A Stone for Danny Fisher (published in 1952) - The story of a fighter during the Great Depression

Harold Robins is one of the prolific writers of the 21st century. Born Harold Rubin, his parents were Russian and Polish immigrants. After dabbling in sugar futures he took up a job in Universal pictures which propelled his interest towards writing. Thus came out “Never love a Stranger” which courted a controversy for its graphic sexual content. Soon Robbins would become a prolific writer churning out innumerable best sellers. He had this knack of mixing up a thriller with sex and historical anecdotes to create a taut mystery. The worlds favorite author, Harold Robins would publish over 20 books which are translated into 32 languages and estimated to be selling over 750 million copies. Many of his books were made in to successful movies, the very first being “A stone For Danny Fisher” which was adapted as “King Creole” starring Elvis Presley. The stories were also made in to mini series and were part of documentaries. Robbins also lived a jet setting life style with cars, wine and women at his disposal. His decadent life style along with those of the high and mighty of Hollywood is often mirrored in his books. Robbins was one of the authors honored with a star on the Hollywood walk of frame. This prolific writer died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 81 in Palm Springs, California.
A Stone For Danny Fisher is the most accomplished book from the the Harold Robins stable. Many may not consider the Robins books as literary masterpieces, but the saga of the young boxer from the Brooklyn slums comes close to it. Even the critics consider this book as one of the best read stories of the time.



Through the pages one can glimpse the trials and tribulations of a Jewish Boy, Danny Fisher, living in post war America. Danny lives through the hate, race violence and the occasional skirmish, to become the lead boxer of the school. His relations with his father suffers progressively and the money issues compound it. Sam Goetlib his coach is the closest to a benefactor Danny has and he even pays the money for his coaching.
As Danny climbs the rungs of the boxing ladder, his bouts actually earn him the money and worse he gets offered absurd amounts to fix his matches. He holds on to his games till the time his father actually implores him to bail him out of bankruptcy. Danny pockets the five thousand dollars and tries hard to throw the match which he ends up winning. Thus on the run and disgraced, he returns to the fringes of the society. Shunned by all he loves he embraces brutality, first passively looking on, and later embracing it. With this new found brotherhood of pugnaciousness he gets the money, maidens and all his heart desires. But soon the castle of cards crumbles, and Danny is left naked to the harsh glares of life. His true friends, his childhood sweetheart and erstwhile coach bail him out and his son. This help Danny to start a new life.
A stone for Danny Fisher does pull your heart strings and unlike other Harold Robbins books, there is no graphic content to take you away from the story. This book was made in to a movie, King Creole starring Elvis Presley. This book is a great way to steal away some time for yourself.

The Betsy (published in 1971) - A book on the automobile industry, written by Harold Robbins

Harold Robbins is one of the prolific writers of the 21st century. Born Harold Rubin, his parents were Russian and Polish immigrants, although he claimed to be of Jewish heritage. After dabbling in sugar futures he took up a job in Universal pictures, which propelled his interest towards writing. Thus came out “never love a Stranger” which courted a controversy for its graphic sexual content. Soon Robbins would become a prolific writer churning out innumerable best sellers. He had this knack of mixing up a thriller with sex and historical anecdotes to create a taut mystery. The worlds favorite author, Harold Robins would publish over 20 books which is translated in to 32 languages and estimatedly selling over 750 million copies.
Many of his books were made in to successful movies, the very first being “A stone For Danny Fisher” which was adapted as “King Creole” starring Elvis Presley. The stories were also made in to mini series and were part of documentaries. Robbins also lived a jet setting life style with cars, wine and women at his disposal. His decadent life style along with those of the high and mighty of Hollywood is often mirrored in his books. Robbins was one of the authors honored with a star on the Hollywood walk of frame. This prolific writer died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 81 in Palm Springs, California.



A fictional take on the dwindling Detroit Automobile Industry, this book chronicles the days when American car makers had only past laurels to rest on to. With profits plummeting and the public taste leaning to low cost small Japanese cars, many had shut shop during the 60's and 70's. An ode to Henry Ford, Harold Robbins presents “Loren Hardeman I”, the patriarch who was the pioneer car maker presiding over a company which was once the premier automobile maker. Now his grandson Loren III has diversified and to the senior Loren's distaste is now a major Auto spare parts maker. Loren I enlists the talents of a race car driver Angelo Perino to once again make a car that the world would love. He plans to name it after Betsy, his Great Grand daughter.
Angelo, is the narrator of the novel and the narrative swivels back and forth in time. Being a race car driver Angelo is blessed with looks and money and with his shrewd business acumen steers the company to make “The Betsy”. True to Harold Robbins style the protagonist enjoys wealth, women and wine in copious quantities. The affairs and sex drives are graphically described, but still the story of the car Betsy focuses on all the emotions. It tries to understand the apathy among the Lorens and the distaste of Loren III for his grand father for having an affair with his mother. Angelo also tries to juggle the affections for a British lady and the real Betsy who would inherit millions of dollops from her grand father, not to mention the car named in her honor.
Unlike Harold Robbins' gritty dark novels, this book is a tad more cheerful. The tone and the plot makes it a pleasant read, the most important aspect being that you actually believe it. The same is made in to a wonderful movie with young Tommy Lee Jones essaying the role of Angelo Perino. So watch the movie and read the book.

The Other House (published in 1896) - By Henry James, the story of a murder

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The other house is a dark murder mystery by Henry james and a one of a the kind from his stable. James never wrote a dark tale again and none of his upright characters ever could commit murder. This tale of raw passion between three women and a man resulting in the death of a child is somewhat disturbing in its essence.
The tale starts with two houses separated by a river, one being East-Mead, presided by the matronly widow Mrs. Beever along with her slow witted son Paul, the other house is the Bounds where the newly wedded couple, Tony and Julia Bream live. Julia is often haunted by the abuse at the hands of her stepmother and dies while giving birth to her child. On her death bed she extracts a promise from Tony that he would never marry and give her daughter a stepmother. Tony in his grief promises and brings up Effie his daughter on his own.



