New Releases by Arthur Ransome

Spring always seems to begin on the morning that the Imp, in a bright pink nightgown, comes rushing into my room without knocking, and throws himself on my bed, with a sprig of almond blossom in his hand. You see, the almond blossom grows just outside the Imp''s window, and the Imp watches it very carefully. We are none of us allowed to see it until it is ready, and then, as soon as there is a sprig really out, he picks it and flies all round the house showing it to everybody. For the Imp loves the Spring, and we all know that those beautiful pink blossoms mean that Spring is very near.And what are the things we know the Summer by? Summer clothes say little girls, and big straw hats say boys. Well, and what do they mean but the heat? The Imp wears a huge straw hat and a loose holland overall but he goes about panting, and lies flat on the ground with the straw hat over his nose to keep the sun from burning his face. And the Elf wears an overall, too, and a pale blue calico sunbonnet over her curls. All the same she is often too hot to enjoy anything except sitting in the swing in the orchard and listening to fairy tales. And I, well, I am often too hot to tell fairy tales. For fairyland is a cool, comfortable place, and big, hot Ogres melt it away like an ice palace.I told you that we are sad when we know that Summer is passing away; but that is only because we love the Summer, with her gay flowers and fair green clothes, and not because we do not like the Autumn. The Imp and the Elf laugh at me when I tell them that all Ogres and Ogresses, all people who are grown up and can never be Imps and Elves again, love the Autumn and the Spring even better than the Summer herself. And then, to make them understand, I tell them a fairy story, how, once upon a time, Spring and Summer and Winter and Autumn were four beautiful little girls.

Arthur Ransome''s ''Ultimate Collection'' is a rich compilation of his most cherished works, offering readers a fascinating glimpse into the themes of adventure, friendship, and the natural world that characterize his writing. Encapsulating his renowned series ''Swallows and Amazons,'' the collection showcases a unique blend of lyrical prose and vivid narrative, immersing the reader in the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and the thrilling exploits of childhood pursuits. Ransome''s ability to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia highlights the literary context of early 20th-century children''s literature, where explorative innocence and imaginative play reign supreme. Arthur Ransome (1884-1967) was not only a distinguished British author but also a journalist and war correspondent whose experiences during World War I deeply influenced his storytelling. His love for sailing and the wilderness stemmed from formative summers spent in the English countryside, which enriched his narrative palette and lent authenticity to the adventures depicted in his stories. His upbringing fostered a deep appreciation for nature and outdoor play, which is palpably felt throughout his writings. For those seeking to rediscover the spirit of adventure that defined many of our childhoods, ''Ultimate Collection'' is a must-read. Ransome''s enchanting narratives not only entertain but also evoke a sense of camaraderie and exploration that resonates across generations. This collection is a treasure trove for both new readers and long-time fans, offering a timeless escape into the world of youthful possibility.

"Swallows & Amazons – Boxed Set" is a masterful curation of Arthur Ransome''s quintessential adventure saga, embodying the spirit of childhood exploration and camaraderie. The novel introduces readers to the Walker children who, alongside the spirited Amazon pirates, engage in imaginative play on England''s Lake District. Ransome skillfully intertwines adventure with reflective prose, evoking the natural beauty and simplicity of rural life that resonates deeply with the themes of freedom and innocence. The literary style combines rich descriptions with a playful dialogue that captures both the complexities of youthful friendships and the tranquility of the landscape, placing it firmly within the canon of British children''s literature in the early 20th century. Arthur Ransome was not only a talented writer but also a sailor and journalist, experiences that profoundly influenced his storytelling. His own childhood experiences of sailing and exploration, along with his profound understanding of nature, permeate his writing. Ransome''s upbringing during the tumultuous years of World War I inspired him to write narratives that celebrated the purity of childhood and the joys of adventure, particularly as means of escape from adult concerns. This boxed set is recommended for both young readers and adults alike, as it offers not just an engaging story but also a nostalgic reflection on the innocence of childhood. "Swallows & Amazons" remains a seminal work, urging readers to embrace the spirit of adventure and the beauty of imagination in a world that often seeks to constrain it.

