Author
Ellis Parker Butler
1869-1937
Ellis Parker Butler (1869-1937) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Ellis Parker Butler
Pigs is Pigs
"Pigs is Pigs" by Ellis Parker Butler is a short story published in 1905. When railway agent Mike Flannery insists on charging the livestock rate for two guinea pigs rather than the pet rate—declaring "pigs is pigs"—a bureaucratic standoff ensues. The customer refuses delivery, leaving Flannery stuck with the animals in his office. As he awaits resolution from his superiors, an unexpected biological problem rapidly multiplies beyond his control, teaching him an unforgettable lesson about classification and common sense.
Kilo : being the love story of Eliph' Hewlitt, book agent
"Kilo: Being the Love Story of Eliph' Hewlitt, Book Agent" by Ellis Parker Butler is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative centers on Eliph' Hewlitt, a charming yet hapless book agent traveling through Iowa, who finds himself navigating both the challenges of selling books and the intricacies of courtship. At the start of the book, we meet Eliph' Hewlitt, who is on his way to a church picnic while navigating the peculiarities of his horse, Irontail. As he arrives at the picnic, his eagerness to sell copies of Jarby's Encyclopedia leads him to observe the faces of potential customers among the attendees, although they appear less than promising. A chance encounter with a woman named Mrs. Tarbro-Smith, who has come to bring some joy to the community, ignites his romantic interest. Eliph's awkwardness shines through as he reflects on the lessons from his encyclopedia regarding courtship, showcasing his struggle to balance his jovial attempts to sell books while contending with his emerging feelings for the charming Miss Sally Briggs. The opening sets the stage for a humorous exploration of what it means to be a book agent and a potential suitor, promising readers a blend of wit, charm, and social commentary.
The Water Goats, and Other Troubles
"The Water Goats, and Other Troubles" by Ellis Parker Butler is a collection of humorous short stories written in the early 20th century. The book encapsulates various comical situations, reflecting the follies of human behavior and clever observations of everyday life. With witty writing and engaging narratives, the stories explore themes of folly, political satire, and the whimsical nature of mundane tasks. The story "The Water Goats" follows the misadventures of Alderman Michael Toole as he mistakenly believes he is responsible for acquiring exotic "dongola water goats" for a new public park. Hilarity ensues as Toole corresponds with his cousin about the goats, which he assumes swim like ducks, only to discover that they refuse to enter the water at all. Other stories in the collection also revolve around humorous misunderstandings, such as a man caught in a series of unfortunate events involving a nursing bottle, false hair, and acorns. Through his vivid characters and absurd scenarios, Butler paints a picture of the absurdities of life, leaving readers entertained and amused by the quirks of human nature.
The Confessions of a Daddy
"The Confessions of a Daddy" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous account of parenthood, penned in the early 20th century. This collection of essays provides a lighthearted exploration of the trials and tribulations of being a father, touching upon various themes surrounding family life, love, and the everyday challenges faced by parents. With its charming narratives, the book encapsulates the whims and marvels of raising children, showcasing the author's witty observations of family dynamics. The story revolves around Hiram, a father whose life dramatically shifts as he transitions from a carefree existence without children to navigating the complexities of parenthood. Initially, Hiram and his wife, Marthy, relish their time as a childless couple, often looking skeptically at their neighbors' children. However, as they welcome their daughter, Edith L., into their lives, their perspective begins to change. The book illustrates their journey from skepticism to the joys of parenting, portraying various humorous incidents and heartfelt moments, including the challenges of discipline and the boundless love that comes with being a parent. Ultimately, "The Confessions of a Daddy" celebrates the beauty of family life while providing insightful commentary on the transformative power of love and responsibility.