Rose Armiage is Julia's childhood friend, who nurses a deep love for Tony. She views Effie an impediment for her goal as Tony is duty bound not to bring in a step mother. Tony loves Jean Martle a simple girl next door. She too returns his ardor and understand his predicament. Rose is engaged to Denis Vidal a energetic world traveler. She keeps Denis on tenterhooks, by not accepting or rejecting his proposals, trying to woo Tony for a commitment. Rose in love almost becomes deranged when she realizes the presence of Jean Martle in Tony's life and love turns into lunacy.
Rose drowns little Effie and tries to frame Jean for the act. But an alert doctor and couple of inquiries actually help others to zero in to the culprit. But here lies the agony and twist in the tale. Rose is sent away with Denis and everything is hushed up. Tony and Jean get to marry as the only obstacle in their way is removed by Rose.
This dark tale without a trace of justice for poor Effie is dreadful and scary. Rose's lunacy horrifies even the toughest of men and even Tony's sense of justice “Her doom will be to live” does not hold water. Sometimes the reader is forced to believe that Tony is relieved about the murder as no sense of attachment is shown towards the child. This book was also pillaged by the critics for tis lack of depth and lack of relationships. You can read it for once but there are better books written by Henry James.

The Spoils of Poynton (published in 1897) - A story about the struggle between a mother and son, by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Fleda Vetch is a principled but poor lady who is unwittingly caught between a property dispute between Mrs. Gereth and her son Owen. Owen inherits Poynton, the Jacobean Family home filled with antique treasures collected over the years by Mrs. Gereth and her late husband. Owen being the new owner wants his mother to move out so that he can bring in his bride Mona Brigstock. Mrs. Gereth reviles Mona for her coarseness and regards her as a philistine. She feels that Mona with no taste is unsuitable to oversee her treasure.



Owen asks Fleda to be the go-between and convince his mother. She is sympathetic to Mrs. Gereth, but asks her to respect Owens wishes. Mrs. Gereth finds a wonderful opportunity to save her treasures and urges Owen to marry Fleda. She even moves to a small house which later Fleda finds to be overflowing with treasures stolen from Poynton. Here Owen and Mona's engagement hit a road-block ad Mona insists on the return of the treasures. During this Owen finds Fleda's simplicity attractive and proposes to her.
Fleda does not agree to the proposal and asks Owen to personally break up with Mona for her to accept his suit. Mrs. Gereth finding Mona out of the picture returns the antiques to Poynton and goes with Fleda out of the town. But soon a telegram reaches them that Mona and Owen are married and both of them are shattered. A letter from Owen reaches Fleda, thanking her for her effort and he asks her to pick an antique of her choice as a keepsake. Fleda on reaching Poynton finds it completely gutted by fire and is left to stare at the timing of fate.
This novel had appeared in a serialized version for the Atlantic Monthly and later was published as a novel. James chronicles the tendency of acquisition among us and derides the act of collection of treasures. His indictment is stronger for Mrs. Gereth who puts her antiques above her relationships. Personally I find the principled Fleda, not very attractive as she keeps on wavering her stand. Owen would be better of marrying Mona because she knows her mind even though it is about money. This novel with such a comic theme is a must for all Henry James's fans.

The Wings of the Dove (published in 1902) - Story of an afflicted lady, written by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The Wings of the Dove is one of Henry James's most acclaimed novel, incorporating the the clash of American and European sensibilities woven through a love story. Kate Croy and Merton Densher are lovers whose union has many impediments. Kate is a daughter of an impoverished, disgraced lawyer who is living with an autocratic Aunt. Her Aunt Maud Lowder bars her from having any contact with her family and Densher as they have no social standing. Kate loves Densher, but cannot bring herself to earn her aunts wrath or worse getting disinherited from her riches. So in to this conundrum, a rich American Heiress, Milly Theale arrives with her companion. She explores the London society which totally toasts her because of her money and she finds a friend in Kate.



Milly is seriously ill, even though her doctor is non-committal she feels that her days are numbered and confides many of her secrets to Kate. Kate comes to know that Milly's old flame is none other than Densher and she formulates a audacious plan which may leave the two lovers free to marry after all. Kate conceals her love for Densher and encourages him to shower attentions on Milly. An unsuspecting Milly falls for the trap and for Densher. She travels to Venice with Densher and Kate in tow. Here Kate confides to Densher that Milly is seriously ill and he may inherit her fortune which can enable him to marry her.
Milly but comes to know about the love trap through her old suitor, Lord Mark and turns seriously ill. It is easy to make plans but requires mental toughness to go through it. Densher witnesses Milly's suffering and his resolve wavers and in the end it sickens him. The fact that Milly was in the know when she died cripples his conscience again. Milly still leaves a large part of her money for him and her act of forgiveness from the grave deals the ultimate blow for the well laid plans.
Densher tells Kate that she has to make a choice – it is the money or him. He is ready to bequeath all of it to Kate if she chooses the envelope over him. Kate and Densher part knowing that life would never be same for them again. This amazing story is a bit verbose and meandering, so it requires a bit of patience to keep at it. Better keep a dictionary by your side because there are a lot of tough words to decipher. But if you keep at it, you may be a part of something very beautiful and poignant. This soul stirring story is one of Henry James's best works.

The Golden Bowl (Published in 1904) - A complex story by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The Golden bowl is a coming of age story of Maggie Verver who discards her childhood naiveté and assumes her marital responsibilities. She is the only child of Adam Verver, the wealthy financier and falls in love with an charismatic but impoverished Italian Prince Amerigo. Maggie's childhood friend Charlotte was the Prince's mistress during his early days in Rome. But Maggie unaware of this past connections introduces Charlotte and the Prince and deputes her to show the prince around. Charlotte and the Prince go shopping for a wedding present for Maggie. They see a gilded crystal bowl which Charlotte likes but the Prince declines it insisting on a secret flaw.



