Showing results by author "Ellis Parker Butler" in All Categories

Dive into the eerie and enthralling world of the supernatural with master anthologist Joseph Lewis Frenchs collection of the finest ghost stories ever penned. From the early influential works of Daniel Defoe and Edward Bulwer-Lytton to the chilling narratives of contemporary legends like M. R. James, Algernon Blackwood, and E. F. Benson, this anthology promises to deliver a treasure trove of haunting tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat and awake through the darkest hours of the night! - Summary by Ben Tucker

Marjorie Fielding enters the world far too soon, spending her early months nestled in an incubator. Her mother, a progressive thinker, shuns outdated parenting norms in favor of a scientific approach to childrearing. While science undoubtedly has its merits, can it sometimes go too far? Join little Marjorie as she shares her unique perspective on life and the balance between nurture and nature. - Summary by Scotty

Join old Peter Lane, a whimsical character living on a houseboat along the picturesque Mississippi River. Peter spends his days whittling and enjoying the tranquility of life—until an unexpected knock at his door changes everything. One fateful night, a weary woman arrives, cradling her sickly son, Buddy. This chance encounter ignites a heartwarming friendship as Peter vows to protect and raise Buddy as his own, all while fending off those who seek to claim the orphan for themselves. (Note Although the online text suggests the absence of chapter 7, rest assured that all chapters are included...

Dive into the witty world of Ellis Parker Butler, the mastermind behind the beloved classic Pigs Is Pigs. In this delightful tale, we explore the life of Hiram and Marthy, a couple living a peaceful life in their charming Colorado town. They pride themselves on not having children, relishing the quiet and the savings that come with it—after all, how else could Hiram afford to surprise Marthy with a new silk dress? Their lives take a humorous turn as they navigate their feelings toward the adorable neighborhood kids while secretly enjoying their child-free existence. But everything changes ...

When an unexpected puppy arrives in a crate at Mr. Murchisons doorstep, a series of humorous and heartwarming events unfold. Join us for a delightful journey filled with laughter and surprises! - Summary by David Wales

Join us for a delightful romp through the world of advertising, where Perkins and the narrator concoct hilarious promotions for some truly questionable products. This duo targets a gullible public, and rather than facing the typical downfall of con artists, they revel in their success, growing wealthier and more content with every scheme. Experience these amusing tales that turn the notion of morality on its head, as Perkins and Co. thrive in their charmingly dubious endeavors. (Summary by Arnold Banner)

Join Georgie, Swatty, and Bony on their thrilling adventures as they navigate through flooded rivers, deal with emotional girls, face burning buildings, explore haunted houses, and uncover dark caves. From encounters with mean teachers to run-ins with murderers and ice jams, this tale is packed with excitement and laughter. (Summary by Dale Barkley)

Ellis Parker Butler (1869-1937) was an American author of more than 30 books and more than 2,000 stories and essays. He is best known for his famous short story "Pigs Is Pigs", in which a bureaucratic stationmaster insists on levying the livestock rate for a shipment of two pet guinea pigs, which soon start proliferating exponentially.

"Geoffrey's Panklaggephone" is the equivalent of a sponge – for sound. This short story from humorist Ellis Parker Butler demonstrates that even the best inventions will have their quirks. Sometimes those quirks can make the invention useful in an application no one suspected.

Mike Murphy sat in the Governor's office seeking a pardon for his son. Murphy knew that if the Governor remembered who he was there wouldn’t be a chance of success. The Governor did remember Murphy, and the bullying he received at the hands of his much younger self. He also remembered how the struggle they had as boys helped him become the man who governed a state.

Ellis Parker Butler is known for his humor and he doesn’t disappoint in this tale. Imagine a cat who intentionally snuffs out each of his nine lives. Imagine the trauma and “paroxysms” endured by the family that watches the cat with such personal disrespect for limited second chances. While Butler tries to present this as a factual account there are many word pictures that will amuse, entertain, and allow you to relate to a melancholy cat.

If you’ve ever participated in an "over the hill' party you know they can be a fun way to roast a friend who reaches a mythical milestone. Acclaimed author Ellis Parker Butler wrote a wonderful story about facing life at 50 and his observations may seem different, yet very relatable. Welcome to a world where some lifelong pains become friends, where some of the best work in life begins, and where things that once seemed so important are relegated to the dust bin of vanity.

All of us want to leave a mark on our world. We want to be remembered for the good we did. This is the dilemma for author Ellis Parker Butler, a contemporary of Mark Twain. In the case of Butler, he found that the more he followed rabbit trails and gathered 'goat-feathers' without actually doing much to finish the work he thought was more important, the less fulfilled he became. Filled with humor and wit, this author's lamentation is both understood and smiled at.

Two older men are set to oppose each other for sharing a similar interest in business. Once a pie is mashed into the head of one, and a bit of a 'raslin' match is concluded, the elderly men set about making up while planning the largest business in the nation. If their plan works it would change America, but would their wives approve? Will the men even be bold enough to share their idea with their brides?

This short story takes you back to the start of radio in America. Filled with just the right amount of humor this story takes a millionaire's final wish and makes it possible for him to broadcast an approved message through a loud speaker in his headstone. This captured the attention of the nation, but no one expected the worst case scenario, but it is just this scenario that empties a cemetery. Narrated by Glenn Hascall.

Follow the tale of a traveling writer as he sought the particulars of the origin of "Lover’s Leap" when the town was situated on flat prairie. Kildare resident 'Uncle Billy' was quite pleased to explain the where and why of lover’s leap. Humor is abundant in this delightful short story by Ellis Parker Butler.

Two mature neighbors are weary of seeing a young boy raise rabbits and chickens that always annoyed the old men. The two elder neighbors sought to teach the boy how to raise livestock. What ensues is a misadventure with comic moments throughout. A tale of simple times and men who are funny, even when they don't know they possessed the skill.

This is the story about Ed, Sam, and Pete - and Pete's a horse. This delightful classic shares the vision of boys who want the best futures by dreaming big dreams. Ed is a follower, Sam is a know-it-all, and Pete, well he's not much to look at. A delight for all ages.

A quintessential ghost story that both suggests the presence of ghosts and the belief that they don't exist. And as 'lil Mose meets visitors at the end of October, a ghost story/comedy ensues. Ellis Parker Butler was a contemporary of Mark Twain and is well known for his storytelling ability. Written with a specific dialect present, this memorable tale was interpreted by narrator Glenn Hascall.

War is on and an enemy has infiltrated the country looking for ways to fracture American resolve. While the enemy had little success they latched onto an idea that could bring the country to its knees. Would they get away with it, or was failure the common theme of their work on American soil? Part detective story, part science-fiction, this classic tale is narrated by Glenn Hascall.