Philo Gubb, Correspondence-School Detective
"Philo Gubb, Correspondence-School Detective" by Ellis Parker Butler is a collection of humorous detective stories first published in 1913. The work follows Philo Gubb, a small-town paperhanger who learns detective work through correspondence courses and fancies himself a "deteckative." Unlike traditional brilliant sleuths, Gubb bumbles through cases with elaborate disguises that fool no one, theories that constantly shift, and solutions that arrive almost by accident. His murder of the English language and persistent good nature create comedic situations as he attempts to emulate his idol, Sherlock Holmes.
The Jack-Knife Man
"The Jack-Knife Man" by Ellis Parker Butler is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Peter Lane, a solitary shanty-boatman with dreams of adventure, who spends his days crafting wooden goods with his trusty jack-knife and fishing for sustenance. The narrative captures his interactions with other characters, including George Rapp, a liveryman, and the tragic figure of Lize Merdin, whose life has become entwined with Peter's as they navigate the complexities of loneliness, hope, and kindness. The opening of the book introduces us to Peter Lane in his shanty-boat, where he is visited by George Rapp, who wants to buy Peter's recently built boat. Peter, a thin, wiry man, is adamant about keeping his boat, which symbolizes his only home and refuge. Throughout their conversation, Peter shares his whimsical thoughts about his alarm clock, a metaphor for the unpredictability of life, and reminisces about the value of solitude while acknowledging his desire for connection. As the story progresses, we see the theme of compassion emerge when Peter unexpectedly hosts a woman and her child in his boat during a storm, highlighting his innate kindness and willingness to protect those in need. This opening sets the stage for Peter's journey of self-discovery and responsibility amid the backdrop of his humble life on the river.
Perkins of Portland: Perkins The Great
"Perkins of Portland: Perkins the Great" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous work of fiction written in the early 20th century. It follows the eccentric Perkins of Portland, a self-proclaimed advertising genius, as he devises extravagant marketing schemes to sell unconventional products, including a variety of dubious cures and curiosities. The book provides a satirical look at advertising and human nature, revolving around Perkins's wild ideas and the fortunes he seeks to create. The opening portion introduces us to Perkins and his peculiar personality, highlighted by his unique attire and relentless optimism about advertising. We first encounter him in a hotel lobby where he fervently pitches his plan for an absurd product, "Perkins's Patent Porous Plaster," claiming that it can alleviate all ailments. The narrative captures Perkins's infectious enthusiasm as he explains his vision of selling advertising, rather than products, by generating hype and a perceived demand. The introduction sets the tone for a comedic exploration of marketing madness, featuring Perkins's unconventional methods and wild aspirations that promise to captivate readers with its wit and charm.
Swatty: A Story of Real Boys
"Swatty: A Story of Real Boys" by Ellis Parker Butler is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures and misadventures of three boys, particularly focusing on the character Swatty, his interactions with friends, and the dynamics of boyhood relationships and challenges. At the start of the narrative, we meet Swatty, his friends Georgie and Bony, and their encounters at school, where discipline is enforced with corporal punishment. An ongoing feud between friends over a girl, the impending embarrassment of a potential beating from their teacher, and the lure of the rising Mississippi River sets the scene for a whirlwind of youthful mischief. The boys decide to skip school to explore the river, leading to a series of events that include getting caught in dangerous waters, their families fearing for their lives, and a chaotic community response. This opening segment captures the essence of boyhood camaraderie, the joys and fears of adventure, and the tumultuous emotions that come with growing up.
In Pawn
"In Pawn" by Ellis Parker Butler is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Harvey Redding, a lazy junk dealer, and his son Lemuel, who bears a striking resemblance to their deceased mother. Harvey's lax approach to life is further complicated by his financial failings, dysfunctional familial relationships, and aspirations to become a saint. The narrative explores themes of paternal responsibility, the complexities of adulthood, and the often misguided pursuit of personal aspirations. The opening of the novel introduces us to the characters of Harvey and Lemuel Redding. Harvey is characterized by his extreme laziness and gluttony, preferring to meditate in comfort rather than engage in hard labor. Lem, on the other hand, is portrayed as a diligent boy who assists his father while also yearning for a normal childhood. When an unfortunate event leads to Lem being involved in a petty theft with local children, it creates tension between him and his father, as well as with their aunt Susan, who invokes strict consequences. This familial dynamic sets the stage for comedic developments and moral dilemmas that will unfold as the story progresses.