Maggie after her marriage is more concerned about her father's loneliness and asks him to propose to Charlotte. Charlotte and Adam get married and move with Maggie in Europe. Both the Prince and Charlotte feel left out between the Father and Daughter and soon start their own affair.
Maggie soon become suspicious about her husband and her suspicions are confirmed when she buys a gilded Crystal bowl. The shop keeper on visiting her house confirms the intimacy displayed in his shop by Charlotte and the Prince. Maggie takes stock of the situation calmly and proceeds to salvage her marriage with precision and tact. She persuades her father to move back to the states with Charlotte. Amerigo is impressed by her confidence and diplomacy, and he falls in love with her all over again. Maggie takes the threads of her life in her own hands and grows up from a daddy's girl to a responsible wife and adult.
The Golden Bowl focuses on the four characters and all others pale themselves in to obscurity. Henry James language and prose have their own separate signature style. The story is a very strong one about relationships and each incident is dissected and presented before the reader. No incident is insignificant in his style of writing. There is a heavy dose of symbolism which is a clear departure from his other novels. The golden bowl which ultimately breaks is taken from the biblical passage from the book of ecclesiastics 12:6, “the golden bowl be broken, then shall the dust return to the earth as it was". The dramatization stresses the need for the tactful resolution of marital problems which would go a long way in cementing a relationship.
Good book to read.

The Awkward Age (published in 1899) - Written by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
This novel was published in the Harpers Weekly and is about the coming of age of a sweet unspoilt girl Nanda. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Brookenham are parents of Harold and Nanda and are upwardly mobile and part of a decadent and corrupt social circle. Harold resembles his parents, but Nanda is sweet and knowledgeable. Mr. Longdon, a family friend of the Brookenham's, while attending one of the family functions is pleasantly surprised to see the grown up Nanda and her resemblance to her grandmother, a long lost love. He is but very critical about the hypocrisy and decadence developing around to spoil Nanda's innocence.



Mr. Vanderbank, an upcoming civil servant showers his attentions on Mrs. Brookenham and also notices Nanda. Mrs. Brookenham wants to have an affair with Vanderham but slowly Nanda grows on him. Nanda's mother wants her to marry Mitchy, a very rich but a naive guy from their social circle. Nanda persuades him to pursue Aggie, a step-niece of their friend, the Duchess.
Longdon, disturbed by the loss of values at the Brookenham household assures Vanderbank of a dowry if he agrees to marry Nanda. Vanderbank continuously hesitates in his proposal and Nanda sees her mother's attraction towards Vanderbank. Mitchy marries Aggie and Nanda rejects Vanderham. She realizes the values and stability in Longdon and agrees to stay with him as an adopted daughter.
Henry James while writing this novel was disturbed by the loss of values all around the English society. He derides the irresponsibility and immorality pervading everywhere. In the Brookenham household, all visitors and the host are never saints and have immorality, hypocrisy and deceit running through all their actions. Nanda rejects all of them for Longdon who epitomizes the old world charm of values.
This book is not the critics favorite, but still holds a charm of its own. It presents the effect of a disruptive forces on the mind of a growing child who ultimately craves stability. Nanda is more mature than her years and therefore can reject the society of party animals. But Henry James does not guarantee a happy ending and definitely does not say how her life would pan out with the influence of her parents. A real thinking family's book -definitely!!

The Bostonians (published in 1886) - A novel by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
This politically charged novel explores the burning issues of the feminist movement, namely independence, suffrage and the parity in relationships. Even now women are confronted to make a choice between personal and professional relationships and many do not find fulfillment in life because of the choice they are forced to make.
Basil Ransom is a no-nonsense civil war veteran and a lawyer from the south for whom women and independence do not go together. He spends some time with his cousin Olive Chancellor, a fiery feminist and political opponent. He does not subscribe to her values and opinions about suffrage and feminism. Olive sees in him a remnant of the past who has to be redeemed and takes him along to hear a lecture from a famous speaker Verona Tarrant.



Verona, a daughter of the mesmeric healer is a prodigious talent, whose mesmeric voice catches the audience. Olive sees this talent which can be used for her movement and gets her to move in with her, and becomes her mentor, guide and coach. For Verona's parents she is a goldmine whom can be used for monetary reasons. Basil goes for the lecture and falls for Verona's beauty. He does not care two hoots for her opinions and personal choices, and pursues her insistently. Olive is much dismayed by Basil's actions and guards her charge with vehemence. But to her chagrin Verona reciprocates Basil's attentions and chooses personal happiness to political statements. Basil and Verona elope much to the discomfiture of Olive and other political activists.
This book revolves around the three characters, Basil, Verona and Olive with others merely being benign spectators. Olive's fiery feminist views and noble intentions is over shadowed by her usage of Verona for personal reasons. Verona is the beauteous lady who has to make the choice between love and opinions and ends up between the devil and the deep sea. She has to leave her freedom and personality for a man and happiness of having a home. Her tears are not her last ones, Henry James assures us, as she sacrifices her beliefs in the altar of love. Doesn't this echo the predicament of todays career women who still has to choose between personal fulfillment and advancement in life?
The echoes of the Bostonians are very real even today and the ultimate redemption willl come only if women need not be caricature's of a dragon career lady or the plain homemaker. The freedom of choice and fulfillment would be the ultimate nirvana for the feminist movement. Till then the tears will not be th last one to fall.

The Portrait of a Lady (published in 1881) - written by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
"The portrait of a Lady" gives the insight in to the life of Isabelle who wants to live by her own destiny and is hampered by her choices in life. Isabelle Archer is a penniless orphan who is taken in by her aunt Lydia Touchett. Touchett's are the wealthy of the New York strata and consists of the patriarch Touchett, a rich banker, Lydia his wife and their tubercular son Ralph. Ralph is a good natured young fellow and intervenes with his dad to make a provision for Isabelle in his will. As Mr. Touchett dies Isabelle comes in to her inheritance and becomes a wealthy women. While in New York she gets two marriage proposals, one by Casper Goodwood and another from Lord Warburton. Isabelle rejects them both and leaves with her aunt to Europe to see the world.



