Author
J. M. (James Matthew) Barrie
1860-1937
J. M. (James Matthew) Barrie (1860-1937) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by J. M. (James Matthew) Barrie
Peter Pan : $b [Peter and Wendy]
"Peter Pan: [Peter and Wendy]" by J. M. Barrie is a work that began as a play in 1904 and became a novel in 1911. It tells the story of Peter Pan, a mischievous boy who can fly and never grows up. He whisks Wendy Darling and her brothers away to Neverland, a magical island inhabited by mermaids, fairies, and pirates. There, they encounter the Lost Boys and face off against the villainous Captain Hook, all while navigating adventures that blur the line between childhood wonder and danger.
Peter and Wendy
"Peter and Wendy" by J. M. Barrie is a novel published in 1911, adapted from his 1904 play. It tells the story of Peter Pan, a mischievous boy who can fly and never grows up. He invites Wendy Darling and her brothers to the magical island of Neverland, home to mermaids, fairies, and pirates. There they encounter the Lost Boys and the menacing Captain Hook, experiencing adventures that blur the line between childhood wonder and danger.
Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens
"Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens" by J. M. Barrie is a novel published in 1906. A seven-day-old infant who believes he can fly escapes his London home and returns to Kensington Gardens, only to discover he's trapped between bird and human. Stranded in this magical world of fairies after dark, Peter navigates the gardens by boat, plays panpipes at fairy dances, and eventually meets a little girl who becomes his devoted friend—even as heartbreak shapes his destiny.
The Little White Bird; Or, Adventures in Kensington Gardens
"The Little White Bird; Or, Adventures in Kensington Gardens" by J. M. Barrie is a novel published in 1902. The story follows a childless Victorian bachelor who forms an intense emotional bond with a young boy, weaving between contemporary London scenes and fantastical tales set in Kensington Gardens. The book introduced the character and mythology of Peter Pan, a magical infant who lives among fairies after "lock-out time." Ranging from whimsy to social comedy with dark undertones, it explores fatherhood, obsession, and childhood wonder.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of James Matthew Barrie
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of James Matthew Barrie" by J. M. Barrie is a compilation of various literary works by the famed author, known primarily for his creation of the beloved character Peter Pan. This collection contains plays, novels, and stories reflecting Barrie's distinctive style, written during the late 19th to early 20th century. The likely topic centers around themes of childhood, fantasy, and the complexities of adult life, showcasing Barrie’s ability to blend whimsy with deeper philosophical insights. The book serves as an extensive index listing Barrie's works, including well-known titles such as "Peter and Wendy," "The Admirable Crichton," and "What Every Woman Knows," among others. Each entry provides a glimpse into Barrie's other notable writing and includes various genres ranging from whimsical tales about Peter Pan to thought-provoking plays. Through this index, readers can explore the array of Barrie's storytelling and the recurring themes of innocence, nostalgia, and the challenges of growing up, ultimately inviting them to engage with his distinctive voice across multiple narratives.
The Admirable Crichton
"The Admirable Crichton" by J. M. Barrie is a comic stage play written in 1902. When an aristocratic British family and their butler are shipwrecked on a deserted island, the rigid class system they knew reverses dramatically. Crichton, the capable servant, becomes the natural leader while his former masters struggle to survive. As two years pass and romance blooms across class lines, rescue threatens to upend their new social order. Can they return to their old lives after everything has changed?
Margaret Ogilvy
"Margaret Ogilvy" by J. M. Barrie is a biographical memoir written in the late 19th century. This work, penned by the author renowned for creating Peter Pan, delves into the nuanced and tender portrait of Margaret Ogilvy, Barrie's beloved mother. The narrative captures not only the warmth and resilience of Margaret's character but also the profound impact she had on her son and the family dynamics within their household. At the start of the memoir, Barrie paints vivid scenes from his childhood, reflecting on his mother’s strength and softness, especially during the early days of his life. He recalls the significance of minor events, such as their purchase of hair-bottomed chairs, which symbolize her ambitions and aspirations for the family. The opening chapters introduce Margaret's nurturing yet tenacious spirit as she navigates the challenges of motherhood, particularly after the loss of a child. Barrie masterfully intertwines humor and poignancy, illustrating the deep bond he shared with his mother and the lasting legacy of her influence on his life and career as a writer.
