Author
Bert Leston Taylor
1866-1921
Bert Leston Taylor (1866-1921) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Bert Leston Taylor
The So-called Human Race
"The So-Called Human Race" by Bert Leston Taylor is a collection of humorous essays and columns written in the early 20th century. This work showcases Taylor's witty observations and satirical commentary on the absurdities of human behavior and society. The volume draws from Taylor’s extensive journalism experience, particularly his popular column in the Chicago Tribune, encapsulating the foibles of humanity through clever wordplay and amusing anecdotes. The opening of the book features an introduction by Henry B. Fuller, who praises Taylor's role as a pioneer in the column-writing genre, affectionately noting that his contributions were both influential and entertaining. Following this, the reader is invited into a whimsical exploration of human nature, beginning with a series of light-hearted quips that highlight everyday follies and the quirks of societal interactions. Taylor deftly combines humor with insights into human behavior, suggesting that despite our faults and follies, there’s a charm to our shared existence, articulated with a playful tone that invites readers to reflect on their own lives amidst the laughter.
A line-o'-verse or two
"A Line-o'-Verse or Two" by Bert Leston Taylor is a collection of humorous poems written in the early 20th century. This compilation encompasses a range of lighthearted topics, often characterized by a satirical and whimsical tone. Taylor's verses draw from everyday life, social commentary, and literary references, reflecting the cultural landscape of his time. The book features a variety of poetic forms, including ballades and humorous jingles, that explore themes from the absurdities of modern living to the nuances of human experiences and relationships. Notable pieces include "The Lay of St. Ambrose," which satirizes the struggles of a monk with self-discipline and desire, and "Gentle Doctor Brown," a light-hearted take on an overzealous doctor. Throughout the collection, Taylor’s clever wordplay and rhythmic style engage readers, inviting them to revel in the humor and wit embedded in the ordinary moments of life. Overall, "A Line-o'-Verse or Two" serves as a delightful reflection on the quirks of humanity, rendered through charming poetry.
Under Three Flags: A Story of Mystery
"Under Three Flags: A Story of Mystery" by Bert Leston Taylor and Alvin T. Thoits is a mystery novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around a love story intertwined with a shocking murder in a small town, featuring characters such as Derrick Ames and Helen Hathaway, who find their lives disrupted by fate and crime. As the narrative unfolds, themes of love, ambition, and revenge are explored against the backdrop of a community thrown into chaos by a brutal act. The beginning of the story introduces readers to Derrick Ames and Helen Hathaway, who are lovers idling on a sunny afternoon in Vermont. They discuss their frustrations with their small-town lives, hinting at their yearning for adventure and freedom. Derrick, facing opposition from Helen's father regarding their relationship, decides to seek him out, but upon his return from this encounter, he appears shaken and urges Helen to leave town with him. This moment sets a tone of suspense as they embark on an impulsive midnight train ride just as chaos erupts back home: Helen's father is found murdered in the bank, leaving the community to grapple with the mystery of the crime and the implications of the couple’s disappearance.
The Log of the Water Wagon; or, The Cruise of the Good Ship "Lithia"
"The Log of the Water Wagon; or, The Cruise of the Good Ship 'Lithia'" by Bert Leston Taylor and W. C. Gibson is a humorous narrative written in the early 20th century. This satirical work can be categorized as a comic literary exploration that addresses the theme of temperance through the lens of an absurd voyage aboard a fictitious ship named the Good Ship Lithia. The book takes a lighthearted approach to alcohol abstinence and the virtues and follies of its teetotaling passengers. The story is presented as a log kept by a lone sober passenger amid a rowdy crew and a boisterous passenger list that includes a variety of comical characters, each with their quirky personalities and respective struggles with sobriety. As the Lithia embarks on its "dry cruise," the log entries recount a series of misadventures, from amusing mutinies and thirst-induced chaos to introducing eccentric elements such as a "water cure." The narrative unfolds in days that blend levity with insightful commentary on the trials of maintaining one's resolve against temptation, eventually culminating in a farcical ending filled with ludicrous challenges. Overall, the book utilizes wit and satire to entertain while subtly advocating for temperance, making it a whimsical reflection on societal attitudes toward alcohol consumption during its time.
The well in the wood
"The Well in the Wood" by Bert Leston Taylor is a whimsical children's tale written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young girl named Buddie, her talking dog, Colonel, and their encounters with various anthropomorphic animals in a fantastical wood filled with enchantment and humor. The narrative promises a delightful exploration of nature, friendship, and the adventures that await in the unknown. At the start of "The Well in the Wood," Buddie is enjoying a sunny day throwing sticks for her dog, Colonel, near the edge of a forest. While collecting flowers, she unwittingly discovers the mysterious Enchanter's Nightshade, leading to a magical transformation where Colonel gains the ability to speak. Their adventures begin as Colonel proposes visiting his lazy beaver friend, setting them off on a journey through the enchanting wood where they encounter other charming creatures like the Laziest Beaver and a witty rabbit, all while pondering whimsical questions about life and nature. The opening sets a whimsical tone, inviting readers into a world filled with enchanting possibilities through Buddie's eyes.
A line o' gowf or two
“A Line o’ Gowf or Two” by Bert Leston Taylor is a collection of humorous essays and light verse about golf written in the early 20th century. The book uses wit, anecdote, and playful satire to explore the quirks and obsessions of golfers, with an affectionate but gently mocking tone. Its likely audience is both avid golf players and anyone who appreciates clever, insightful commentary on human nature as seen through the game. The opening of the book includes a foreword and introduction, establishing Taylor’s reputation as a skilled writer whose interest in golf developed relatively late. The introductory essays reflect on the nature of golfing improvement, the quirks of golfers, the endless stream of advice surrounding the game, and Taylor's enjoyment as both participant and observer. The main portion that follows is a lively mix of short reflections, jokes, and playful poetry about golf, blending technical musings with whimsical character sketches and gentle lampooning of golfing culture. The book also features a mock-dialogue between a "Golfator" and an eager "Scholar," parodying the didactic style of classic instructional works. Overall, the beginning establishes a consistently wry tone, poking fun at the seriousness with which golfers approach their sport, while also reveling in its pleasures and universal frustrations.