The Ninth Daughter: A Lady of Quality Review

Frances Hodgson Burnett was born Frances Eliza Hodgson in Manchester, England on this day, November 24, in 1849. If you thought Francis Hodgson Burnett exclusively wrote heartwarming children's stories, that was me not long ago. The Secret Garden, A Little Princess, Little Lord Fauntleroy... even if you haven't read the books, you've likely seen one… Continue reading The Ninth Daughter: A Lady of Quality Review

“a rather nice excuse”

170 years ago today, 16 October 1854, Oscar Wilde was born in Dublin. He became a popular playwright during his life, also writing many short stories, some poetry, and perhaps most famously today, the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray. “Let us go to the theatre to-night,” said Lord Henry. “There is sure to be… Continue reading “a rather nice excuse”

A Poe Compendium for the 175th Anniversary of His Death

Poe has quickly become one of my favourite authors (if not the favourite judging by how often I reference him or his writings) and as such must have an extra special dedicated post for once rather than simply popping up throughout everything else I write like a macabre jack-in-the-box.

Strange and Hideous Dreams: The War of the Worlds Review

I don't think there is anyone quite like H.G. Wells, who can so convincingly write about fantastical impossibilities in a manner that is not only credulous but also firmly rooted in a comprehensive grasp of known science, society, and human nature. Maybe Jules Verne comes close but seems at times out of touch with human… Continue reading Strange and Hideous Dreams: The War of the Worlds Review

Two Towers, Pt. 2: Northanger Abbey

Northanger Abbey (completed 1803, published 1817) by Jane Austen I've read Northanger Abbey at least four times, if not more. I recently re-read it with my book club after we finished The Mysteries of Udolpho, which is heavily referenced in Northanger Abbey. It only gets better on re-read, I find. Due in no small part… Continue reading Two Towers, Pt. 2: Northanger Abbey