Author
John Kendrick Bangs
1862-1922
John Kendrick Bangs (1862-1922) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by John Kendrick Bangs
A Little Book of Christmas
"A Little Book of Christmas" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of whimsical holiday-themed stories written in the early 20th century. Throughout these narratives, the book captures the spirit of Christmas through delightful tales that likely highlight generous characters, charming situations, and the magical essence of the season, featuring various enchanting figures like Santa Claus. The opening of the book sets the tone with a poem celebrating Santa Claus as a symbol of kindness and joy. It introduces a character named George W. Hetherington, who initially expresses skepticism about Santa Claus and the festive spirit. As he walks through a decorated city, his cynicism leads to a direct interaction with a street corner Santa Claus. Their exchange transforms Hetherington’s perspective about the spirit of Christmas, ultimately leading him to step into the shoes of Santa Claus to help a family in need. This sets the stage for a heartwarming transformation, as Hetherington begins to embrace the spirit of giving and joy associated with the holiday.
The Enchanted Typewriter
"The Enchanted Typewriter" by John Kendrick Bangs is a novel written during the late 19th century, blending elements of fantasy and humor. The narrative centers on an unnamed narrator who discovers an enchanted typewriter that operates autonomously, producing works dictated by the spirits of notable figures, particularly one Jim Boswell, an editor from Hades. The book's premise revolves around the whimsical interactions between the narrator and the supernatural, exploring themes of creativity and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. At the start of the novel, the narrator describes his serendipitous discovery of a typewriting machine in his attic, which ends up being a conduit for musings from Jim Boswell, who claims to be using it from the underworld. The excitement of encountering a sentient machine unfolds as Boswell reveals its magical properties, allowing him not only to type but to share news and stories from Hades. The opening portion features a humorous dialogue between the narrator and the typewriter, capturing the narrator's wonder and trepidation at the strange occurrences during the witching hour, culminating in the revelation that Boswell seeks to publish various literary works, including tales of noteworthy historical figures and current events in Hades, all while addressing the ridiculousness of everyday bureaucratic challenges in the afterlife.
The Water Ghost and Others
"The Water Ghost and Others" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous ghostly tales likely written during the late 19th century. The work features a variety of characters and scenarios, most notably centering around the misadventures of different spectral entities and the hapless humans who encounter them. The opening story introduces readers to the Water Ghost of Harrowby Hall, who troubles the residents of an estate with her relentless haunting on Christmas Eve. The opening of the collection details the plight of the owners of Harrowby Hall, particularly focusing on the Water Ghost who appears annually and causes chaos wherever she goes. Despite the owners’ numerous attempts to rid themselves of the ghostly presence, she continues to drench them in sea water and wreak havoc on their belongings. As the tale unfolds, we meet Henry Hartwick Oglethorpe, a courageous but beleaguered master of the estate, who learns that the ghost is tied to a tragic backstory and faces comical trials as he attempts to confront her. The blend of supernatural elements with rich humor sets a whimsical tone that invites readers to explore the rest of Bangs' entertaining ghostly adventures.
A House-Boat on the Styx
"A House-Boat on the Styx" by John Kendrick Bangs is a fantasy novel written in 1895. When a mysterious houseboat arrives on the river Styx, it becomes a meeting place for history's most famous dead souls. Charon, the ancient ferryman, finds himself demoted to janitor as legendary figures from history and mythology gather aboard. Each chapter presents a new encounter, mixing historical personalities in unexpected conversations—though questions about who really wrote Shakespeare's plays keep arising.
Paste Jewels
"Paste Jewels" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous short stories written during the late 19th century. The book delves into the lives of the Perkins family, particularly focusing on Thaddeus and his wife Bessie, as they navigate the complexities of managing a household with various domestic staff. The tales unfold in a light-hearted manner, addressing the quirks and trials involved in domestic life, and capturing the amusing dynamics between the couple and their servants. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to Thaddeus and Bessie Perkins as they begin their married life together, filled with romance and optimism. However, the opening portion quickly establishes the comic tension arising from their adjustment to marital life, largely influenced by their household staff. Thaddeus is characterized by his amiable nature, while Bessie proves to be practical and resourceful. The reader witnesses their humorous challenges managing the eccentricities of their cook, Ellen, and the other servants, while also witnessing a blend of affection and exasperation that encapsulates their relationship. Themes of domesticity, social roles, and the comical miscommunications of everyday life set the stage for the ensuing stories in this charming narrative.
