Showing results by author "Henry James" in All Categories

Originally published in 1880 as a serial in Cornhill Magazine and Harper's New Monthly Magazine, "Washington Square" is a structurally simple tragicomedy that recounts the conflict between a dull but sweet daughter and her brilliant, domineering father. The plot of the novel is based upon a true story told to James by his close friend, British actress Fanny Kemble. The book is often compared to Jane Austen's work for the clarity and grace of its prose and its intense focus on family relationships.

Step into the world of "The Real Thing" by Henry James, a masterful exploration of art, authenticity, and human relationships. This audiobook takes you into the lives of a struggling artist and the wealthy patrons who commission his work. With James' keen observations and elegant prose, the story delves into the complexities of artistic creation and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. It offers a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of truth, beauty, and the quest for authenticity in a world filled with artifice.

Eugenia, a baroness divorced from a German prince, and her bohemian brother, Felix, are coming back to America. Raised and cultured in Europe, they are returning destitute to New England to seek out their rich and innocent cousins. In a bungle of culture clash and love triangles, the Europeans hang their fortunes upon their ability to adapt. Where their scheming leads them is the last place they expect.

A young, inexperienced governess is charged with the care of Miles and Flora, two small children abandoned by their uncle at his grand country house. She sees the figure of an unknown man on the tower and his face at the window. It is Peter Quint, the master's dissolute valet, and he has come for Miles. But Peter Quint is dead....

Discover the intriguing world of "The Wheel of Time" by Henry James. This audiobook presents a captivating short story that delves into themes of fate, destiny, and the passage of time. With James' eloquent prose, you'll be drawn into a tale that explores the choices we make and their far-reaching consequences. The story offers a reflection on the human condition and the intricate web of circumstances that shape our lives. Through its finely crafted characters and contemplative narrative, it provides a thought-provoking exploration of the mysteries of existence.

Published in 1878, portrays the courtship of the beautiful American girl Daisy Miller by Frederick Winterbourne. Winterbourne's pursuit of her is hampered by her own flirtatiousness, which is frowned upon by the other expatriates they meet in Switzerland and Italy. The the novel coments on the contrast between American and European society that is common to James's work.

Novelists Egan (Pulitzer Prize-winner for A Visit from the Goon Squad), Hustvedt ( The Summer Without Men) and Livesey ( The Flight of Gemma Hardy) - the trio that brought Middlemarch and Anna Karenina to life at this book club - are back by popular demand to revisit James' classic. With a reading from the novel by Fritz Weaver.

Here is Henry James' dark comedic masterpiece, written in the final period of his life. Lambert Strether goes to Paris to bring back Chad, son of the wealthy New England widow he plans to marry. But he gradually comes to feel that life in Paris may hold more for him than in Woollett, Massachusetts.

Embark on a literary journey with "The Figure in the Carpet" by Henry James. This audiobook immerses you in the world of literary criticism and hidden artistic intentions. As James intricately explores the relationship between authors, critics, and the secrets concealed within texts, you'll be captivated by a tale of intellectual intrigue and artistic mystery. With its exploration of the elusive "figure in the carpet" - the hidden meaning that binds a writer's work - the story invites you to question how well we truly understand the intentions of our favorite authors.

"The Awkward Age" reveals a general treatment of decadence and corruption in English 'turn of the century' life. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Brookenham host an effete, rather corrupt social circle. Their children are worthless Harold and sweet but knowledgeable Nanda (age 18). Vanderbank, a young civil servant with little money, admires both Mrs. Brookenham (nicknamed "Mrs. Brook") and Nanda. Mrs. Brook seems to want an affair with "Van" but he appears more interested in Nanda. Mr. Longdon promises him a dowry if he marries Nanda.

Many critics consider this the best Henry James novelette, surpassing even The Turn of the Screw. Like that story, it has an ending that you will remember for a long time. The story concerns two young men visting the United States from London. They meet a pair of charming women who return the visit the following year in London. Romantic intrigues, miscommunication and cultural gaffs are plentiful in this short but delightful novel.

A warmhearted, family-oriented multicultural novel, adapted from the Hollywood screenplay, about a down-and-out dad, estranged from his wife and son, who screws up Christmas and tries to make it right - during the festival of Kwanzaa.

Ranked Top 10 "Best Lit Mags of 2023" by Chill Subs Delight in intriguing, thought-provoking conversations about ethics, philosophy, and social issues! After Dinner Conversation is a monthly literary magazine publishing short fiction. Each issue features both established writers and up-and-coming authors who contribute fascinating philosophical insights on controversial topics like marriage equality, assisted suicide, the meaning of death, animal rights, and defining your "purpose." It's time to go deep in search of truth! If you love reading imaginative short stories on hot topics that ...

Experience the psychological thriller "The Turn of the Screw" by Henry James. This chilling novella tells the story of a governess who encounters supernatural occurrences while caring for two children at a remote estate. Perfect for fans of gothic horror and suspenseful narratives.

A governess employed at a remote estate finds herself in charge of two young children. As the story unfolds, it would appear that nothing is as it should be. The governess doubts her own sanity when the children see things, and it seems that the estate is haunted. Is the governess in danger from the ghosts or is she in danger from the children?

An editor and literary critic becomes obsessed with the life and work of poet Jeffrey Aspern, who long ago died at a Romantic and tragic young age. Now, the editor pursues the only living person to have known Aspern - the 80-year-old Juliana Bordereau. But more than memories of Aspern, Juliana has secreted away papers belonging to the poet - papers she would rather see burned than passed on to future generations.

Embark on a journey of artistic passion and personal sacrifices in "The Lesson of the Master" by Henry James. This audiobook takes you into the world of a young writer torn between his admiration for a literary master and his own creative aspirations. James' insightful narrative explores the complexities of mentorship, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence. Through nuanced characters and profound introspection, the story delves into the clash between inspiration and reality.

The Portrait of a Lady is a masterful exploration of individuality, societal expectations, and the complexities of human relationships. Set in the late 19th century, this audiobook follows the journey of Isabel Archer, a spirited and intelligent young American woman who inherits a fortune and seeks to live a life of independence and personal fulfillment.

Wealthy heiress Catherine Sloper has always been plain and rather simple, though very sweet. She is drawn by the attentions of handsome gentleman Morris Townsend, the only man who ever even noticed her. But is he more interested in her fortune than Catherine herself? When they get engaged, despite protestations from her brilliant physician father, Catherine has to choose between her inheritance or love.

This book is about a Black man's experience of reading Mark Twain's classic Adventures of Huckleberry Finn for the first time while in graduate school. The story captures the author's emotional struggle with Twain's use of the racial epithet more than 200 times in the text. This is a courageous memoir that wrestles with the historic stain of racism and the ongoing impact of racist language in postmodern society. The book is about Harris' flashbacks, conversations, and dilemmas spawned by use of the epithet in a classroom setting where the author was the only Black person.