Dominie Dean: A Novel
"Dominie Dean: A Novel" by Ellis Parker Butler is a fiction work written in the early 20th century. The novel revolves around David Dean, a young and idealistic minister, as he navigates life in the small town of Riverbank, encountering issues of love, reputation, and social dynamics, particularly focusing on his interactions with two central female characters: the flirtatious 'Thusia Fragg and the dependable Mary Wiggett. At the start of the narrative, David arrives in Riverbank, filled with aspirations and marked by a dedication to his calling as a minister. He quickly becomes entangled in the local social scene, particularly with 'Thusia, whose vivaciousness attracts him, despite societal scrutiny regarding her reputation, and Mary, who harbors feelings for him and represents a more conventional choice. The opening chapters establish a dynamic tension between his duties and his growing affections, setting the stage for conflicts with both the town's expectations and his own moral compass as he seeks to maintain his integrity amid gossip and rivalry.
Many happy returns of the day!
"Many Happy Returns of the Day!" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous essay written in the early 20th century. The book reflects on the nature of birthdays and the human tendency to perceive them as reminders of aging and mortality. Butler challenges this viewpoint by emphasizing the joy and significance of celebrating life rather than dwelling on the passage of time. In this lighthearted narrative, Butler shares personal anecdotes and humorous observations to convey his philosophy on birthdays. He reflects on his own birthday experiences, the societal practices surrounding birthdays, and the widespread negativity associated with aging. Through witty storytelling, he illustrates how some individuals treat their birthdays as gloomy reminders of mortality, while he suggests that they should be viewed as personal celebrations of life filled with gratitude for another year lived. Ultimately, he advocates for a joyful and optimistic approach to birthdays, encouraging readers to view each birthday as an opportunity for joy and reflection rather than despair.
The Adventures of a Suburbanite
"The Adventures of a Suburbanite" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around John and Isobel Prawley, a couple who move from the city to the suburbs, and their comical adjustments to suburban life, neighbors, and the unexpected challenges they encounter. The narrative captures the quirks and absurdities of suburban living, particularly through John's passionate experiences in gardening, his interactions with the eccentric neighbors, and Isobel's whimsical imagination about the lives of those around them. At the start of the story, we are introduced to John Prawley, who is excited about moving to their new home in the suburbs, leaving behind the claustrophobic life of a flat. However, his wife Isobel struggles with feelings of loneliness and finds it hard to adjust to the vastness of their new house, feeling as if they are floating without the usual noise of neighbors above and below them. The couple's interaction sets a comedic tone as John tries to reassure Isobel and simultaneously grapple with the realities of gardening, where he gets overwhelmed by the size of their backyard. Their neighbor Millington quickly becomes involved, suggesting outings, which leads to various humorous twists and turns as they navigate heavy expectations and misadventures in their seemingly charming new life.
The Great American Pie Company
"The Great American Pie Company" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a fictional small-town setting where two men, Ephraim Deacon and Phineas Doolittle, find themselves in a pie-making competition that escalates into an elaborate scheme to dominate the pie market and beyond. The novel captures the essence of American entrepreneurial spirit with a light-hearted and satirical tone. The narrative begins with Eph Deacon, a philosophical man whose wife, Mrs. Deacon, bakes exquisite pies, leading to a local business rivalry with Phineas Doolittle, who also wants to sell his own pies at lower prices. Their comedic exchanges lead them to consider a partnership, which evolves into a grand—and increasingly absurd—business plan that includes buying out farms, fruit supply, bakeries, and even railroads. As they dream of their pie empire, they humorously navigate the complexities and potential pitfalls of their ambitious ideas, highlighting themes of competition, camaraderie, and the quirks of small-town life. Ultimately, their plans come into question as they grapple with the realities of business risks and the role of labor unions, leading to a comically unsatisfying conclusion to their grand ambitions.
