Subject
Asia -- Fiction Books
Best books
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Ayesha, the Return of She
"Ayesha, the Return of She" by H. Rider Haggard is a gothic-fantasy novel published in 1905 as a sequel to his 1887 novel "She". Nearly twenty years after their first African adventure, Horace Holly and Leo Vincey journey through Asia, convinced that the immortal Ayesha still lives. Their dreams lead them to Tibet, where they encounter rival queens, deadly hunts, and ancient sorcery. At a volcanic mountain temple, they finally discover whether Ayesha has truly returned—and what price immortality demands.
Henry Iliowizi
The Weird Orient: Nine Mystic Tales
"The Weird Orient: Nine Mystic Tales" by Henry Iliowizi is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The tales draw from the rich tapestry of Eastern folklore, particularly focusing on mystical themes and legends that explore the intersection of life, spirituality, and moral lessons rooted in Orient culture. The author's background as a member of a mystical sect provides authenticity and depth to the narratives, echoing the influence of his experiences in Morocco and his encounters with the people and their tales. The opening of the work introduces the mystical landscape of the Orient and the inspiration behind the stories, explaining that the author gathered material during his years in Tetuan, Morocco, where he interacted with local storytellers. He sets the tone for the collection by discussing the allure and mystery of the East, suggesting that the tales encapsulate the subtle spiritual essence of the region. The characters featured in this collection vary widely but are unified by their exploration of supernatural and philosophical themes, as illustrated in the opening tale, "The Doom of Al Zameri," which sets forth a legendary narrative about the wandering figure cursed for idolatry and explores the burden of guilt and redemption across ages.
L. Adams (Lily Adams) Beck
Dreams and delights
"Dreams and Delights" by L. Adams Beck is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. This literary work transports readers across diverse landscapes, exploring themes of longing, spirituality, and the human experience as envisioned through the delicate interplay of dreams and reality. The preface hints at a mystical exploration of the feminine spirit and connection to the divine, suggesting that the narratives will delve into the hearts and minds of women influenced by transcendent forces. The opening of the collection introduces us to Beatrice Veronica Law Leslie, who adopts the pen name "V. Lydiat" to carve out her identity in the literary world. Torn between her unfulfilled desires for adventure and creativity, she ultimately seeks solace in writing while forging a mysterious connection with a shadowy figure who inspires her work. Through dream sequences and vivid imagery, the story hints at deeper layers of consciousness and the quest for self-discovery, as Beatrice navigates her path from a life constrained by societal expectations to one rich with purpose and passion for artistic expression. This intriguing premise sets the stage for the enchanting stories that follow, captivating readers with its layers of meaning and poetic reflections.
Unknown
Eastern Tales by Many Story Tellers
"Eastern Tales by Many Story Tellers" by L. Valentine is a collection of enchanting stories drawn from various ancient and modern sources, likely compiled in the late 19th century. This anthology is designed to captivate youthful readers with its diverse narratives, which include tales of adventure, moral lessons, and whimsical characters. The collection begins with the story of Jalaladdeen, a young man from Bagdad, highlighting his journey of self-discovery and the perils of indulgence." "At the start of the book, we are introduced to Jalaladdeen, who learns profound lessons from his father on frugality and self-control shortly before his passing. After discovering a hidden treasure in his father's house, Jalaladdeen is drawn into a lavish lifestyle filled with friends that leads him to neglect his father's wise advice. The narrative follows his descent into extravagance as he strives to please his new companions, ultimately leading him to lose all his wealth and confront the consequences of his actions. The opening sets the stage for a moral tale that weaves themes of temptation, responsibility, and redemption through a fantastical lens, setting up an engaging journey for readers."
Murray Leinster
Island honor
"Island Honor" by Murray Leinster is a short novel published during the early 20th century, likely in the 1920s. The story is set in a fictional tropical region called Kuramonga and explores themes of honor, power dynamics, and cultural conflict. The narrative follows a group of Western characters, including a political agent who believes himself to be the ultimate authority, and a local king grappling with the complexities of loyalty and sacrifice. The plot centers around Buro Sitt, a Malay prince, who faces a horrific decision when a French political agent, Vetter, demands his daughter as a hostage to ensure their compliance with his rule. Buro Sitt's dilemma is heightened by his duty to protect his people, reflecting the intersection of personal honor and political obligation. As tensions rise, the story explores the consequences of colonialism, arrogance, and the sacrifices made for family and community. The climax reveals Vetter's cruel manipulation and the clever response of the characters around him, emphasizing the overarching themes of justice and moral integrity amidst a backdrop of power struggles.
Recently surfaced classics