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Adoptive parents -- Fiction Books
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Charles Dickens
Doctor Marigold
"Doctor Marigold" by Charles Dickens is a novella written in the late 19th century, during the Victorian era. This work is a fictional narrative that revolves around the life and experiences of a traveling Cheap Jack—a street vendor known for selling various goods through lively and entertaining patter. The story explores themes of love, loss, social inequality, and the bond between a father and daughter against the backdrop of a changing society. The narrative is told from the perspective of Doctor Marigold, who recounts his life as a Cheap Jack and his tumultuous relationship with his wife and daughter. After marrying a temperamental woman, he struggles with the challenges of raising their daughter, Sophy, amidst domestic turmoil. Tragedy strikes when Sophy falls ill and dies, leaving Marigold heartbroken. The heart of the story occurs when Marigold adopts a deaf and mute girl, who becomes like a daughter to him, enabling him to rediscover love and purpose. Eventually, Sophy re-enters his life unexpectedly, bringing a beautiful resolution that highlights the enduring connections of family and the transformative power of love despite adversity. Ultimately, Dickens crafts a poignant narrative that balances humor with deep emotional truths.
Karin Michaëlis
Elsie Lindtner A sequel to "The Dangerous Age"
"Elsie Lindtner" by Karin Michaëlis is a sequel novel written in the early 20th century. It continues the story of Elsie Lindtner, a complex female protagonist grappling with the trials of middle age and societal expectations of femininity and happiness. The narrative focuses on her journey through personal reflection, relationships, and the quest for genuine fulfillment in a world that often overlooks women's inner lives. The opening of "Elsie Lindtner" reintroduces readers to the titular character as she navigates her life after divorce and the looming fears associated with aging, particularly entering her forties. It begins with Elsie's desperate plea for financial help from her ex-husband Richard, revealing her precarious situation following a series of gambling losses in Monte Carlo. As she attempts to escape her boredom and contemplate the choices that led her here, the narrative paints a vivid picture of her relationships with those around her, including her companion Jeanne and memories of her past. Through her frank correspondence, the reader gets to witness Elsie's inner turmoil, her craving for independence, and her complex reflections on love and loss, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her character and the challenges she faces.
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