Author
Margaret Pollock Sherwood
1864-1955
Margaret Pollock Sherwood (1864-1955) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Margaret Pollock Sherwood
Daphne: An Autumn Pastoral
"Daphne: An Autumn Pastoral" by Margaret Pollock Sherwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on a young American woman named Daphne Willis who finds herself in Italy, navigating a new landscape rich with beauty and complex emotions, while trying to communicate with the local Italian peasants. At the start of the novel, Daphne is seen attempting to converse with Giacomo, the villa’s butler, and Assunta, his wife, through her limited Italian vocabulary. As she explores the stunning hills and valleys surrounding the Villa Accolanti, she becomes enchanted by the beauty of the Italian countryside. The narrative establishes her initial solitude and the challenges she faces with language barriers, while hinting at a deeper emotional journey that she will undertake as she interacts with the land, its inhabitants, and perhaps even a mysterious shepherd who seems more than merely human. The beginning effectively sets the stage for an exploration of identity, culture clash, and the quest for belonging in a richly evocative setting.
The Worn Doorstep
"The Worn Doorstep" by Margaret Pollock Sherwood is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the backdrop of World War I, focusing on the experiences of the protagonist, who is attempting to navigate life amidst the chaos of war while seeking a quiet place to establish her home. The main character reflects on the memories of her lost loved one as she searches for their dream cottage, indicating themes of love, loss, and resilience. At the start of the narrative, the protagonist sets off on a journey in search of a perfect cottage where she can create a home full of beauty and tranquility, which starkly contrasts with the looming fears of war, as reports of impending danger resonate in the background. She finds a quaint old cottage that resonates with memories of her ancestors and begins to envision the life she will create there. However, amidst her domestic aspirations, the constant reminders of the war and her grief for her beloved, who is at the front, cast a shadow over her hope, prompting her to redefine her understanding of home and community while grappling with the implications of a world at war.
The Princess Pourquoi
"The Princess Pourquoi" by Margaret Pollock Sherwood is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Princess Pourquoi, a curious and intelligent girl born under a curse from an insulted fairy. This curse grants her a mind that seeks answers to the many "whys" of life but, ironically, makes her feel alienated from those around her, as her inquisitiveness is deemed undesirable for a young princess. The opening of the tale introduces the princess in her royal setting where her birth is celebrated, only to be marred by the curse of a powerful fairy who ensures she will bear the burden of wisdom that renders her lonely and misunderstood. Despite her good nature, her thirst for knowledge and truth sets her apart from her more docile siblings and court members. As she navigates her childhood, bonding with her family yet constantly questioning social norms, the princess' uniqueness becomes both a gift and a curse, laying the groundwork for a journey of self-discovery and defiance against societal expectations. The stage is set for her to challenge the conventions of the kingdom she inhabits.
An Experiment in Altruism
"An Experiment in Altruism" by Elizabeth Hastings is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story opens as the narrator arrives in a new city, aiming to engage in philanthropic work, and is introduced to a cast of characters including the Altruist, Janet, and the Doctor—each with diverse perspectives on altruism and societal issues. The book explores themes of social reform, the complexities of human relationships, and the struggle between idealism and realism in the context of helping the less fortunate. The opening portion introduces the narrator's impressions of the city and its inhabitants, who are depicted as introspective and engaged in various charitable efforts. Through conversations between characters, particularly with Janet, the reader gains insight into differing views on the effectiveness of these philanthropic efforts and the nature of altruism. The narrator also reflects on the paradoxes involved in trying to better the conditions of the poor, hinting at both the selflessness and the challenges faced by those engaged in social reform. As the characters' dialogues unfold, the groundwork is laid for a deeper exploration of the motivations behind their actions and the impact of their beliefs on real-world issues.