She meets Madam Merle and is taken up by the womans free spirit and aspires to have her bohemian outlook. Merle introduces her to Gilbert Osmond and he floors Isabelle with his good tastes and behavior. Isabelle marries Osmond and becomes a mother to his daughter Pansy. But after the marriage, Isabelle comes to know the horrific truth that Osmond had married her for her money. She also comes to know that Madam Merle is in fact Pansy's mother and she and Osmond had schemed to entrap her in the marriage.
Isabelle learns that her cousin Ralph is on his death bed and plans to reach him. Osmond forbids her journey to the States. But after pondering over the repercussions, Isabelle travels to the states to be with Ralph till his dying day. She again encounters Casper Goodwood who propose to her again. But Isabelle's sense of responsibility makes her turn him down again, and she returns to Osmond and Pansy in Europe.
This novel also deals with James's pet themes of the clashes between the European and American sensibilities. This novels also details the challenges faces by young Isabelle, about personal freedom, sexuality and sense of responsibility. I feel a little impatient with Isabelle when she turns down personal happiness for a warped feeling of responsibility to a man who has wronged her. But this novel gives us the morals and values prevalent in that bygone era where responsibility was deemed over happiness. Some parts of the novel are a bit tedious and meanders a lot. But all together a wonderful book.

Daisy Miller (published in 1878) - A classic written by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City into a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Daisy Miller is a novella written by Henry James and presents the life of a pleasant coquette whose devil-may-care attitude may have been a shock to the strict Victorian society of the 18th century. This novel appeared in the Atlantic monthly in a serialized version and is treated as one of James's celebrated work.



Daisy Miller is a girl blooming to becoming a women and understanding men and the world. Her brother, Randolph Miller and herself move through Europe during their holidays. Randolph considers his hometown New York superior to others in all respects, but Daisy is eager for new experiences and immerses herself in the European culture. She meets the sophisticated Winterbourne who is taking a vacation from his studies.
Daisy like a spring flower is sprightly, attractive and lovely, and contrasts with Winterbourne's cold, dour reserve along with his class consciousness. His snobbish Aunt considers Daisy beneath her and forbids her acquaintance. Winterbourne considers Daisy's devil's may-care attitude outrageous and also disapproves of her flirtatiousness. But there is something about Daisy that Winterbourne cannot resist and he follows her to her final destination in Rome. They meet unexpectedly in Mrs. Walker's parlour. Daisy is totally unconcerned about local prejudices against American culture and becomes friends with everybody. Winterbourne understands her innocence and tries to extricate her from this predicament.
As their sojourn comes to an end Winterbourne sees Daisy with Giovanni at the Roman Colosseum. He warns her of the consequences of being a flirt, but Daisy does not care. But she soon contracts the “Roman Fever and dies shortly afterwards.
This book is full of symbolism about the culture clashes between the new order and the old world. Americans with their brashness and easy going nature perfectly contrast the class conscious monolithic European way of life. This war of the two worlds is epitomized in Daisy's attitude and Winterbourne's reserve. If you are a Henry James's fan Daisy Miller may soon pin you down with its multicolor canvas and people. Everybody stands out vividly in their mannerism and sense of values. For the uninitiated it is a bit tedious towards the middle, but still I would suggest you to keep at it as it is worth your while.

The Europeans by Henry James (published in 1878) - A short comedy novel

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City to a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits as opposed to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The Europeans is the story of a brother and sister duo who are natural born Americans but are brought up in Europe. The two protagonists are Eugenia Munster and Felix Young, Americans who spend their formative years moving around different European capitals. Eugenia's sensibilities are essentially European and has contracted a morganatic marriage with Prince Adolf of Silberstadt-Schreckenstein, the younger brother of the reigning prince. Her husbands family urge him to dissolve the marriage and Eugenia travel to Boston with Felix. They stay with their uncle Wentworth, who has a son Clifford and daughters, Gertrude and Charlotte.
Felix is immediately captivated by the charming quaint Wentworth's and being an artist offers to make a portrait of Gertrude. Gertrude is engaged to marry Brand, a pastor for whom she can never have any feelings. She plans to go through the wedding just to please her father. Gertrude's sister Charlotte loves Brand but hides it for the same reason. This family has friends, the Actons who are the nouveau rich with Robert Acton being the inheritor of the monetary benefits. He has a invalid mother and a simple sister Lizzie. The Wentworth's are strictly puritanical and they spent a lot of time with the Actons.



Eugenia feels bored among these puritanical society, but is drawn out by Robert Acton. Robert starts falling for Eugenia and she tells him about her intentions to divorce the prince. Felix reprimands Gertrude for being puritanical and tells her that he loves her. Mr. Wentworth informs Felix that Clifford has been expelled from Harvard for improper behavior and Felix offers to tie him up with Eugenia. Soon Robert Acton and Clifford come clean of their intentions with Clifford announcing his love for Lizzie. Brand comes to know about Gertrude's love for Felix and offers to marry them both
Soon all the loose ends are tied up. Brand realizes Charlotte's love and marries her and Gertrude ties the knot with Felix. Clifford and Lizzie come together too. Eugenia in turn spurns Robert and sail to Europe leaving Robert heart broken. But he meets somebody nice after a year and starts life anew.
This book reminds me about Jane Austen's tangle of characters. But in a quirky departure, there are no tall dark handsome mysterious stranger's in Henry James's book. Eugenia is the strong lady who is ahead of time's and through her the author deftly denounces the puritan values of America. He presents a lady with a mind of her own with out being a slave to other's and this European Bohemian independence is celebrated.
A good book and a pleasant read.

Confidence (released in 1879) - Written by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City to a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits as opposed to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Confidence is a novel by Henry James which details the romantic interludes of various characters ultimately moving towards a happily ever after ending. This novel first arrived as a serial in the Scribners Monthly and is one of the entertaining novels of Henry James. In this fast paced novel the narrator presents the facts through the window of Bernard Longueville who is an artist by profession.



