New Releases by John Meade Falkner

John Meade Falkner was an English novelist and poet, best known for his 1898 novel Moonfleet. An extremely successful businessman, he became chairman of the arms manufacturer Armstrong Whitworth during World War I. The Lost Stradivarius is a short novel of ghosts and the evil that can be invested in an object, in this case an extremely fine Stradivarius violin. It has been described as "one of Falkner''s three celebrated novels" and as a "psychic romance". Moonfleet is an 1898 novel written by English writer J. Meade Falkner. The plot is an adventure tale of smuggling, treasure, and shipwreck set in 18th-century England. The Nebuly Coat is a suspense novel . It was published in 1903 and has since been adapted for the stage. Contents: The Lost Stradivarius Moonfleet The Nebuly Coat

This horror anthology is a remarkable collection that spans the gamut of the most chilling and macabre tales in English literature, from the eerie subtleties of psychological terror to the stark dread of the supernatural. The collection showcases a diverse range of literary styles, from the gothic to the modernist, encapsulating the evolution of horror as a genre across different periods. Standouts in the collection reveal the genre''s capacity to explore the deepest fears of the human psyche, making manifest the anxieties of the times. The editors have meticulously curated works that not only entertain but also serve as a critical lens through which to examine the broader cultural and historical contexts from which these stories spring. The contributing authors and editors, hailing from varied backgrounds, bring a rich tapestry of cultural perspectives to the anthology, underscoring the universal appeal and adaptability of the horror genre. Figures such as Edgar Allan Poe and H.P. Lovecraft, whose work has defined and redefined horror literature, are presented alongside authors like Charlotte Perkins Gilman and Elizabeth Gaskell, who contribute uniquely feminist perspectives to the collection. This amalgam of voices aligns with notable literary movements, including Romanticism, Victorianism, and Modernism, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of the genre''s evolution and its intersections with social and political issues. This anthology presents a unique opportunity for readers to engage with the horror genre in all its diversity and complexity. It encourages a deeper exploration of the themes of fear, the unknown, and the supernatural, showcasing how these themes resonate across different times and cultures. The collection is an invaluable resource for both aficionados of horror literature and those new to the genre, offering educational insights and prompts for further reflection. By fostering a dialogue between the works of different authors, this anthology serves not only as a testament to the enduring power of horror literature but also as an invitation to explore the shadows that linger in the human mind.

The Greatest Classics for Children in One Volume presents an unrivaled collection that traverses the realms of fantasy, adventure, and moral fables, embracing a wide spectrum of literary styles. This anthology brings together the timeless works of some of the most beloved authors in children''s literature, offering readers a rich tapestry of narratives that have shaped and enriched the literary landscape for generations. The diverse array of stories, from the whimsical lands of Lewis Carroll to the rugged adventures by Jack London, and the magical realms of George MacDonald, underscores the anthology''s capacity to cultivate imagination and ethical reflection through literature. The inclusion of fables by Aesop, alongside tales of valor and perseverance by authors such as Johanna Spyri, embeds universal values and lessons within its pages, making it a compendium of not just stories, but life''s lessons transposed onto the written word. The contributing authors and editors, hailing from various cultural and historical contexts, collectively underscore the anthologys thematic richness and literary diversity. Each author, with their unique voice and perspective, contributes to the anthology''s overarching objective: to enchant, educate, and inspire young minds. Figures like Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde, with their incisive wit and profound moral insights, alongside visionaries like Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, pioneer readers through imaginative journeys and technological marvels, reflecting the transformative power of literature. This collection not only serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of these authors but also emphasizes the role of children''s literature in fostering creativity, empathy, and intellectual curiosity across generations. This anthology is recommended for anyone interested in exploring the vast landscapes of human experience and imagination through the lens of children''s literature. The Greatest Classics for Children in One Volume is not merely a collection of stories; it is a gateway to worlds of wonder, challenge, and discovery. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with the diverse themes and myriad voices that have shaped childrens literature and, by extension, the cultural and moral fiber of societies across time. Readers, educators, and scholars alike will find this volume to be an invaluable resource for both enjoyment and study, inviting a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling and its capacity to inform, delight, and transform.