Auld Licht Idyls
"Auld Licht Idyls" by J. M. Barrie is a collection of semi-autobiographical sketches set in a Scottish village, written during the late 19th century. The book paints a vivid picture of life in the Auld Licht community, focusing on the characters, traditions, and challenges faced by the residents in the fictional town of Thrums. The opening character, who reflects on his experiences, serves as both an observer and a participant in the quaint yet struggling life of the local people. At the start of the narrative, the author takes us into the quiet, snow-covered landscape surrounding a school-house where a solitary teacher reflects on the harsh winter conditions and his isolation from the community. As he describes the frigid weather and the wildlife struggling for survival, we get insights into his thoughts about education, loneliness, and the colorful lives of the villagers, as well as their peculiar customs and the overbearing presence of their church. The whimsical and poignant tone establishes the foundation for exploring themes of community, tradition, and the clash between old beliefs and the realities of modern life, drawing readers into a nostalgic realm that feels both familiar and enchanting.
Dear Brutus
"Dear Brutus" by J. M. Barrie is a fantasy play written in 1917. On a magical Midsummer Night, dissatisfied guests gather at the mysterious Lob's house, where an enchanted wood appears. Inside, they experience alternate versions of their lives, exploring what might have been if they had made different choices. When they return to reality, each character must confront the question posed by Shakespeare: whether their faults lie in circumstances or in themselves.
My Lady Nicotine: A Study in Smoke
"My Lady Nicotine: A Study in Smoke" by J. M. Barrie is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores the themes of smoking and the effects of tobacco on the protagonist's life, particularly through the lens of a bachelor who reflects on his past experiences and reluctance to give up smoking despite its drawbacks. The narrative introduces various characters that accompany the main character in his smoking adventures, wherein a peculiar mixture of humor and introspection flourishes. At the start of the story, the narrator shares his inner conflict regarding tobacco, reminiscing about the painful yet pleasurable moments tied to smoking. He describes his transformation from a bachelor entrenched in his smoking habits to a married man who learns to appreciate a smoke-free existence due to his wife's influence. The opening reveals the struggles and contradictions of a man caught between his fondness for his tobacco habits and the realities of a healthier lifestyle, setting a reflective tone that invites readers to contemplate their own vices and dependencies.
What Every Woman Knows
"What Every Woman Knows" by J. M. Barrie is a four-act play first performed in 1908. When a Scottish family discovers a penniless law student breaking into their home to read their books, they strike an unusual bargain: they'll fund his education if he agrees to marry their plain daughter Maggie in five years. As John Shand's political career flourishes, he remains unaware of the invisible force behind his success—until a beautiful aristocrat threatens their arrangement.
The Little Minister
"The Little Minister" by J. M. Barrie is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young minister named Gavin Dishart, who arrives in a small Scottish village called Thrums, full of youthful zeal and ambition. Through his interactions with the villagers and his past, the narrative explores themes of love, duty, and the complexities of human relationships. Central to the plot is the enchanting figure of Babbie, a mysterious and captivating woman who significantly influences Gavin's life. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Gavin Dishart and his mother as they arrive in Thrums. The villagers gather to catch a glimpse of the new Auld Licht minister, and Gavin's mother, Margaret, feels a mix of pride and nostalgia as she watches her son fulfill his calling. We learn of Gavin’s connections to the town and his unwavering dedication to his mother and his ministry. The opening chapters set the stage for Gavin's journey, highlighting his struggles with the expectations of his parishioners, the looming threat of civil unrest, and the arrival of a mysterious young woman whose presence promises to complicate his life further.
Alice Sit-By-The-Fire
"Alice Sit-By-The-Fire" by J. M. Barrie is a play written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a young girl named Amy, her brother Cosmo, and their artistic aspirations, as well as the dynamics of family relationships upon the return of their parents from India. The play explores themes of youth, innocence, and the complexities of adult relationships, all while highlighting the innocence of Amy and her friend Ginevra. At the start of the play, we are introduced to Amy, who is in her room drying her hair after washing it. She is portrayed as an imaginative and somewhat artistic soul living with her brother Cosmo. Cosmo is troubled by a telegram from their father, causing him to express his resistance to parental affection humorously. The scene then shifts to the arrival of Amy's friend, Ginevra, leading to an intimate dialogue between the two girls about their newfound understanding of life through theatre. They discuss their thoughts on plays and their implications about life and love, creating a vibrant sense of youthful exploration. This opening establishes a light and whimsical mood, while hinting at deeper emotional stakes as the parents prepare to return after years away.