He is friends with the self proclaimed scientist Gordon Wright who is considered as a genius by Bernard. Bernard meets Angela Vivian and her mother, and soon considers Angela as a coquettish, mysterious airhead. Gordon Wright feels that he loves Angela and even Angela's mother also is in favor of their union. Bernard does not consider this a very suitable match and talks Gordon out of it.
Gordon soon marries Blanche, a colorless personality who dotes on him. Gordon is soon disillusioned and starts to dream about other women. A miscommunication leads Blanche to believe that he is having an affair and this flounders the marriage even more. With a strained marriage Gordon flees to a French beach resort.
Bernard on the other hand believes that he is above love and thinks nothing of Angela. A chance meeting he understands that he was always in love with her. Angela's mystique and allure inflames him. Angela is also taken in by Bernard and soon both are engaged to marry but Gordon arrival complicates matter. Gordon feels that he still loves Angela and begs her to take him back renouncing Bernard. But Angela feels that his love is purely for the outward appearance. She acts like she is renouncing Bernard to give Gordon a chance to win her back. In this process she subtly points out that he is really in love with Blanche and is actually trying to see her through tinted eyes. Gordon realizes his mistake and goes back to Blanche and Angela again steps in to clear the misunderstanding clouding Blanche's mind.
Angela and Bernard also get married and all live happily ever after. This fun novel is one of the rare happy ending devised by Henry James. The relationships and complex subplots and the happy ending is entirely believable and entertaining. A must read for anybody who has loved in his life.

Washington Square (published in 1880) - Originally published as a short story by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City in to a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Washington Square is a tragi-comedy by Henry James which tells the relationships and conflicts between a father and his dutiful daughter. This short novel appeared as a monthly piece in the Corn-hill Magazine and Harper's New Monthly Magazine.
Dr. Austin Sloper is a widower who resents his plain daughter Catherine and still mourns the death of his wife and a brilliant son. He considers Catherine to be a dull and boring personality devoid of any personality. His house is maintained by his sister, widowed Lavinia Penniman who is a hardcore romanticist. She is a brash old thing who pokes her nose in to other's affairs.



Catherine meets Morris Townsend, a penniless gold digger who sweeps her off her feet. Townsend woos her and proposes marriage. Mrs. Penniman who loves romance and melodrama encourages and aides Townsend's actions. But Dr. Sloper sees through him and forbids Catherine to have any relationship with him. Townsend moves back to live with his sister and Sloper takes his daughter away.
Catherine, for all her waify ways has an iron will and she decides that she wouldn't not throw away her love on mere suspicion. She goes with her father on a twelve month grand tour of Europe. All through the journey Sloper mentions Townsend only twice signaling his contempt. His threat to disown Cathrine also does not have any effect on the girl.
On the final leg of the journey Slopper broaches the subject of Morris Townsend and Catherine firmly refuses to give him up. Her loyalty enrages him and he refers her derogatorily as a “pig fattened for slaughter”. This is the last straw for Catherine who has put up with his contemptuous behavior and she distances herself away from her father.
Upon her returns Catherine convinces Townsend about her loyalty and love, but he breaks off the relationship when he discovers that she has been cut off from Sloper's money. This breaks Catherine's heart which would never mend again. She rejects suitors and lovers as the injury despairs her soul. Dr. Sloper passes away with out leaving her all the money for the fear of Townsend making an appearance again. His suspicions are proved correct. Townsend indeed makes a return after a long time, smelling money. He tries to rekindle the relationship. But Catherine sees through his ploy and refuse to be led down the garden path again. At the end of the novel she picks up her life and resolves to live it as it unravels.
This novel was not very much liked by James and he had fought its inclusion in the New York Edition of his work. But it still proves one of Henry James's popular novels. Its breezy romance and the ever suffering heroine does evoke sympathy. It has all the ingredient of a tragic love story which brings a lump to your heart. Read it for its poignancy.

Roderick Hudson (first serialized in 1875) - Written and later revised by Henry James

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City in to a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Roderick Hudson is a novel where Henry James found his niche in literature. He wrote about the complexities of human relationships and the proclivities of American and European culture. Rowland Mallet is a wealthy man and an art connoisseur who sees the sculpture of Roderick Hudson and realizes that he is a gifted artist. He offers to fund his travel through Italy so as to improve his artistic talents. Mallet meets Roderick's Mother and Cousin Mary Hudson with whom he falls completely in love. As he is about to confess his feelings Roderick reveals to him that Mary has accepted hid proposal for marriage. Mallet suppresses his feelings and moves to Italy.



In Italy Roderick flourishes as an original talent but his bad behavior and tendency to gamble makes him a despised man. Mallet meanwhile dates an upcoming artist Augusta Blanchard to try and forget Mary. Roderick on the other hand finds a scintillating beauty Christina who is a gold digger. Roderick is swept off his feet and manages to win her approval to sculpt her bust. Soon his interactions with Christina increases and his infatuation drives him to insanity. Mallet tries to intervene for Mary's sake and informs him that Christina is engaged to a rich Neapolitan Prince. He also informs Christina about Mary and in-spite of his mental duress brings in Mrs. Hudson and Mary to try and save Roderick.
But Roderick's flip flop continues as he fails to complete his assignments. Christina has him in her snares and toys with his emotions. She even berates Mary at a party and Mary treats her as a fake. Rowland advises Christina to stay away from Roderick as she has married the Prince. In the meantime debts have mounted for Roderick who is unable to undertake any work. His mother and Mary ask him move back home, but Mallet asks them to move to Switzerland so that he can be close to Mary. Roderick in the mean time says that he is giving up on Mary and a chance meeting with Christina fans his desire. He begs money from mallet to join Christina in Interlaken in-spite of her married status.
Roderick dies in a storm on the way to Interlaken and a grief-stricken Mary and his Mother return home. Mallet too follows them and hope for a better day. A very complex novel and a a superb narration which makes you feel the emotions of the protagonist in your midst. A must read for all classic lovers.