The Incubator Baby
"The Incubator Baby" by Ellis Parker Butler is a satirical short story written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of parenting and societal beliefs surrounding infant care during the time, focusing particularly on the challenges of raising a child in a scientifically controlled environment. Through humor and critique, it reflects on the contrast between traditional care and the emerging medical interventions of the day. The story follows Marjorie Fielding, an incubator baby born prematurely, who becomes an experiment in modern infant care as she is monitored meticulously by her parents and caregivers. Initially sheltered in an incubator, Marjorie navigates both the warmth of motherly love and the cold calculations of scientific motherhood. As she grows, her desire for genuine affection clashes with the strict, statistical approach her mother adopts—often leading to comical and poignant moments. Ultimately, Marjorie reveals her innate need for care and emotional connection, leading to a heartwarming conclusion where the importance of love and human warmth triumphs over rigid scientific methods.
An experiment in gyro-hats
"An Experiment in Gyro-Hats" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous story written in the early 20th century. This playful narrative centers around a hat dealer's unique invention, the gyro-hat, designed to keep a staggering man, Walsingham Gribbs, steady on his feet. The book combines elements of comedy and clever invention, creating an entertaining exploration of love and the challenges that arise from real-life problems. The plot follows the hat dealer, who becomes concerned about his daughter Anne's infatuation with Walsingham Gribbs, a man seemingly unable to walk straight due to an unknown ailment. In an effort to help both his daughter and Walsingham, the hatter devises a gyro-hat that uses a gyroscope to counteract the staggering. The story unfolds as he tests the hat on himself after a humorous venture into the world of drinking to understand the condition of Walsingham. After a series of comical mishaps and revelations, including Walsingham's unique past involving a failed invention of his father's, the hat ultimately proves successful, leading to a happy resolution for Anne and Walsingham. The narrative is filled with whimsical humor and societal commentary, making it a delightful read.
Red Head and Whistle Breeches
"Red Head and Whistle Breeches" by Ellis Parker Butler is a short story published in the early 20th century, specifically in 1915. This narrative intertwines themes of childhood experiences and adulthood consequences, reflecting on the implications of one's actions while portraying the innocence and trials of youth. The story revolves around the contrast between two young boys, examining their formative years and the decisions that affect their futures. The tale follows the protagonists, Tim Murphy and Willie Gary, showcasing the complexities of friendship, bullying, and redemption. Tim, who becomes a significant figure in a labor strike, finds himself imprisoned, greatly affecting his family. Meanwhile, Willie, nicknamed "Whistle Breeches" due to his embarrassment over his new corduroy pants, initially faces mockery from his peers. As the story unfolds, Willie's relationship with the more confident and brash Red Head is explored, leading to Willie's evolution from a bullied child to a figure of self-assurance who eventually becomes the Governor. Through the interplay of their lives, Butler delves into themes of courage, the impact of the past, and the unforeseen connections that shape one's destiny.
How It Feels to Be Fifty
"How It Feels to Be Fifty" by Ellis Parker Butler is a reflective essay written in the early 20th century. This piece delves into the thoughts and feelings associated with reaching the milestone age of fifty, exploring themes of aging, vitality, and perspective on life. The author presents a humorous and optimistic view of what it means to grow older, challenging common stereotypes of aging and the mindset that often accompanies this life stage. In the book, the narrator shares personal anecdotes and reflections that illustrate how his perception of age has evolved. He dismisses the notion that reaching fifty signals the decline of life, instead expressing that this age marks the beginning of a richer and more fulfilling phase. The narrator discusses the worries of his youth, such as concerns about marriage and physical appearance, emphasizing how these concerns have faded over time, replaced by a sense of settled contentment. With a renewed outlook, he likens himself to a young teamster, finally ready to take on life's adventures and challenges, and advocates for the belief that the best experiences often come after fifty. Ultimately, the work aspires to inspire readers to embrace aging positively, viewing it not as a downhill journey but as an opportunity for continued growth and exploration.
