Author
G. B. (Gladys Bronwyn) Stern
1890-1973
G. B. (Gladys Bronwyn) Stern (1890-1973) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by G. B. (Gladys Bronwyn) Stern
Children of No Man's Land
"Children of No Man’s Land" by G. B. Stern is a novel written in the early 20th century, first published in 1919. It explores themes of youth, identity, and cultural tensions against the backdrop of the early years of World War I. The book introduces us to the Marcus family, particularly focusing on siblings Deborah and Richard as they navigate their experiences in a small, stifling German town, Dorzheim, while grappling with personal conflicts and societal expectations. The opening of the novel presents a vivid tableau of familial dynamics, highlighting the contrasting views of freedom and responsibility between the characters, particularly between the older generation, represented by Hermann Marcus, and the younger ones, Ferdinand and Stella. As Deborah prepares to visit her young German friend Lothar, Richard shows disdain for being uprooted from their holiday in Switzerland. The narrative reveals Richard's internal struggles with national identity as they confront the realities of their heritage amid growing tensions due to the war. Scenes of lively debates about literature between the boys further emphasize the differences in cultural upbringing and perspectives, setting the stage for the central themes of the novel surrounding generational conflict, cultural identity, and the impending societal changes brought on by the war.
Twos and Threes
"Twos and Threes" by G. B. Stern is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young man named Stuart Heron, who is the heir to a diamond merchant family, and his interactions with his relatives and friends, set against a backdrop of philosophical musings. The narrative explores themes of ambition, identity, and the quest for self-definition in a world filled with expectations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Stuart through a conversation between Stuart and his uncle Baldwin, who are discussing literature and its implications on life. Stuart is revealed as a character caught between the weight of family obligations and his desire for independence from the riches and support his family offers. The opening scenes in the library set a tone of intellectual debate as they touch upon Nietzsche and personal values, contrasting with Stuart's rebellious spirit against familial expectations. The chapter progresses to reveal the dynamics of Stuart's family, depicting a world filled with privilege, ambition, and the pressure to conform, leading to his resolve to carve out a unique path for himself. So far, a central theme of the novel seems to be Stuart’s struggle with his inherited identity and the philosophical implications of his choices.
A marrying man
"A Marrying Man" by G. B. Stern is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Kathleen Morrison, a woman caught between familial expectations and her own desires as she navigates the complexities of romance and societal norms during a time when marriage was often viewed as a woman's ultimate goal. The narrative begins with Kathleen reflecting on her recent escapade in Alpenruh with Gareth Temple, a charming young botanist, hinting at the emotional turmoil that looms ahead as their relationship unfolds. The opening of the novel sets the tone for Kathleen's internal struggle as she returns to an empty house, imbuing her solitude with memories of her idyllic summer with Gareth. As she grapples with feelings of detachment from her mundane life, her conflicting thoughts about marriage become apparent, especially after Gareth's unexpected visit where he expresses his desire to marry her. The dynamic between Kathleen's longing for freedom and Gareth's romantic aspirations introduces themes of love, identity, and the pressures of societal conventions. The stage is thus set for a deeper exploration of their relationship and the ramifications of their choices as they seek to redefine their paths amidst cultural expectations.
The room
"The Room" by G. B. Stern is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the Maxwell family, living in a bustling, crowded home in Buckler’s Cross, and explores their everyday dynamics, intergenerational relationships, and personal struggles. Its focus appears to be domestic life—how individuals within a large family form shifting alliances, carry secrets, and seek comfort or independence, especially through the device of private or shared rooms in their house. Prominent characters include Hal, the eldest son, Aunt Lavvy, a beloved quasi-family member, and various siblings all grappling with issues of growing up, belonging, and, at times, moral quandaries. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the Maxwell household: a typical middle-class family contending with the logistics and tensions of a cramped home and complicated personal ties. Through a series of vignettes, we meet Aunt Lavvy and her close relationship with the children, particularly Hal, as well as the different siblings—Bunny’s mischievousness, Nina’s confidence, Ursula’s yearning for privacy through her own room and fire, and the quiet but underlying stresses between both adults and children. The narrative deftly weaves domestic routines with deeper emotional undercurrents, culminating in Hal’s accidental theft of a banknote, his resulting guilt, and the ripple effect of this small moral crisis through the family. Early chapters set the stage for a novel that promises an intimate exploration of family, morality, and the boundaries of home.