Showing results by author "Arnold Bennett" in All Categories

Discover a captivating collection of twenty-two short stories by Arnold Bennett, set primarily in the enchanting Five Towns—his affectionate term for the pottery manufacturing heartland of the English midlands. With rich characterizations and vivid storytelling, these tales paint a portrait of life in this unique region. (Summary by Andy Minter)

Roll-Call is the captivating sequel to the Clayhanger trilogy, delving into the youthful journey of George Edwin Cannon, the stepson of Edwin Clayhanger. As an ambitious architect, George embodies the aspirations of his stepfather but is also burdened by the arrogance that comes with family wealth. Bennett skillfully explores the challenges of raising children without spoiling them, making this narrative both poignant and thought-provoking. As Georges story unfolds, he ultimately joins the army, providing a powerful conclusion to this remarkable series. (Summary by Simon Evers)

A rich collection of diverse and fascinating stories by famous classic authors. 1.The Bus Conductor by E. F. Benson 2.The Murderer by Perceval Gibbon 3.The Death Mask by H. D. Everett 4.Caterpillars by E. F. Benson 5.His Brother’s Keeper by W. W. Jacobs 6.The Secret of the Black Bag by William Le Queux 7.A Joy Ride by A. J. Alan 8.The Perfect Murder by Stacy Aumonier 9.The Furnished Room by O. Henry 10.The Squaw by Bram Stoker 11.The Dust Cloud by E. F. Benson 12.The Idiot by Arnold Bennett

Sadness can be about so many things from places to people, from thoughts to actions. Our classic authors including Arnold Bennett, James Joyce, Willa Cather, Joseph Conrad, Ivan Turgenev and many others use their pens and stories to demonstrate the many ways this feeling can take a hold of lives and its consequences.

In The Feast of St. Friend, Arnold Bennett invites readers to explore the essence of Christmas as a celebration of goodwill. With his signature blend of incisive commentary and dry humor, Bennetts reflections resonate just as powerfully today as they did a century ago. Originally published in 1911, this delightful Christmas book offers a unique perspective on the holiday season that will make you ponder the true meaning of friendship and generosity. Join narrator Ruth Golding as she brings Bennetts timeless insights to life in this charming audio rendition.

Dive into Elsie And The Child, a captivating collection of thirteen short stories from 1924 by a master storyteller of the early twentieth century. Renowned for his engaging fiction and nonfiction, the author won the hearts of many. Following his contributions to the WWI war effort, he graciously declined the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Enjoy a rich tapestry of narratives that reflect the eras spirit, beautifully narrated by David Wales.

Dive into a charming collection of short stories that gently satirize and humorously reflect on the everyday life of small-town England at the close of the nineteenth century. Set in the six towns of Staffordshire, famously known as the Potteries, Arnold Bennett artfully fictionalizes these locales, opting for the more melodious Five Towns by omitting Fenton. The narrative cleverly intertwines the real towns of Hanley, Longton, Burslem, and Tunstall, with Stoke transformed into the fictional Knype. Born in Hanley in 1867, Arnold Bennetts journey from a solicitors clerk to a celebrated writer ...

Immerse yourself in The Old Wives Tale, a timeless novel by Arnold Bennett, first published in 1908. This captivating story follows the contrasting lives of two sisters, Constance and Sophia Baines, as they navigate their journey from youth spent in their mother’s drapers shop to the complexities of old age. Spanning approximately 70 years from 1840 to 1905, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Burslem and Paris, showcasing Bennetts masterful storytelling. Regarded as one of his finest works, this tale beautifully explores themes of family, resilience, and the passage of time. (...

‘The Pretty Lady’ stands as one of Bennetts most insightful yet overlooked works. It tells the compelling story of Christine, a French prostitute who has fled the chaos of wartime Ostend to forge a new life in London. Rather than seeking sympathy, Christine embodies self-sufficiency, practicality, and resilience. She is not a predatory figure lurking for vulnerable soldiers but a savvy entrepreneur making the most of her circumstances. Her primary connection is with G.J. Hoape, a wealthy man beyond the militarys reach. Through this narrative, Bennett paints a haunting portrait of a wartime...