The ''HALLOWEEN COLLECTION TREAT'' stands as a monumental anthology that spans the breadth and depth of supernatural and gothic literature, capturing the essence of eerie nights and spectral mysteries. This collection showcases a remarkable array of literary styles, from the psychological thrillers of Edgar Allan Poe to the haunting folk tales of Lafcadio Hearn, and the ethereal mysteries penned by Algernon Blackwood. The anthology does not simply gather stories; it curates an experience that traverses the 18th to early 20th centuries, highlighting the evolution of horror and speculative fiction. Standout pieces in the collection serve as milestones in the genre, reflecting societal anxieties, historical contexts, and the ever-changing boundary between the known and the unknown. The contributing authors and editors bring diverse backgrounds, hailing from different cultures and periods, each adding unique flavors to the concoction that is ''HALLOWEEN COLLECTION TREAT.'' From the romantic agony of Mary Shelleys creations to the cosmic horrors introduced by H.P. Lovecraft, the collection embodies significant literary movements including Romanticism, Victorian Gothic, and the early inklings of modern horror. This amalgamation of voices not only enriches the theme of the anthology but also offers a panoramic view of the historical and cultural shifts that influenced these literary movements. This anthology is recommended for readers who wish to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of horror and ghost stories through the ages. ''HALLOWEEN COLLECTION TREAT'' provides a unique opportunity to explore a multitude of perspectives, delve into different cultural interpretations of horror, and appreciate the stylistic evolution of the genre. Its a scholarly feast for those intrigued by the shadows cast by literature on the wall of human experience. Each story, carefully selected and compiled, invites readers to ponder the complexities of the human psyche, confront the unknown, and engage in a timeless conversation with masters of the macabre.

SINISTER OMENS: 560+ Supernatural Thrillers, Macabre Tales & Eerie Mysteries stands as a monumental anthology that weaves together the intricate threads of horror, the paranormal, and the uncanny from the pens of some of literature''s most celebrated authors. The collection showcases an unparalleled diversity in storytelling, ranging from Gothic classics to psychological thrillers, each piece a mosaic tile in the vast and shadowy tapestry of the genre. This anthology not only highlights key works from renowned figures but also serves to contextualize the evolution of supernatural and macabre themes across different literary periods, making it an essential compendium for both aficionados and scholars of the eerie and the unsettling. The contributing authors, a veritable who''s who of literary titans and dark fiction connoisseurs, bring a rich tableau of cultural and historical backgrounds to the anthology, enveloping readers in a panorama of horror that spans continents and centuries. From the psychological depths explored by Henry James to the cosmic horrors of H.P. Lovecraft, and the societal critiques embedded in Mary Shelley''s works, these authors collectively contribute to the anthology''s thematic core. Their stories, while diverse in setting and approach, all orbit around the central nexus of fear, mystery, and the supernatural, demonstrating the universal and timeless nature of these themes. SINISTER OMENS offers readers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a compendium that spans the spectrum of horror and mystery. It is a treasure trove for those wishing to delve deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of the supernatural genre, offering a kaleidoscopic view of its evolution and the myriad ways in which fear can be invoked. This anthology is not merely a collection of stories; it is an educational journey, a testament to the enduring power of the macabre to fascinate and terrify, and an invitation to explore the depths of our collective psyche through the lens of literature''s most unnerving tales.

The Horror Beyond Life''s Edge: 560+ Macabre Classics, Supernatural Mysteries & Dark Tales is a literary journey that transcends the commonplace, delving into the realms of the macabre, the supernatural, and the darkly mysterious. This anthology boasts a collection that spans a broad spectrum of literary styles, from gothic horror and eerie ghost stories to unsettling tales of the uncanny and supernatural investigations. The diversity and significance of the works included cannot be overstated, featuring standout pieces from the Victorian era to the early twentieth century, encapsulating the evolution of horror and mystery in literature. The anthology serves as a conduit to explore the depths of human fears, anxieties, and the unknown through a compendium of narratives that challenge the boundaries of imagination and reality. The contributing authors and editors of this collection represent a pantheon of literary giants, each bringing their unique voice and perspective to the overarching theme. From the psychological terror of Edgar Allan Poe to the cosmic horror of H.P. Lovecraft; from the gothic romance of the Brontë sisters to the social critiques of Charles Dickens and the pioneering science fiction of H.G. Wells; these authors collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of horror and supernatural literature. The anthology aligns with various historical, cultural, and literary movements, enriching the readers understanding by offering a myriad of lenses through which to view the complexities of fear, the supernatural, and the human condition. The Horror Beyond Life''s Edge: 560+ Macabre Classics, Supernatural Mysteries & Dark Tales is an indispensable volume for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the breadth and depth of gothic, horror, and supernatural literature. This anthology offers a unique opportunity to explore a multiplicity of perspectives, themes, and narratives within a single tome. It is a call to readers to delve into the abyss of the macabre, to confront the shadows lurking at the edges of life, and to explore the diversity of human expression found in the confrontation with the unknown. For scholars, enthusiasts, and casual readers alike, this collection stands as a monumental testament to the enduring power and appeal of the horror and mystery genre.

