspected to be written as a true-to-life fairy tale for Elizabeth von Arnim’s own children, ‘The Princess Priscilla's Fortnight’ tells the story of Princess Priscilla, a well-known German princess who has grown tired of her lavish and pampered lifestyle.Her mentor, Herr Fritzing, has been teaching her about the wide world outside the castle walls and Priscilla yearns to escape and explore it.‘The Princess Priscilla's Fortnight’ will be enjoyed by fans of ‘The Princess Diaries’.Elizabeth von Arnim was an English novelist – a cousin of the New Zealand-born writer Katherine Mansfield – born as Mary Annette Beauchamp in Australia in 1866. She married a German aristocrat and her earliest written works are set in Germany.Von Arnim launched her career as a writer with her satirical and semi-autobiographical work ‘Elizabeth and Her German Garden’, published anonymously in 1898. Although she was known by the name May in her early life, when she began writing, her success as ‘Elizabeth’ meant that her writings were ascribed to the name Elizabeth von Arnim.

It is a golden rule: if you visit or move to a new area and the locals issue a chilling warning, abide by it.In books and films, the golden rule is to ignore it.Take ´American Werewolf in London´, where the two Americans stray off the path of the Yorkshire Moors and one of them is killed by a werewolf.In 'The Moon-Bog', an Irish-American reclaims his ancestral estate in Kilderry, Ireland.The superstitious local peasants plead with him not to drain the nearby bog. Which, of course, he does - with terrifying supernatural results.This short story is perfect for those already familiar with the writings of H. P. Lovecraft, or those simply looking for a quick scare.Howard Phillips (H.P.) Lovecraft (1890-1937) was an American author famed for his horror and fantasy fiction.Born in Rhode Island, he became a pioneer of ‘cosmic horror’, conjuring up the lore of supernatural creatures who exist beyond our understanding. His best-known stories include "The Call of Cthulhu", "At the Mountains of Madness" and "The Colour Out of Space".While he was a mainstay of pulp magazines, Lovecraft never achieved wider literary recognition in his lifetime. But his posthumous influence has been profound. It can be found in everything from the fiction of Stephen King and Neil Gaiman to the HBO series "Lovecraft Country".

In this fascinating true story, the famous American author Zane Grey, best-known for his romanticized stories about the old West, recounts his experiences with the plainsman Buffalo Jones.In ‘Roping Lions in the Grand Canyon’ (1924), Grey, along with Jones and a Navajo Indian, set off on an exciting adventure to lasso, capture, and preserve the mountain lions that prowl the depths of the Grand Canyon. Jones also famously helped save the buffalo from extinction.With its wonderful descriptions of forests and the rugged grandeur of the canyons, Grey hoped to inspire his readers to help preserve the great American outdoors for future generations.Great for fans of Zane Grey that want a little twist on the Western motifPearl Zane Grey (1872 – 1939) was an American author best known for his popular adventure novels about the American West. His stories are credited with the creation of the ‘Western’ literary genre.The novel ‘Riders of the Purple Sage’ (1912) was Grey’s best-selling work, while other popular titles include ‘The Lone Star Ranger’ (1915), ‘The U.P. Trail’ (1918), ‘Call of the Canyon’ (1924), and ‘Code of the West’ (1934). His nonfiction books include ‘Tales of Fishing’ (1925). Grey wrote more than 80 books in total, several of which were published posthumously.Many of his works have been adapted for tv and film, including ‘Zane Grey Theatre’ (1956-1958) and ‘Riders of the Purple Sage’ (1996) starring Ed Harris.

One Londoner and an American geologist are out for a bicycle trip in the Thames valley. They talk about natural disasters and volcanic eruptions and how thankful they are that such things do not happen in these regions and at these times. The next morning will however prove them wrong and the Londoner will have to ride for his life to escape a catastrophic volcanic eruption.Grant Allen was a Canadian writer who lived in the period 1848 – 1899. His writing career began around 1876 when he published a series of essays on science. His first books, "Physiological Aesthetics" and "Flowers and Their Pedigrees" took up this subject as well. Grant Allen was also a pioneer in science fiction. He wrote about thirty science fiction novels in the period 1884-1899. In his later works, Allen also took up some revolutionary theories for the time regarding marriage. "The Woman Who Did" which depicts the life of an independent woman who takes care of her child on her own became a bestseller.

