Engelske bøger

"She should have appreciated my deed"!Control and narcissism, greed and jealousy. The evil of a man driving his young wife to suicide and yet, he still believes he has done no wrong.'A Gentle Creature' is a short story about a heartbroken pawnbroker, who takes an interest in a young girl that frequents his shop. Dostoevsky’s attempt here is to portray the evil, prideful, cowardly man who wants above everything else to possess, control, and ultimately destroy everything that he touches.Based loosely on an event that the author read about in a newspaper, the story criticizes the destructive impulses and greed for domination over that kind of life these spiteful men can never have. A gentle, yet emotionally cruel tale of wickedness, abuse and tragedy that is tinged by Dostoevsky’s most somber tones.'A Gentle Creature' was made into a film adaptation in 2017 and this was in the main competition section at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich.'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

"It possessed a quantity of jet-black hair, a pair of extremely frank, deep-brown eyes and a laugh that rippled across the prairie like the sound of a hidden brook. The name of it was Rosita McMullen..."Though Rosita has many suitors, she ultimately chooses the young cattleman Madison Lane and the two are wed on Christmas Day. Rejected lover Jonny McRoy crashes the wedding and fires off his handgun yelling, "I'll give you a Christmas present!" But luckily he is deterred by the armed guests. It's only a matter of time, however, until Christmas time comes around once more and it's McRoy's turn to bring presents...American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact that an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

This gripping short, powered by stunning imagery, will have you questioning everything right up to the final brutal twist.In the midst of the Civil War, Jerome Searing is given the task of scouting ahead for the Confederate rear guard. After some time he catches up to the retreating Secessionists and in a fit of rage takes aim at one of the soldiers but just before he can pull the trigger, cannon fire erupts around him. Jerome is knocked unconscious and when he awakes he finds himself trapped under a mass of wood and rock with his rifle pointing squarely in his face.It is a novel in the same vein as Bierce’s ‘ An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge’, exploring the hopeless brutality of war and the foolish idea that there is glory in the brutality of violence.Ambrose Bierce (1842 - 1914) was an American author and journalist, best known for his horror and fiction stories. Bierce was often called "Bitter Bierce" because of his cynicism and sardonic view of human nature. His point of view transpires mainly in "The Devil’s Dictionary", a work which was named as one of "The 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature".Other popular works by Bierce are "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and "Tales of Soldiers and Civilians". Ambrose Bierce’s interesting life ended as if it had been plotted by himself. The last that is known of him is a letter he wrote to a friend, which said "I leave here tomorrow for an unknown destination", and he was never seen again.

John Pathurst, a successful playwright has run out of inspiration, New York, fame, women and the arts have lost it’s lustre. In a desperate grab for inspiration he books passage on a cargo ship from Baltimore to Seattle, taking him around the treacherous Cape Horn hoping it will spark his passion once again. When a vicious mutiny breaks out amongst the crew, Pathurst is exposed to the cold indifference of life more than ever before, but will he survive to write about it? It is a brilliant read, inspired by London’s own treacherous journey around the Horn, with stunning description and deeply engaging characters. If you loved Jules Verne’s epic ‘Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea’ you’ll love this brilliant adventure.Jack London (1876–1916) was a pioneer, novelist, journalist and social activist. London was one of the first American authors to become an international celebrity thanks to his pioneering work in commercial fiction and magazines. Additionally he is accredited as a major innovator in the genre we now know as science fiction. Growing up in a working class background and spending several years homeless, he was a passionate fighter for workers’ rights, socialism, unionisation and animal rights. He would go on to be one of the highest paid authors in America thanks to his classics such as ‘Call of the Wild’, ‘White fang’ and ‘Sea Wolf’.