The Greatest Bed-Time Stories anthology gathers an unparalleled collection of tales that delve into the heart of imagination, culture, and the timeless battles between good and evil, sense and nonsense. Featuring a diverse range of literary styles, from the whimsical enchantments of fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen to the pioneering animal stories by Rudyard Kipling and Beatrix Potter, the collection presents a rich tapestry of narratives. The anthology is significant not just for the enduring quality of the stories within its pages but also for showcasing the evolution of children''s literature and its ability to enchant, inform, and educate across generations. Each work stands as a testament to the creativity and enduring legacy of its author, creating a collective masterpiece that transcends the sum of its parts. The contributing authors and editors of The Greatest Bed-Time Stories come from diverse backgrounds, spanning different centuries, cultures, and literary movements, yet they share a common goal: to awaken the reader''s sense of wonder. The collection aligns with significant historical and cultural narratives, from the Victorian fascination with folklore and morality tales to the early 20th century''s exploration of anthropomorphism and fantasy. The anthology serves not only as a window into the varied worlds created by Lewis Carroll''s innovative use of language, Oscar Wilde''s nuanced storytelling, or L. Frank Baum''s fantastical realms but also as a mirror reflecting the universal themes of growth, exploration, and the importance of narrative in shaping ethics and character. The Greatest Bed-Time Stories offers readers an extraordinary opportunity to traverse vast imaginative landscapes through the minds of some of literature''s finest. It appeals to scholars and enthusiasts of classic children''s literature, inviting a detailed exploration of thematic depth, stylistic innovation, and cultural significance found within these narratives. This anthology is recommended for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a comprehensive and enlightening journey through the evolution of storytelling, offering endless nights of wonder and adventure. It stands as an essential addition to any library, serving both as an educational resource and a testament to the enduring power and appeal of well-told stories.

The English interwar writer Arthur Ransome, best known for the ‘Swallows and Amazons’ children’s books, is noted for popularising the pattern for “holiday adventure” stories. A writer of various genres, his first success, ‘Bohemia in London’, is a partly autobiographical account of his early days. He also published a noted general ‘History of Story-Telling’, as well as landmark critical works on Edgar Allan Poe and Oscar Wilde. During the Great War, Ransome worked as a war correspondent in Russia, where he studied native folktales, which he retold for children. He also wrote extensively about his passion of angling, producing the seminal work in its field, ‘Rod and Line’. For the first time in publishing history, this eBook presents Ransome’s complete fictional works, with numerous illustrations, rare texts, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Ransome’s life and works * Concise introductions to the major works * All the ‘Swallows and Amazons’ novels, with individual contents tables * Includes Ransome’s original illustrations to the novels * Many rare texts appearing for the first time in digital publishing * Images of how the books were first published, giving your eReader a taste of the original texts * Excellent formatting of the texts * Rare short stories available in no other collection * Includes Ransome’s rare non-fiction works * Features the celebrated autobiography – discover Ransome’s intriguing life * Ordering of texts into chronological order and genres CONTENTS: The Swallows and Amazons Books Swallows and Amazons (1930) Swallowdale (1931) Peter Duck (1932) Winter Holiday (1933) Coot Club (1934) Pigeon Post (1936) We Didn’t Mean To Go To Sea (1937) Secret Water (1939) The Big Six (1940) Missee Lee (1941) The Picts and the Martyrs (1943) Great Northern? (1947) Other Children’s Books The Child’s Book of the Seasons (1906) Pond and Stream (1906) The Things in our Garden (1906) The Hoofmarks of the Faun (1911) Old Peter’s Russian Tales (1916) Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp in Rhyme (1920) The Soldier and Death (1922) The Horror Novel The Elixir of Life (1915) The Short Stories Miscellaneous Stories The Non-Fiction The Souls of the Streets and Other Little Papers (1904) Bohemia in London (1907) A History of Story-telling (1909) Edgar Allan Poe (1910) Oscar Wilde (1912) Portraits and Speculations (1913) Six Weeks in Russia (1919) The Crisis in Russia (1921) Racundra’s First Cruise (1923) Rod and Line (1929) Racundra’s Third Cruise (1972) The Autobiography The Autobiography of Arthur Ransome (1976)

