Showing results by author "Frances Burnett" in All Categories

Two masterpieces of literature are united in this essential volume. The Little Prince and A Little Princess may appear different—one a philosophical fable of space travel, the other a grounded Victorian drama—but together they weave a tapestry of resilience and hope.

A Little Princess is a celebration of the invincible human spirit. Sara Crewe, a wealthy and imaginative child, is the envy of Miss Minchin's Select Seminary. But when her father dies suddenly, she is left penniless and alone in a harsh world.

Sara Crewe, 10 years old, leads a delightful life. Her father, a British officer, provides her with all of the comfort his wealth and charm allow. When he dies, a cold-hearted schoolmistress turns Sara into a drudge. How does she cope?

Rosalie Vanderpoel, the daughter of a wealthy American multimillionaire, marries an impoverished English baronet and relocates to England, effectively severing ties with her family. Years later, her younger sister Bettina—striking, intelligent, and fabulously wealthy—embarks on a journey to uncover the fate of her sister. Upon her arrival, she discovers that Rosalie is worn down and dispirited, trapped in a stifling marriage marked by her husbands cruelty. Determined to change the course of her sisters life, Bettina encounters Lord Mount Dunstan, a nobleman of noble birth but dwindling ...

In this gripping tale, a wealthy businessman from London finds himself in a rundown part of the city, consumed by despair and contemplating ending his life. With plans to buy a handgun he spotted in a pawnshop, he wakes up to a dense, unforgettable fog that transforms his day—and his fate—in unexpected ways. Join him on this journey of self-discovery and redemption, as one foggy morning leads to a life-altering adventure. (Summary by Linda Andrus)

Have you ever pondered what truly happened to Cinderella after her fairytale wedding? Was it really a happily ever after? In this captivating Victorian melodrama, we meet 35-year-old Emily Fox-Seton, who finds herself penniless and a bit lonely. To escape the fate of becoming an old maid, she accepts a marriage proposal from the Marquess of Walderhurst, transforming her into one of the richest Marchionesses in England. Naïve, kind, and inherently good, Emily believes in the goodness of people—so why do strange accidents keep occurring around her? This novel unfolds in two compelling parts ...

A beloved classic, The Secret Garden can now be enjoyed with an even deeper appreciation of the delightful story, ever-relevant themes, and moving imagery. Rachel Dodge’s expert analysis brings the story to life through beautifully formed character analysis, heavily researched historical context, and her own passion for classics and for this timeless novel in particular.

Dive into the captivating world of Robin, a sequel to the classic 1922 novel The Head of the House of Coombe. This enthralling continuation delves deeper into the lives and relationships of Robin, Lord Coombe, Donal, and Feather, set against the backdrop of pre-WWI English society. Join us as we explore themes of nobility, love, and class dynamics in this richly woven tale. (Introduction by Linda Andrus)

William Collins Books and Decca Records are proud to present ARGO Classics, a historic catalogue of classic fiction read by some of the world’s most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly abridged and remastered stories are now available to download for the first...

A Little Princess tells the story of Sara Crewe, daughter of a rich English officer stationed in India, who is sent to Miss Minchin's boarding school in London. Despite her wealth and privilege, Sara is kind and generous, befriending everyone from school outcast Ermengarde and motherless toddler Lottie to the teenage scullery maid Becky. When Sara's status is abruptly changed, her resolve to behave like a princess no matter her circumstances is put to the test. Frances Hodgson Burnet's children's classic is performed by a full cast and will be loved by listeners of all ages.

With her wonderful storytelling abilities and endless array of gorgeous clothes and toys, little Sara Crewe seems to everyone at her boarding school like the luckiest girl in the world - a 'little princess'. no less. But one day disaster strikes, and she is moved into an attic and turned overnight into a drudge.

All but a little cluster of her most loyal friends turn their backs upon her. Constantly cold, with barely enough to eat, and reduced to wearing the outgrown tatters of her former wardrobe, how will she cope?

In a world where love often leads to despair, Pepita chooses a path of independence over traditional expectations. Determined not to follow in her mothers footsteps, she rejects the notion of becoming a wife, opting instead for the allure of witchcraft. As a popular and respected figure, her beauty captivates many, but her fierce spirit drives away any suitor who dares approach her heart. When a notorious bullfighter from Madrid sets his sights on her, Pepita must confront her deepest fears—will her steadfast resolve hold against his charm, or will it lead to catastrophic consequences? ...

The Secret Garden is a wonderful children's book that explores the nature of curiosity and perseverance. When the young and sickly Mary Lennox is shipped off to her uncle's mansion after her parents' deaths, Mary doesn't know what to do. She feels alone and isolated within the confines of the giant Misselthwaite Mansion. Gradually, and without her uncle's knowledge, she builds new friendships with the staff of the mansion and her strength builds so that she is not as sickly as she had once been.

Dive into the world of Frances Hodgson Burnett, who was born in the heart of Manchester and emigrated to the United States at just 16. In her early novels, crafted in Knoxville and published in New York, she drew inspiration from the vibrant life and authentic speech of the Lancashire working class. That Lass o Lowries unfolds in a gritty Lancashire mining town, telling a poignant and at times harrowing love story that explores the complexities of class divides—a striking departure from her later, more whimsical works. - Summary by Phil Benson

Delve into the untold chapters of a noblemans life in His Grace of Osmonde, where we explore the intriguing aspects of his existence that were left out of his Ladys captivating tale, A Lady of Quality, as presented by the talented Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Step into late 1600s England with Lady of Quality, where we follow the extraordinary journey of a woman who defies societal norms. Experience the passionate loves and tumultuous challenges that shape her unconventional life. (Summary by Linda Andrus)

The orphaned Mary Lennox is sullen, ill tempered, and unloved when she's sent to live with her uncle, Archibald Craven. A man consumed by grief over the death of his wife, Archibald has allowed his sprawling estate on the moors to fall into grim disrepair. It's when Mary begins tending to her late aunt's mysterious garden - locked up and neglected for years - that she discovers its life-changing secrets and a flowering rejuvenation of the human spirit.

The Secret Garden is a story about Mary Lennox, a 10-year-old child who never received love or affection from either of her self-centered parents, and was raised by the family's servants. She grows to be spoiled, selfish, and rude and after a cholera epidemic in India, everyone in her household is found dead except Mary. She is then transplanted to live with her uncle, whom she has never met before, at his manor in Yorkshire England.

Young Cedric Errol lives in poverty in New York with his mother. When his father, who was disinherited for marrying an American, dies, Cedric is summoned to his grandfather's English estate. While the crotchety old Earl planned to transform the boy into a docile, traditional lording, it is Little Lord Fauntleroy who does the converting.

Sara Crewe is a very rich little girl. She first comes to England when she is seven, and her father takes her to Miss Minchin’s school in London. Then he goes back to his work in India. Sara is very sad at first, but she soon makes friends at school. But on her 11th birthday, something terrible happens, and now Sara has no family, no home, and not a penny in the world.