Most Popular Books by James Hilton

In this “engagingly written” international bestseller, survivors of a plane crash discover a peaceful paradise hidden in the Himalayas called Shangri-La (The New York Times). Hugh Conway saw humanity at its worst while fighting in the trenches of the First World War. Now, more than a decade later, Conway is a British diplomat serving in Afghanistan and facing war yet again—this time, a civil conflict forces him to flee the country by plane. When his plane crashes high in the Himalayas, Conway and the other survivors are found by a mysterious guide and led to a breathtaking discovery: the hidden valley of Shangri-La. Kept secret from the world for more than two hundred years, Shangri-La is like paradise—a place whose inhabitants live for centuries amid the peace and harmony of the fertile valley. But when the leader of the Shangri-La monastery falls ill, Conway and the others must face the daunting prospect of returning home to a world about to be torn open by war. Thrilling and timeless, Lost Horizon is a masterpiece of modern fiction, and one of the most enduring classics of the twentieth century.

The modern classic about an idealistic British schoolmaster’s influence on his students: “A minor miracle” (The New York Times). Throughout his forty-three-year tenure at Brookfield, “a good public school of the second rate” in eastern England, Arthur Chipping has been Mr. Chips to his students. From his unpolished first years during the Franco-Prussian War through the radical changes of the twentieth century and the outbreak of the First World War, Mr. Chips has shaped many young lives. But Chips has been inspired as well—by the unremarkable and the extraordinary alike, by his colleagues, by a woman who will change him forever, and not least, by his children, “thousands of them, all boys.” Since it was first published in 1934 to international success, Goodbye, Mr. Chips has never been out of print. It was followed by a collection of stories, To You, Mr. Chips, and provided the basis for two award-winning feature films, a stage musical, a radio play, and two television adaptations. Based on author James Hilton’s experiences as a student at the Leys School, Cambridge, this short novel endures as a revelation of the difference one good teacher can make, and “what the better emotions do toward making people important” (Kirkus Reviews).

In "Time and Time Again," James Hilton crafts a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of memory, identity, and the paradoxes of time travel. Set against the backdrop of a prelude to World War II, the novel employs a lyrical style that balances poetic prose with intricate character development. Hilton''s exploration of the notion of time is enriched by his keen understanding of human emotions and relationships, inviting readers to reflect on their own perceptions of past, present, and future. The narrative delves deeply into the philosophical implications of time, making it a rich text for analysis within the broader context of early 20th-century literature, which often grappled with the disillusionment of modernity. James Hilton, an influential British novelist, is perhaps best known for his works that explore utopian ideals and an inherent yearning for simpler times, as seen in his later classic, "Lost Horizon." Hilton''s personal experiences during a tumultuous historical period profoundly influenced his writing. His keen insights into human nature, friendship, and the nostalgia for an idealized past find their expression in this novel, showcasing his mastery in blending fantasy with poignant emotion. "Time and Time Again" is a captivating read for those who appreciate richly woven narratives that engage with profound philosophical questions. It appeals to fans of speculative fiction and historical literature alike, presenting a thought-provoking journey through time that resonates with the complexities of human experience. Hilton''s elegant prose and engaging storytelling make this work a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the interplay between time and memory.

In James Hilton''s novel ''Random Harvest'', the reader is taken on an emotional journey through the tumultuous years following World War I. The book is a poignant tale of love, loss, and the struggle to rebuild one''s life after experiencing the horrors of war. Hilton''s writing style is characterized by its evocative descriptions and deep introspection, drawing readers into the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters. The novel''s time period and setting provide a rich backdrop for the story, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the enduring power of human connection. ''Random Harvest'' is a classic work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today, offering a compelling exploration of the complexities of the human experience.

In "Lost Horizon," James Hilton crafts a captivating narrative that blends adventure, philosophical inquiry, and utopian exploration. Set against the backdrop of the remote Himalayan valley of Shangri-La, the tale follows the journey of a group of Westerners who stumble upon a mythical paradise, offering a serene retreat from modern life''s chaos. Hilton''s elegant prose and evocative descriptions breathe life into this enigmatic land, making it a quintessential example of early 20th-century idealism that reflects the era''s fascination with escapism and spiritual questing. The novel navigates complex themes of civilization versus nature, suggesting a profound yearning for a lost sense of serenity amidst a rapidly changing world. James Hilton, an esteemed British author, wrote "Lost Horizon" during a period marked by global uncertainty and the aftermath of World War I. His background in education and literature, coupled with his experiences in a tumultuous world, undoubtedly influenced the creation of Shangri-La as a symbol of eternal peace. Hilton''s previous works often dealt with themes of existential reflection and human longing, making this novel a natural progression in his literary repertoire. I highly recommend "Lost Horizon" to readers who seek both adventure and introspection. This timeless classic not only entertains but also encourages deep reflection on the values of tranquility and the quest for a meaningful existence, making it a relevant read for contemporary audiences.