Why are they taking me away from my mother? Please someone stop them!Imagine the pain of being separated from your loving mother as a young child. This is exactly what the poor puppy Aileen had to face.Aileen Mavourneen is a St. Bernard and collie cross puppy who thinks of herself as a Presbyterian because that is what her mother had told her. At first, life for Aileen seems perfect with her new family until a fire breaks out in the house of her master. Aileen risks her own life to save her owner’s infant but her actions are misunderstood. Will anyone return the favour to save Aileen's pup?This heart-breaking tale plays with the reader's feelings while depicting the life of a family seen through the eyes of a dog.Mark Twain is the pseudonym of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, (1835-1910). He was an American humorist, lecturer, journalist and novelist who acquired international fame for his adventure stories of boyhood, especially 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' as well as for his travel narratives, especially 'The Innocents Abroad', 'Roughing It', and 'Life on the Mississippi'. Twain transcended the apparent limitations of his origins to become a popular public figure and one of America’s most beloved writers.So many of Mark Twain's stories have been made into films that it is impossible to name them all. The most popular are "The Adventures of Huck Finn" (1993) starring Elijah Wood, "Tom Sawyer" (1973) starring Jodie Foster, and "The Prince and the Pauper" (1990) produced by Walt Disney animation.

In this tale the Duchesse de Langeais leads General Armande de Montriveau by the nose in her distinct coquettish yet grandiose manner. But as a member of the Thirteen, Armande kidnaps the Duchesse and threatens to have her branded as a criminal. However, he returns her unscathed.Suddenly the Duchesse develops feelings for Armande, who now will have nothing to do with her. After sparking rumours in Paris that she is visiting him, she disappears. Then Armande realises that he wants her more than ever before...A romantic and greatly tumultuous tale with an unexpected ending.A perfect fit for readers seeking a romance novel infused with notes of irony and the supernatural. A critically-acclaimed film adaptation of the same name was released in 2007, starring Jeanne Balibar, Guillaume Depardieu, Michel Piccoli and Bulle Ogier.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for his collection of novels and plays, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His detailed observation of humanity and realistic depiction of society makes him one of the earliest representatives of realism in Europe. He was a master-creator of complex characters that often found themselves in ambiguous moral dilemmas.

'Lazarus' is a supernatural return-of-the-living-dead short story by Leonid Andreyev that offers a ubiquitously novel, weird and nihilistic rendition of the Christian resurrection story.Andreyev’s profound skepticism bordering on cynicism regarding Christian teachings is spearheaded by Lazarus himself, who comes back from the grave to wreak havoc upon and bring death to the living. A shockingly pessimistic tale that verges on the outer rim of nihilism and cosmic horror, 'Lazarus' is a story to be handled with care, but remains a must for Andreyev’s fans, as well as for horror aficionados.A highly recommended read for fans of Mikhail Bulgakov, Edgar Allan Poe, Fyodor Dostoyevsky and H.P. Lovecraft.Leonid Andreev (1871-1919) has a special place in Russian literature. Labeled by many as the father of Russian expressionism, Andreev’s style is rich and diverse, blending literary traits from the schools of Symbolism, Naturalism, and Realism. The writer’s fame is mainly felt in his translations of H. P. Lovecraft and Robert E. Howard, and through his stories, written in the vein of Edgar Allan Poe. His works, often haunting, dark, and controversial, reaching for the fantastic and the grotesque, include two novels, five novellas, and a number of short stories. The most well-known of them include the story 'The Seven Who Were Hanged', the play 'Tsar Hunger' and his novel 'Sashka Zhegulev'.

‘Memoirs of a Madman’ is a fascinating short following Poprishchin, a minor civil servant, as he descends into insanity. Unique in Golgol’s collection, it is the only story he wrote completely from the first person in the form of a number of diary entries. Constantly ridiculed by friends and repressed by the government of Tsarist Russia, he confides all in his journal documenting his slow decline in to insanity. As the only account we have is Poprishchin’s, we have no idea if the continually fantastical events happening before us are real or simply figments of his imagination. It is a fascinating novel, equally humourous as it is farcical, from talking dogs to tea-thirsty cows if you liked Leonardo Dicaprio’s ‘Shutter island’ you’ll love this short.Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol was one of the first writers to adopt surrealism and the grotesque in his work. As well as being one of Russia’s most acclaimed authors, he is acknowledged as one of the founders of the short story genre alongside Nathaniel Hawthorne and E.T.A Hoffman. His early writing was largely inspired by his time spent growing up in Ukraine, it’s culture and it’s folklore, while his later writing targeted and satirised the political corruption of the Russian Empire. His unique and strange form of writing similar to the ‘ostranenie’ technique, allowed his audience to see familiar topics and stories from a completely new perspective. Acknowledged for his brilliance by many acclaimed authors such as Fedor Dostoevsky his best works include ‘Dead Souls’, ‘Taras Bulba’ and ‘Evenings on a Farm Near Dikanka’.

