
This collection gathers a remarkable range of short works by a Victorian writer known for her chameleon‑like ability to adopt different literary voices. From a brisk, gothic‑tinged mystery that hints at supernatural intrigue to witty, home‑grown magazine pieces that echo the delight of family storytelling, the volume showcases her skill in weaving everyday scenes with a touch of the uncanny. Readers will find lively imitations of popular sensational novels of the era, as well as charming sketches that capture the quirks of domestic life.
Interspersed are travel‑inspired tales drawn from the author’s own experiences abroad, delicate fairy‑tale adaptations, and thoughtful translations of foreign folklore. A tender memorial piece offers a glimpse of personal reflection, while playful essays on botany, archaeology, and folk customs reveal her curiosity about the world. Together, these varied writings provide a vivid portrait of a versatile mind eager to entertain, inform, and gently surprise its audience.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (320K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Paul Ereaut and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2005-07-22
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1841–1885
A beloved Victorian writer for children, she brought warmth, humor, and a sharp eye for everyday life to stories that have endured for generations. Best known for tales like Jackanapes and The Story of a Short Life, she helped shape children's literature in the 19th century.
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