Classics

The Card A Story of Adventure in the Five Towns

One of fiction's greatest chancers - the story of Denry Machin and his unceasing, ingenious efforts to become a great man. Set in the raw, Victorian world of the 'Five Towns', The Card tells the extremely funny and tangled story of Denry Machin's rise from mediocrity to fame through a series of ludicrous and yet perversely successful schemes. He dances, pleads, cheats and inspires his way through life in a series of set-pieces which wonderfully evoke a now long-gone world of civic balls, seaside excursions, newspaper boys and patent chocolate remedies. As everybody said after one of his most stylish coups, Denry 'was not simply a card; he was the card.'

Far from the Madding Crowd

Far From The Madding Crowd is a tale of loyalty, obsession and tragedy from a storytelling master. 2015 sees a major film release of probably Thomas Hardy's best novel, starring Carey Mulligan, Michael Sheen and Tom Sturridge.   The film version of Far from the Madding Crowd, is released in UK cinemas on Friday 1 May 2015. Click below to view the trailer.

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

A lovely hardback edition to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of this world famous children's classic. A book that’s chock full of great conversations between Alice and some extraordinary animals, ranging from the pipe-smoking caterpillar and the Mad Hatter, to the March Hare and the sneezing Duchess. From Philip Pullman: "Indispensable. The great classic beginning of English children's literature."

Anne of Ingleside

Anne of Ingleside is the sixth volume of the adventures of red-haired Anne Shirley. Anne, now Mrs Doctor Blythe, is still sometimes as impetuous as when she was the girl from Green Gables. But with six lively children and hard-worked Gilbert to look after - not to mention Gilbert's disapproving aunt, Anne has to be practical too. Especially when the children get into as many scrapes as she ever did! The book includes a behind-the-scenes journey, including an author profile, a guide to who's who, activities and more...

Beneath the Heart of the Sea The Sinking of the Whaleship Essex

First published in 1821 and the inspiration for 'Moby Dick', this is an absolutely fascinating true story, detailing a subject that will make you wince, grimace and wonder. Owen Chase the author, was the First Mate aboard the Whaleship Essex, a ship that was rammed and sank by a whale, leaving 20 men fighting for their lives. Travelling back in time, in language, in livelihoods; this most definitely makes for an uncomfortable read at times. It’s worth having a map by your side, as the distance travelled by the men of the Essex is quite remarkable. This is a tale of ultimate survival that will no doubt leave you wondering what you would do, if left face to mesmerising face with death.  The film adaptation, starring Chris Hemsworth is released in the UK on Saturday 26 December 2015. Click below to view the trailer. Visit our '50 Classics Everyone Should Read' collection to discover more classic titles.

Rainbow Valley

Anne's House of Dreams

Anne of the Island

Anne is finally off to Redmond College! While she's sad to be leaving Marilla and the twins, she's excited to finally become a full-fledged BA, and to embark on new adventures with the other Avonlea folks attending Redmond-a group that includes her friend Gilbert Blythe. At Redmond Anne meets Philippa Gordon, a frivolous but charming girl who pulls Anne into the centre of the Redmond social scene. As Anne becomes the object of several boys' affection, she's faced with numerous proposals she can't possibly accept. Then Gilbert ruins everything by declaring his own feelings for her, and Anne worries that she's lost one of her best friends...and possibly so much more. This addition to the renowned Anne of Green Gables series makes a wonderful gift and keepsake.

Crime and Punishment

Initiated by a savage act, this is a powerful story of doom versus redemption. Although first published in 1866 in Russian, this is the original very dark tale of rebellious youth Rodion Raskolnikov stepping over lines and blurring morality in the name of higher purpose. It's a seminal piece of work whose themes are as relevant today as they were then, as you follow the journal of such a complex character. Highly recommended and an absolute  must on the list of classics. Visit our '50 Classics Everyone Should Read' collection to discover more classic titles.

Anne of Avonlea

Anne of Green Gables

Anne entered my heart in my childhood, I devoured this book and fell in love. There is something about the setting of Prince Edward Island in Canada that charms. The characters feel so very real, and Anne Shirley, well, she is completely delightful. As I entered my teenage years Anne grew with me and I still call this series one of my favourites. These are books that I return to again and again, they deliver the most wonderful hug. Anne of Greengables: 1. Anne of Green Gables 2. Anne of Avonlea 3. Anne of the Island 4. Anne of Windy Poplars 5. Anne's House of Dreams 6. Anne of Ingleside Serial Reader? Check out our 'Fall in Love With a Book Series' collection to find amazing book series to dive in to. Explore our '80+ Books That Deliver a Hug' listicle for more feel-good or uplifting books.