‘The Conquest of Plassans’ is the fourth novel in the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, returning the reader to the fictional Provencal town of Plassans. It follows the Mouret family as their lives are forever upended by the arrival of an unscrupulous and sinister cleric. The devious cleric manipulates the townsfolk and the Mouret family in particular, for his own political intrigue and to build clerical power in the provinces. The struggle for power between the clergy and government becomes secondary to the human drama unfolding before us as the unassuming town of Plassans is torn apart in a complex web of greed, evil and faith. It is an astonishing drama built on the strength of it’s characters and the pace of it’s plot, perfect for anyone who loved ‘Les Miserables’.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

In ‘A Newspaper Story,’ O.Henry proffers a glimpse into a world where a newspaper is more useful as an inanimate object than for the articles it contains. O. Henry does a splendid job in providing readers with the news of the day and characterizing the newspaper to give it a life all of its own. The stories of the individuals we encounter as we go along with the newspaper in the booming big city are all harmoniously interlinked into one another this spectacular piece.American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

Add a few lovers, plenty of ridiculous adulterous husbands, a drop of misunderstanding and a little touch of jealousy and you have the makings of a hilarious comedy.Outrageously funny, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s story is an excursion into the mind of a man who suspects his wife of cheating, but is unable to face it. The naivety of the misfortunate husband’s jealousy gets him into all sorts of crazy situations.A recommended reading for comedy and theatre fans. Also for fans of Fyodor Dostoevsky who are interested in seeing another side to this great author.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel "Crime and Punishment" with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich."The Idiot" has also been adapted for films and TV, as has "Demons" and "The Brothers Karamazov".

Evil gold-diggers, sacrifices, blood-thirsty priests and slave owners make for some life and death adventures for our hero Tarzan.Being the fifth novel in the series, 'Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar' traces Tarzan’s adventures on his return to the fictional lost city of Opar, whose people are engaged in mining gold. However, he is being followed by two greedy men. What is more, the priests of the flaming god are trying to lure him into their trap so they can sacrifice him.'Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar' is a nice adventure reading, perfect for your summer holiday or the long and gloomy winter months.Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875-1950) was an American author, best known for his novel ‘Tarzan of the Apes’ (1914) and its sequels as well as the Barsoom series. During World War II, he was one of the oldest U.S war correspondents.Tarzan and his adventures are loved by both young and old, and are evergreen classics. Many have watched at least one Tarzan tv series or movie with one of the most popular being the Disney animation film from 1999 and 'The Legend of Tarzan' from 2016 starring Alexander Skarsgård and Samuel L. Jackson.

1907. A sweet young girl named Elizabeth, alone and orphaned after the murder of her last living brother, arms herself and flees to Montana eastwards on horseback, hoping to find her last remaining blood relatives. Her extraordinary, humorous and spiritual plight will go on to propel her through harrowing encounters, struggles between good and evil, and the perils of romance. Difficulties arise that conspire to vanquish her future happiness, but in the end fate deals her a fair hand.For fans of 'Little Women' by Louisa May Alcott, and the movie adaption starring Emma Watson, Florence Pugh and Timothée Chalamet - a celebration of the strength of women in the least fortuitous of circumstances.Grace Livingston Hill was the pen name of American author Marcia Macdonald (1865-1947). She came from a family of authors and began writing short stories from a young age for her aunt’s weekly children magazine ‘The Pansy’. As a young woman she wrote to help bring funds in for her family. Funds became an even larger motivation following the loss of her first husband and then father only a year later. In her career, Hill published over 100 novels and short stories, they often featured young Christian women in love, the theme of good versus evil, and the importance of redemption.