A Rebellious Heroine
"A Rebellious Heroine" by John Kendrick Bangs is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a struggling author, Stuart Harley, who is attempting to craft a love story featuring an independent heroine named Marguerite Andrews. However, the tale quickly takes an unexpected turn as Marguerite begins to assert her own will, challenging the conventional narrative tropes laid out by Harley and disrupting his plans for an ideal romance. At the start of the narrative, Harley is introduced as a realist author believing that he must accurately portray life in his writings, drawing inspiration from the very people around him. As he seeks to develop his love story for publication, he plans for Marguerite’s journey and encounters aboard a ship. However, Marguerite defies his expectations by missing her appointed departure, leading to a series of amusing complications that disrupt Harley's storyline. Her independent spirit becomes a point of contention, revealing her determination to take ownership of her own narrative and challenging Harley's authority as the author. Thus, the opening portion establishes a dynamic interplay between the creator and his character, setting the stage for a humorous and insightful exploration of storytelling and autonomy.
The Pursuit of the House-Boat
"The Pursuit of the House-Boat" by John Kendrick Bangs is a humorous literary work written in the early 20th century. This book serves as a satirical sequel to Bangs' earlier story, "A House-Boat on the Styx," and features the comedic adventures of a club of literary and historical figures who are now shades in the afterlife. The central crisis revolves around the theft of their beloved house-boat by the infamous pirate Captain Kidd, leading to a quest to rescue both their floating clubhouse and the women who have also been taken. The opening of the narrative introduces the members of the Associated Shades—such figures as Sir Walter Raleigh, Socrates, and Cleopatra—gathered to discuss the alarming abduction of their house-boat and its inhabitants. As panic sets in, the characters exhibit their distinct personalities and engage in witty banter while deciding on actions to retrieve what is rightfully theirs. The arrival of a mysterious stranger, later revealed to be Sherlock Holmes, adds intrigue to their deliberations as he proposes a well-reasoned approach to track down Kidd and recover their property. The tone is lighthearted, filled with clever dialogue and comedic misunderstandings, setting the stage for an entertaining tale of pursuit and adventure.
Mr. Bonaparte of Corsica
"Mr. Bonaparte of Corsica" by John Kendrick Bangs is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative focuses on the early life of Napoleon Bonaparte, starting with his humble beginnings on the island of Corsica in 1769 and exploring his formative years, personality traits, and the groundwork laid for his future as one of history's most renowned military leaders. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Bonaparte family and the circumstances surrounding the birth of Napoleon, the second of thirteen children. It portrays him as a precocious child, full of confidence and ambition, predicting his future greatness. Through anecdotes from his early years—such as his fierce determination and leadership over his siblings—Bangs paints a vivid picture of the future emperor's character. The reader is treated to a blend of humor and historical insight, setting the stage for the exploration of Napoleon's journey from a Corsican boy to a military commander on the world stage.
The Idiot at Home
"The Idiot at Home" by John Kendrick Bangs is a humorous novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the character known as the Idiot, who is portrayed as a well-meaning but bumbling husband and father navigating the challenges of domestic life with his wife and two children. The book explores various comedic situations that arise in their suburban household, often delving into the absurdities of everyday life and the misunderstandings that occur within a family. The opening portion of the book introduces the Idiot and his family during a breakfast scene where he proposes to host a dinner for old friends. Their conversation is filled with lighthearted banter, setting the tone for the family's dynamics. The Idiot exhibits a mix of pride and humorous ignorance as he discusses the children's upbringing and the quirks of their household. It is clear that the family enjoys a loving relationship, but also that the Idiot's idiosyncratic takes on life often lead to misguided conclusions and amusing dialogue. This lightheartedness and charm suggest that readers can expect a delightful and comedic exploration of family life.
Ghosts I Have Met and Some Others
"Ghosts I Have Met and Some Others" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous supernatural tales written during the late 19th century. The book presents the author's whimsical encounters with various ghosts, blending comedy and the paranormal in a lighthearted exploration of what it means to coexist with spirits. The central figure is the author himself, who narrates his experiences while maintaining a tone of skepticism and amusement regarding the spectral phenomena he encounters. At the start of the collection, the author reflects on his many encounters with ghosts, expressing a mindset that allows him to confront these apparitions with both terror and interest. He describes a particularly grotesque spectre that appeared in his chair one night, highlighting his physical fear contrasted with his mental composure, as he casually offers the spectre a cigar. The narrative humorously details their conversation, revealing the author's unique ability to engage with the supernatural while laughing off the typical fright associated with ghostly visitations. The opening sets the stage for a series of comedic escapades involving various other spectral characters that promise to entertain readers with both wit and whimsy.