An ambitious man looks back on his choices in World War I–era England in this #1 New York Times bestseller by the author of Goodbye, Mr. Chips. As a young man, George Boswell knew he had greater prospects ahead than those offered by his native mill town in the north of England. A respected lawyer and civic leader, he possessed the skill and charisma to shine on the national stage. But ambition is not without a cost. When Boswell must choose between the promise of a bright future or staying behind for the people who have come to depend on him, his decision comes at a shocking price. So Well Remembered is a story of a people pulled reluctantly toward modernity amid the farms and factories of Lancashire, and a celebration of the steadfast character of the common English village.

Book 1: Embark on a mesmerizing journey through time with “Time and Time Again by James Hilton.” Hilton''s eloquent prose and imaginative storytelling transport readers to the intersection of past and present. In this British classic, explore the complexities of time travel, fate, and the profound impact of one man''s quest to alter the course of history. Book 2: Discover the enchanting utopia of “Lost Horizon by James Hilton.” Hilton''s masterpiece introduces readers to Shangri-La, a hidden paradise nestled in the Himalayas. As the characters explore the mysteries of this idyllic sanctuary, Hilton weaves a tale that transcends time, offering reflections on human nature, spirituality, and the pursuit of an ideal life. Book 3: Experience the poignant love story of “Random Harvest by James Hilton.” Hilton skillfully crafts a narrative that spans continents and amnesia-stricken years, as two souls find each other, lose each other, and rediscover the true meaning of love. This classic British novel explores the enduring power of the human heart and the twists of fate that shape our lives. Book 4: Bid farewell to an era with “Good-Bye Mr. Chips by James Hilton.” In this heartwarming classic, Hilton introduces readers to Mr. Chipping, an endearing schoolteacher whose life unfolds through the decades. With wit and warmth, Hilton explores the impact of one man''s presence on generations of students and the lasting legacy of a dedicated educator. Indulge in the timeless allure of James Hilton''s British classics. Whether it''s the temporal complexities of "Time and Time Again," the utopian dreams in "Lost Horizon," the poignant romance of "Random Harvest," or the nostalgic farewell in "Good-Bye Mr. Chips," Hilton''s works continue to captivate readers with their rich storytelling and enduring themes.

Three iconic novels about an unforgettable schoolmaster and a timeless utopia by the award-winning, New York Times–bestselling author. Goodbye, Mr. Chips: Throughout his tenure at an English boys’ school, stern Arthur Chipping has shaped many young lives. But Mr. Chips has been inspired as well—by the social changes of his country and, not least, by his students. Based on Hilton’s experiences at the Leys School, Cambridge, this novel is an enduring testament to the difference one good teacher can make. “A tender and gentle story as warming to the heart and as nourishing to the spirit as any I can remember.” —Alexander Woollcott, The New Yorker To You, Mr. Chips: When James Hilton penned his beloved Goodbye, Mr. Chips, he drew on his own formative years at a Cambridge boarding school. In this collection, he adds to the legend of Mr. Chips through exquisite short stories, as well as autobiographical sketches of his experience with the English public school system during the first half of a tumultuous century. Mr. Chips is “one of the most endearing creations of modern fiction” (The Daily Telegraph). Lost Horizon: When British diplomat Hugh Conway’s plane crashes in the Himalayas, he and fellow survivors are led to the hidden valley of Shangri-La, a paradise kept secret for more than two hundred years. In this idyll, where inhabitants live for centuries amid peace and harmony, the visitors must face the daunting prospect of returning home to a world about to be torn open by war. “One of the century’s most enduring literary mysteries.” —The Guardian