'The Marry Month of May' was originally published in 1910. The narrative focuses on a rich, elderly widower called Mr. Coulson. Come May, he becomes enamoured with his widowed housekeeper Mrs. Widdup, but Mr. Coulson’s daughter is not at all pleased with the budding romance and plots to bring it to an abrupt halt. Will her plans to break up the spring romance work?This elaborate and witty short story muses on the themes of love, class and the impact of the environment on one's emotions.American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

‘His Excellency’ is the sixth entry in the ‘Les Rougon-Marquart’, set in the Imperial court it chronicles the absolute power and corruption of the upper echelons of French society. Our protagonist, Eugene Rougon is the vice-emperor, one of the most powerful men in the empire but his position is never an assurance of safety. We are thrown in to a world of political intrigue, of rivalries and schemes, blackmail, bribery and manipulation in this political thriller. It is a thriller that rises above pure political drama to become an important discourse on the manipulation of legislation for personal power. It is a brilliant read exposing the fragility of the powerful and is perfect for anyone who loved ‘House of Cards’.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

Love, hate, deceit and greed. Throw in a sprinkling of comedy and you have the recipe for an entertaining and humorous novella."Uncle’s Dream" is a story by Fyodor Dostoevsky that follows the return of a Russian prince and an old aristocratic woman who wants him to marry her 23-year-old daughter. Her cunning plan, however, does not go as smoothly as expected and the Prince’s life and his surroundings turn into a comedy.Psychological and deeply philosophical, "Uncle’s Dream" is a provincial tale of complicated social issues, humorous escapades, and satirical situations. Even though Dostoevsky is not known for his comedies, his ironic stance is obvious in this novel, creating a lighthearted story of memorable characters and funny twists. Fans of humour and short stories will not be disappointed.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich.'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

Set during the height of the Klondike gold rush this powerful short story follows two gold prospectors traversing the treacherous Canadian tundra. Supplies are low and their fates hang in the balance but they have no choice but to continue, it is too late to turn back. They must rely on each other to survive, they have no one else, but in this frozen waste can they trust each other with their lives? It is a powerful short story emblematic of London’s incredible ability to bring the beautiful brutality of the frozen Yukon to life. If you loved Leonardo DiCaprio in ‘The Revenant’ you’ll love this inspired piece on the untamed Yukon.Jack London (1876–1916) was a pioneer, novelist, journalist and social activist. London was one of the first American authors to become an international celebrity thanks to his pioneering work in commercial fiction and magazines. Additionally he is accredited as a major innovator in the genre we now know as science fiction. Growing up in a working class background and spending several years homeless, he was a passionate fighter for workers’ rights, socialism, unionisation and animal rights. He would go on to be one of the highest paid authors in America thanks to his classics such as ‘Call of the Wild’, ‘White fang’ and ‘Sea Wolf’.

Pat Glendon Jr. is a promising boxer who has spent his entire life quietly away from much of society, spending his time hunting, reading poetry and hiking. When Sam Steubner a boxing promoter takes him on he quickly rises through the ranks, knocking opponents out at will. However the world of boxing is not as honest as it shows itself to be and soon Pat must reckon with this corruption himself. He begins to distance himself from society seeing it as a corrupt, that is until the ‘Abysmal Brute’ falls in love. It is a fantastic novel, emblematic of London’s amazing descriptive talents and world building that would make a perfect read for anyone who loved ‘Rocky’ or Michael B. Jordan’s ‘Creed’.Jack London (1876–1916) was a pioneer, novelist, journalist and social activist. London was one of the first American authors to become an international celebrity thanks to his pioneering work in commercial fiction and magazines. Additionally he is accredited as a major innovator in the genre we now know as science fiction. Growing up in a working class background and spending several years homeless, he was a passionate fighter for workers’ rights, socialism, unionisation and animal rights. He would go on to be one of the highest paid authors in America thanks to his classics such as ‘Call of the Wild’, ‘White fang’ and ‘Sea Wolf’.