From Pillar to Post: Leaves from a Lecturer's Note-Book
"From Pillar to Post: Leaves from a Lecturer's Note-Book" by John Kendrick Bangs is a humorous memoir of experiences shared from a lecturer's touring career, written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the challenges and amusing anecdotes associated with life as a public speaker on the lecture circuit, showcasing the various characters encountered along the way. At the start of the book, Bangs reflects on the anxiety that comes before delivering a speech, recounting a nerve-wracking event where he experienced palpable fear before an audience of eager listeners. He relates the pressures of public speaking with humor, sharing a story about the comforting words of fellow speaker Julia Ward Howe, which bolstered his confidence. This opening sets the stage for a series of charming and insightful anecdotes, illustrating the deeper lessons learned through his interactions with diverse personalities encountered during his travels across the country.
Mrs. Raffles: Being the Adventures of an Amateur Crackswoman
"Mrs. Raffles: Being the Adventures of an Amateur Crackswoman" by John Kendrick Bangs is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Bunny, the former accomplice of the illustrious burglar A.J. Raffles, who, after a series of misfortunes, finds himself entangled in the intrigue and escapades of Henriette, the widow of his old friend. Together, they navigate a world of socialites and heists, where witticism and charm become their most valuable assets. The opening of the narrative introduces Bunny, who is in dire financial straits after the death of Raffles. Reflecting on his unfortunate situation, he stumbles upon a personal ad from Henriette, leading him to believe that she is seeking his presence for unknown reasons. As Bunny grapples with his past and his current predicament, he conjures a plan to travel to Newport to reconnect with Henriette. The excitement builds as Bunny addresses his determination to reinvent himself, all while maintaining the humorous tone that characterizes this whimsical take on crime and adventure.
Half-Hours with the Idiot
"Half-Hours with the Idiot" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous essays written in the early 20th century. The book features a central character known as the Idiot, who engages in witty dialogues with various acquaintances, discussing absurdities in society and politics. Through satire, the Idiot explores themes of architecture, gender roles, and the irritations of modern life, illuminating the quirks of human behavior. At the start of the narrative, the Idiot and his friends engage in a comedic discussion about the disparity in the living conditions of American ambassadors in foreign capitals. The Idiot criticizes the uneven standards and suggests that the United States should build standardized residences for its diplomats, which prompts a humorous back-and-forth about American identity and architecture. This introductory conversation sets the tone for the witty and satirical observations that characterize the remainder of the text.
Mr. Munchausen Being a True Account of Some of the Recent Adventures beyond the Styx of the Late Hieronymus Carl Friedrich, Sometime Baron Munchausen of Bodenwerder
"Mr. Munchausen" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of whimsical and humorous tales written in the early 20th century. This satirical work presents a series of outrageous adventures involving the legendary figure Baron Munchausen, known for his tall tales of bravado and improbable exploits. Through the lens of fantastical storytelling, the book delves into the absurdities of human nature and storytelling itself, offering readers a playful critique of realism and veracity in literature. The opening of the work establishes an intriguing premise: the narrator, an interviewer for the "Gehenna Gazette", receives a mysterious call from the Baron himself, who resides in the afterlife. The Baron claims to have countless astounding stories to tell, agreeing to dictate his recent adventures to the narrator. This whimsical format sets the stage for a blend of humor and fantasy, as the Baron recounts his adventures with extravagant fishing exploits, improbable golfing victories, and encounters with animals, implying that his tall tales serve to elevate the art of storytelling while poking fun at the very nature of truth and lies. The tone is light-hearted and witty, inviting readers to suspend disbelief and enjoy the lavish imagination of Munchausen's world.
