Author
E. (Edith) Nesbit
1858-1924
E. (Edith) Nesbit (1858-1924) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by E. (Edith) Nesbit
The Railway Children
"The Railway Children" by E. Nesbit is a children's book published in 1906. When their father is suddenly imprisoned for espionage, three siblings—Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis—move with their mother from London to a modest house near a railway. There, they befriend an elderly gentleman on the morning train and encounter various adventures involving Russian exiles, injured travelers, and railway workers. The children must navigate their changed circumstances while holding onto hope that their father's name will be cleared.
Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare
"Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare" by E. Nesbit and William Shakespeare is a collection published in 1907 that retells Shakespeare's plays for young readers. Nesbit transforms twenty of Shakespeare's most famous works into accessible stories, sometimes opening with "Once upon a time." The collection includes tales from comedies, tragedies, and romances, supplemented with a Shakespeare biography, pronunciation guide, and famous quotations. Nesbit skillfully weaves original Shakespearean language into her retellings, creating what critics praised as "pure entertainment" that captures each play's essence.
The Incomplete Amorist
"Incomplete Amorist" by E. Nesbit is a novel written in the early 20th century that explores the themes of love, art, and the struggles of young adulthood. The story revolves around a young woman named Betty Desmond, who yearns for adventure and romance in a stifling rural environment, feeling constrained by her duties and her step-father's strict rules. The opening of the novel introduces Betty as she navigates her mundane life, filled with interactions at a Mother's Meeting where she reads stories to local women. Dissatisfaction with her monotonous existence leads her to desire a love that can ignite her otherwise listless days. Her encounter with a mysterious artist, Eustace Vernon, marks the beginning of her journey into the complexities of attraction and artistic aspiration, as she longs to be free to explore her talents and emotions. This initial portion of the narrative sets the stage for a romantic entanglement fraught with societal and personal challenges, promising readers an engaging expansion on Betty's quest for independence and love.
Five Children and It
"Five Children and It" by E. Nesbit is a children's fantasy novel published in 1902. When five siblings discover a grumpy, ancient sand-fairy called the Psammead in a gravel pit, they're granted one wish per day—but there's a catch. Each wish vanishes at sunset, and every desire goes hilariously and dangerously wrong. From unwanted beauty to unspendable riches, from inconvenient wings to a besieged castle, the children learn that getting what you wish for isn't always what you want.
The Phoenix and the Carpet
"The Phoenix and the Carpet" by E. Nesbit is a fantasy novel published in 1904. When five siblings accidentally destroy their nursery carpet with fireworks, their parents buy a replacement that contains a mysterious glowing egg. The egg hatches into a talking Phoenix, who reveals the carpet is magical and can grant three wishes daily. The children embark on exotic adventures across time and space, accompanied by their vain and eccentric feathered companion, though their magical gifts prove more fragile than expected.
The Book of Dragons
"The Book of Dragons" by E. Nesbit is a collection of whimsical children's stories written in the late 19th century. The tales often feature young boys and girls who encounter various dragons, exploring themes of adventure, magic, and imagination. The opening story introduces us to Lionel, a young boy unexpectedly called to become a king, as he deals with a dragon that he accidentally frees from a magical book. The beginning of the book sets a fanciful tone as it follows Lionel's rapid ascent to royalty. Initially engaged in his innocent play, he soon finds himself in a royal carriage on his way to be crowned king. However, amidst the festivities, Lionel unwittingly releases a red dragon from the book of beasts in the royal library, creating chaos that the kingdom must now address. As he grapples with his new responsibilities and the consequences of his actions, the narrative showcases his determination to protect his subjects and find a solution to the dragon problem. This delightful blend of adventure and fantasy creates an engaging backdrop that invites readers to join Lionel in his journey.
The Story of the Treasure Seekers Being the Adventures of the Bastable Children in Search of a Fortune
"The Story of the Treasure Seekers" by E. Nesbit is a novel first published in 1899. Six siblings—Dora, Oswald, Dicky, Alice, Noel, and H.O. Bastable—embark on imaginative adventures to restore their family's lost fortune after their widowed father faces financial ruin. From digging for treasure to attempting daring rescues, the children try every scheme they've read about in books. Narrated by young Oswald, who playfully conceals his identity, the story captures childhood imagination, sibling dynamics, and creative problem-solving with charm and humor.