The beloved children’s author Arthur Ransome is noted for popularising the pattern for “holiday adventure” stories. A writer of various genres, his first success, ‘Bohemia in London’, is a partly autobiographical account of his early days. He also published a noted general ‘History of Story-Telling’, as well as landmark critical works on Edgar Allan Poe and Oscar Wilde. During the Great War, Ransome worked as a war correspondent in Russia, where he studied native folktales, which he retold for children. He also wrote extensively about his passion of angling, producing the seminal work in its field, ‘Rod and Line’. This eBook presents Ransome’s collected works, with numerous illustrations, rare texts, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Ransome’s life and works * Concise introductions to the major works * Rare children’s books, with the original artwork * Many rare texts appearing for the first time in digital publishing * Images of how the books were first published, giving your eReader a taste of the original texts * Excellent formatting of the texts * Rare short stories available in no other collection * Includes Ransome’s rare non-fiction works * Features the celebrated autobiography – discover Ransome’s intriguing life * Ordering of texts into chronological order and genres CONTENTS: Other Children’s Books The Child’s Book of the Seasons (1906) Pond and Stream (1906) The Things in our Garden (1906) The Hoofmarks of the Faun (1911) Old Peter’s Russian Tales (1916) Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp in Rhyme (1920) The Soldier and Death (1922) The Horror Novel The Elixir of Life (1915) The Short Stories Miscellaneous Stories The Non-Fiction The Souls of the Streets and Other Little Papers (1904) Bohemia in London (1907) A History of Story-telling (1909) Edgar Allan Poe (1910) Oscar Wilde (1912) Portraits and Speculations (1913) Six Weeks in Russia (1919) The Crisis in Russia (1921) Racundra’s First Cruise (1923) Rod and Line (1929) Racundra’s Third Cruise (1972) The Autobiography The Autobiography of Arthur Ransome (1976)

Arthur Ransome''s ''Winter Holiday'' is an evocative portrayal of a bygone era, capturing the idyllic adventures of youth amidst the serene landscape of the English Lake District. The narrative unfolds with a meticulous balance between detailed description and lively dialogue, transporting readers directly into the world of the Walker and Blackett children as they embark on a quest filled with daring and camaraderie during the school holidays. Ransome''s work, as republished in this DigiCat edition, maintains the timeless charm that characterizes his contributions to children''s literature, situating ''Winter Holiday'' within the pantheon of classics that continue to fascinate new generations. The text''s preservation in both print and ebook formats perpetuates the cultural heritage inherent within its pages, substantiating DigiCat Publishing''s commendable initiative to amalgamate tradition and technological advancement in the dissemination of literary treasures. Arthur Ransome, a revered figure in children''s literature, was profoundly influenced by his own experiences and the pastoral beauty of the English countryside. His background as a journalist, coupled with a zest for adventure and sailing, infuses ''Winter Holiday'' with authenticity and a palpable sense of wonder. Ransome''s craftsmanship in storytelling not only reflects an era of exploration and imagination but also emanates his philosophical belief in the resilience and capability of young minds. It is this very essence that has etched Ransome''s works into the memory of countless readers, prompting the preservation and revival of his stories through editions such as this. ''Winter Holiday'' is a treasure trove for any admirer of classic children''s tales, a literary gem that both young readers and adults will find delightful. Through the expertly crafted escapades of its youthful protagonists, the book invites readers to recapture the spirit of adventure and the warmth of friendship. This DigiCat edition, conscientiously restored to honor the novel''s historical significance, is a testament to the relevance of Ransome''s storytelling in today''s world. Readers seeking a blend of nostalgia and escapade, underpinned by rich narrative skill, need look no further than this enthralling rendition of ''Winter Holiday''.

In "Great Northern?", Arthur Ransome presents a captivating exploration of the English landscape, infused with his characteristic blend of adventure and naturalism. Through the lens of a seemingly simple narrative, Ransome delves into themes of exploration, camaraderie, and the intricacies of human relationships against the backdrop of the mesmerizing northern English scenery. His prose is rich and evocative, employing a straightforward yet lyrical style that resonates with both young and adult audiences, making the book a hallmark of children''s literature in the early 20th century. Arthur Ransome, a prominent figure in children''s literature, drew from his own adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors in crafting this work. His extensive travels through the Lake District and his deep appreciation for nature informed his writing, giving it a palpable authenticity. Ransome, also a journalist and sailing enthusiast, intertwined his personal experiences with his literary creations, infusing them with a sense of reality that captures the imagination of readers. "Great Northern?" is highly recommended for readers seeking an engaging narrative that combines adventure with profound insights into human nature and the beauty of the natural world. Ransome''s timeless storytelling invites readers of all ages to embark on a journey of discovery, making it a noteworthy addition to any literary collection.