DigiCat present to you this meticulously edited collection of the greatest gothic & macabre classics of all time: Content: Frankenstein The Orphan of the Rhine Nightmare Abbey The Tell-Tale Heart The Fall of the House of Usher The Cask of Amontillado The Masque of the Red Death The Castle of Otranto Vathek The Castle of Wolfenbach Caleb Williams The Mysteries of Udolpho The Italian The Monk Wieland Northanger Abbey The Black Cat The Murders in the Rue Morgue The Vampyre The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Melmoth the Wanderer The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner The Hunchback of Notre-Dame The Phantom Ship St, John''s Eve Viy The Mysterious Portrait Jane Eyre Wuthering Heights Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street The House of the Seven Gables Rappaccini''s Daughter The Birth Mark The Lifted Veil The Woman in White Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde The Mystery of Edwin Drood Carmilla Uncle Silas The Hound of the Baskervilles The Picture of Dorian Gray The Horla The Forsaken Inn The Great God Pan Lilith The Lost Stradivarius The Island of Doctor Moreau The Beetle The Turn of the Screw Dracula The Jewel of Seven Stars (Original 1903 Edition) The Monkey''s Paw The Necromancers The Phantom of the Opera Clarimonde The Mummy''s Foot The House on the Borderland The Boats of the Glen Carrig Wolverden Tower The Case of Charles Dexter Ward The Call of Cthulhu

DigiCat presents to you the biggest collection of supernatural, macabre, horror and gothic classics. Grab your copy and get ready for the chills to creep down your spine: H. P. Lovecraft: The Case of Charles Dexter Ward At The Mountains of Madness The Colour out of Space The Whisperer in Darkness The Dunwich Horror The Shunned House... Mary Shelley: Frankenstein The Mortal Immortal The Evil Eye... John William Polidori: The Vampyre Edgar Allan Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart The Cask of Amontillado The Black Cat... Henry James: The Turn of the Screw The Ghostly Rental... Bram Stoker: Dracula The Jewel of Seven Stars The Lair of the White Worm... Algernon Blackwood: The Willows A Haunted Island A Case of Eavesdropping Ancient Sorceries... Gaston Leroux: The Phantom of the Opera Marjorie Bowen: Black Magic Charles Dickens: The Mystery of Edwin Drood Oscar Wilde: The Picture of Dorian Gray Washington Irving: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Théophile Gautier: Clarimonde The Mummy''s Foot Richard Marsh: The Beetle Arthur Conan Doyle: The Hound of the Baskervilles The Silver Hatchet... Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu: Carmilla Uncle Silas... M. R. James: Ghost Stories of an Antiquary A Thin Ghost and Others Wilkie Collins: The Woman in White The Haunted Hotel The Devil''s Spectacles E. F. Benson: The Room in the Tower The Terror by Night... Nathaniel Hawthorne: The Birth Mark The House of the Seven Gables... Ambrose Bierce: Can Such Things Be? Present at a Hanging and Other Ghost Stories Arthur Machen: The Great God Pan The Terror... William Hope Hodgson: The House on the Borderland The Night Land M. P. Shiel: Shapes in the Fire Ralph Adams Cram: Black Spirits and White Grant Allen: The Reverend John Creedy Dr. Greatrex''s Engagement... Horace Walpole: The Castle of Otranto William Thomas Beckford: Vathek Matthew Gregory Lewis: The Monk Ann Radcliffe: The Mysteries of Udolpho Jane Austen: Northanger Abbey Charlotte Brontë: Jane Eyre Emily Brontë: Wuthering Heights Rudyard Kipling: The Phantom Rickshaw Guy de Maupassant: The Horla Jerome K. Jerome: Told After Supper...