Watch and Ward (published in 1878) - Written by Henry James (later disowned by him)

Henry James was one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century and his works are considered mini masterpieces of the time. He was born in New York City to a wealthy and intellectual family. Young James was tutored in the many learning centers of Europe and also studied at the Harvard Law School for some time. But he liked his literary pursuits to the study of law. James preferred living in Europe than in America and even renounced his American Citizenship for its refusal to enter in to World War I. He was a regular contributor to literary magazines and started his first novel “Watch and Ward” in his early twenties. His masterpieces like “Daisy Miller” and “Portrait of a Lady” quickly followed. His protagonist are complex individuals battling personal and provincial prejudices and many a time bring about the complexities of American and European lives. Henry James died at the age of 65 and his ashes are interred at Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Watch and Ward is one of Henry James's first literary works and his amateur workmanship comes to the open. He started on this novel while traveling through Venice and Paris. This novel first appeared in the Atlantic journal as a monthly piece and was published as a novel later. It is a pretty weird tale for today's times the protagonist adopting a girl to be his wife in future.
Roger Lawrence is a wealthy man of means who goes to propose to Miss Miller and finds that she is engaged to another. He tells her that he would never marry if he cannot possess her. As he walks in this wretched frame of mind a gentleman begs him for hundred dollars and a taken aback Richard offers him ten dollars. This infuriates the man and Richard slips off pocketing the note.



Later in the hotel he finds that the same man has committed suicide leaving behind a waif of twelve years. Thus he takes in the pretty girl Nora who is about twelve to his care and entrusts her to Mrs Keith for the motherly care. Mrs Keith assures him that Nora will return as a jewel whom he wouldn't even recognize. Nora begins her education and becomes an accomplished lady in music, painting and all the crafts. Upon her return, Nora is seen as the perfect lady with great beauty and gifts. Roger falls in love with her completely but does not tell her. Nora on her part does not have feelings except that of a friend or sister.
Nora is soon courted by two men, a George Fenton who is a good-looking rascal without a penny to his name. He is looking at innovative ways to make a quick buck and tries to ensnare Nora for the hold she has on Roger. He shrewdly interprets Rogers feeling and also his money. Hubert Lawrence is Roger's cousin and is a intellectual minister and Nora is attracted to his so called intelligence. After a lot of adventure's with the above men Nora comes to realize that Roger too loves her. The whole idea initially repulses her and she flies to New York city to Fenton. Fenton treats her as a means to serve his ends to extort money from Roger. Nora comes to know his devious ways and flees to Hubert. There she sees Hubert engaged to Amy who assails her presence. A much chastened Nora flees and finds Roger looking for her. She discovers her love for him and they get married.
I have found the premise pretty weird and the relationship bizarre. Even the sexed up dialogues sounds very funny for this day and age. Even James did not think highly of his first novel and had disowned it.

Captains Courageous (published in 1897) - Written by Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling, a Nobel laureate was born in India to a vivacious Alice Kipling and sculptor Painter, John Kipling. His works range from poems, to children's books. Rudyard was a English language writer whose prose is peppered with colloquial usage and languages mainly from India which opens a window to the prevailing culture and customs of the time. His children's stories are the most endured classics of the time and his short stories are the most sought after. Many of his works are deemed to be controversial as the time progressed. Rudyard Kipling was the product of an imperial India where imperialism under Queen Victoria was at its heights. His poems like White Mans burden are often sited as a clarion call for the imperialist and has been criticized by subsequent humanist. But as one of the youngest Nobel Prize recipient for English Language, the place for Kipling in human history cannot be discounted and his prose and poems enthuse millions even today. Kipling died in 1936 in London and was buried in Westminster Abbey.
This is one of my favorite childhood books which hold a fascination even today. This coming of age story of a rich millionaire brat has been rehashed in countless movies and novels, but nothing comes near Kipling's rendition.



Harvey Cheyene is a rich kid whose father is interested in his millions and mother who has a weak will and nerves. Harvey is a spoilt brat with no concerns for fellow men and is fully immersed in his way of life as a party animal, a la Paris Hilton. At the beginning of the story, Harvey is on a cruise, on one of his father's innumerable ships. The ocean liner is crossing the grand banks cutting through the thick of fog and Harvey's more concern is about the noise from the squawking fishing vessels near by. His disconnect with his surroundings is evident from his statement "You can hear the fish-boats squawking all around us. Wouldn't it be great if we ran one down!".
So the self centered Harvey is tricked in to smoking a oily Cigar and as he clears air on the deck, a grand wave washes him overboard. The next thing he remembers is waking up on a tone of fish with a broad back man on a blue jersey who introduces himself as Manuelo. Harvey is rescued by a schooner “We're Here of Gloucester” captained by Disko Troop. Troop's son Dan keeps vigil while Harvey sleeps of his fatigue. True to his spoilt nature, Harvey demands to be taken back to New York and tells them “what a rich boy he is” and the rich haul they can have from his father. Troop refuses to believe his yarn and offers him a job on the schooner in lieu of his keep. Thus Harvey begins his life as a fisherman, gutting the fish with others.
Kipling very gamely describes the back breaking work of a fishing trawler at sea for months. He through Harvey's lessons tells how fish is caught, gutted and stored for sale. Harvey along with Dan, Manuel, Penn, Long Jack, Old Salters, Tom Platt and Disko troop pitches, cuts and salts the fish and the millionaire boy has to get on with life. Soon he gets the hang of it and takes pride in his new life. Deep friendship is formed with Dan during their watches aboard the schooner and Harvey from a spoilt pale white boy turns to a clear eyed, strong level headed creature who respects even the smallest of boats.
When Mom and Dad catch up with him, they are surprised by the transformation and Harvey has a heart to heart talk with his Dad. Harvey leaves with a promise of getting Dan a place as mate in his shipping company and a promise to live life with respect. Respect is what Harvey learns aboard the humble schooner and the reader sees that in his parting words “Great ships these of my father's? Oh yes," But back in Gloucester are the able little vessels. The We're Here, she's one. I owe a heap to her-to her and her crew."
And we owe Kipling our gratitude for a swell tale of a boy who turns out to be the best of men.

