I’ve had a headlong introduction into Jane Austen’s works this year…from Pride and Prejudice, to Sense and Sensibility, and lastly, Emma. The author’s lovely and verbose prose, perceptive insights into human nature, and sweet romances, all culminate to make her books luscious literary treats. But Emma caught my attention the most. There’s so much going on in the background of this story and it’s fun to piece all of it together. Emma herself is so very complex, impulsive, manipulative, exuberant, prone to massive blunders, but ultimately good hearted. Her determination to remain unmarried gives her ample time to try and pair off those around her, with often disastrous results. Mr. Knightley, (an old friend and the brother of her brother-in-law) serves as her conscience and a guiding influence who is duty-bound to point out her (sometimes glaring) faults. And through it all are a host of memorable characters—the lovable Ms. Taylor/Mrs. Weston, the mysterious Frank Churchill, the reserved Jane Fairfax, and Emma’s father the absent but exceedly heath-conscious Mr. Woodhouse.
'Her masterpiece, mixing the sparkle of her early books with a deep sensibility' Robert McCrum, Observer
Although described by Jane Austen as a character 'whom no one but myself will much like', the irrepressible Emma Woodhouse is one of her most beloved heroines. Clever, rich and beautiful, she sees no need for marriage, but loves interfering in the romantic lives of others, until her matchmaking plans unravel, with consequences that she never expected. Jane Austen's novel of youthful exuberance and gradual self-knowledge is a brilliant, sparkling comic masterpiece.
Sydney Carton. Is there anything more to say? Here is the tale of an aimless life and a chance at heroism and redemption. Charles Dickens’ wit and humor cut through this bleak and gory tale of the French Revolution, and the heroes he invented shine brightest in their darkest hours. There is an eternal element of darkness and beauty to this historical fiction novel. A time in history that is difficult to contemplate and yet ought not be forgotten. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”
Sydney Carton is a lawyer who has wasted his abilities and his life. Now he has to make a difficult choice about what is really important to him, which could be a matter of life or death. The French Revolution is running its violent course; lives are ruined as a new France is created. How did the gentle Doctor Manette and his daughter Lucie become caught up in France's struggles? What is the real identity of the handsome Charles Darnay, who wins Lucie's hand in marriage? And why does the shadow of La Bastille Prison hang over them all? The…
This was my absolute favorite Narnia book as a child and I delved into a reread of the series this year and I still came away from this installment much affected. There’s something profound in Lewis’ ending to his Narnia series, something chilling, raw, and beautiful. Sad, yes, but also stirring. I grew up loving Tirian and Jewel the unicorn, and I know I always will. There’s something eerie at the core of this story, but through all the deception, death, destruction, and darkness—true love and loyalty shine, friendships are forged, truth upheld—and Aslan prevails!
A full-colour paperback edition of The Last Battle, book seven in the classic fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia. This edition is complete with full-colour cover and interior art by the original illustrator, Pauline Baynes.
During the last days of Narnia, the land faces its fiercest challenge-not an invader from without but an enemy from within. Lies and treachery have taken root, and only the king and a small band of loyal followers can prevent the destruction of all they hold dear in this, the magnificent ending to The Chronicles of Narnia.
While on a secret mission for the Anti-Neptunian Resistance, Alou the Martian agent finds a mysterious bundle that will change his life forever. Watch this lovable Martian grapple with parenthood in this third and final installment of the Alou series.