The Ultimate Halloween Treat stands as a seminal anthology, embodying an unparalleled collection of literary works that have shaped and defined the gothic, supernatural, and horror genres. This compilation''s range extends from the haunting psychology of fear to the darkest realms of the supernatural, exploring the nuances of terror through a mosaic of styles - from the atmospheric to the grotesque. It highlights the artistry of narrative tension and the existential underpinnings of dread, featuring a geography of haunted landscapes from the misty English moors to the labyrinthine streets of Victorian London, without exclusively attributing to a single author but celebrating the collective genius. The diversity in storytelling reveals the richly layered tapestry of fear that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, offering a comprehensive exploration of the human fascination with the macabre. The contributing authors and editors, a constellation of esteemed writers from the 18th to the early 20th century, bring a breadth of literary prowess and philosophical depth to this collection. This assembly includes luminaries such as Poe, Stoker, and Austen, whose collective works contribute to crucial historical, cultural, and literary movements - from Romanticism and Victorianism to the early seeds of modern horror literature. Their varied backgrounds and insights enrich the anthology, offering a panoramic view of the evolution of horror and gothic literature, reflecting societal anxieties and the perennial exploration of the unknown. The Ultimate Halloween Treat is recommended for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the depth and diversity of horror and gothic literature. It provides a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of perspectives, styles, and themes within a single volume, fostering an educational journey through the history of the genre. This anthology is not just a collection of stories; it is an invitation to explore the complex relationship humanity has with fear, making it an essential volume for both scholars and enthusiasts of horror, gothic, and supernatural literature.

The Book of Gothic Tales is a compelling anthology that gathers the most haunting and mesmerizing stories from a wide array of literary giants spanning the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. With a focus on the gothic genre, these tales delve into themes of mystery, horror, the supernatural, and the human psyche, showcasing a rich diversity in storytelling techniques and narrative styles. This collection stands out for its inclusion of seminal works that have defined and pushed the boundaries of gothic fiction, bringing together the melancholic horror of Poe, the eerie romanticism of the Brontë sisters, and the psychological depths of Henry James, among others, under one cover. The anthology not only celebrates the genre''s historical roots but also its evolution, capturing the shifting cultural anxieties and moral dilemmas of its time. The contributing authors are titans in the literary world, with each bringing their unique voice and cultural background to the anthology. Figures such as Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, and Mary Shelley have individually and collectively contributed to various literary movements, notably Romanticism, Victorian literature, and the dark romanticism of the American Renaissance. Their works within this collection showcase the richness and complexity of gothic fiction as a reflection of societal tensions, personal anguish, and the universal quest for identity. The historical breadth and geographical spread of these authors illuminate the gothic genre''s adaptability and persistent relevance across cultures and eras. Encapsulating a plethora of existential themes and showcasing the pinnacle of storytelling prowess, The Book of Gothic Tales invites readers to traverse the shadowy corridors of human consciousness and confront the spectral entities that reside therein. This anthology is not merely a homage to the gothic genre; it is an exploration of the human condition through the lens of mystery and horror. It is an essential read for those who wish to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of gothic literature, offering an unparalleled journey through the minds of some of the most influential authors in literary history. For scholars, enthusiasts, and casual readers alike, this collection promises an enlightening and engaging experience, serving as both an educational tool and a source of timeless entertainment.