Kim (Published in 1901) - Written by Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling, a Nobel laureate was born in India to a vivacious Alice Kipling and sculptor Painter, John Kipling. His works range from poems, to children's books. Rudyard was a English language writer whose prose is peppered with colloquial usage and languages mainly from India which opens a window to the prevailing culture and customs of the time. His children's stories are the most endured classics of the time and his short stories are the most sought after. Many of his works are deemed to be controversial as the time progressed. Rudyard Kipling was the product of an imperial India where imperialism under Queen Victoria was at its heights. His poems like White Mans burden are often cited as a clarion call for the imperialist and has been criticized by subsequent humanist. But as the youngest Nobel Prize recipient for English Literature, the place for Kipling in human history cannot be discounted and his prose and poems enthuse millions even today. Kipling died in 1936 in London and was buried in Westminster Abbey.
Kim is one of the classics of the twentieth century and all of Kipling's angst is thrown in to the story of an orphan who reaches self awareness. Kim is Kimball O'Hara, son of a Irish soldier and a poor white mother whose is destined to grow up as a vagabond on the streets of Lahore. He is the poorest of the poor, a waif fending for himself and Kipling himself writes that he looks like any other Indian urchin. All the sense of whiteness in him is obscured by the indian-ness of the environment.



But Kim is street smart, savvy and courageous with an inquisitive and intelligent mind. He works for Mahbub Ali who really is a British spy in Lahore. Kim befriends a Tibetan Monk, Teshoo Lama who reaches Lahore looking for Buddhist Relics. He is looking for the River of Arrow supposed to have sprung from the arrow of Buddha and can cleanse all the sins. Kim is fascinated by the Lama and agrees to become his Chela or disciple. So the wanderings of Kim begin and they reach Benares and the foothills of the Himalaya's in search of the river. Kim is captured by a group of British Soldiers whose flag depicts a Red Bull on a green field. This fulfills the prophesy ringing in Kim's mind about “nine-hundred first-class devils, whose God was a Red Bull on a green field”. Anyway, initially thought as spies the chaplains of the regiment ascertain his identity from his papers and tell him that they knew his father. They take it upon themselves to make a white man of him. But Kim hates the sense of superiority and the nastiness present in the British soldiers. His deliverance arrives in the form of Colonel Creighton who befriends him and takes him under his wings for training as a spy. Soon Kim is above all the soldiers and is inducted in to the secret service.
He goes with the Lama, but as an undercover agent to the Himalaya's ostensibly to look for the river of arrow. Here he finds the Russian and other enemy spies plotting against the empire. Here Kim is forced to fight as the Russians try to harm the Lama. In the melee he obtains the secret papers and with the help of the natives manage to rescue themselves to the plains. He and the Lama are nursed to health by a native woman and Kim delivers the papers. Teshoo Lama is aghast about the violent streak innate in him and leaves to seek the ultimate path of renunciation. Kim also ponders his life and becomes of aware of his existence. In the end we find Kim as Kim, not needing any father figure, or mother to stand on his own. He just says “I am Kim” nothing less or more a person.
Kim is Rudyard Kipling's stellar works. His views on Buddhism, imperialism and nuances of native culture come through in this book. He very stoically supports the British way of life and supports her claim of Indian territory. But I feel we see a Kipling who understands native culture and abhors the white man who considers “nine tenth of the earth heathen”. His dislike of strict discipline and intense religious pontification comes through in Kim. A good read anyways.

The Light that Failed (published in 1890) - Written by Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling, a Nobel laureate was born in India to a vivacious Alice Kipling and sculptor Painter, John Kipling. His works range from poems, to children's books. Rudyard was a English language writer whose prose is peppered with colloquial usage and languages mainly from India which opens a window to the prevailing culture and customs of the time. His children's stories are the most endured classics of the time and his short stories are the most sought after. Many of his works are deemed to be controversial as the time progressed. Rudyard Kipling was the product of an imperial India where imperialism under Queen Victoria was at its heights. His poems like White Mans burden are often sited as a clarion call for the imperialist and has been criticized by subsequent humanists. But as an youngest Nobel Prize recipient for English Language, the place for Kipling in human history cannot be discounted and his prose and poems enthuse millions even today.
This novel was written when Rudyard returned to London after a successful stint in India with the Civil and Military Gazette. It is about a idealistic journalist and painter who looses his eyesight. The female protagonist Maisie is modeled on Florence Gerrard, his sister's fellow boarder for whom Kipling nursed a secret feeling.



Dick Heldar is a painter who is abused by his stepmother and goes wandering in the world taking all good and bad things in his stride. He has nursed a secret feeling for his childhood friend Maisie who is impenetrable as he is and maybe less talented. But she gives her whole and soul for her work. Dick meets Torpenshaw who is a special correspondent with a news syndicate. He is employed to cover the Sudan expedition for a pittance. He leaves anyway and survives the assignment with serious eye injuries.
Dick and Torpenshaw return to London and eke out a living by selling portraits. Dick soon realizes that his eye sight is soon fading and wants to draw an ultimate masterpiece. So he starts on “Melancholia” which is "the likeness of of a woman who had known all the sorrow in the world and was laughing at it”. He is also frustrated by his pursuit of Maisie who does not return his love.
Soon he starts his painting with Bessie, a waif whom Torpenshaw has befriended. But he drives Bessie to hysteria with his harsh ways to get the expressions right. Dick manages to finish his masterpiece in-spite of his bad eyes. He invites Maisie to view his masterpiece, but Bessie out of revenge blots out the painting. Maisie tries to keep the ruining a secret, but Bessie informs him anyway. A distraught Dick travels back to Sudan and insists on covering the war. Torpenshaw mounts him on a horse out of pity and he rides out only to be shot.
A melancholy novel which is very unlike Rudyard Kipling's upbeat style. But it shows his real life experiences in his school and foster parents in London. But Dick Heldar's motto in life to take triumph and disaster with equanimity reflects Kipling's philosophy too.

