A Little World By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)
In A Little World, George Manville Fenn invites readers into a captivating adventure that intricately blends elements of mystery, exploration, and coming-of-age. Set against a backdrop of the vast and untamed Australian Outback, this enthralling tale introduces us to a cast of diverse and vividly crafted characters, each bound by their own unique desires and ambitions. The story centers around Tom Denby, a courageous and resourceful young man who finds himself thrust into a daunting journey after a series of unfortunate events. As he embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind a family secret, Tom encounters an array of formidable challenges that test his resilience and fortitude. From unpredictable natural elements to treacherous encounters with outlaws, the obstacles he faces are both thrilling and unpredictable, leaving readers on the edge of their seats. One of the standout aspects of this novel is Fenn's masterful ability to transport readers into the heart of the Outback. Through vivid and detailed descriptions, readers can almost feel the blistering heat, smell the arid air, and hear the distinct sounds of the wilderness. Fenn's rich imagery creates a palpable sense of place, immersing readers into the rugged, untamed beauty of the Australian landscape. Furthermore, A Little World brilliantly explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself. As Tom journeys further into the Outback, he encounters a diverse cast of characters who each harbor their own dreams and demons. Through their interactions, Fenn deftly delves into the complexities of human nature, showcasing the profound impact that relationships can have on personal growth and identity. Another notable aspect of this book is Fenn's deft pacing, which keeps readers engrossed from beginning to end. The narrative unfolds at a steady and engaging rhythm, filled with unexpected twists and turns that seamlessly intertwine with the overarching mystery. Fenn's skillful use of suspense and tension ensures that readers are consistently invested in the outcome, eagerly flipping through the pages to unravel the secrets that lie hidden in the Outback's vast expanse. However, despite its many strengths, A Little World does suffer from some minor shortcomings. The character development, while generally strong, occasionally feels somewhat shallow, leaving readers longing for a deeper exploration of certain individuals' motivations and backstories. Additionally, a few plot points feel slightly contrived and convenient, requiring some suspension of disbelief. Overall, A Little World is a captivating and enjoyable read that will transport readers on a thrilling journey through the heart of the Australian Outback. Filled with adventure, mystery, and self-discovery, George Manville Fenn's novel is a testament to the enduring power of resilience and the indomitable spirit of the human soul. First Page: Volume 1, Chapter I. DUPLEX STREET. "Some people are such fools!" said Richard Pellet; and, if public judgment was right, he knew what a fool was as well as any man in the great city of London. He was a big man was Richard Pellet, Esq., C.C., shipper, of Austin Friars, and known among city men as "the six hundred pounder;" and he knew a fool when he saw one. But whether at his office in the city, or down at his place at Norwood, "his little place at Norwood," where he had "a morsel of garden" and "a bit of glass," and grew pine and melon, peach and grape, and had a fat butler in black, and a staff of servants in drab, trimmed with yellow coach lace, no matter where Richard Pellet might be, he could always see in his mind's eye the greatest fool that ever breathed the man whom he was always mentally abusing to wit, his brother Jared. But Jared Pellet always was a fool so his brother said; and he was continually filling the foolish cup of his iniquitous folly fuller and more full. He was a fool to be tyrannised over by his brother when a boy, and to take all the punishment that should have fallen to Richard's share; he was a fool to marry Lizzie Willis, who had not a penny, when Richard would have given his ears to stand in his shoes; he was a fool for being happy loved and loving; he was a fool to have such a large family; he was a fool for being a poor struggling man, while his brother was so rich; in short, taking Richard Pellet's opinion which must have been correct, seeing how wealthy, and stout, and clean shaven, and respected he was there was not a bigger fool upon the face of the earth! Just as if it was likely that a man could get a living in Clerkenwell by mending musical instruments in so unmusical a place; doctoring consumptive harmoniums; strengthening short winded concertinas; re buffing a set of hammers, or tuning pianos and putting in new strings at one shilling each... Continue reading book >>

A Little World By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)

In A Little World, George Manville Fenn invites readers into a captivating adventure that intricately blends elements of mystery, exploration, and coming-of-age. Set against a backdrop of the vast and untamed Australian Outback, this enthralling tale introduces us to a cast of diverse and vividly crafted characters, each bound by their own unique desires and ambitions.