Mystique of the Darkness: 100+ Gothic Classics is an unparalleled compilation that traverses the shadowy corridors of Gothic literature, presenting an extraordinary selection of works from some of the most influential authors of the 18th and 19th centuries. With a rich tapestry of themes ranging from the sublime to the supernatural, this collection showcases the diverse literary styles that define the Gothic genre, from the terror-laden landscapes of the English countryside to the haunted recesses of the European imagination. The anthology brings together a variety of standout pieces, each contributing to the eerie atmosphere and complex emotions characteristic of Gothic fiction, yet uniquely fashioned by the distinct voice of its creator. The contributing authors and editors, ranging from the dark romanticism of Poe to the psychological depth of James, and the societal critiques of Austen and Eliot, bring a wealth of backgrounds to the anthology. Their collective contributions illuminate the multifaceted aspects of the Gothic theme, intertwining historical events, cultural anxieties, and literary movements from Romanticism to Realism. This amalgamation of voices not only enriches the reader''s understanding of the Gothic but also reflects the shifting terrains of fear, morality, and the human psyche across the centuries. Mystique of the Darkness is not merely a collection of Gothic classics; it is an invitation to explore the intricate layers of darkness that have fascinated readers and writers alike for generations. It offers a unique opportunity to experience a multitude of perspectives, styles, and themes, all woven into the dark tapestry of the Gothic. For scholars, students, and enthusiasts of literature, this anthology is an essential resource that provides a comprehensive insight into the evolution of the Gothic genre, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of its enduring legacy. Delve into this collection to discover the myriad ways in which these masterful storytellers have explored the mystique of the darkness within and without.

"The Nebuly Coat" is a suspense novel by J. Meade Falkner about the experiences of a young architect, Edward Westray, who travels to the remote town of Cullerne for restoration works. The small town turned out to be full of large secrets, and the central element of all the mystery is the Nebuly Coat on the coat of arms of the local aristocrat Lord Blandamer.

The Lost Stradivarius (1895), by J. Meade Falkner, is a short novel of ghosts and the evil that can be invested in an object, in this case an extremely fine Stradivarius violin. After finding the violin of the title in a hidden compartment in his college rooms, the protagonist, a wealthy young heir, becomes increasingly secretive as well as obsessed by a particular piece of music, which seems to have the power to call up the ghost of its previous owner. Roaming from England to Italy, the story involves family love, lordly depravity, and the tragedy of obsession, all conveyed in a "high" serious tone not uncommon in late Victorian literature. Preceding M.R. James''s ghost stories by several years, it has been called the novel James might have written, had he written novels.

The Lost Stradivarius (1895), by J. Meade Falkner, is a short novel of ghosts and the evil that can be invested in an object, in this case an extremely fine Stradivarius violin. It has been described as "one of Falkner''s three celebrated novels" and as a "psychic romance".

Share the joy of reading to your little ones and take them into the magical land of dragons, fairies, elves and fantasies with this meticulously edited collection: Dragon Tales: My Father''s Dragon The Reluctant Dragon The Book of Dragons Animal Tales & Fables: The Tale of Peter Rabbit The Tale of Benjamin Bunny… Mother West Wind Series The Burgess Bird Book for Children The Burgess Animal Book for Children The Velveteen Rabbit Uncle Wiggily''s Adventures & Other Tales Little Bun Rabbit Mother Goose in Prose Lulu''s Library The Jungle Book… White Fang Black Beauty The Story of Doctor Dolittle… Aesop Fables The Panchatantra Russian Picture Fables for the Little Ones The Russian Garland Fairy tales & Fantasies: Complete Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen Complete Fairy Tales of Brothers Grimm Complete Fairy Books of Andrew Lang Peter Pan Five Children and It… Alice in Wonderland Through the Looking Glass The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Collection At the Back of the North Wind The Princess and the Goblin Tanglewood Tales The Happy Prince and Other Tales All the Way to Fairyland Friendly Fairies… Old Peter''s Russian Tales Childhood Adventures: Robin Hood Pinocchio Gingerbread Man Little Women The Secret Garden A Little Princess The Adventures of Tom Sawyer Journey to the Centre of the Earth Treasure Island… Anne of Green Gables Collection… The Wind in the Willows The Box-Car Children The Railway Children Oliver Twist David Copperfield… Classics Retold The Iliad of Homer Odysseus The Arabian Nights Entertainments Viking Tales Tales of King Arthur and the Round Table Chaucer for Children Tales from Shakespeare Don Quixote The Pilgrim''s Progress Robinson Crusoe Voyage to Lilliput Little Goody Two-Shoes & Mrs Margery Two-Shoes Charles Dickens'' Children Stories The Story of Hiawatha Uncle Tom''s Cabin Pocahontas