The Jungle book (published in 1894) - A collection of stories by Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling, a Nobel laureate was born in India to a vivacious Alice Kipling and sculptor Painter, John Kipling. His works range from poems, to children's books. Rudyard was a English language writer whose prose is peppered with colloquial usage and languages mainly from India which opens a window to the prevailing culture and customs of the time. His children's stories are the most endured classics of the time and his short stories are the most sought after. Many of his works are deemed to be controversial as the time progressed. Rudyard Kipling was the product of an imperial India where imperialism under Queen Victoria was at its heights. His poems like White Mans burden are often sited as a clarion call for the imperialist and has been criticized by subsequent humanists. But as an youngest Nobel Prize recipient for English Language, the place for Kipling in human history cannot be discounted and his prose and poems enthuse millions even today.
Jungle book is a collection of seven stories featuring anthropomorphic animals and humans in a very Indian setting. These stories may have morals and symbolism but the foremost idea is to entertain and thus equating them with the Aesop fables are futile. This book has gone in to the public domain and are a part of the Project Gutenberg for viewing.



For me the first mention of Jungle book brings to mind the cherished memory of Mowgli the man cub brought up by the wolves. Mowgli is found by a she-wolf who nurses the baby along with her cubs. He grows up with the pack along with friends like Bagheera, the panther and Baloo, the Bear and Kaa, the python. He has his wolf brothers and the leader of the pack Akela to fight for him. This story chronicles the life of Mowgli and his fight with his arch enemy, Sher Khan, the Tiger. Devious devices and petty jealousies drive Mowgli to the human settlement where he is taken care of by Messua and her husband. But Mowgli can never be away from the jungle and he comes back. He kills Sher Khan, reunites with his brothers and joins the pack as a full fledged contributing member. The chronicles of Mowgli is told through 3 stories namely, “Mowgli's Brothers”, “Kaa's Hunting” and “Tiger, Tiger”. Another unique feature of Kipling's jungle book is that each story is followed by a series of couplets which may be parodies or just sing along verses.
Followed by Mowgli's three tales, Kipling presents “White Seal” where the readers are taken to the frigid climes of the Bering sea where seals are hunted indiscriminately. He tells the story of Kottick a furry white seal who takes upon himself to lead his family to a safe haven with out hunters. In “Toomai of the elephants” Rudyard Kipling tells about a boy who wants to be an elephant handler and is informed about the myth of the Elephant dance. A magical night with the elephants gets Toomai his night to remember and the reader a tale never to forget. Then comes the “Servants of the Queen” where a British officer eavesdrop the conversation between the camp animals in the night gaining more insights about his own life and his friends.
Btu my favorite is “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi”, the story of a spunky mongoose who is adopted by a genteel Anglican family. He protects the family against the vicious cobra's Nag and Nagina. The effervescent tale about the snakes, their family, their children and Rikki's friends Darzee the bird all come together in a memorable way.
All these charming stories may enthrall children, but these are for adults too, because adults are the ones who need more humanism in their life. Where can you learn to be a better human but from our diverse animal life.

The Miracle (published in 1984) - Written by Irving Wallace

Irving Wallace was born in Chicago, to Jewish parents,Bessie and Alexander Wallace Who had emigrated from Russia. He completed his studies in California and started out as a journalist at a tender age of 15. He studied creative writing at the Williams Institute in Berkley and from the mid-30s he worked as a free-lance correspondent. In 1941 he married Sylvia Kahn; they had two children. Irving Wallace served in the air force during world war two and later collaborated in several movies as a writer. His first book "Sins of Peter Fleming" did not attract much attention. But his second book influenced by the Kinsey report was a best seller. He has been a prolific churner of best sellers and his books have been adapted as major movies. He died on June 29, 1990.
A Miracle as defined by the oxford dictionary is an occurrence through faith which has no scientific proof or rational explanation. Wallace tries to weave a tale of intrigue, faith and love around the old legend of the Lady of Lourdes.
Lady of Lourdes is the Virgin Mary who had appeared to the shepherd girl Bernadette on the slopes of Lourdes. Bernadette sees the vision of our Lady and is subjected to intense scrutiny by the world and the faithful visit the grotto where the Lady had appeared in search of a miracle. It is said that the waters of the Grotto have healing powers and millions flock to Lourdes during the pilgrimage season celebrating the arrival of Our Lady before Bernadette.



So the novel opens with a scroll presented by Bernadette being opened by the Vatican council. According to this the Virgin Mary will again appear in Lourdes during the 8 day feast period. AS the church makes this information public millions flock to Lourdes for the miracle. Wallace centers the tale around five character's, principally women who travel to Lourdes for the Lady.
Sergei Tikhanov is a soviet official who suffers from muscular dystrophy and travels to Lourdes incognito as the communist party does not accept any religion. He hopes to get a cure and hires a young guide Gisele Dupree as an interpretor. Gisele has an agenda of her own and is looking for an avenue to get back in to the United Nations favored circle and get her job back. Peter Clayton, an young American is suffering from cancer and reaches Lourdes after canceling his treatments with a skeptical fiancée, Amanda in tow.
Amanda is a no non sense psychologist who does not believe in miracles. She has able company in Liz Finch, a hard nosed journalist who wants to debunk the miracle theory. She teams up with Amanda to expose the racket of Lourdes. Beautiful Natalie Rinaldi is stricken by a mysterious disease which has made her blind and she fervently believes that Virgin Mary will restore her sight in Lourdes. The sweet English woman Edith Moore is a poster girl for the Grotto as she has been cured of her cancer due to the intercession of Mother Mary. But she is a reluctant participant in this publicity which is commercially exploited by husband Roger. Basque terrorist Mikel Hurtado wants to blow up the shrine for his political beliefs and reaches Lourdes with the sole intention of destruction.
As the novel progresses you find the question of Faith is the touchstone, with the cure possible for Natalie Rinaldi where she finds sight and love from Hurtado who denounces the violence. But for Edith and Clayton the cure does not come and they look for medicine. For Gisele death follows and Tikhanov becomes the murderer. Wallace weaves the most splendid story with no preaching and is one of my favorite books in his collection. Read it and enjoy.