The Story of the Amulet
"The Story of the Amulet" by E. Nesbit is a novel written in 1906. Four children discover a magical Egyptian amulet that serves as a portal through time, but they possess only half of it. Guided by the Psammead, a wish-granting sand-fairy from their previous adventures, they journey to ancient civilizations—Babylon, Egypt, Atlantis, and beyond—searching for the missing piece that will reunite their separated family. Their travels blend historical detail with fantasy, culminating in an unexpected glimpse of a utopian future.
The Enchanted Castle
"The Enchanted Castle" by E. Nesbit is a children's fantasy novel published in 1907. Three siblings exploring during school holidays discover a mysterious country estate with marble statues, a maze, and a sleeping princess. When a magic ring they find begins granting wishes in unexpected and disturbing ways, the children must learn to control its powers. Blending imaginative play with subtle magic, the story follows their adventures as enchanted objects come to life with unpredictable consequences.
The Wouldbegoods: Being the Further Adventures of the Treasure Seekers
"The Wouldbegoods: Being the Further Adventures of the Treasure Seekers" by E. Nesbit is a novel published in 1901. After causing chaos at home in Blackheath, the Bastable children are sent to the countryside for summer. There, alongside the Foulkes siblings, they earnestly attempt to perform good deeds. But their noble intentions consistently backfire, leading to unexpected mishaps and unintended consequences. Narrated by young Oswald Bastable himself, the story captures childhood schemes told from a child's perspective.
The Magic World
"The Magic World" by E. Nesbit is a collection of twelve short stories published in 1912. These clever fantasy tales transport children into magical realms where boys transform into cats and fish, princesses face fairy curses, and wardrobes open into enchanted worlds. With talking animals, ancient talismans, and trips to Atlantis, each story blends wonder with Nesbit's characteristic wit and irony. The collection explores themes of transformation, justice, and kindness to animals while delivering adventures that would later influence writers like C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien.
Grim Tales
"Grim Tales" by E. Nesbit is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book explores various themes of the supernatural, blending romance, mystery, and the macabre, often through the lens of ordinary life interspersed with extraordinary occurrences. Each tale showcases character-driven narratives, introducing readers to personal dilemmas and eerie encounters set against a Victorian backdrop. The opening portion begins with “The Ebony Frame,” where the protagonist inherits a house and a legacy after the death of his Aunt Dorcas. As he settles into his new life, he discovers an enchanting yet unsettling portrait of a woman in a beautiful ebony frame, which he cannot resist. The story unfolds as he becomes captivated by the portrait and the mysterious connection it holds, leading to an unexpected and haunting encounter that blurs the line between reality and the supernatural. This introduction sets the tone for a collection that promises intriguing tales filled with emotion, mystery, and a touch of the uncanny.
Nine Unlikely Tales
"Nine Unlikely Tales" by E. Nesbit is a collection of whimsical short stories written in the late 19th century. The tales explore fantastical situations and curious characters, blending humor and fantasy in a manner characteristic of Nesbit's writing. The collection begins with the story of Matilda, a little girl who finds herself in absurd circumstances, revealing her imaginative inner world and the mischief that ensues when her plans are disrupted. At the start of the book, Matilda is preparing for an uncomfortable visit to her Great-aunt Willoughby, plagued by societal norms of cleanliness and decorum imposed by her nursemaid, Pridmore. However, instead of reaching the expected destination, a wrong omnibus takes them to a charming yet peculiar village where everything is oddly mismatched. In this new setting, Matilda encounters a beautifully dressed yet enchanted king, a princess who embodies an exaggerated thinness, and a comically transformed Pridmore, leading to a series of absurd adventures driven by an enchantingly mischievous giant bird known as the Cockatoucan. The opening portion sets the tone for a delightful exploration of imagination, defiance against conventionality, and the unpredictability of destiny.
The Magic City
"The Magic City" by E. Nesbit is a children's book published in 1910. When Philip builds a giant model city from household objects to cope with his sister's absence, he discovers himself magically transported inside his own creation. Joined reluctantly by his new stepsister Lucy, Philip must complete seven great deeds to prove himself the prophesied Deliverer rather than the Destroyer, navigating a world populated by toy soldiers, Mr. Noah, and mysterious creatures.