Is it okay to judge another? Should we really forgive another's sins? Should criminals be punished or rehabilitated? What morals do you live by?"The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky’s final and one of his most popular works. Philosophical and humane, the novel delves deeply into discussions about God, free will, and the repercussions from one’s actions.It is the story of the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich and how the way he has treated the children throughout their lives now decides the fate of how their lives unfold. Has one of the children killed the father? Does Smerdyakov, the unrecognised illegitimate child, have a hand in the events that occur?A compelling and haunting novel about the dysfunctionality of a Russian family, where everyone struggles in their own way – often in the darkest corners of their consciousness. Definitely recommended for fans of the great Russian writers and grand works of literature in general.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich.'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

'The Rush for the Spoil' is the second novel in Zola’s 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series. It is set in Paris during the reign of Napoleon III and focuses on the modernization and evisceration of the ancient city.Aristide Rougon leaves the countryside for the city in order to climb the social hierarchy and improve his financial conditions - but what lengths is he wiiling to go? It is in this artificial world at the turn of the 20th century where Aristide’s wife Renne steps in, a diametric opposite personality to her husband.Depicting the greed of its main characters combined with their cynical attitudes, this is a dark, disturbing yet highly engaging read with an ironic and chilling finale.It's an example of Zola at his best: prose that is strong and compelling yet poetic and atmospheric, as well as psychologically complex characters - Zola's hallmark social critique and a heavy dose of sensationalism. Acclaimed writers that cite Zola among their main influences include Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most important representative of French naturalism. His literary topics include violence and its repercussions, alcoholism, and the problems within the family unit. Zola was nominated twice in the first two instances of the Nobel Prize in Literature.

'The Conqueror' is a biographical account of Alexander Hamilton's life, the very same Hamilton who achieved fame as one of the American Founding Fathers, and whose life and times inspired the award-winning Broadway musical 'Hamilton'.For lovers of American history and aspiring Alexander Hamilton buffs, 'The Conqueror' is the perfect addition to your bookshelf, shedding light on this important and one-of-a-kind historical figure. By intertwining fascinating biographical details with exciting and sensational historical fiction, the novel constantly engages the reader with the plot line for an overall page-turning experience.Gertrude Atherton was an American author who lived in the period 1857-1948. She wrote novels, short stories, essays and articles, and her work often dealt with feminism and politics. Her personal life inspired her to write about women and their rights as she felt genuine disappointment in her own marriage, because her husband was not willing to let her be a writer. After his death, Atherton opened up to the world and started developing her career as a novelist. She is best known for the novel "Black Oxen" which was published in 1923. The work was so well accepted by the public, that it was made into a silent film the same year. In 1946 she published the autobiography "My San Francisco: A Wayward Biography".

‘The Fortune of the Rougons' is the first novel in Zola's monumental 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series. The novel is partly an origin story with an enormous cast of characters, many of whom go on to become the main characters of later novels in the series. It is also a testament to the December 1851 coup d'état that gave rise to the Second French Empire, from the perspective of a large provincial town in southern France.As the title suggests. the protagonists Pierre and Felicité Rougon chase fortune in all its symbolic and tangible meanings in one grand, captivating and hilarious adventure. The title also pays homage to the fortunes of many different family members introduced in the novel, whose lives take on an integral importance throughout later books. An unquestionably successful foundation for the ensuing masterpieces of the series - 'The Fortune of the Rougons' is sure to be savoured by fans of 'Germinal' as an exciting and engrossing read.Nominated twice in the first two instances of the Nobel Prize in Literature, Zola is cited as a major literary influence on authors of the new journalism style of writing, namely Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. His literary topics address violence and its repercussions, alcoholism and issues within the family unit.