Arthur Ransome''s ''Peter Duck'' creates a vivid and spontaneous adventure that is nothing short of classic Ransome fare. Wrapping the reader in a rich tapestry of maritime escapades, the novel sails beyond the realms of typical children''s literature into a well-crafted amalgamation of suspense, comradery, and the spirit of exploration. Written with a nostalgic nod to the innocence of youth and the lore of seafaring tales, this book, meticulously reproduced by DigiCat Publishing, retains its original charm while being accessible to modern audiences through both print and electronic formats. Ransome''s prose is breezy yet evocative, capturing the era''s narrative style while remaining timeless in its appeal and contextualizing the novel within a grand tradition of British adventure literature. Arthur Ransome was not only a skilled author but an avid sailor, qualities that confer a rich authenticity to his ''Swallows and Amazons'' series, of which ''Peter Duck'' is an extraordinary example. Drawn from Ransome''s knowledge and passion for the sea, this volume may well be imagined as a rendition of a tale spun by the author himself amidst the rolling waves. The narrative is infused with insights that only a sailor''s experiences could impart, grounding its fanciful elements within a palpable reality. It''s through this lens that Ransome shared his evocative visions of youth, adventure, and freedom, which continue to resonate with readers decades after their initial publication. In ''Peter Duck'', Ransome archives childish imagination and the purity of tell-tale adventures, uniting them into a story that rewards the hearts of both young readers and the young at heart. Those with an affinity for classic literary voyages will find themselves well-served by this edition. DigiCat Publishing''s commitment to preserving such timeless literature ensures that the call to adventure is but a page-turn away, inviting new generations to set sail into the wonderful and often untamed seas of their own imaginations.

"The Soldier and Death" by Arthur Ransome is an old Russian folk story. The narrative revolves around a man who seizes ''death'', places it in a bag, and hovers it from a tree. No one dies as a result. Excerpt: "The devils looked at all the money they had lost. It seemed a pity to lose all that good silver and gold. "Tear him to pieces, brothers," they cried, "tear him to pieces, eat him and have done!" The soldier tapped his little pipe on the table. "First make sure," says he, "who eats whom." And with that he whips out his sack, and, says he, to the devils, who were all gnashing their teeth and making ready to fall on him, "what do you call this?" "It''s a sack," said the devils. "Is it?" says the soldier. "Then, by the word of God, get into it!" And the next minute all those devils were tumbling over each other and getting into the sack, squeezing in one on the top of another until the last one had got inside. Then the soldier tied up the sack with a good double knot, hung it on a nail, and lay down to sleep."

The Russians very well know how to weave intriguing stories that keep readers hooked till the end. This edition represents a thoughtful and beautifully illustrated collection of some of the finest Russian fairy and folk tales for people of all ages: Picture Fables for the Little Ones: The Cock and the Bean The Goat and the Ram The Hungry Wolf The Peasant and the Bear The Dog and the Cock King Frost The Bear''s Paw The Bear and the Old Man''s Daughters The Straw Ox The Fox and the Blackbird Fairy Tales: Snegorotchka Fire Bird Winged Wolf Self-Playing Harp Seven Brothers Ivan Story of the Golden Mountain Robber Nightingale Renowned Hero Mild Man Duck with Golden Eggs Bulat the Brave Tsarevich and Ivashka with White Smock Knight Yaroslav and Princess Anastasia The Golden Mountain Morozko Flying Ship Muzhichek-As-Big-As-Your-Thumb Tsarevich Ivan Tale of Little Fool Ivan Little Feather of Fenist Peasant Demyan Enchanted Ring Brave Labourer Sage Damsel Prophetic Dream Two Out of the Knapsack Marko and Vasily Muscovite Folk Tales: The Fiend The Dead Mother The Dead Witch The Treasure The Cross-Surety The Awful Drunkard The Bad Wife The Golovikha The Three Copecks The Miser The Fool and the Birch-Tree The Mizgir The Smith and the Demon Ivan Popyalof The Norka Marya Morevna Koshchei the Deathless The Water Snake The Water King and Vasilissa the Wise The Baba Yaga Vasilissa the Fair The Witch The Witch and the Sun''s Sister Emilian the Fool Witch Girl Headless Princess Soldier''s Midnight Watch Warlock Fox-Physician Fiddler in Hell Ride on the Gravestone Two Friends Shroud Coffin-Lid Two Corpses Dog and the Corpse Soldier and the Vampire Elijah the Prophet and Nicholas Priest with the Greedy Eyes Hasty Word.....

