Showing results by author "George MacDonald" in All Categories

George MacDonald was a master storyteller, the author of beautiful fictions such as Phantastes, Sir Gibbie, and The Princess and the Goblin. The story of Lilith is no different. A brilliant piece that dives deep into the human conscience. Some believe this is MacDonald's darkest story. It has been said that C. S. Lewis was fascinated with this work. A fantasy indeed, but as with much of MacDonald's work, living truths are ingrained within. Enjoy.

The classic fantasy that influenced C. S. Lewis and Tolkien, considered one of George MacDonald's most important works, is the story of the young man, Anodos, and his adventures in fairyland which ultimately reveal the human condition. "I write, not for children," wrote George MacDonald, "but for the child-like, whether they be of five, or 50, or 75." All-at-once written with an innocent whimsy and soulful yearning, the heart of Anodos' journey through fairyland reveals a spiritual quest that requires a surrender of the self.

Young Princess Irene is sent to the country to be raised in a half-farmhouse, half-castle located in the side of a mountain. While exploring the top of the castle, Irene becomes lost and inexplicably finds her way to a mystifying and beautiful woman spinning a thread. Princess Irene is drawn to the woman whom she discovers is her great-great-grandmother. But after she returns, her nurse, Lootie, refuses to believe in the old woman's existence.

In this modern retelling, known as The Curates Awakening, we follow the journey of a young man named Thomas Wingfold, who steps into the church without any genuine faith, simply looking for direction in life. After a provocative encounter with a bold young atheist, Thomas is plunged into a profound emotional and spiritual crisis. Guided by the insights of a singular friend, he navigates his doubts and begins a gradual journey towards faith—what he charmingly describes as a lovely hope. (Summary by John Schuurman & TriciaG) Note that there are two unique interpretations of chapter 67. Enjoy ...

A classic children’s fantasy tale and a major inspiration for The Lord of the Rings, this story chronicles the endeavors, struggles, and triumphs of the beautiful, brave, and kind Princess Irene. Written originally as a serial, this charming adventure never has a dull moment. From magic and secrets to mazes and monsters, Princess Irene and her companions must stay focused, stay true, and stay alert to the forces that seek to do them, and her kingdom, harm.

Originally serialized in 1868 and collected as a book in 1871, At the Back of the North Wind is the magical story of Diamond, the son of a poor coachman, who is swept away by the North Wind – a radiant, maternal spirit with long, flowing hair – and whose life is transformed by a brief glimpse of the beautiful country – at the back of the north wind.

Written by George MacDonald in 1858, Phantastes is acknowledged as the first modern fantasy novel for adults, inspiring Lewis Carroll, C.S.Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and David Lindsay amongst others.

The Elect Lady is a wonderful place to begin to understand George MacDonald's view on the nature and purpose of the church and how vast and beautiful is God's love.

Phantastes: A faerie romance for men and women is a fantasy novel by Scottish writer George MacDonald, first published in London in 1858. It was later reprinted in paperback by Ballantine Books as the 14th volume of the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series in April 1970.

Dive into the enchanting world of Robert Falconer, a Victorian novel that brings to life a beloved character first introduced in MacDonalds David Elginbrod. This heartfelt narrative, narrated by Kenneth R. Morefield, invites you to explore themes of love, faith, and personal growth in a richly woven tapestry of 19th-century life.

‘St. George and St. Michael’ unfolds a captivating historical romance set against the backdrop of the English Civil Wars, where a young couple finds their loyalties tested. As tensions escalate between the king and parliament, and the Church of England clashes with independent puritans, seventeen-year-old Dorothy Vaughan remains blissfully unaware of the impending conflict. She believes her loyalty belongs to her king and her nation. When she challenges her childhood friend, Richard Heywood, to prove his worthiness for her hand in marriage by engaging in the larger political tumult, he ...

George MacDonald, a renowned Scottish author, poet, and Christian minister, held a significant place among the great Victorian writers, alongside literary giants like Dickens and Thackeray. Yet, despite his initial acclaim, his reputation has waned over time, largely due to the deep religious themes that permeate his works. Among his many writings, Unspoken Sermons stands out as a profound exploration of theology, capturing MacDonald’s unique perspective on faith and spirituality. Though not his most famous work, these sermons have left a lasting theological impact, most notably influencing ...

Actions often speak louder than words, but in the life of Christ, as George MacDonald illustrates, both resonate with equal power. While much focus is placed on Jesus teachings during His time on earth, the miracles He performed leave many in our modern age questioning their significance. MacDonald, with his characteristic wisdom and gentleness, invites us to explore these miraculous events as a gateway to understanding the profound inner life of Christ, allowing us to intimately connect with Him and His Father. (Summary by Jordan) Proof-Listeners lomond and Sarah Parshall

As the Advent season unfolds in London, the Greatorex family finds themselves in the midst of unexpected turmoil. But everything is set to change with a heartwarming surprise on Christmas morning. (Ann Boulais)

In the quaint fishing village on Scotlands north coast, twenty-year-old Malcolm MacPhail has always lived a quiet life with his grandfather. Having never known his parents, he feels no longing to uncover the mystery of his origins. Yet, the townsfolk are intrigued, with their own theories about the enigmatic arrival of this Highland man and his infant grandson two decades ago. When a local marquis and his daughter move into the long-abandoned estate just outside town, their presence sets off a chain of events that will not only bring Malcolm into their world but may also unravel the secrets of...

In The Elect Lady, two farmers sons and a cotters daughter, despite their differing social backgrounds, forge a deep bond in childhood as they learn to follow Jesus together. As adults, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways with their landlord, his daughter, and her cousin. The revelation of the Lairds secret sends ripples through their lives. This lesser-known gem by MacDonald, while shorter in length, is rich with charming characters, unexpected plot twists, love, and valuable life lessons. However, readers are encouraged to approach it with discernment, as MacDonalds controversial ...

Best known for his enchanting fairy tales and fantasy narratives like The Golden Key and Phantastes, George MacDonald was a profound spiritual guide of the nineteenth century. After serving as a minister in Scotland, he had to resign due to health issues. His influence extended to notable writers such as G. K. Chesterton and C. S. Lewis, the latter of whom regarded MacDonald as his spiritual father and curated a collection of his works. In The Hope of the Gospel, MacDonald delves into the core message of the gospel—an aspect often neglected in both his time and ours. With a critical eye ...

In search of a new beginning, Donal Grant leaves his home behind and takes on the role of tutor to a young boy living in a magnificent castle. This enchanting estate is not only home to an eccentric old man and a beautiful yet troubled young woman, but it also guards an ancient family legend about a secret room hidden within its walls. Though a sequel to Sir Gibbie by the same author, this captivating tale stands alone as a rich and immersive story. - Summary by Devorah Allen

George MacDonald was the great 19th-century innovator of modern fantasy who influenced the work of C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Charles Williams. This book collects some of his finest fairy stories.

Volume 3 of Thomas Wingfold, Curate brings the themes of redemption and grace into focus as the tale of Wingfold’s journey comes to an end. Wingfold witnesses genuine transformation in others through their faith in God and in His fulfillment of promises. Longing to continue increasing his understanding of theology, there are many crucial spiritual discussions and explanations in this installment. Learning to endure his own consequences and to face moments of repentance, Wingfold finally begins to understand what faith means and why humans truly need God.