In Price of Love, Rachel Louise Fleckring finds herself working for the elderly Mrs. Maldon, quickly becoming a cherished part of the family. As she navigates her growing feelings for one of Mrs. Maldons descendants, Rachel must confront the unsettling truth that her beloved may not be the honorable man she once believed him to be. Will love prevail, or will deception shatter her dreams? (Summary by Christine)

Meet Mr. Priam Farll, a gifted painter whose shyness is so profound that when his valet, Henry Leek, unexpectedly passes away, the doctor mistakenly identifies the dead man as Priam and the living artist as his servant. Rather than correct the error, Priam allows the ruse to continue. Following the lavish funeral in Westminster Abbey, he unexpectedly marries a widow and enjoys a blissful life—until financial troubles force him back to his easel. As a savvy art connoisseur begins to recognize Priam’s distinctive style, he believes the works to be those of a fraud and profits handsomely by ...

Meet Edward Henry Machin, affectionately known as ‘Denry’—the charming protagonist of this delightful tale. Set in the bustling pottery towns of the English Midlands during the late 19th century, Denry rises from the humble beginnings of a washerwoman and seamstresss son to become a wealthy figure, celebrated for his vibrant spirit and determination. With his quick wit and unshakeable nerve, he not only finds love and prosperity but also makes history as the youngest mayor of his hometown. As one councillor quips, He’s identified with the great cause of cheering us all up. Join us in ...

Dive into a delightful blend of humor and insight with Bennetts timeless collection of articles. He shares his reflections on mental exercise, life organization, the complexities of marriage, and various pocket philosophies. Nearly a century after its original publication, this book remains relevant and entertaining, offering a fresh perspective on enduring topics. Notably, Bennett references An Essay on the Principle of Population by Thomas Malthus in Chapter 5, which is also available as a Librivox recording. (Summary by Ruth Golding)

Set in the Potteries area of Staffordshire, England, this gripping tale follows Anna Tellwright, the daughter of a wealthy yet tyrannical father whose strict control extends even to her spiritual life within the Methodist church. After marrying the charming and respectable Henry, Anna seeks to break free from her fathers oppressive grasp. However, her desire to assist Willy, the troubled son of her fathers bankrupt business partner, leads her into a web of challenges and moral dilemmas that test her resolve.

In Man from the North, Richard Larch, a spirited young man hailing from the north of England, ventures to London with dreams of striking it rich. By day, he diligently serves as a clerk in an office, but his true passion lies in writing. Alongside his literary aspirations, he is on a quest to find the perfect partner. This captivating tale chronicles Richard’s journey as he navigates the challenges of ambition and romance, drawing inspiration from Bennetts own life experiences in his debut novel. (Summary by Simon Evers)

Join Mr. Prohack, a seemingly ordinary Treasury official, as his life takes an unexpected turn when he inherits a substantial fortune. With a fortunate investment, he transforms his newfound wealth into extraordinary riches. This delightful and humorous tale chronicles the adventures of Mr. Prohack and his family—his wife, son, and daughter—each learning to navigate the quirks and challenges of their transformed lives. - Summary by Simon Evers

Dive into the whimsical journey of Henry Shakespeare Knight, an unsuspecting author who finds himself in the spotlight after penning a surprise best-seller. Join us as we explore the delightful twists and turns of his adventure, narrated with charm by Simon Evers.

Dive into Arnold Bennetts masterful novel, a gripping exploration of a bookseller whose relentless miserliness impacts not only his life but also his deep affection for a woman. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Londons Clerkenwell district in the aftermath of the First World War, this tale weaves together themes of love, obsession, and the human spirit. - Summary by Anthony Ogus

This captivating 1926 collection features sixteen thought-provoking essays on religion by prominent figures of the early 20th century, primarily authors. Originally published in The London Daily Express, the anthology includes the insights of notable writers such as Arnold Bennett, Hugh Walpole, and Rebecca West, alongside esteemed personalities like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Israel Zangwill. Join us on a reflective journey through their diverse perspectives on faith and spirituality, as compiled by David Wales.

Mental Efficiency & Other Hints to Men & Women is a sharp, practical, and surprisingly modern work by English novelist and social commentator Arnold Bennett, who turns his attention to a question that still resonates today: why people devote such care to their physical bodies while neglecting the disciplined training of their minds.