In "Portraits and Speculations," Arthur Ransome masterfully blends biography with speculative insight, offering readers a vivid tapestry that weaves together the lives of various intriguing figures. The text employs a rich yet accessible literary style, reminiscent of Ransome''s characteristic blend of narrative and reflection, inviting readers to ponder the interplay between art and reality. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century British literature, this work captures the aesthetic movements and philosophical currents that informed Ransome''s creative vision, while exploring the enduring impact of cultural figures on individual and collective identities. Arthur Ransome, best known for his beloved ''Swallows and Amazons'' series, was a multifaceted writer whose extensive travels, deep literary engagements, and acute observations of human nature significantly shaped his work. His experiences as a journalist, sailor, and political observer, notably during the Russian Revolution, provided him with a unique lens through which to examine and portray the intricacies of character and circumstance, ultimately inspiring the reflective nature of "Portraits and Speculations." This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersections of biography, philosophy, and literary exploration. Ransome''s deft storytelling invites readers to delve into the rich complexities of his subjects, making it a valuable addition to the libraries of scholars, students, and general readers alike.

The Walker children (John, Susan, Titty and Roger) are staying at a farm near a lake in the Lake District of England, during the school holidays. They sail a borrowed dinghy named Swallow and meet the Blackett children (Nancy and Peggy), who sail a dinghy named Amazon. The Walkers camp on an island in the lake, while the Blacketts live in their house nearby. When the children meet, they agree to join forces against a common enemy – the Blacketts'' uncle Jim Turner whom they call "Captain Flint." The book relates the outdoor adventures and play of two families of children. These involve sailing, camping, fishing, exploration and piracy.

The ultimate children''s classic - long summer days filled with adventure. John, Susan, Titty and Roger sail their boat, Swallow, to a deserted island for a summer camping trip. Exploring and playing sailors is an adventure in itself but the island holds more excitement in store. Two fierce Amazon pirates, Nancy and Peggy, challenge them to war and a summer of battles and alliances ensues. ''My childhood simply would not have been the same without this book. It created a whole world to explore, one that lasted long in the imagination after the final page had been read'' - Marcus Sedgwick

In "The Crisis in Russia," Arthur Ransome delivers a profound analysis of the tumultuous political landscape following the Russian Revolution. Crafted in his signature accessible yet incisive style, Ransome interweaves personal narrative with meticulous observation, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the lives of both the ordinary citizen and political figures of early Soviet society. This book serves not only as a historical document but also as a vivid exploration of ideological clashes, reflecting Ransome''s deep engagement with the socio-political contexts of his time, all while engaging with contemporary debates surrounding communism and capitalism. Arthur Ransome, an esteemed British author and journalist, was deeply influenced by his experiences in Russia during a period of seismic change. His unique insights were shaped by his roles as a war correspondent and a close observer of the Russian cultural landscape, which fostered a compelling understanding of the complexities involved in the Bolshevik Revolution. Ransome''s connections with key figures''Äîsuch as Trotsky''Äîand his fluent command of Russian enriched his narrative, allowing him to capture the essence of a society in flux. For those seeking a nuanced perspective on one of the 20th century''Äôs defining moments, "The Crisis in Russia" is an essential read. Ransome''s blend of firsthand experience and analytical depth invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of the Russian Revolution, making this book not only relevant today but also an indispensable contribution to the understanding of modern history.

In "Old Peter''s Russian Tales," Arthur Ransome artfully weaves a tapestry of Russian folklore, presenting an enchanting collection of traditional stories that captivate both the young and the young at heart. Drawing from a rich literary heritage, Ransome employs a conversational narrative style, enhanced by his vivid imagery and a musical cadence that brings the tales to life. This anthology not only serves as a delightful introduction to Russian culture and mythology but also reflects the author''s deep appreciation for storytelling as a means of cultural transmission, situating it within the broader context of early 20th-century children''s literature. Arthur Ransome, known for his own experiences in Russia as a journalist and his fascination with the country''Äôs history and traditions, channels his profound understanding into this compilation. His time spent amongst Russian folk informed not only the themes of his stories but also his ability to bridge cultural divides, making ancient tales accessible to modern readers. Ransome''Äôs personal connection to these stories imbues them with authenticity and warmth, inviting readers to engage with their whimsical yet poignant lessons. "Old Peter''s Russian Tales" is highly recommended for readers seeking a magical journey through folklore, enhancing their understanding of Russian identity and values. Ransome''Äôs storytelling is a portal to the imagination, perfect for those wishing to explore the universal themes of courage, wisdom, and the human condition, making this collection a timeless addition to any literary repertoire.