Mollie and the Unwiseman Abroad
"Mollie and the Unwiseman Abroad" by John Kendrick Bangs is a whimsical children’s novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Mollie, her animated rubber doll companion Whistlebinkie, and a peculiar old man known as the Unwiseman, who embarks on an adventurous journey to Europe with them. The narrative hints at a comedic exploration of the world, driven by the characters' delightful misunderstandings and imaginative antics. At the start of the story, Mollie is overjoyed to learn that she and Whistlebinkie will travel to Europe, a notion that excites Whistlebinkie, although he is deeply concerned about the Unwiseman's potential absence. Upon visiting the Unwiseman, they engage in a humorous conversation where strange ideas and quirky logic abound. The Unwiseman, characterized by his strange beliefs and whimsical perspective on the world, unexpectedly joins their adventure after determining that he would not miss the opportunity to discover places such as the Alps and other fantastical locations. The opening establishes the playful tone of the book, characterized by charming dialogue, imaginative scenarios, and the amusing antics of the characters, setting the stage for the adventures that lie ahead.
The Autobiography of Methuselah
"The Autobiography of Methuselah" by John Kendrick Bangs is a satirical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is narrated by Methuselah, the biblical character known for his legendary longevity, sharing humorous and whimsical reflections on his life from his birth until his later years. With a comedic twist, the narrative explores themes of time, family dynamics, and the contrasts between ancient and modern life through Methuselah's eyes. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Methuselah as he embarks on the task of writing his autobiography at the advanced age of nine hundred sixty-five. He reflects on his birth, noting that he was born into a storm and that both the weather and his father's humorous remarks shaped his early impressions of life. Methuselah describes his childhood experiences, family interactions, and the peculiarities of his relatives, particularly touching on the traits of his famous ancestors, Adam and Eve. The opening sets a comical tone as Methuselah recounts not only his personal anecdotes but also the absurdities and characteristics of prehistoric life and his own family's history, promising a whimsical journey through the ages.
Peeps at People Being Certain Papers from the Writings of Anne Warrington Witherup
"Peeps at People" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous sketches written in the late 19th century. The work features various characters analyzed through the perspective of Anne Warrington Witherup, who embarks on whimsical interviews with a range of notable figures, blending satire and social commentary. The stories offer a comedic exploration of the personalities within the literary and artistic community of Bangs' time. At the start of the book, the narrator sets off on a quest to interview prominent individuals, which begins with a humorous attempt to locate the polar explorer Fridtjof Nansen. Through a series of misadventures filled with misunderstandings and comedic dialogue, the narrator depicts Nansen's frosty demeanor and eccentricities, which encapsulate both his fame and his social quirks. This initial encounter lays the groundwork for the subsequent character studies and satirical glimpses into the lives of other notable figures like Hall Caine and Emperor William, emphasizing the humor inherent in the pursuit of celebrity and cultural figures.
In Camp With A Tin Soldier
"In Camp With A Tin Soldier" by John Kendrick Bangs is a whimsical children's story written in the late 19th century. This book follows the adventures of a little boy named Jimmieboy as he embarks on a fantastical journey involving tin soldiers and a mysterious creature called the Parallelopipedon. The narrative is filled with playful language and imaginative scenarios, appealing to young readers' sense of wonder. The opening of the story introduces Jimmieboy, who is curious about the sounds of soldiers and drums outside his nursery. His imagination takes flight as he finds himself in an enchanted world depicted in a painting on the wall, where he meets the Colonel of the tin soldiers. The Colonel, along with Jimmieboy, soon gets involved in a mission to capture the mischievous Parallelopipedon. The narrative sets a playful tone as Jimmieboy dons a military uniform and prepares for an adventure filled with delightful absurdities, showcasing Bangs's charming blend of innocence and humor in a world where imagination reigns supreme.
Bikey the Skicycle and Other Tales of Jimmieboy
"Bikey the Skicycle and Other Tales of Jimmieboy" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of whimsical children's stories likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative features a young boy, Jimmieboy, who embarks on fantastical adventures with his animated bicycle, Bikey. Themes of imagination, exploration, and playful dialogue are predominant as they navigate humorous situations and encounter various eccentric characters. The opening of the book introduces Jimmieboy and his new bicycle, which comes alive with personality and charm. After a mishap with the bike that initially causes Jimmieboy to fear his new toy, the boy's curiosity is rekindled when Bikey suggests a grand idea: to fill his tires with gas and float into the air like a balloon. Their joyful conversation leads to a whimsical ascent through the moonlit night, marking the beginning of their extraordinary adventures together. The playful interactions and imaginative scenarios set the tone for the delightful tales that follow, inviting young readers into a world where bicycles can talk and exciting escapades await.
