New Releases by Arthur Ransome

Arthur Ransome''s ''Ultimate Collection'' is a literary masterpiece that beautifully combines various genres such as adventure, children''s fiction, and travel writing. The collection showcases Ransome''s ability to transport readers to different worlds through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling. Ransome''s writing style is captivating, with a focus on character development and detailed world-building, making the stories come alive on the page. His works are a perfect example of timeless classics that continue to resonate with readers of all ages. The ''Ultimate Collection'' includes beloved titles such as ''Swallows and Amazons'', ''We Didn''t Mean to Go to Sea'', and ''Secret Water'', each offering a unique and immersive reading experience. Arthur Ransome''s contribution to literature is commendable, and this collection serves as a testament to his unparalleled talent and creativity. Fans of adventure, exploration, and well-crafted storytelling will find this collection to be a true treasure trove of literary gems.

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.

The Swallows and Amazons is a series of twelve adventure novels set in the interwar period, involving group adventures by children, mainly in the school holidays and mainly in England. They revolve around outdoor activities, especially sailing. The series begins with the Walker children from London, who stay at a lakeside farm in the school holidays, sail a dinghy named Swallow, while the local Blackett girls, living on the opposite shore, have one named Amazon. The Walkers see themselves as explorers, while the Blacketts declare themselves pirates. They clash on an island in the lake, make friends, and have a series of adventures that weave tales of pirates and exploration into everyday life in rural England. Table of Contents: Swallows and Amazons Swallowdale Peter Duck Winter Holiday Coot Club Pigeon Post We Didn''t Mean To Go To Sea Secret Water The Big Six Missee Lee The Picts and the Martyrs: Or Not Welcome At All Great Northern?

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)

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''.

DigiCat Publishing presents to you this special edition of "Great Northern?" by Arthur Ransome. DigiCat Publishing considers every written word to be a legacy of humankind. Every DigiCat book has been carefully reproduced for republishing in a new modern format. The books are available in print, as well as ebooks. DigiCat hopes you will treat this work with the acknowledgment and passion it deserves as a classic of world literature.

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."

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.

In "The Picts and The Martyrs: or, Not Welcome at All," Arthur Ransome masterfully weaves a rich narrative that explores themes of childhood, adventure, and social dynamics within the context of a group of young friends. The novel employs Ransome''s characteristic blend of whimsical prose and vivid descriptions, drawing readers into the enchanting world of secret camps, covert operations, and the tension between imagination and reality. Set against the backdrop of rural England, the text subtly critiques adult societal norms while celebrating the creativity and resourcefulness inherent in childhood play, reflecting broader literary trends of early 20th-century British literature that valued the innocence of youth and the joys of exploration. Arthur Ransome, renowned for his ability to capture the spirit of childhood, was also a journalist and a sailor, experiences that profoundly influenced his writing. His own adventurous youth, coupled with a passion for nature and sailing, is echoed throughout this narrative, which mirrors the author''Äôs adaptations of his travels into engaging tale-telling. Ransome''Äôs background, specifically his deep familiarity with the Lake District, enriches the narrative with local color and authenticity, allowing readers to feel the landscape''s palpable presence within the story. This enchanting tale is highly recommended for readers who relish adventure, camaraderie, and the exploration of youth''s imaginative realms. Ransome''s skillful storytelling not only captivates young readers but also resonates with adults who remember the innocence and wonder of their own childhood. It is a delightful addition to the canon of children''Äôs literature that illustrates the vibrant interplay between fantasy and reality.

In ''Open Letter to America'' by Arthur Ransome, the reader is presented with a collection of thought-provoking essays that delve into the political and social issues of his time. Ransome''s writing style is eloquent and analytical, providing a deep insight into the cultural landscape of America during the early 20th century. The book''s literary context showcases the author''s ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and precision, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical and political literature. Ransome''s use of personal anecdotes and compelling arguments adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, creating a compelling and impactful reading experience. Arthur Ransome, a British author and journalist, draws upon his extensive experience in international relations and his keen observations of American society to craft ''Open Letter to America.'' His unique perspective as an outsider looking in offers a fresh and insightful viewpoint on the issues plaguing America at the time of writing. Ransome''s dedication to truth and justice shines through in his passionate and well-reasoned arguments, making him a respected voice in the literary world. I highly recommend ''Open Letter to America'' to readers interested in exploring the political and social landscape of early 20th-century America through the lens of a skilled and perceptive writer. Ransome''s poignant observations and compelling arguments make this book a must-read for anyone interested in historical and political literature.

"The Crisis in Russia" by Arthur Ransome is an incredibly vivid, though short, account of the narrator''s time spent in Russia as the revolution began to find its footing at the end of the First World War. Ransome was a reporter at the time and had multiple first-hand experiences with figures like Trosky and Lenin, who would be pivotal in changing the country. Framed by his wit and well-thought-out opinions, this book is an essential resource for those interested in Russian and ultimately world 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.

Arthur Ransome''s ''Pond and Stream'' is a captivating exploration of the beauty and complexity of aquatic ecosystems, making it a valuable resource for both nature enthusiasts and aspiring naturalists. The book provides detailed descriptions of various species of fish, insects, and plants that inhabit ponds and streams, offering insight into their behavior and ecological importance. Ransome''s writing style is both informative and poetic, blending scientific knowledge with a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world in a way that is both engaging and accessible. Arthur Ransome, a passionate naturalist and experienced angler, drew inspiration from his own observations and experiences in the outdoors to write ''Pond and Stream.'' His background as a journalist and author of children''s books equipped him with the skills to communicate complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging manner, making this book a valuable contribution to the field of natural history. I highly recommend ''Pond and Stream'' to anyone with an interest in the beauty of nature and a desire to learn more about the fascinating creatures that inhabit our ponds and streams. Ransome''s passion for the subject shines through in every page, making it a delightful and educational read.

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

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.

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.

Eight peasants with magical powers help the youngest of three sons win the Czar''s daughter. The...illustrations which fill the pages with animation and gleaming colors have a folk character and Russian flavor. --Booklist

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.

The two Blackett sisters are to stay at Beckfoot on the lakeshore with their cook, but when their great aunt hears of the abandonment, she''s on the next train.

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.

When their boat is burned and they are cast adrift in the South China Sea, Titty, Roger, Peggy, John, Nancy, Susan, and Captain Flint make their way to land only to find themselves the captives of the redoubtable Missee Lee, one of the last pirates operating off the China coast.

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.