The Big Six is the ninth book of Arthur Ransome''s Swallows and Amazons series of children''s books, published in 1940. The book returns Dick and Dorothea Callum, known as the Ds, to the Norfolk Broads where they renew their friendship with the members of the Coot Club. This book is more of a detective story as the Ds and Coot Club try to unravel a mystery that threatens the Death and Glories'' freedom to sail the river.The Ds return to Norfolk, hoping to enjoy a holiday with their friends of the Coot Club. Unfortunately, they find the Death and Glories (Pete, Bill and Joe) coming under a gathering cloud of suspicion of setting moored boats adrift.

Most people know of Arthur Ransome, the author of the classic children''s sailing tale, Swallows & Amazons, and many other books in the same series. But besides his exciting tales of children on the water there is much more to the man. Before he wrote Swallows & Amazons, Ransome was a journalist for the Daily News, based in Russia. He is reputed to have played chess against Lenin and he married Trotsky''s secretary. He cruised extensively in the Baltic in the 1920s on board his beloved Racundra. His account of his first cruise on that boat was his first commercially successful book, Racundra''s First Cruise (also available from Fernhurst Books). The second cruise was spoilt by bad weather, but the third cruise was special – it was his honeymoon having married Evgenia Shelepina. Ransome clearly intended to publish the account of this cruise, but never finished it. Ransome enthusiast, Brian Hammett, got hold of the unpublished manuscript and found Ransome''s hand-written notes, diaries, logbooks and photographs in the Ransome archive at Leeds University. Brian compiled this book, adding his own notes from his cruises in the same area. The result is a glorious volume which has delighted Ransome enthusiasts, sailors and landlubbers equally. This new paperback edition and eBook will be published on 8th May – the very day that Ransome and Shelepina got married in 1924 before their honeymoon cruise which is recounted in this book.

Old Peters Russian Tales By William MacLeod Raine

Oscar Wilde a Critical Study By William MacLeod Raine

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Racundra''s First Cruise is Arthur Ransome''s account of Racundra''s maiden voyage, which took place in August and September 1922. The cruise took him from Riga, in Latvia to Helsingfors (Helsinki) in Finland, via the Moon Sound and Reval (Tallinn) in Estonia and back. His first book on sailing, it was also the first of his titles that achieved such high levels of success. Although reprinted many times in various editions and formats, Fernhurst Books'' hardback edition of the title (2003) was the first to use the original text in its entirety - with the original layout, maps and photographs - and also includes an excellent introduction by Brian Hammett containing a treasure trove of previously unpublished writings, essays and photographs. Ransome''s first attempts at Baltic sailing, in his two previous boats, Slug and Kittiwake, are also explained in detail using his writings and illustrations. The life of Ransome''s beloved Racundra is chronicled to its conclusion and there is an explanation of how he came to write the book. The original illustrations are enhanced by the inclusion of present day photographs of the same locations. Having gone out of print in 2012, this new paperback edition retains all of the original and additional features; bringing back to life Ransome''s epic first cruise in his pride and joy, his treasured Racundra.

Middle-class, Jewish Hans finds himself charmed by Konradin, the young aristocrat in his class and they quickly become best friends. But it is 1932 and the boys live in a rapidly changing Germany. The rise of Hitler compromises their friendship irrevocably but their story does not truly end until after the war. Readers across the world have been devastated and moved by the shocking denouement of this beautiful and profound exploration of the nature of friendship and the impact of history on human relationships. Includes an introduction by Rachel Seiffert, bestselling author of The Dark Room.

