Showing results by author "Arnold Bennett" in All Categories

Arnold Bennett was an English novelist and author. Among his most popular novels are The Grand Babylon Hotel and Anna of the Five Towns. However, none of his novels approached the popularity of his little book, "How to Live on Twenty-Four Hours a Day." It caused a sensation when first printed and continues to be printed and widely read today. In it, he offers practical advice on how one might live (as opposed to just existing ) within the confines of 24 hours a day.

Are you really "living", or just existing? Do you want to improve yourself or just continue to muddle through? Do you use the time given you each day, or just throw most of it away? These questions Bennett asks each of us, and for those who want to really live and learn, offers very valuable advice.

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 ...

Carlotta Peel is not your typical young woman; she is sharp-witted, fiercely independent, and a gifted author with a deep yearning for love and the desire to serve her partner. This first-person narrative takes you on an unexpected and intriguing journey through her life, revealing the complexities of her heart and mind. - Summary by Simon Evers

‘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...

Hildas life takes a dramatic turn when Edwin Clayhanger rescues her from the brink of destitution by marrying her. Now living in Bursley with Hildas son from her tumultuous marriage to George Cannon, the couple faces the complexities of their new life together. Although Edwin strives for a harmonious marriage, Hildas outspoken nature and her strong opinions on traditionally male-dominated topics—like Edwin’s business—create tension between them. She often acts independently, which leads Edwin to question their partnership, echoing the frustrations he once felt with his father. These ...

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)

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)

Step into the world of Arnold Bennetts The Grim Smile of the Five Towns, a captivating collection of stories published in 1907. This is Bennetts second major anthology, following the acclaimed Tales Of The Five Towns from 1905 (available at Librivox). Set against the backdrop of Stoke-on-Trent, where much of Bennetts finest work unfolds, these stories reveal the authors signature dry wit that belies the grim in the title. Critics have come to appreciate the collections standout tale, Simon Fuge, with Margaret Drabble hailing it as one of the greatest short stories in the English language. John...

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)

Dive into Clayhanger, the first book in a captivating trilogy that tells the coming-of-age tale of Edwin Clayhanger in the heart of Victorian Englands Midlands. As Edwin navigates the transition from schoolboy to businessman, he grapples with the weight of familial expectations, societal norms, and the complexities of first love. Set against the backdrop of Bennetts fictional 5 Towns, inspired by the real-life Potteries, this story explores the resilience required to forge ones identity amidst the constraints of a rigid society. Edwins journey is not just about survival; its a poignant ...

In the second installment of Bennetts captivating series set in the Five Towns—reflecting the real-life Potteries of Staffordshire—Hilda Lessways delves into the life of Hilda before her marriage to Edwin Clayhanger, a character introduced in the first book. This richly woven narrative follows Hildas journey as she strives for independence and navigates her professional life as a shorthand clerk and a lodging house keeper in bustling London and vibrant Brighton. As her relationship with the enigmatic George Cannon deepens, Hilda faces the tumultuous consequences of a bigamous marriage and ...

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 ...

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 ...

In a typewriting office owned by the affluent Felix Grig, young Lilian finds herself at the center of a delicate power struggle. The office is managed by Felixs stern spinster sister, Miss Grig, who harbors suspicions that her brothers interest in Lilian may cross professional boundaries. After Miss Grig dismisses Lilian in an attempt to protect her brother, Felix surprises everyone by inviting Lilian to dinner. What follows is a captivating exploration of their evolving relationship, marked by tension, intrigue, and unexpected romance.

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.

Meet Leonora Stanway, a 40-year-old woman trapped in a comfortable yet unexciting middle-class existence with her unremarkable husband, John. As her three daughters begin to forge their own paths, Leonora grapples with feelings of stagnation and unfulfilled dreams. Everything changes when Arthur Twemlow, the charismatic son of Johns former business partner, bursts into their lives, stirring up emotions and secrets. Meanwhile, the enigmatic Uncle Meshach has unexpectedly rewritten his will, adding further intrigue to Leonoras already complicated life. - Summary by Simon Evers

In the industrial heart of Victorian England–now Stoke-on-Trent–lonely Anna Tellwright is dominated by her miserly, bullying father and the strict Methodist community of Bursley. Inheriting a fortune does not free her from subjugation: every direction has an obstacle and Anna must choose between the ambitious Henry Mynors (duty) and the sensitive Willie Price (desire). Will she break free from society’s expectations or succumb to the life laid out for her? Bennett’s depiction of the Potteries brings to life a world of social pressures, moral dilemmas, and the struggle for personal freedom.