In "The Passionate Year," James Hilton crafts a poignant narrative that delves into the complexity of human emotions through the lens of love, nostalgia, and the bittersweet passage of time. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, Hilton employs a lyrical, reflective prose that captures the nuances of intimacy and longing. The novel is framed by a delicate exploration of the protagonist''Äôs memories, evoking a rich tapestry of emotion that resonates deeply within readers, showcasing Hilton''s adeptness in blending realism with a romantic idealism prevalent in early 20th-century literature. James Hilton, a distinguished British novelist and screenwriter, is best known for his works such as "Lost Horizon" and "Goodbye, Mr. Chips." His keen observations of society, coupled with a personal experience of love and loss, inform the emotional depth found in "The Passionate Year." Hilton''Äôs background in the tumultuous interwar period and his reflections on the changing social landscape of post-World War I Britain profoundly influence this novel, as he navigates the delicate interplay between personal aspiration and societal expectation. This novel is highly recommended for readers seeking an evocative journey through the intricacies of love and memory. Hilton''Äôs insightful prose invites readers to reflect upon their own experiences, making it a timeless exploration of the human heart. A must-read for fans of literary fiction, "The Passionate Year" promises to leave a lasting impression and provoke thoughtful contemplation.

In "Murder at School," James Hilton crafts a gripping tale blending the elements of mystery and coming-of-age narratives within the confines of an English boarding school. The novel follows the unraveling of a murder that shakes the institution to its core, interspersing the lush descriptions of school life with a palpable sense of tension and intrigue. Hilton employs a richly textured prose style, drawing readers into the evocative atmosphere of the 1930s, a time when societal norms were both rigid and ripe for challenge. Through keen characterization and a meticulously constructed plot, he examines themes of innocence, loyalty, and the often hidden darkness lurking beneath the surface of privileged lives. James Hilton (1900-1954) was a celebrated English author renowned for his compelling narratives that often explored human nature and societal expectations. His own experiences as a student in various educational settings heavily influenced his portrayal of school life, imbuing the novel with authenticity and emotional depth. Hilton''s reflection on morality and the struggles of youth resonates through his work, marking him as an astute observer of his contemporary society. This captivating novel is highly recommended for readers intrigued by psychological thrillers and atmospheric mysteries. Hilton''s sharp insights into character and social dynamics will enthrall those seeking both entertainment and profound commentary. "Murder at School" stands as a testament to Hilton''s narrative prowess and remains a compelling exploration of the shadows lurking in the halls of innocence.

"Catherine Herself" by James Hilton is a poignant novel that explores themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the complexities of human relationships. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the life of Catherine, a young woman navigating the challenges of her rural English upbringing and her desire for independence and fulfillment. Catherine, the protagonist, is characterized by her strong will and determination to break free from societal expectations and the limitations imposed by her family and community. As she pursues her aspirations, Catherine encounters various experiences that shape her understanding of the world and her place within it. The narrative delves into her emotional journey, capturing her moments of doubt, joy, and resilience. James Hilton, known for his insightful portrayal of characters, presents Catherine''s story with sensitivity and depth, exploring the nuanced dynamics of family, love, and self-realization. The novel reflects on the struggles of finding one''s identity and purpose in a rapidly changing society, and it highlights the courage required to pursue personal dreams amidst external pressures. "Catherine Herself" is a compelling and introspective read, offering readers a richly detailed portrayal of a woman''s quest for autonomy and meaning. Hilton''s elegant prose and keen observations make this novel a timeless exploration of individuality and the pursuit of happiness.

James Hilton was an English interwar novelist, whose popular works were made into highly successful films. He is noted for his deft style and impeccable gift for storytelling. Although Hilton’s works are sometimes characterised as sentimental and idealistic celebrations of English virtues, the novels often reveal a darker side, analysing the societal flaws of his time. This eBook presents Hilton’s collected works, with numerous illustrations, rare texts, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Hilton’s life and works * Concise introductions to the major texts * 10 novels, with individual contents tables * Features rare works appearing for the first time in digital publishing, including ‘Storm Passage’ and ‘The Silver Flame’ * Images of how the books were first published, giving your eReader a taste of the original texts * Excellent formatting * The complete short stories * Rare uncollected stories * Easily locate the stories you want to read * Includes Hilton’s lecture ‘Mr. Chips Looks at the World’ – first time in digital print * Ordering of texts into chronological order and genres Please note: 9 later novels cannot appear due to copyright. When new works enter the US public domain, they will be added to the eBook as a free update. CONTENTS: The Novels Catherine Herself (1920) Storm Passage (1922) The Passionate Year (1924) Dawn of Reckoning (1925) Meadows of the Moon (1926) Terry (1927) The Silver Flame (1928) Murder at School (1931) Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1934) We are Not Alone (1937) The Shorter Fiction To You, Mr Chips! (1938) Uncollected Short Stories The Non-Fiction Mr. Chips Looks at the World (1939)

More stories of Mr. Chips, the world''s most beloved schoolmaster, as he helps shape young lives through the first half of a tumultuous centuryWhen author James Hilton penned his beloved short novel, Goodbye, Mr. Chips, he drew on his own formative experiences at a boarding school in Cambridge. As World War I approached, the camaraderie among students and the faculty''s courage helped Hilton and his classmates face the fear and deprivations of those troubled times. In this collection, Hilton adds to the legend of Mr. Chipping through exquisite short stories, while also providing a warm autobiographical account of his own experience with the English public school system.