Tommy and Grizel
"Tommy and Grizel" by J. M. Barrie is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the experiences of Tommy Sandys, a young boy arriving in London with his sister, Elspeth, who aspires to become a writer under the guidance of O.P. Pym, a reclusive author. As Tommy navigates the complexities of life in the bustling city, he also grapples with the themes of friendship, identity, and the intellectual and emotional intricacies of growing up. The opening of "Tommy and Grizel" introduces the central character Tommy Sandys, a serious yet naive lad, as he arrives in London. He is accompanied by his sister Elspeth and is determined to take on various jobs to escape their past life on a farm. The narrative begins with a focus on Tommy's initial meeting with the larger-than-life author O.P. Pym, who is struggling with his writing. Pym, initially unimpressed with Tommy, becomes curious about him, particularly considering the boy’s ambition and earnestness despite his youthful innocence. This initial encounter sets the stage for Tommy's journey, both as an aspiring writer and as he navigates his relationships and the looming presence of Grizel, a mysterious figure from his past that influences his emotional landscape.
Mary Rose : $b A play in three acts
"Mary Rose: A play in three acts" by J. M. Barrie is a play first produced in 1920. It tells the haunting story of a girl who vanishes twice from a remote Scottish island—first as a child, then as a young mother. Each time she returns mysteriously unchanged, with no memory of her absence. Yet decades have passed, and her son is now older than she is. This ghost story explores themes of time, loss, and the seductive pull of a world untouched by mortality.
An Edinburgh Eleven: Pencil Portraits from College Life
"An Edinburgh Eleven: Pencil Portraits from College Life" by J. M. Barrie is a collection of literary sketches written in the late 19th century. This work offers a delightful exploration of life at Edinburgh University, capturing the essence of both notable figures and everyday experiences through witty and insightful reflections. The book features portraits of several prominent personalities from Barrie's time, including politicians and professors, revealing not only their public personas but also their quirks and idiosyncrasies as perceived by the author. The opening of the work introduces Lord Rosebery, a prominent political figure, through a blend of humor and keen observations. The narrator recounts a personal anecdote about their first encounter with Lord Rosebery during their student days, detailing the amusing mishaps and misunderstandings that characterize the ambitious politician's life. The style is conversational and engaging, as Barrie employs anecdotes, historical references, and playful commentary to breathe life into the portrayal of not just Rosebery, but the vibrant atmosphere of student life and academia at Edinburgh during the author's youth. The chapters promise a similar blend of wit and insight as they progress through other prominent figures and experiences, inviting readers into a personal and entertaining view of college life.
When a Man's Single: A Tale of Literary Life
"When a Man's Single: A Tale of Literary Life" by J. M. Barrie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Rob Angus, a young saw-miller who becomes a reporter in Silchester after a personal tragedy that leaves him 'single.' The narrative explores themes of ambition, independence, and the literary life as Rob navigates the challenges of his new career while dealing with his past and caring for a child he has raised. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Davy Dundas, a four-year-old girl who wanders away from her guardians in the town of Thrums. The community buzzes with concern as she goes missing, sparking a search that highlights the interconnectedness of the townsfolk. Through the lens of everyday life in Thrums, Barrie paints a picture of a close-knit community reacting to the crisis, all while hinting at Rob’s internal struggle with grief and responsibility—elements that set the stage for his eventual move to the bustling literary world of Silchester.
Echoes of the War
"Echoes of the War" by J. M. Barrie is a fictional work written during the late 1910s, around the time of World War I. The narrative centers around the lives of working-class women, particularly an elderly charwoman named Mrs. Dowey, and her interactions with her friends as they discuss the war and the challenges faced at home. Through humor and poignant moments, the book explores themes of resilience, community, and the impact of war on everyday life. The opening of "Echoes of the War" introduces us to a lively tea party hosted by Mrs. Dowey, a charming character who is both a charwoman and a notorious criminal. Alongside her friends, Mrs. Twymley and Mrs. Mickleham, they engage in spirited discussions about the war and their sons serving at the front. A stranger arrives, Mr. Willings, bearing news that Mrs. Dowey's son, Kenneth, has returned on leave, sparking a mix of excitement and anxiety within her. This setup not only highlights the camaraderie among women in wartime but also hints at Mrs. Dowey's hidden past, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of identity and familial connections as the plot unfolds.