The story centers around Tom Denby, a courageous and resourceful young man who finds himself thrust into a daunting journey after a series of unfortunate events. As he embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind a family secret, Tom encounters an array of formidable challenges that test his resilience and fortitude. From unpredictable natural elements to treacherous encounters with outlaws, the obstacles he faces are both thrilling and unpredictable, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.

One of the standout aspects of this novel is Fenn's masterful ability to transport readers into the heart of the Outback. Through vivid and detailed descriptions, readers can almost feel the blistering heat, smell the arid air, and hear the distinct sounds of the wilderness. Fenn's rich imagery creates a palpable sense of place, immersing readers into the rugged, untamed beauty of the Australian landscape.

Furthermore, A Little World brilliantly explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself. As Tom journeys further into the Outback, he encounters a diverse cast of characters who each harbor their own dreams and demons. Through their interactions, Fenn deftly delves into the complexities of human nature, showcasing the profound impact that relationships can have on personal growth and identity.

Another notable aspect of this book is Fenn's deft pacing, which keeps readers engrossed from beginning to end. The narrative unfolds at a steady and engaging rhythm, filled with unexpected twists and turns that seamlessly intertwine with the overarching mystery. Fenn's skillful use of suspense and tension ensures that readers are consistently invested in the outcome, eagerly flipping through the pages to unravel the secrets that lie hidden in the Outback's vast expanse.

However, despite its many strengths, A Little World does suffer from some minor shortcomings. The character development, while generally strong, occasionally feels somewhat shallow, leaving readers longing for a deeper exploration of certain individuals' motivations and backstories. Additionally, a few plot points feel slightly contrived and convenient, requiring some suspension of disbelief.

Overall, A Little World is a captivating and enjoyable read that will transport readers on a thrilling journey through the heart of the Australian Outback. Filled with adventure, mystery, and self-discovery, George Manville Fenn's novel is a testament to the enduring power of resilience and the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

First Page:

Volume 1, Chapter I.

DUPLEX STREET.

"Some people are such fools!" said Richard Pellet; and, if public judgment was right, he knew what a fool was as well as any man in the great city of London. He was a big man was Richard Pellet, Esq., C.C., shipper, of Austin Friars, and known among city men as "the six hundred pounder;" and he knew a fool when he saw one. But whether at his office in the city, or down at his place at Norwood, "his little place at Norwood," where he had "a morsel of garden" and "a bit of glass," and grew pine and melon, peach and grape, and had a fat butler in black, and a staff of servants in drab, trimmed with yellow coach lace, no matter where Richard Pellet might be, he could always see in his mind's eye the greatest fool that ever breathed the man whom he was always mentally abusing to wit, his brother Jared.

But Jared Pellet always was a fool so his brother said; and he was continually filling the foolish cup of his iniquitous folly fuller and more full. He was a fool to be tyrannised over by his brother when a boy, and to take all the punishment that should have fallen to Richard's share; he was a fool to marry Lizzie Willis, who had not a penny, when Richard would have given his ears to stand in his shoes; he was a fool for being happy loved and loving; he was a fool to have such a large family; he was a fool for being a poor struggling man, while his brother was so rich; in short, taking Richard Pellet's opinion which must have been correct, seeing how wealthy, and stout, and clean shaven, and respected he was there was not a bigger fool upon the face of the earth!

Just as if it was likely that a man could get a living in Clerkenwell by mending musical instruments in so unmusical a place; doctoring consumptive harmoniums; strengthening short winded concertinas; re buffing a set of hammers, or tuning pianos and putting in new strings at one shilling each... Continue reading book >>

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