Mr. Chips and all his adventures; and what Mr. Chips taught me.

DIVMore stories of Mr. Chips, the world’s most beloved schoolmaster, as he helps shape young lives through the first half of a tumultuous century/divDIV/divDIVWhen author James Hilton penned his beloved short novel, Goodbye, Mr. Chips, he drew on his own formative experiences at a boarding school in Cambridge. As World War I approached, the camaraderie among students and the faculty’s courage helped Hilton and his classmates face the fear and deprivations of those troubled times./divDIV /divDIVIn this collection, Hilton adds to the legend of Mr. Chipping through exquisite short stories, while also providing a warm autobiographical account of his own experience with the English public school system./div

Goodbye, Mr. Chips was published in both the United States and the United Kingdom 1934. Such is its popularity that it has been adapted into two films and two television series. Mr Chips is a much loved schoolteacher at Brookfield, a fictional boys'' English public (private in US English) boarding school. It is a sentimental book showing how he overcomes his own mediocre academic record and his profound shyness to become a tremendous educator. It also depicts the sweeping social changes that Mr Chips experiences. He begins his tenure at Brookfield in 1870, at the beginning of the Franco-Prussion War and covers Victoria''s death and along with her the social order, and the devastating impact of war on British society, with countless old masters and schoolboys dying on the battlefield in World War I. Mr Chips dies just as Adolf Hilter rises to power. This version also includes the book "To you, Mr Chips" which includes an autobiographical chapter and several additional Mr Chips stories.

Contango is a book by James Hilton. Hilton was an English novelist and playwriter. Excerpt: "Gathergood was forty-nine, and had spent a quarter of a century in various parts of the East. He had never married, nor had rumour ever associated him with a woman, white or coloured. He was aware that women did not particularly care for him, and he had never found their indifference hard to endure. With men, individual men, he had sometimes wished he could become more intimate, but even the wish for this had rarely been enough to make for keen disappointment."

In this positive and inspiring book, James Hilton, author of Leading from the Edge and Ten Traits of Resilience, explores how primary and secondary school leaders can find fulfilment in their challenging roles in order to lead their schools successfully. Career satisfaction is central to leading a happy, healthy and effective school, but recognising the positive aspects of school leadership can be difficult at a time of extreme pressure, high accountability, constant change and seemingly impossible demands. Riding the Waves offers practical strategies, advice, reflective questions and activities for developing the fulfilling aspects of school leadership to carry school leaders through these challenging times. James Hilton explores how school leaders can enhance their mental health and wellbeing and their work-life balance by building effective relationships, nurturing talent, celebrating achievements, feeling in control and, importantly, taking a break. With a foreword by Mary Myatt and interviews with a number of education experts, this book is a must-read for all current and aspiring school leaders who wish to thrive in their careers and build a happier and healthier school environment for the benefit of teachers, pupils, parents and the wider school community.

In an increasingly complex and ever-changing education landscape, school leadership is a rewarding but multifaceted profession. In order to survive in the job long term, school leaders need to understand how they can lead with positivity and purpose, all the while avoiding stress, coping with adversity, and taking better care of themselves physically and mentally. With teacher wellbeing and retention a growing concern, it is essential school leaders pass on this confidence and optimism to their staff members too. In this thought-provoking book, James Hilton explores ten traits of resilience and demonstrates to school leaders how they can embed these traits into their own practice and into their school to create a climate of resilience in every classroom. Ten Traits of Resilience is packed with practical advice, tips and reflective questions to help school leaders evaluate and improve their current practice, and threaded throughout are also perspectives from a number of education experts, including Ross Morrison McGill, Patrick Ottley-O''Connor, Viv Grant and Kim Johnson. With a foreword by happiness expert, Dr Andy Cope, this book is ideal for all school leaders and aspiring school leaders looking to promote and maintain a culture of resilience in their schools, in order to improve their own mental health and wellbeing, and that of their staff and pupils too.

