Racketty-Packetty House and Other Stories


Book Description

In addition to Little Lord Fauntleroy, The Secret Garden, A Little Princess, and other beloved classics of childhood, Frances Hodgson Burnett created a delightful legacy of short stories for children. This volume includes six of the best of these tales. "Racketty-Packetty House," the centerpiece of the collection, is a touching tale of a once-elegant dollhouse and its shabby inhabitants, happy creatures who love to dance. But the little girl who owns the dolls is tired of them, much preferring her new Tidy Castle dollhouse with its haughty, upperclass dolls, and her nurse wants to burn the Racketty-Packetty House. Children will love finding out what happens to the old house and its ragtag occupants. Also included here are "Behind the White Brick," a Lewis Carroll–like fantasy of a hidden world behind a chimney's brickwork; "The Story of Prince Fairyfoot," a fairy tale about a young man of royalty who, because of his tiny feet, is rejected by his parents; "Sara Crewe," an early version of A Little Princess; as well as "Little Saint Elizabeth" and The Proud Little Grain of Wheat." Heartwarming and instructive, these charming stories ― reprinted here complete and unabridged ― will enthrall anyone with a love of make-believe. They are sure to delight today's youngsters as much as they entertained children generations ago.




Racketty-Packetty House


Book Description

Step into the enchanting world of "Racketty-Packetty House" by Frances Hodgson Burnett, a delightful and heartwarming tale that celebrates the magic of imagination, the resilience of friendship, and the timeless charm of childhood adventures. Originally published in 1906, this charming story by the beloved author of "The Secret Garden" and "A Little Princess" continues to captivate readers young and old. "Racketty-Packetty House" tells the story of a once-grand dollhouse that has fallen into disrepair and been relegated to a forgotten corner of the nursery. Despite its shabby appearance, Racketty-Packetty House is inhabited by a spirited and cheerful group of dolls who refuse to let their circumstances dampen their spirits. Led by the indomitable Meg and her loyal companions, the dolls live a life full of joy, creativity, and adventure, proving that true happiness comes from within. Their world is turned upside down with the arrival of a new, luxurious dollhouse, Tidy Castle, which captures the attention and admiration of the children. The elegant inhabitants of Tidy Castle look down on the residents of Racketty-Packetty House, dismissing them as ragged and insignificant. However, the Racketty-Packetty dolls' unwavering optimism and kindness soon begin to have an unexpected impact on their haughty neighbors. Through the lively escapades and endearing personalities of the Racketty-Packetty dolls, Frances Hodgson Burnett weaves a tale that highlights the importance of resilience, kindness, and the power of imagination. Her masterful storytelling and delightful characterizations bring the dolls' world to life, making readers fall in love with their indomitable spirit and infectious zest for life. Perfect for readers who cherish classic children's literature, "Racketty-Packetty House" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Frances Hodgson Burnett's work. Its themes of friendship, perseverance, and the beauty of finding joy in simple pleasures resonate just as strongly today as they did over a century ago. Join the delightful residents of Racketty-Packetty House on their whimsical adventures and discover why this enchanting story continues to be a favorite among readers of all ages. Whether revisiting a childhood classic or discovering it for the first time, "Racketty-Packetty House" is a treasure trove of warmth, humor, and timeless lessons that will leave a lasting impression.










Tales of Horror and Suspense


Book Description

Eight ingenious, gripping tales by the master of suspense and creator of the American Gothic horror story: "The Fall of the House of Usher," "The Tell-Tale Heart," "William Wilson," "The Pit and the Pendulum," "The Cask of Amontillado," "The Gold-Bug," "The Purloined Letter, and "The Murders in the Rue Morgue." Classic, spine-tingling tales for ghost story enthusiasts.




Ten Tales from Shakespeare


Book Description

Prose retellings of The Tempest; A Midsummer Night's Dream; As You Like It; The Merchant of Venice; King Lear; Macbeth; The Taming of the Shrew; Romeo and Juliet; Hamlet, Prince of Denmark; and Othello.




Index to Short Stories


Book Description







Tom Sawyer, Detective


Book Description

This less-well-known tale of Tom's exploits is narrated by Huck Finn, who recounts their trip by river steamer to visit Aunt Sally in "Arkansaw," where they encounter a dangerous pair of thugs.