Mike Flannery On Duty and Off
"Mike Flannery On Duty and Off" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous novel written in the early 20th century. This book explores the life of Mike Flannery, an express agent who navigates various comedic situations in his job, often involving quirky characters and absurd circumstances. The narrative is filled with satire and wit as it details the daily dealings and misadventures of Flannery and his interactions with customers, co-workers, and various drama surrounding a dead cat. The storyline unfolds around Mike Flannery, who is tasked with dealing with the shipping and handling of various items, including a particularly troublesome dead Angora cat that becomes the centerpiece of a series of misunderstandings with his employers and clients. Flannery struggles between following company protocols and his common sense, leading to comedic confrontations with others, such as his lazy assistant, Timmy, and a French professor who educates fleas. The mishaps and Flannery's unique perspective showcase an entertaining commentary on the absurdities of bureaucracy, the challenges of the working class, and Flannery's ultimate quest for dignity in his profession amid persistent chaos.
That Pup
"That Pup" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous short story written in the early 20th century. In this whimsical tale, the focal point is a peculiar dog named Fluff, who is the subject of an ongoing debate among the neighbors regarding his breed and rearing. The story explores themes of companionship, ownership, and the often humorous and frustrating realities of pet ownership. In the narrative, Murchison, a neighbor who inadvertently becomes the owner of Fluff, finds himself at odds with the dog’s raucous behavior, particularly its incessant howling. Despite attempts by three local men—Murchison, Brownlee, and Massett—to define Fluff by his mixed lineage and train him into a proper hunting dog, the dog instead becomes renowned for his chaotic, clumsy antics and his ability to run wildly at the mere sight of a gun. The story cleverly showcases the absurdity of their plans to get rid of Fluff, ultimately revealing the deeper connection and responsibility that comes with pet ownership, albeit in a lighthearted and comic fashion.
The Revolt: A Play In One Act
"The Revolt: A Play In One Act" by Ellis Parker Butler is a comedic play written in the early 20th century. The story is set in Grandma Gregg's Academy of Household Science for Young Ladies and humorously explores the themes of gender roles and women's empowerment during a time of significant social change. The central topic of the play revolves around a group of young women who navigate the expectations placed on them by society, particularly regarding their roles as future wives and housekeepers. The play unfolds with Pauline, a student working off her tuition through constant scrubbing and cleaning, expressing her frustration with the menial tasks she is assigned instead of the higher education she expected. This dissatisfaction leads to a comedic clash when Susan Jane Jones, a militant suffragette, enters the academy and attempts to rally the other students to rebel against the traditional expectations of women. As the narrative progresses, the girls discuss their feelings toward men, ultimately deciding to abandon domesticity in favor of pursuing more adventurous identities, even declaring themselves pirates. The play culminates in a humorous confrontation between the girls and their teacher, as romantic interests abruptly draw the girls away from their revolutionary goals, showcasing a light-hearted take on feminist ideals while also reflecting the complexities of youthful aspirations and societal obligations.