In James Hilton''s novel ''Terry,'' the readers are taken on a journey through the complexities of human nature and relationships. The book delves into themes such as love, betrayal, and redemption, all set against a backdrop of vividly described landscapes. Hilton''s writing style is both descriptive and introspective, with a focus on character development and emotional depth. The novel''s narrative is rich in symbolism and metaphors, making it a thought-provoking read that lingers in the reader''s mind long after the final page. ''Terry'' is considered a classic of the literary canon, often studied for its insights into the human experience and its timeless themes. It is a compelling work of fiction that showcases Hilton''s skill as a storyteller and his ability to capture the complexities of the human heart.

''Goodbye, Mr. Chips!'', published in 1937, was the second novel of James Hilton after ''Lost Horizon'' which was published in 1933. ''Goodbye, Mr. Chips!'' became very popular and brought ''Lost Horizon'' in limelight. It is the story of a school teacher who is very attached to his school and does not leave it even after his retirement.

1. ''Goodbye, Mr. Chips!'' was first submitted by James Hilton to the British Weekly in 1933, but it came to prominence when it was printed as the leading article of The Atlantic in April 1934. Later, the Little, Brown and Co. first printed a small number of copies in June 1934 and continued reprinting the book in small weekly and fortnightly lots for several months. In Britain, the first edition was released in October 1934 by Hodder & Stoughton after the great success of ''Goodbye, Mr. Chips!'' in the United States. They printed a large number of books in their first printing and kept on reprinting to satisfy the demand. The great success of this book made James Hilton one of the best-selling authors.2. ''And Now Good-bye'', the second story in this book, was first published in 1931 by Ernest Benn Ltd, London. It is the story of a boy who, passing through all ups and downs of his life, marries a girl from the family that adopts him. Later, when he becomes a respected clergyman and the father of two boys and a girl, he falls in real love of his life with a girl of less than half his age. The train, in which they travel, collides and the coach catches. Howat Freemantle saves five persons from the engulfing flames when he desperately tries to save his girl from the raging inferno. It was only he who knew that one of the two unidentified charred bodies solely belonged to him. Of all stories of James Hilton, this story, ''And Now Goodbye,'' is the most balanced one without an exaggeration of a single aspect of human life and emotions, though there is plenty. James Hilton was born on September 9, 1900 in Leigh, Lancashire. His father, John Hilton was a schoolmaster and his mother, Elizabeth had been a schoolmistress before her marriage. James attended the George Monoux School in Walthamstow, London before attending Leys School, Cambridge, where he was a student from 1915 to 1918. In Leys, he edited and contributed to the school magazine. He studied English and History at Christ''s College, Cambridge and his first novel, Catherine Herself, was published in 1920 while he was still an undergraduate. He left university in 1921 and became a freelance journalist, wrote articles, book reviews and worked on a number of his novels which had no commercial success until the publication of And Now Goodbye in 1931. In 1933 he wrote Lost Horizon which won the Hawthornden Prize in 1934.In 1933 Hilton was asked to write a 3,000 word short story for the magazine The British Weekly. After a week without inspiration he suddenly had an idea to write the story of the much-loved schoolmaster which he entitled Goodbye, Mr. Chip! It was an immediate success both in Britain and America and by early 1934 Hilton was a best-selling author. There was an insatiable appetite to read his work and all of his earlier novels were reprinted on popular demand. In 1935, Hilton married his English wife, Alice Brown, and left for the film capital Hollywood where, at first, he found the glitter of "Tinseltown" to be congenial. Many of his books became world-wide hit movies, most notably Lost Horizon (1937), Goodbye Mr Chips (1939) and Random Harvest (1942). Hilton became established as a sought-after Hollywood scriptwriter and contributed to the Greer Garson wartime classic Mrs Miniver. He was a popular figure in Hollywood and counted Frank Capra, Ronald Coleman and Greer Garson amongst his friends and won the Best Screenplay Oscar for Mrs. Miniver in 1942. Sadly, his first marriage ended in divorce in 1937 and he married Galina Kopineck, a young starlet. This marriage also proved volatile and Hilton again divorced eight years later. He continued to write best-selling novels during and after the Second World War including Random Harvest, So Well Remembered and Time and Time Again. On December 20, 1954 Hilton died in hospital in Long Beach, California of liver cancer. By this time his first wife, Alice, had been reconciled with him and nursed him till his death.