Showing results by author "William Dean Howells" in All Categories

In Hazard of New Fortunes, Howell transports us to the bustling streets of late nineteenth-century New York, a city alive with the essence of Edith Wharton and Henry James. The story follows Basil March, a Boston businessman with a passion for literature, as he relocates with his family to edit a newly founded journal. Their new venture is financially backed by Mr. Dryfoos, a Pennsylvania Dutch farmer turned millionaire after striking natural gas on his land. Now navigating the opulent lifestyle of New York, Dryfoos grapples with the perils of his newfound wealth. But is it his fortune that ...

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Florences Anglo-American colony in the late 19th century, this enchanting romantic tale follows a middle-aged man as he returns to the site of his first unrequited love, two decades later. While the lives of Americans abroad were often depicted in the works of Henry James and Edith Wharton, Howells offers a unique perspective. As John Updike aptly noted, “the felicity of the writing makes us pause in admiration…. A midlife crisis has rarely been captured in fiction with such humor, gentle comedy, and a gracious acceptance of lifes irrevocability.” ...

In Coast of Bohemia, William Dean Howells masterfully critiques bourgeois values through the compelling story of Cornelia Saunders. With her life seemingly perfect—filled with comfort, beauty, and the attention of charming young men—Cornelia is torn between the allure of respectable society and the enticing yet dubious world of bohemian Art and Poetry. As she hesitantly prepares to step into Bohemia, she risks everything for what could be her artistic Gift. True to his iconoclastic style, Howells keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering until the very end about Cornelia’s fate...

Join the charming world of William Dean Howells as he narrates five enchanting stories for children, featuring the beloved characters the papa, the girl, and the boy. Known as The Dean of American Letters, Howells was a prominent American realist author and literary critic. His works, including the delightful Christmas tale Christmas Every Day and the acclaimed novel The Rise of Silas Lapham, continue to captivate readers. (Reader’s Note for story 3 A pony engine is a small locomotive used for switching cars between tracks.) (Summary by Wikipedia and David Wales)

Grab yourselves a hot chocolate, a warm blanket and settle down to a collection of entertaining Christmas Stories that will get your little ones in the spirit of Christmas. Each of these traditional tales are the perfect length for listening at quiet time, bedtime and the classroom.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have Christmas everyday? Well, one little girl did and it did not turn out as she expected…

Grab yourself a hot chocolate and get cosy for a collection of wintery Christmas stories that will have your little ones dreaming of Santa Claus and his reindeers.

Immerse yourself in the warmth and nostalgia of "Indian Summer," a podcast that invites listeners to explore themes of love, memory, and the bittersweet nature of time. Each episode features a new complete audiobook that delves into the complexities of rekindled relationships, the longing for second chances, and the profound connections we forge throughout our lives. This rotating collection offers a diverse array of stories that reflect on the nuances of aging, the beauty of human connection, and the moments that shape our identities. As we journey through different narratives, listeners are ...

Before you is a timeless classic that will never cease to warm your heart and fill the long winter evenings with anticipated wonders and merry celebrations. This collection of Christmas stories by famous authors is the best gift for the holidays. These festive stories range from touching and magical to funny and sad. They include the best classic works of literature; whose themes involve the nativity and the magic of Christmas. Prepare yourself to experience true holiday magic and create new Christmas traditions as you read through these classics year after year.

Set in the early 1890s at a chic summer resort on the East Coast of the United States, Traveller from Altruria unfolds the intriguing tale of Mr. Twelvemough, an author chosen to host a remarkable visitor from the distant island of Altruria. Mr. Homos arrives in America, eager to witness firsthand the nations celebrated ideals of democracy and equality. However, as he interacts with Twelvemough and his circle of acquaintances—each equally curious about Altruria—an unexpected revelation emerges the United States is significantly trailing behind Altruria in nearly every aspect of life, from ...

Join us for a delightful romp through a charming tea party hosted by the endearing Mrs. Amy Somers, a widow surrounded by love and laughter. In this whimsical romantic comedy, Mr. Willis Campbell, a sweet-natured suitor, brings joy and a touch of mischief as he vies for her affection amidst a cast of quirky characters. With twelve short scenes that capture the essence of romance and humor, this story is sure to warm your heart. (Summary by Ruth Golding)

Experience the enchanting world of Venice through the eyes of William Dean Howells, who served as the American Consul to this iconic city for four years until 1865. While immersed in Venetian culture, Howells penned his observations and reflections, crafting a vivid portrait of the city and its people. This second edition offers an expanded view, enriched with insights for modern tourists. Please note that while Howells expresses admiration for various communities, his use of period language and terms may be jarring to contemporary readers, especially regarding race.

In the wake of the Civil War, William Dean Howells dedicated 15 years to shaping the literary landscape as Assistant Editor and then Editor of the esteemed Atlantic Magazine. Renowned as a prolific novelist, he published Years of My Youth in 1916, offering a poignant reflection on his early years in Ohio. This evocative memoir spans his earliest memories through his twenties, right at the onset of the Civil War. With rich detail, Howells paints a vivid picture of the culture and pressing issues of the 1840s and 1850s in the American Midwest, inviting readers to journey through his formative ...

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) forged a deep friendship with Mark Twain beginning in 1869, when Twain entered The Atlantic Monthlys Boston office to express his gratitude for Howells positive review of *Innocents Abroad*. As Howells later assumed the role of editor, The Atlantic Monthly became a pivotal platform for many of Twains works, including his acclaimed non-fiction piece, *Life on the Mississippi*. In *My Mark Twain*, Howells shares a captivating literary memoir filled with remarkable anecdotes, including their encounters with former President Ulysses Grant, who was then crafting his...