Jibby Jones : $b A story of Mississippi River adventure for boys
"Jibby Jones : A story of Mississippi River adventure for boys" by Butler is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a crew of Riverbank boys who befriend the tall, literal, and endearingly odd Jibby Jones, a newcomer with an author father, as they dive into river mischief, fishing contests, and the tantalizing hint of a hidden pirate hoard. It’s a humorous, good‑natured tale of ingenuity, friendship, and life on the Mississippi. The opening of the novel introduces Birch Island’s stilted cottages and the boys—Tad, Skippy, Wampus, and the narrator—meeting Jibby, whose giant “jib” nose, calm logic, and far‑flung river anecdotes make him unforgettable. After Jibby fixes their balky motor and charms them with his offbeat thinking (like calling his too‑small clothes his “big suit”), the group pranks him with a tall tale about nose‑diving for pearls; Jibby dives anyway and, to everyone’s shock, surfaces with a large pearl that keeps his family on the island. A rainy‑day story from Jibby about the land pirate John A. Murrell—plus the clue “Riverbank” and the lone‑pine signal—spurs them to form a treasure‑hunting club, while a sapling‑catapult fishing stunt flings a carp into a tree, fueling comic debates about animals “climbing.” The boys then compete for Uncle Oscar’s fishing prize: Jibby seems to “smell” fish but actually wins by smart preparation—choosing a proven hole and “scouring” worms per Izaak Walton—before the section closes with the narrator’s dog Rover back home and howling, hinting that nightfall and new trouble lie ahead.
Goat-Feathers
"Goat-Feathers" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous essay written in the early 20th century that explores the distractions and diversions that often prevent individuals from achieving their true potential. The book focuses on the metaphorical concept of "goat-feathers," representing the myriad trivial pursuits that draw a person away from their main goals. The narrative reflects on the author's own experiences with these distractions and the wider implications they have on success in both artistic and personal endeavors. In this engaging and candid reflection, Butler humorously laments his tendency to prioritize societal obligations and side projects over his writing career, illustrating this tendency through anecdotes of his involvement in various committees and meetings that ultimately detract from his productivity. He contrasts these "goat-feather" endeavors with the important work of a humorist, suggesting that true success requires focus and commitment to one's primary ambitions. Through self-deprecating humor and vivid metaphors, the author conveys a poignant message about the importance of concentration and the folly of chasing distractions, ultimately encouraging readers to avoid the pitfalls of diverting attention away from their true passions.
The Cheerful Smugglers
"The Cheerful Smugglers" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the Fenelby family, particularly Tom and Laura, as they devise a whimsical domestic tariff system to save money for their baby, Bobberts, in hopes of funding his future education. The story unfolds through their quirky domestic interactions, which reveal the dynamics of family life, the absurdities of their plans, and entertaining exchanges influenced by the notion of taxation applied to household purchases. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Fenelby family, where the father, Mr. Fenelby, proposes a unique concept for raising funds for Bobberts’ education: implementing a domestic tariff, where they will tax themselves for every item brought into the house. The planning and brainstorming unfold in a playful tone, showcasing the quirky personalities of Tom and Laura as they navigate saving money while also managing their household, including a humorous dynamic with their servant Bridget. Their domestic tariff leads to comedic situations, particularly as the family prepares to welcome guests, indicating the potential chaos that will ensue as they apply their unconventional savings plan to everyday life.
The Thin Santa Claus: The Chicken Yard That Was a Christmas Stocking
"The Thin Santa Claus: The Chicken Yard That Was a Christmas Stocking" by Ellis Parker Butler is a humorous story published in the early 20th century. This book combines elements of a holiday tale with a whimsical narrative, focusing on a widow named Mrs. Gratz and the unexpected events of her Christmas morning. The likely topic revolves around themes of belief, generosity, and the humorous misadventures surrounding the holiday season. The story begins with Mrs. Gratz, a cheerful widow, waking up to a gloomy Christmas day, reflecting on her lack of belief in Santa Claus due to the muddy weather. When she discovers her chickens have been stolen and subsequently finds a purse containing nine hundred dollars, her faith in a benevolent Santa Claus is reignited. However, her encounter with a thin, suspicious man claiming to be a chicken buyer ultimately leads her to realize that he is actually a detective investigating the chicken theft. Through a series of humorous misunderstandings, Mrs. Gratz maintains her belief in Santa Claus, asserting that he is a generous figure despite the thievery she has experienced. The story blends holiday cheer with light-hearted mystery, offering readers a blend of comedy, irony, and holiday spirit.