Half-Hours with Jimmieboy
"Half-Hours with Jimmieboy" by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of children's stories written in the late 19th century. The book features a young boy named Jimmieboy who embarks on whimsical adventures filled with imaginative encounters, particularly focusing on themes of childhood wonder and the joy of giving, especially around the Christmas season. The opening of "Half-Hours with Jimmieboy" introduces us to Jimmieboy's Christmas Eve, where he grapples with disappointment over not receiving a coveted velocipede from Santa Claus due to chimney size constraints. As he tries to sleep, he unexpectedly meets Santa Claus and his assistant Marmy, leading to a delightful adventure where he is invited to help deliver toys to other children. Jimmieboy's selflessness shines through when he chooses to leave his own toys for a sick child and a group of orphans, reflecting the book's emphasis on the joy of giving and the heartwarming magic of Christmas. This charming narrative sets the tone for Jimmieboy's imaginative escapades throughout the collection.
Alice in Blunderland: An Iridescent Dream
"Alice in Blunderland: An Iridescent Dream" by John Kendrick Bangs is a novel published in 1907. This political parody reimagines Lewis Carroll's classic Alice tales through a satirical lens, transporting Alice from Wonderland to "Blunderland"—also known as "Municipal Ownership Country." Here, familiar characters like the Mad Hatter and Cheshire Cat populate a world where the author critiques collectivism, taxation, corporate greed, and corruption. Children live in municipal houses with the Duchess and City as their parents, creating a topsy-turvy realm where nothing is as it should be.
The Inventions of the Idiot
"The Inventions of the Idiot" by John Kendrick Bangs is a comedic novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around a character known as the Idiot, who lives in a boarding house and frequently engages in witty and humorous dialogues about societal norms, human nature, and various amusing inventions. Each chapter appears to explore different themes or satirical ideas while showcasing the unique viewpoints of the Idiot and his companions. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the Idiot's musings as he criticizes the culinary skills of the cook in his boarding house, demonstrating his knack for absurd and exaggerated arguments. He uses humor to highlight the challenges faced by civilized society, contrasting them with those of more barbaric cultures. Despite the initial conversation revolving around a poorly cooked meal, the dialogue quickly evolves into broader discussions about etiquette, the importance of good cooking, and how minor grievances can lead to wider societal discord. Through a series of humorous exchanges with fellow boarders, the Idiot's character is painted as a comical but insightful commentator on life, promising readers an entertaining exploration of his inventive and often nonsensical ideas.
The Genial Idiot: His Views and Reviews
"The Genial Idiot: His Views and Reviews" by John Kendrick Bangs is a humorous work composed of essays and lighthearted conversations, likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the comically insightful musings of the titular Idiot, who engages with various characters on topics such as proverbs, ideals of husbandry, and springtime poetry. Through his whimsical commentary, the Idiot challenges traditional notions and societal expectations, inviting readers to reflect on the absurdities of life. The opening of the book introduces readers to the Idiot's irreverent take on proverbs, as he humorously critiques their validity and relevance in modern times. As he converses with his companions, he playfully deconstructs sayings like "A stitch in time saves nine," demonstrating how they can be flawed or misleading. His arguments are laced with clever wordplay and light sarcasm, and through this banter, we see the Idiot's eccentric yet insightful character emerge, setting the tone for a light and entertaining exploration of common societal themes.
R. Holmes & Co. Being the Remarkable Adventures of Raffles Holmes, Esq., Detective and Amateur Cracksman by Birth
"R. Holmes & Co." by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous detective stories likely written in the late 19th century. The book introduces Raffles Holmes, the son of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, and follows his adventures as he employs a mix of intellect and dubious tactics to solve crimes, often in partnership with a narrator who seems both bemused and fascinated by Holmes's unorthodox methods. The opening of the narrative establishes a uniquely comedic tone as the narrator experiences an unbearable heatwave in New York, only to find himself drawn into the escapades of Raffles Holmes, who unexpectedly breaks into his apartment. The encounter quickly escalates as Holmes nonchalantly reveals his intentions while revealing his identity and family lineage. This initial interaction sets the stage for a series of clever plots intermingled with lighthearted banter, ultimately showcasing Raffles’s knack for turning criminal situations to his advantage while still evoking the legacy of his illustrious father. The groundwork is laid for further capers, highlighting Raffles Holmes's dual heritage of crime and detection amid witty commentary on the nature of both.