But for Swallows and Amazons, some of Arthur Ransome''s earlier writings would be better known. The extraordinary success Ransome achieved as a children''s writer, from the 1930''s until his death in 1967, perhaps inevitably eclipsed his earlier work, but in the case of his two books and pamphlet on the Russian revolutions of 1917 and the tumultuous events that followed that is a great loss: it can be said unequivocally that these writings are on a par, perhaps even exceeding, such classics as John Reed''s Ten Days that Shook the World . Arthur Ransome knew Russia. He lived there from 1914 to 1918 almost all the time. He taught himself Russian and became a foreign correspondent for the liberal Daily News and Manchester Guardian. More than that, he came to know many of the Bolshevik leaders like Lenin, Trotsky and Checherin almost as personal friends, and, indeed, married Trotsky''s secretary, Evgenia Petrovna Shelepina. Arthur Ransome as a commentator on the Russian scene at the most convulsive moment in its history is unique. Unlike famous visitors like H. G. Wells (though his marvellous book, Russia in the Shadows shouldn''t be overlooked) and Bertrand Russell, his was no brief journalistic inspection: and unlike other reporters such as John Reed, Victor Serge and Alfred Rosmer there was no tendentiousness in what he wrote - they were convinced revolutionaries, Ransome, although not unsympathetic to the Bolshevik cause, was a more objective recorder. Six Weeks in Russia , The Crisis in Russia and the pamphlet, The Truth about Russia constitute the best contemporary writing about Russia at the time of the Bolshevik takeover. They were reissued in the early 1990s, with an introduction by Paul Foot which has been retained for the Faber Finds reissue of Six Weeks in Russia ; otherwise they have been out of print since first published

The Swallows and Amazons author''s lost study of the author of Treasure Island, finally available with a substantial introduction detailing its rediscovery and Ransome''s extraordinary early career.

The eight installment in the Swallows and Amazons children''s book series. It explores a new setting in an attempt to diverge from the setting of the prior books.

As the classic series continues, an unexpected visitor forces a group of children to go to great lengths to enjoy a summer of fun and adventure. The Amazons’ mother (doubtless suffering from exhaustion) has gone off sailing in the North Sea with Captain Flint on a rest cure, but she has allowed her two daughters to stay on the lakeshore with their trusty cook. She’s also permitted their two old friends, Dick and Dorothea Callum, to come up for a visit. But when the redoubtable Great Aunt hears of their abandonment, she’s horrified and off on the next train. The Amazons are dismayed; not only will their solo holiday be ruined, but now they’ll also have to hide their two guests in the woods in an abandoned shepherd’s cottage (where they’ll be forced to live off the land like the ancient Celtic, “Picts”) while the Blackett sisters will be required to dress up in white pinafores, practice the piano, and recite reams of poetry aloud (therefore “The Martyrs”). Friendship and resourcefulness, dangers and excitement: Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons series has stood the test of time. More than just great stories, each one celebrates independence and initiative with a colorful, large cast of characters. The Picts & the Martyrs (originally published in 1943) is the eleventh title in the Swallows and Amazons series, books for children or grownups, anyone captivated by a world of adventure, exploration, and imagination.

John, Susan, Titty and Roger, the crew of the Swallow, take on the job of mapping the mass of small islands round Pin Mill while living on the biggest one. But who are the mysterious savages who lurk in the islands - and is the tribal totem they find in their campsite a threat of attack. ?

While working on his book The Life of Arthur Ransome, Hugh Brogan chanced upon the unfinished scrip of a thirteenth ''Swallows and Amazons'' story in Ransome''s desk in the Abbot Hall Museum in Cumbria, where it had lain unknown except to a few. It had no title (''Coots in the North'' is Brogan''s invention) but there were a few preliminary drawings which Ransome might have included had this gem been brought to life in book form. Why he abandoned it is not know, for he left a clear outline of how he intended to go on once the three young Coots - Joe, Bill and Pete - had completed their hair-raising journey as stowaways from Norfolk to the lakes in the North. There, on a salvage mission, they encounter for the first time the intrepid Nancy Blackett. ''Coots in the North'' is introduced by Brogan''s lively account of how Arthur Ransome found fame and fortune through the Swallows and Amazons, and is accompanied in this collection by other delights which turned up among Ransome''s papres in the Brotherton Library at Leeds University. An unfinished Victorian ''Bevis''-style novel yielded two superb stories, complete in themselves - ''The Cloudburst'' and a fishing tale called ''The River Comes First''. The Baltic sailing mysteries originally published in Pall Mall Magazine in 1929, ''Two Shorts and a Long'' and ''The Unofficial Side''; the Breton ghost story ''Ankou'', which first appeared in English review in1914; and an eerie cautionary tale of old Russia called ''The Shepherd''s Pipe'' complete this testament to Ransome''s storytelling genius, which should not be missed by enthusiasts young or old.