He wrote one of the most quintessentially English books, yet Kenneth Grahame (1859 – 1932) was a Scot. He was four years old when his mother died and his father became an alcoholic, so Kenneth grew up with his grandmother who lived on the banks of the beloved River Thames. Forced to abandon his dreams of studying at Oxford, he was accepted as a clerk at the Bank of England where he became one of the youngest men to be made company secretary. He narrowly escaped death in 1903 when he was mistaken for the Bank’s governor and shot at several times. He wrote secretly in his spare time for magazines and became a contemporary of contributors including Rudyard Kipling, George Bernard Shaw and WB Yeats. Kenneth’s first book, Pagan Papers (1893) initiated his success, followed by The Golden Age (1895) and Dream Days (1898), which turned him into a celebrated author. Ironically, his most famous novel today was the least successful during his lifetime: The Wind in the Willows (1908) originated as letters to his disabled son, who was later found dead on a train line after a suspected suicide. Kenneth never recovered from the tragedy and died with a broken heart in earshot of the River Thames. His widow, Elspeth, dedicated the rest of her life to preserving her husband’s name and promoting his work.

"Elsie's children" by Martha Finley. Published by Good Press. Good Press publishes a wide range of titles that encompasses every genre. From well-known classics & literary fiction and non-fiction to forgotten−or yet undiscovered gems−of world literature, we issue the books that need to be read. Each Good Press edition has been meticulously edited and formatted to boost readability for all e-readers and devices. Our goal is to produce eBooks that are user-friendly and accessible to everyone in a high-quality digital format.

The bestselling author of The Trouble with Goats and Sheep delivers a suspenseful and emotionally satisfying novel “infused with warmth and humor” (People) about a lifelong friendship, a devastating secret, and the small acts of kindness that bring people together. There are three things you should know about Elsie. The first thing is that she’s my best friend. The second is that she always knows what to say to make me feel better. And the third thing…might take a bit more explaining. Eighty-four-year-old Florence has fallen in her flat at Cherry Tree Home for the Elderly. As she waits to be rescued, she thinks about her friend Elsie and wonders if a terrible secret from their past is about to come to light. If the charming new resident is who he claims to be, why does he look exactly like a man who died sixty years ago? From the acclaimed, bestselling author of The Trouble with Goats and Sheep, Three Things About Elsie “breathes with suspense, providing along the way piercing, poetic descriptions, countless tiny mysteries, and breathtaking little reveals…a rich portrait of old age and friendship stretched over a fascinating frame” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review). This is an “amusing and heartbreaking” (Publishers Weekly) story about forever friends on the twisting path of life who come to understand how the fine threads of humanity connect us all.

Martha Finley's 'Elsie Dinsmore: Complete Series' is a monumental collection of 28 books in one edition, chronicling the life and adventures of the titular character, Elsie Dinsmore. Set in the mid-19th century, these books provide a fascinating glimpse into American domestic life, morality, and religious values during that era. Finley's writing style is characterized by its sentimental tone, moral lessons, and strong emphasis on Christian faith, making it a reflection of the Victorian ideals of the time. The series is a captivating read for those interested in historical fiction and the evolution of American literature. Each book in the series builds upon the events of the previous one, creating a rich tapestry of Elsie's life and experiences. The vivid descriptions and well-developed characters make this series a compelling and enjoyable read. Martha Finley, a devout Christian and teacher, wrote the 'Elsie Dinsmore' series as a means of conveying moral lessons and religious values to young readers. Drawing from her own personal experiences and beliefs, Finley crafted a narrative that reflects her convictions and principles. Her dedication to providing wholesome literature for children is evident in the way she weaves together themes of family, faith, and morality throughout the series. I highly recommend Martha Finley's 'Elsie Dinsmore: Complete Series' to readers who enjoy historical fiction, moral tales, and Christian literature. This collection offers a wealth of lessons and insights, while also immersing readers in the charming world of Elsie Dinsmore.

In 'Elsie's Journey on Inland Waters' by Martha Finley, readers are taken on a thrilling adventure through the American countryside as Elsie embarks on a journey down the Mississippi River. Finley's writing style is characterized by its vivid descriptions of the natural landscape and the detailed portrayal of characters' emotions and motivations. Set in the mid-19th century, the book provides insight into the social and political issues of the time, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals of that era. The narrative also explores themes of family, friendship, and personal growth, making it a compelling read for both younger and older audiences. Martha Finley, a prolific 19th century author, drew inspiration for her 'Elsie Dinsmore' series from her own experiences and beliefs. Her strong Christian faith is evident in the moral lessons woven throughout the stories, reflecting her desire to impart values and virtues to her readers. Finley's dedication to creating engaging and educational literature for young readers has made her a beloved figure in the world of children's literature. I highly recommend 'Elsie's Journey on Inland Waters' to readers who enjoy historical fiction and stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships. With its engaging plot and well-developed characters, this book is sure to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.