Sentimental Tommy The Story of His Boyhood
"Sentimental Tommy" by J. M. Barrie is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lively and imaginative character of Tommy Sandys, a young boy living in a downtrodden London tenement, as he navigates the complexities of childhood, relationships, and the longing for a home in his beloved Thrums. Through Tommy's adventures, Barrie paints a poignant picture of innocence amidst harsh realities, exploring themes of imagination, love, and the loss of childhood. The opening of the novel introduces us to five-year-old Tommy as he roams the dirty stairs of his London building, displaying his unique worldview and the vibrant imagination that sets him apart. We witness his innocent defiance in rejecting offers of free food, a trait instilled by his mother, which hints at their complex relationship. As he interacts with other children, particularly a boy named Shovel, their playful banter reveals Tommy's quick wit and beloved tales of Thrums, the mythical home he holds dear. Entranced by a chance encounter with a little girl and their subsequent adventures, Tommy displays both mischief and an emerging sense of responsibility, foreshadowing his growth throughout the story. This opening effectively sets the tone for a heartwarming, if bittersweet, exploration of a child's inner life amidst the struggles of his world.
The old lady shows her medals
"The Old Lady Shows Her Medals" by J. M. Barrie is a play written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Mrs. Dowey, a charming old lady who is a character of unexpected complexity, navigating the trials of life during wartime in London. Along with her friends, the play weaves humor, community, and the poignant reality of conflict as they discuss their sons at the front while hiding a secret about one of their relationships. At the start of the play, we meet Mrs. Dowey and her friends in a casual tea gathering, filled with light-hearted banter and camaraderie amidst the backdrop of the war. The atmosphere is lively as they share tales of their sons fighting overseas, showcasing their resilience and friendship. However, the crux of Mrs. Dowey's story lies in her secret: while she pretends to be a proud mother receiving letters from her son, she has created an imaginary son, Kenneth, to cope with the isolation and stigma of not having anyone to send to war. The opening sets the tone for a blend of humor and tension, inviting the audience to explore themes of loneliness, deception, and the push for belonging during difficult times.
A kiss for Cinderella: A comedy
"A Kiss for Cinderella: A Comedy" by J. M. Barrie is a play first produced in 1916. During World War I London, a young charwoman named Jane Thing cares for refugee orphans while dreaming of attending a royal ball like Cinderella. When a suspicious policeman investigates her activities, he discovers her innocent devotion to the fairy tale. The story blends wartime hardship with fantasy as Jane's dreams and reality intertwine, leading to an unexpected romance and revelations about identity and social class.
A Holiday in Bed, and Other Sketches
"A Holiday in Bed and Other Sketches" by J. M. Barrie is a collection of humorous essays and sketches likely written in the late 19th century. The book features various anecdotes and reflections on life, holidays, and the idiosyncratic behaviors of people, notably exploring themes like the absurdity of traditional vacations and the comforts of taking a holiday in bed. The opening of the collection introduces the concept of a "holiday in bed," where Barrie humorously outlines the prerequisites for successfully enjoying such an experience. He asserts that the key to a rewarding bed holiday lies in genuinely believing one must get up soon, turning mere leisure into an indulgent treat. Throughout the text, Barrie's witty observations reflect the chaos often associated with typical holidays—lost luggage, tired children, and the gloomy seaside—prompting readers to reconsider the value of resting comfortably at home. With a mix of charm and satire, he illustrates the humor and humanity in our shared experiences of aiming for rest and relaxation in a hectic world.
Quality Street: A Comedy
"Quality Street: A Comedy" by J. M. Barrie is a play written before Peter Pan and first performed in 1901. Set during the Napoleonic era, it follows Miss Phoebe Throssel, who waits ten years for Valentine Brown to return from war. Now an aging schoolmistress, she creates a flirtatious alter ego named Miss Livvy to recapture his attention. This clever disguise succeeds too well, leading to complications at a local ball and forcing Phoebe to confront questions of identity, love, and what truly matters in romance.
Pekka Poikanen (Peter Pan)
"Pekka Poikanen (Peter Pan)" by J. M. Barrie is a work originating as a play in 1904 and a novel in 1911. It follows Peter Pan, a mischievous boy who can fly and never grows up, as he takes Wendy Darling and her brothers to Neverland—a magical island filled with mermaids, fairies, pirates, and the Lost Boys. Together they face adventures involving the jealous fairy Tinker Bell and the villainous Captain Hook, while Wendy becomes a mother figure to Peter's gang of lost children.