The House of Arden: A Story for Children
"The House of Arden: A Story for Children" by E. Nesbit is a novel published in 1908. When Edred Arden inherits a crumbling castle and a noble title, he and his sister Elfrida set out to find their family's lost treasure. With help from the magical Mouldiwarp, the siblings travel through time, witnessing pivotal moments in English history—from the Gunpowder Plot to Napoleon's invasion plans. Their quest leads them through centuries of adventure, ultimately taking them far beyond England's shores to rescue someone they love.
The Wonderful Garden; or, The Three Cs
"The Wonderful Garden; or, The Three Cs" by E. Nesbit is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the adventures of three siblings—Caroline, Charles, and Charlotte—as they navigate life in a grey house while their parents are away in India. The children's collective longing for color and excitement leads them to explore a mysterious garden and engage with various whimsical and magical elements. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Caroline on her birthday, where she receives numerous gifts that spark her creativity and desire for adventure. Along with her siblings, the Stanmore children spend time decorating their muted space with vibrant items. Their journey begins with a surprise trip to visit their estranged Great-Uncle Charles in the country, where they hope to find excitement and perhaps magic. As the children settle into their new surroundings, they discover a secret passage to a beautiful garden which becomes a focal point of their adventures, leading to inquiries about magic and the mysteries that lie within their Uncle's home and its magical inheritance.
New Treasure Seekers; Or, The Bastable Children in Search of a Fortune
"New Treasure Seekers; Or, The Bastable Children in Search of a Fortune" by E. Nesbit is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the adventures of the Bastable siblings—Oswald, Dicky, Dora, Noël, H.O., and Alice—as they embark on whimsical quests to seek fortune and have fun while navigating the challenges of childhood. This lively tale is grounded in a mix of imagination and realism, featuring a distinctly humorous perspective on the adventures of youth. At the start of the novel, the Bastable children are introduced along with their family dynamics, highlighting their longing for adventure and excitement against the backdrop of their middle-class life in London. The narrative begins with a wedding celebration that sets a festive yet chaotic atmosphere, as H.O. (Horace Octavius) unexpectedly decides to run away as a stowaway after being inspired by dreams of fame and fortune. The children engage in amusing antics, illustrating their strong bonds, while addressing themes of adventure, mischief, and the innocence of childhood. The opening portion establishes both character relationships and the humorous tone that persists throughout the book, promising readers a delightful journey with clever insights into the lives of the Bastables.
Wet Magic
"Wet Magic" by E. Nesbit is a children's fantasy novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of four children — Francis, Mavis, Kathleen, and Bernard — who embark on an adventure when they visit the seaside and encounter magic linked to a mermaid. Their journey is sparked by the children's imagination and longing for adventure, leading to heartwarming and thrilling escapades. At the start of the narrative, the children are eagerly anticipating their trip to the seaside, preparing their belongings and counting the days. They are particularly excited about an aquarium they have purchased, hoping to fill it with sea creatures. The opening chapters introduce their personalities and dynamics, setting the stage for their adventure. Francis longs to see the sea, and once they arrive, he becomes enchanted despite initial disappointment. The children soon discover the tale of a mermaid, rumored to be captured nearby, which ignites their desire to find and rescue her. The chapter concludes with hints of magic as Francis sees something mysterious in their aquarium, leading to a foreshadowing of the enchanting journey that lies ahead.
Many Voices: Poems
"Many Voices: Poems by E. Nesbit" is a poetry collection by E. Nesbit written in the early 20th century. This compilation reflects various themes, emotions, and voices, likely drawing inspiration from personal experiences and observations of life. The poems explore topics ranging from love and nature to loss and the human condition, resonating with the diverse emotional landscape of Nesbit's time. The collection captures the essence of life in its myriad forms through a series of lyrical works. Each poem presents a different perspective, often personifying elements of nature or emotions to convey a deeper understanding of existence and relationships. For instance, "The Return" evokes a sense of longing for home, while "The Stolen God" critiques societal injustices. The vivid imagery and heartfelt expressions throughout the poems invite readers to reflect on their own experiences, creating a rich tapestry of thoughts and feelings that transcend time. Overall, Nesbit's mastery of language and her ability to give voice to various sentiments make this collection a timeless exploration of the human experience.