‘An Echo of Antietam’ (1898) is a short story by the American author, Edward Bellamy, most famous for his socialist and utopian novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888).Young couple Grace Roberts and Philip King are in love, but the civil war is raging and tearing their country apart. Set during the battle of Antietam, which proved a significant turning point in the war, this love story details the horrors of battle and the power of a just cause.A delightful yet emotional read, ´An Echo of Antietam´ is perfect for fans of Ambrose Bierce's ´An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge´ as well as those generally interested in the American Civil War.Edward Bellamy (1850 - May 22) was an American author, journalist and political activist. His novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888) was one of the most successful books published in the United States in the 19th century and influenced a generation of intellectuals. Referenced in many Marxist publications of the time, the book inspired the formation of Nationalist Clubs dedicated to spreading his political ideas.Bellamy’s other works include the novels ‘Six to One’ (1878), ‘Dr. Heidenhoff's Process’ (1880), ‘Miss Ludington's Sister’ (1885), ‘Equality’ (1897), and ‘The Duke of Stockbridge; a Romance of Shays' Rebellion (1900)’.

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, ‘A War-Time Wooing’ tells the story of Bessie Warren and her love for Lieutenant Paul Revere Abbott.Bessie's brother has been killed in the fighting, and her beloved Paul is sent to the heart of the conflict. While they write to each other constantly, will Paul return home or suffer the same fate as Bessie's brother?At its heart, this is a historical romance. However, it is packed with fascinating details of the war between the North and the South, many of them based on the author's own experiences.This will delight anyone interested in war novels.Born in New York, Charles King (1844 – 1933) was the son of a general in the United States army. At first, a military career seemed inevitable, and King graduated from the West Point Academy, to serve in the Indian Wars as a captain.However, during that conflict, he was injured and forced to return home. After his recovery, King was appointed as a general and fought in several conflicts, including The Battle of Manila, and The Battle of Santa Cruz.On returning, he embarked on a literary career, writing more than 60 books, focussing on life in the army. In addition, he wrote several scripts for Buffalo Bill Cody. Cody was a soldier, hunter, and actor, who King befriended during the Indian Wars. King died in Milwaukee, aged 88.

J.M. Synge’s ‘The Well of the Saints’ is a three-act darkly comedic play that explores themes of myth, vision and journeys.Two blind beggars, Martin and Mary Doul, are cured of their blindness by a passing saint. Unable to reckon with the ugliness of a world they have never seen, their relationship is torn apart by their new gift. Now able to integrate into society, they try and live as they have always wanted to, only to be met with cruelty at every turn.‘The Well of the Saints’ is a hilarious and thought-provoking play that will enrapture fans of Irish literature or comedy. A cross between ‘Waiting for Godot’ and ‘Trading Places’, ‘The Well of the Saints’ is a dark delight to be enjoyed by all.Edmund John Millington Synge (1871 – 1909) was an Irish poet, playwright, and defining figure of the Irish Literary Revival. Born in County Dublin to upper-middle-class Protestants, Synge suffered from Hodgkin’s disease which led to his home-schooling. Soon after graduating from Trinity College Dublin, Synge became a renowned poet and playwright, but his success was short-lived as he passed away from cancer at 37.He is best remembered for his play ‘The Playboy of the Western World’, an incredibly controversial work at the time of its publication and performance. Regarded by Yeats as ‘the greatest dramatic genius of Ireland’, Synge has had a lasting legacy, being a key influence for acclaimed Irish playwright Samuel Beckett and the subject of Joseph O’Connor’s novel ‘Ghost Light’ (2010).

Why do good people suffer?This is the question Honoré de Balzac poses in 'The Hated Son', set in Normandy during the eighth war of religion between Catholics and Protestant Huguenots.The kind and gentle Jeanne de Saint-Savin loves her Huguenot cousin but has to marry the old and cruel Royalist count d'Herouville in order to save her lover's life.The couple has a son, who promises to be a ray of light in Jeanne's unhappy life. But darkness descends when the count accuses her of infidelity and banishes Etienne from his castle, to be brought up by fishermen.When the count's older son and sole heir dies, the rejected son is the only one alive to continue the family line and inherit the title.Etienne is back in the game. But will he play by the rules set by his father who rejected him?Other great reads that feature the theme of rejection are Jane Austen's 'Persuasion' and 'Much Ado About Nothing' by William Shakespeare.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