The Nebuly Coat is a suspense novel written by J. Meade Falkner. It was published in 1903 and has since been adapted for the stage.The Nebuly Coat (1903), by J. Meade Falkner, is a novel which tells of the experiences of a young architect, Edward Westray, who is sent to the remote Dorset town of Cullerne to supervise restoration work on Cullerne Minster. He finds himself caught up in Cullerne life, and hears rumours about a mystery surrounding the claim to the title of Lord Blandamer, whose coat of arms in the Minster''s great transept window is the nebuly coat of the title. When the new Lord Blandamer arrives, promising to pay all the costs of the restoration, Westray suspects that the new lord is not what he seems. The Nebuly Coat includes elements that were central interests in Falkner''s life, church architecture and heraldry. The massive Romanesque arches of Cullerne Minster recall those of Durham Cathedral which Falkner was familiar with through his work as Honorary Librarian to the Dean and Chapter as well as viewing it from his house on Palace Green. Colerne which has been Cullerne during its history may have been the source of the name of the town and minster.

Moonfleet is a novel written by English writer J. Meade Falkner. A tale of smuggling, royal treasure and shipwreck, the book was extremely popular among children, mostly for its themes of adventure and gripping storyline. It remains a popular story widely read and is still sometimes studied in schools. "Moonfleet" begins as a mystery and an adventure story, a tale of smuggling set among the cliffs, caves, and downs of Dorset. What will be the outcome of the conflict between smugglers and revenue men? How can the hero, John Trenchard, discover the secret of Colonel John Mohune''s treasure?

Musaicum Books presents to you this unique collection, designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Content: The Adventures of Ferdinand Count Fathom The Castle of Otranto The Old English Baron Vathek The Ghost-Seer The Castle of Wolfenbach Caleb Williams The Mysteries of Udolpho The Italian A Sicilian Romance The Romance of the Forest The Monk The Orphan of the Rhine The Rime of the Ancient Mariner Christabel Zastrozzi St. Irvyne Manfred Northanger Abbey Frankenstein... Isabella, or the Pot of Basil La Belle Dame Sans Merci The Raven The Tell-Tale Heart The Fall of the House of Usher The Cask of Amontillado... The Vampyre... The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner Porphyria''s Lover St, John''s Eve The Viy... Jane Eyre Wuthering Heights Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street The House of the Seven Gables... The Woman in White Goblin Market The Headless Horseman Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde Carmilla Uncle Silas The Man-Wolf The Great Amherst Mystery The Hound of the Baskervilles... The Picture of Dorian Gray The Horla The Forsaken Inn The Yellow Wallpaper The Island of Doctor Moreau The Invisible Man The Beetle The Turn of the Screw... Dracula… The Necromancers The House on the Borderland The Phantom of the Opera… Wolverden Tower...

The Lost Stradivarius (1895), by J. Meade Falkner, is a short novel of ghosts and the evil that can be invested in an object, in this case an extremely fine Stradivarius violin. After finding the violin of the title in a hidden compartment in his college rooms, the protagonist, a wealthy young heir, becomes increasingly secretive as well as obsessed by a particular piece of music, which seems to have the power to call up the ghost of its previous owner. Roaming from England to Italy, the story involves family love, lordly depravity, and the tragedy of obsession, all conveyed in a "high" serious tone not uncommon in late Victorian literature.

To mark the publication of Stop What You''re Doing and Read This!, a collection of essays celebrating reading, Vintage Classics are releasing 12 limited edition themed ebook ''bundles'', to tempt readers to discover and rediscover great books. JUST SO STORIES INTRODUCED BY PHILIP PULLMAN Have you ever wondered how the leopard got his spots? Or how the camel got his hump? Rudyard Kipling''s witty and beautifully written stories explain these secrets and many more and introduce such memorable characters as the Elephant''s Child, the Cat that Walked by Himself and the Butterfly that Stamped. MOONFLEET Orphaned John Trenchard grows up in the village of Moonfleet with his aunt, entranced by the local legend of the ghostly Blackbeard, who rises each winter night to search for his lost diamond. While conducting his own hunt for the treasure, John is trapped in the church crypt and discovers the true secret of the village: smuggling. Taken under the wing of the gruff innkeeper and chief smuggler, Elzevir Block, John begins a dangerous adventure which will see him in a hair-raising chase along a precarious cliff path and deciphering a hidden code in an ancient castle. Moonfleet is thrilling story of revenge and betrayal, of loyalty and great sacrifice, but it is above all a story about friendship..