The impetuous but nonetheless highly intelligent, street smart Patty Wyatt goes to a turn of the century, all-girls college where she studies here and there during whatever time remains after delivering scathing commentaries on dorm life, playing pranks on her friends and teachers, and, last but not least, soaring to the rescue of other girls in need. First published in 1903, Jean Webster’s debut novel 'When Patty Went to College' is a witty yet strikingly authentic account of going to college in Patty's day and age, to be fondly treasured by anybody who holds their college memories dear to their heart. If you enjoyed the 2012 musical comedy blockbuster 'Pitch Perfect' about a group of talented and free-spirited modern day college girls, starring Anna Kendrick, Brittany Snow and Rebel Wilson, you'll find this a highly fascinating and enthralling account of college girl life long before the advent of modern day pastimes. Jean Webster was the pseudonym of Alice Jane Chandler Webster (1876-1916), who was an American writer. Her novels are marked by bitter dialogue and socio-political themes such as: eugenics and heredity, institutional reform, and women’s rights. Webster herself was a suffragette, and as well as writing fiction, she also worked as a journalist. Some of her most famous works include: ‘When Patty Went to College,’ ‘Daddy-Long-Legs’ and ‘Dear Enemy’.

'The Theory and the Hound' is anthologised in O. Henry’s short story collection 'Whirligigs', replete with a menagerie of eccentric characters, witty exchanges, vibrant personifications and endings bound to take you by surprise.Two friends are walking down a street "that parallels and parodies Broadway". In passing, one of them mentions a newly hatched theory he has started to work on. The other friend decides to extract the whole story behind it. He hardly realises what is yet to come in doing so.American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In this way he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

‘The House of Pride, and Other Tales of Hawaii’ is an inspired collection of six short stories set in a fascinating time in Hawaiian history. It is a heartfelt collection, as the stories deal with colonisation, the loss of independence and the influx of cultures forever changing Hawaiian society. Shorts such as ‘Koolau the Leper’ deal with the leper colony on Molokai, offering a heart-breaking and passionate read. London always goes to great lengths to bring the beauty of Hawaii and it’s people to life, so much so that if you close your eyes you can see yourself there. It is an amazing collection full of wonderful characters, incredible beauty and impactful stories of a pre-statehood Hawaii.Jack London (1876–1916) was a pioneer, novelist, journalist and social activist. London was one of the first American authors to become an international celebrity thanks to his pioneering work in commercial fiction and magazines. Additionally he is accredited as a major innovator in the genre we now know as science fiction. Growing up in a working class background and spending several years homeless, he was a passionate fighter for workers’ rights, socialism, unionisation and animal rights. He would go on to be one of the highest paid authors in America thanks to his classics such as ‘Call of the Wild’, ‘White fang’ and ‘Sea Wolf’.

Danish ultra runner Jesper Kenn Olsen has–as the only human being in history–completed two world runs (World Run 1 & World Run 2): east-west and north-south around the globe. Altogether six years of running an impressive 63,000 kilometers. Now and then he breaks the daily routine of running a marathon by signing up for ultra races–he usually wins.This amazing accomplishment is the subject of this book. Jesper Olsen takes you along on his journey introducing you to many cultures and stunning landscapes around the planet.Bogen blev oprindeligt udgivet i 2014Jesper Kenn Olsen (født 1971) har studeret jura og har en kandidatgrad i statskundskab fra Københavns Universitet. Han er opvokset i Nordsjælland og begyndte at interessere sig for løb i en alder af 12 år. Han løb sit første maraton i Helsingør som 15-årig (3,26 timer) og har siden opnået flere danske rekorder på diverse ultradistancer fra 50 kilometer til seksdagesløb. Jespers personlige rekorder (10 km på 31.29 min., halvmaraton på 1.08,10 timer og maraton på 2.27,57 timer) vidner om, at han ikke bare kan løbe langt, men også hurtigt. I 2004-2005 løb Jesper som det første menneske Jorden rundt fra øst til vest – i alt 26.232 kilometer, og i 2008-2012 løb han igen kloden rundt, denne gang fra nord til syd – i alt 37.000 km. Han har i de sidste otte år ernæret sig som professionel ultraløber, foredragsholder og forfatter. Tidligere udgivelser: Jorden rundt i løb (2006)