In Elizabeth von Arnim’s humourous novel, "The Pastor's Wife", the main character Ingeborg Bullivant goes on a spontaneous trip to Lucerne and returns engaged to a Prussian pastor.However, her new life as a wife is restrictive, and when the dashing artist Ingram comes into her life and indulges her with musings about Italy, wanderlust temps Ingeborg for a second time.This warm and witty novel is based on von Arnim’s own first marriage and will be enjoyed by fans of ‘Eat, Pray, Love’.Elizabeth von Arnim was an English novelist – a cousin of the New Zealand-born writer Katherine Mansfield – born as Mary Annette Beauchamp in Australia in 1866. She married a German aristocrat and her earliest written works are set in Germany.Von Arnim launched her career as a writer with her satirical and semi-autobiographical work ‘Elizabeth and Her German Garden’, published anonymously in 1898. Although she was known by the name May in her early life, when she began writing, her success as ‘Elizabeth’ meant that her writings were ascribed to the name Elizabeth von Arnim.

Fixing things that are broken is much better for the planet than throwing them away. In this book, we follow Shyam and Srisha as they learn how to fix an iron and a punctured bicycle tyre! In fact, you can fix most things that are broken. And it's really exciting to see how it's done! "A Stitch in Time" was originally published by Pratham Books on the online platform StoryWeaver. Several of the stories are written by Indian authors and are set on the other side of the world. In particular, the stories explore exciting topics such as scientific discoveries and how we can care for each other and our planet.

Doctor Dolittle has a special power: he can talk to animals. When he discovers that the animals in the African Kingdom of Fantippo are writing letters, he establishes a post office just for them. Throughout his adventures, he journeys from battling slave ships to discovering forgotten islands where pre-historic animals still walk the earth!‘Doctor Dolittle’s Post Office’ is the third book in the Dolittle series but remains a fun and fantastical standalone for readers old and new. Hugh Lofting's charming children's series is brilliantly engaging and full of stunning words and animals, paired with lessons of compassion from the good doctor himself.An unmissable read for fans of Robert Downey Junior's ‘Dolittle’ or Disney's ‘Jungle Book’.\"Doctor Dolittle" is a children’s fantasy series set in Victorian England, featuring the famous English physician who can speak to animals. His adventures are compelling, humorous, and quite extraordinary, turning the series into a children’s classic. Adapted into numerous animations and movies, the most recent one being the 2020’s version starring Robert Downey Jr. and Antonio Banderas.Hugh Lofting (1886-1942) was a British author of children’s books and poetry, he is best remembered for his creation of the enigmatic Doctor Dolittle: a globe-trotting physician with the ability to speak to animals.Affected by his experiences as a veteran of the First World War, Hugh Lofting focused his imagination on the more beautiful, fantastic things in life. His wonderful imagination created some of the most beloved children’s books of all time, most famous among them ‘Doctor Dolittle’, ‘The Twilight of Magic’ and ‘Victory for the Slain’.

It isn't always easy being a demon.As Luci, the demon in Matt Groening's Netflix series 'Disenchantment' will agree, not everybody is easy to tempt.Leo Tolstoy's 'The First Distiller' features a very down demon, who has the tough task of tempting the wholesome Russian peasants.He longs to have some politicians or businessmen to bring down - until he has the bright idea of inventing alcohol.History tells us what comes next!Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) was a Russian author, a master of realistic fiction and one of the world’s greatest novelists. Tolstoy’s major works include 'War and Peace' (1865–69) and 'Anna Karenina' (1875–77), two of the greatest novels of all time and pinnacles of realist fiction. Beyond novels, he wrote many short stories and later in life also essays and plays.In the years following the publication of 'War and Peace' Tolstoy - who was born to a Russian aristocratic family - had a spiritual awakening that made him a committed Christian anarchist and pacifist. His philosophy inspired Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