Oswald Bastable and Others
"Oswald Bastable and Others" by E. Nesbit is a collection of children's stories set in the late 19th century. The book follows the adventures of Oswald Bastable and his siblings as they engage in various mischiefs and imaginative escapades. Their stories explore themes of childhood curiosity, familial bonds, and moral dilemmas, likely appealing to readers who enjoy whimsical tales about youth and innocence. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Oswald and his siblings, who have recently left their home in Lewisham to live with their Indian uncle in Blackheath. The chapter details the children's Christmas presents, including a remarkable printing press, which sparks their imaginations. As Oswald and his brother Dicky set off on their adventures, they unintentionally cause a workman to fall from a ladder, leading to feelings of guilt and attempts to make amends through fundraising efforts for the injured man. This opening sets an engaging tone with humor and innocence, promising readers a journey filled with unique challenges and youthful adventures.
Wings and the Child; Or, The Building of Magic Cities
"Wings and the Child; Or, The Building of Magic Cities" by E. Nesbit is a reflective work on children's education and development written in the early 20th century. This book blends elements of essay and theory, focusing on the imaginative and emotional needs of children and critiquing traditional educational approaches. Nesbit explores the notion of fostering a 'magic city' within a child's heart through play and creativity, emphasizing the importance of understanding and nurturing a child's inner world. At the start of the book, the author shares personal insights on the nature of childhood and understanding children from his perspective as a parent and nostalgic adult. Nesbit argues that true knowledge of a child's needs comes from recalling one's own childhood, highlighting the unique perception children have of the world around them. He discusses the importance of imagination in education, asserting that to help children flourish, adults must remember and connect with their own childhood experiences, allowing them to appreciate and support a child's innate curiosity and creativity. In this early portion, Nesbit lays the groundwork for a broader examination of educational practices, urging a shift from rigid methodologies towards more imaginative and individualized approaches to child-rearing and learning.
The Rainbow and the Rose
"The Rainbow and the Rose" by E. Nesbit is a poetry collection published in the early 20th century, specifically in 1905. The work features an array of themes, primarily exploring love, loss, memory, and the beauty of nature, often reflecting on profound emotional experiences. Nesbit, known for her children's literature and fantasy stories, offers readers an intimate look at life’s complexities through her verse. The collection is organized into nine chapters, each consisting of various poems that capture the essence of human emotions. Through a blend of lyrical expressions and vivid imagery, Nesbit delves into the different facets of love, from romantic longing to the bittersweet pain of separation. Notable poems such as "The Confession," "The Prodigal Son," and "After Death" resonate with deep reflections on personal experiences of joy and sorrow. The poems are characterized by their rhythmic quality and evocative language, illustrating the delicate balance between beauty and sadness that accompanies love and life's ephemeral nature. Overall, this collection invites readers to contemplate the intricate relationship between joy, pain, and the passage of time.
The Incredible Honeymoon
"The Incredible Honeymoon" by E. Nesbit is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Edward Basingstoke, a young man with dreams of adventure who, through a series of unexpected events, finds himself on a path leading to romance. The book explores the themes of love, chance, and the allure of adventure against the backdrop of Edward's mundane life as an engineer. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces the protagonist, Edward Basingstoke, who longs for a life filled with excitement beyond his dreary job. After receiving an inheritance from his late uncle, he abruptly leaves his engineering position to seek adventure, meeting a friend who encourages him to embrace his dreams. In a twist of fate, Edward encounters a girl in a park, which sets off a chain of romantic misadventures that may lead to a more thrilling and fulfilling life than he ever imagined. The opening chapters illustrate Edward’s whimsical character and foreshadow the entangled scenarios of fate and romance that will unfold throughout the story.
Pussy and Doggy Tales
"Pussy and Doggy Tales" by E. Nesbit is a delightful collection of stories aimed at children, written in the late 19th century. This charming compilation features feline and canine protagonists, each with their own engaging tales that portray their adventures and lessons learned about life, friendship, and the importance of character. The book is illustrated by L. Kemp-Welch, adding a visual appeal that complements the whimsical narratives. The stories within the collection include various escapades involving clever cats like Mrs. Tabby White, who tries to adopt human behaviors with humorous consequences, and adventurous dogs like Tinker, who faces challenges that test their loyalty and courage. Each tale weaves simple morals into its narrative, exploring themes of curiosity, pride, and the importance of being true to oneself. Nesbit's playful language and anthropomorphic characters invite readers into a world where cats and dogs display human-like characteristics, making this book a timeless choice for young readers and a celebration of the bond between humans and their pets.