'Being good People themselves, their first & principal care was to incite in her a Love of Virtue & a Hatred of Vice, in which they so well succeeded (Eliza having a natural turn that way herself) that when she grew up, she was the delight of all who knew her.'That was until Eliza was caught stealing a pound50 note and was thrown out by her benefactors.A classic short story from Austen's "juvenilia", written in her teenage years and originally shared with her family and friends. The perfect insight into the mind of young Austen.Jane Austen (1775-1817) is one of the most beloved British writers of all time. During her short life, she published six novels: ´Sense and Sensibility´, ´Pride and Prejudice´, ´Mansfield Park´, ´Emma´, ´Northanger Abbey´ and ´Persuasion´, which are all considered literary classics today.Her writing is full of sharp observations on the society in which she lived, as well as ripe with timeless irony, and a solid dose of humour. She has created immortal characters that have inspired countless authors, novels, and movies such as Bridget Jones and Clueless.The most notable adaptation is Joe Wright's 2005 Pride and Prejudice, starring Keira Knightley (Pirates of the Caribbean) and Matthew Macfadyen (Succession).

‘Babbitt’ represents one of Sinclair’s most profound and thought-provoking works of satire and resulted in Sinclair winning the Nobel prize.The story follows George Babbitt, owner of a successful real-estate business, husband to a stunning wife and father of three children. he seemingly has everything a person could want and yet happiness eludes him. Finding himself in this maelstrom of emotion George Babbitt decides to strike out against the machine of society; among other acts of dissent, he dabbles with liberal politics and decides to have an affair. But will the cost of this rebellion be a price Babbitt is willing to pay?The novel is a criticism of a superficial and materialistic society that has come to place ‘things’ at the centre of our existence, where we are expected to behave and act a certain way. It is a haunting, humorous and profound novel that remains incredibly relevant to this day, if you loved Christian Bale’s ‘American Psycho’, you’ll love this classic.Harry Sinclair Lewis (1885-1951) was an American author and playwright . As well as a Yale graduate, he was the first American to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1930. He became renowned for his biting critiques and satire of American capitalism and materialism in the inter-war years. Additionally he is remembered for his strong characterisations of modern working women in his novels. His most notable works include "The Trail of the Hawk", "Main Street", "Free Air", and "Babbitt".

This collection of letters and journal entries was curated by Alcott’s close friend Edna Dow Cheney, and published just a year after Alcott’s death. This collection serves to paint a full picture of the beloved author, with additional commentary from Cheney to inform on the kind of "true and frank" person Alcott was. The collection touches on her beliefs on various topics as well as the close friendships she maintained with Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson. It offers an incredible insight in to one of the world’s greatest writers, allowing the reader to see how her personal experiences informed her timeless and world renowned classics. This collection is perfect reading for any fan of Alcott or any aspiring writer looking for inspiration.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an author, abolitionist and proud feminist. Her family suffered financially while she was growing up and so she was forced to take on multiple jobs in her youth to help provide for her family. Her writing became her outlet, forming her ideas and beliefs in the empowerment of women and people in to literature that reverberates to this day. Her most notable works include "Little Women", which is now a movie starring Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet, its sequel ‘Little Men’ and ‘An Old Fashioned Girl’.

A light and witty novel, 'Gentle Julia' is filled with characters who you can't help but smile at. With an old-fashioned feel to it, this Booth Tarkington classic follows the escapades of a Julia Atwater and her younger cousin Florence as suitors attempt to woo her across town. Set in Indiana in the early 20th century, the story is entwined with silliness and the old-fashioned.Newton Booth Tarkington was an American novelist and dramatist best known as a multiple Pulitzer Prize-winner. He is only one of a handful of novelists to winning the Pulitzer Price more than once, winning it with his novels 'The Magnificent Ambersons' and 'Alice Adams'.Many of Tarkington's college years at Princeton and adult life are said to have mirror F. Scott Fitzgerald's.His popularity has declined over the decades but at one stage in the 1910s and 1920s he was considered one of America's best authors.