Based on her second marriage to Frank Russell and a pre-cursor to Daphne du Maurier’s ‘Rebecca’, this darkly comic, historical romance is the tale of a naïve young woman named Lucy Entwhistle.When Lucy marries a widower, she is swept under the power of her pathologically narcissistic husband.Her new husband’s mansion ‘The Willows’ is haunted by the spirit of his late wife, Vera, whom Lucy soon comes to suspect died by suicide because she no longer wanted to ensure being married to Everard Wemyss.‘Vera’ is perfect for fans of Emily Brontë's ´Wuthering Heights´.Elizabeth von Arnim was an English novelist – a cousin of the New Zealand-born writer Katherine Mansfield – born as Mary Annette Beauchamp in Australia in 1866. She married a German aristocrat and her earliest written works are set in Germany.Von Arnim launched her career as a writer with her satirical and semi-autobiographical work ‘Elizabeth and Her German Garden’, published anonymously in 1898. Although she was known by the name May in her early life, when she began writing, her success as ‘Elizabeth’ meant that her writings were ascribed to the name Elizabeth von Arnim.

The South African unscrupulous millionaire Charles Van Drift spends his time travelling to exotic locations with his family. One of these trips leads them to the Riviera where Van Drift suddenly has to deal with the swindler Colonel Clay. Charles’ diamond fortune is at risk. Colonel wants to trick the millionaire out of his wealth. His weapon will be Van Drift’s own greed and vanity. But what does Colonel have against Charles and will his plan be successful?Grant Allen was a Canadian writer who lived in the period 1848 – 1899. His writing career began around 1876 when he published a series of essays on science. His first books, "Physiological Aesthetics" and "Flowers and Their Pedigrees" took up this subject as well. Grant Allen was also a pioneer in science fiction. He wrote about thirty science fiction novels in the period 1884-1899. In his later works, Allen also took up some revolutionary theories for the time regarding marriage. "The Woman Who Did" which depicts the life of an independent woman who takes care of her child on her own became a bestseller.

The novel centres on Rose-Marie Schmidt, a twenty-five-year-old woman who lives with her father, a professor, and is considered a spinster by most of the inhabitants of their small German town.The story weaves in a romantic entanglement as Rose-Marie falls in love with a poor but high-born young Englishman, Roger Anstruther, who is a student of her father’s.After Roger professes his love for Rose-Marie, he returns to England, leaving her to write charming letters to her father’s former student.A delightful epistolary novel, ‘Fräulein Schmidt and Mr. Anstruther’ will be enjoyed by fans of Jane Austen’s novel.Elizabeth von Arnim was an English novelist – a cousin of the New Zealand-born writer Katherine Mansfield – born as Mary Annette Beauchamp in Australia in 1866. She married a German aristocrat and her earliest written works are set in Germany.Von Arnim launched her career as a writer with her satirical and semi-autobiographical work ‘Elizabeth and Her German Garden’, published anonymously in 1898. Although she was known by the name May in her early life, when she began writing, her success as ‘Elizabeth’ meant that her writings were ascribed to the name Elizabeth von Arnim.

John Dolittle loves animals. Possibly more than people. His doctor’s office is filled with mice, rabbits, pigs, and parrots, so much so that his patients have started to worry. But when he discovers the ability to speak with animals, his life turns upside down as he is launched into newfound fame.Soon, he finds himself invited to travel to Africa as an animal expert, where his real adventures begin amongst monkeys, epidemics, pirates, and the mysterious pushmi-pullyu.‘The Story of Doctor Dolittle’ is the first entry in the internationally renowned series that brought one of literature's most beloved children's characters to life.Hopelessly charming and wonderfully brilliant, discover the world that inspired Robert Downey Junior's ´Doctor Dolittle’ and Jim Carrey’s ‘Ace Ventura: Pet Detective’."Doctor Dolittle" is a children’s fantasy series set in Victorian England, featuring the famous English physician who can speak to animals. His adventures are compelling, humourous, and quite extraordinary, turning the series into a children’s classic.Adapted into numerous animations and movies, the most recent one being the 2020’s version starring Robert Downey Jr. and Antonio Banderas.Hugh Lofting (1886-1942) was a British author of children’s books and poetry, and he is best remembered for his creation of the enigmatic Doctor Dolittle: a globe-trotting physician with the ability to speak to animals.Affected by his experiences as a veteran of the First World War, Hugh Lofting focused his imagination on the more beautiful, fantastic things in life.His wonderful imagination created some of the most beloved children’s books of all time, most famous among them ‘Doctor Dolittle’, ‘The Twilight of Magic’ and ‘Victory for the Slain’.