Reading unlocks characteristics and states of mind within us that lend themselves very well to mindfulness and meditation. One of the activities most associated with mindfulness and meditation is breathing and visualisation. When we lose ourselves in a book, we have the amazing capability to block out the world around us. This is what makes reading so beautiful.
Authors, or at least some authors, do a magnificent job of touching upon all of our senses to help build a picture and narrative. It is interesting to note at this point that one of the most common grounding techniques for anxiety and depression is the “54321” exercise. Find 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. Understanding how your body and mind work during these episodes can help you develop a healthier response to frightening situations. Which leads us to the therapeutic effects of reading.
We begin to allow ourselves to imagine how the character might look and what accent they have. We use the little voice in our minds to playfully reenact the character's tone of voice, also known as our internal dialogue or 'inner voice'. Perhaps they are softly spoken and lungs are breathing heavily. Perhaps they are gritty and raw with a wicked sense of humour. The beauty of reading is being open to interpretation. This practice of focus is helping us develop a stronger sense of perception.
So why have some of us become unable to concentrate or meditate? Do you often find your mind beginning to wander as you read, or you can no longer read as much as you used to? A new study published in the journal 'Scientific Reports' lends support to a body of research suggesting that reading on electronic devices reduces comprehension. The study found that reading on a smartphone promotes over-activity in the prefrontal cortex, less frequent sighing, and lower reading comprehension.
In conclusion, the beauty of owning paperbacks and physical copies is so much more than just the texture or smell of printed ink on paper. It is supporting a positive mental attitude as well as developing our comprehension and a healthy mindful perspective.
Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre was one of the most influential books of the nineteenth century. Published in 1847 under the pseudonym Currer Bell, the novel received phenomenal critical acclaim, causing a ‘sensation’ among Victorian readers. Most notable was the insight Brontë provided into the soul of her protagonist; her visceral examination of human emotion which influenced the modern English novel and the concept of the ‘self’. More generally, the novel is famous for the romance between the smouldering, Byronic Mr Rochester and the innocent, moralistic Jane, who share an explosive and agonising passion, a relationship that has set the blueprint for many a fictional couple ever since.
However, the development of feminist criticism in the mid to late 20th century brought the book under new scrutiny, with a groundbreaking study by Sandra Gilbert and Susan Gubar highlighting the text’s ‘rebellious feminism’. They saw Jane as a woman fighting against the social constraints of her era, refusing to comply with contemporary expectations of her gender, asserting that ‘women feel as men feel’. Jane is eloquent and forthright, curious and heroic: she survives mistreatment at the hand of her relatives, fights through starvation and poverty and even saves Mr Rochester from being burnt to death. But does that make her a feminist? Yes, Jane asserts her independence by refusing to marry Rochester when she discovers (spoiler!) that he keeps his wife locked up in the attic. But she does not then go on to a life of study or political activism, but comes home, forgives him and spends the rest of her days nursing him. This can be a bitter pill to swallow for us modern, feminist readers, who would like nothing more than for Jane to raise the banner for women’s rights in Westminster. Nonetheless, if Brontë does not give us the conclusion we desire, we should not ignore the encouraging assertions of female feeling made throughout the novel, proving that Jane does still have something to contribute to the conversation about equality.
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One of the key characteristics that marks Jane Eyre as a feminist is her seemingly irrepressible spirit. Brontë was revolutionary in providing a fictional character such depth of thought, and even more so for putting it in the mind of a woman. Jane’s preoccupations are not limited to frocks, marriage and sewing, as would have been expected by Victorian readers, but also morality, faith and injustice. Speaking of female ambition, she asserts that ‘it is narrow-minded in their more privileged fellow-creatures [ie.men] to say that they ought to confine themselves to making puddings and knitting stockings.’ It is this spirit and sense of self-awareness that push her to seek a life away from Lowood, because she knows that ‘the real world was wide’ and she wants ‘to seek real knowledge of life amidst its perils’. She knows what is expected of her as a woman, but she cannot help wanting more and is determined to act upon her desires. Not because she has a political point to prove, but because to do otherwise would be unfaithful to her inner self.
Jane subverts traditional ideas of femininity further by speaking some of these controversial feelings aloud, especially when facing injustice. Even as a child she refuses to accept mistreatment, and will not relent, despite punishment. She refuses to turn the other cheek when provoked: ‘When we are struck at without a reason we must strike back again very hard’ and is adamant that she does not deserve to suffer on behalf of her class or gender: ‘Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! - I have as much soul as you - and as much heart!” These “unfeminine” protestations alarm those around her, for they ‘had not imagined that a woman would dare to speak so to a man’. Because of this, she is presumed to be out of her depth. Men and women are constantly telling her that she must calm down, that she is confused or over-excited, that she must have a glass of water and pacify herself. Jane is frustrated by this patronising behaviour, and strongly asserts her independent thought and mind: ‘I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will.’
This strength and self-assertion mark Jane out as an unconventional heroine and feminist. Despite her stature and status, Jane is intelligent and aware of the attempts of others to wrest her into positions to which she is unsuited. She insists on being true to herself and her morals, rejecting the roles carved out for her by men. She will not become Rochester’s ideal bride, despite her passion for him, and refuses the jewels and fripperies he offers her, claiming that it would be unnatural, and would make her something she is not: ‘an ape in a harlequin’s jacket- a jay in borrowed plumes’. Nor will she consent to be his mistress once she has learnt of the existence of his wife, for, as Rochester said himself, ‘hiring a mistress is the next worst thing to buying a slave.’ She values herself too highly to be subordinated in such a way. She similarly rejects Rivers’ pressure to become his wife as a missionary, knowing that she would be ‘forced to keep the fire of my nature continually low, to compel it to burn inwardly and never utter a cry, though the imprisoned flame consumed vital after vital.’ She knows that accompanying Rivers to India would destroy her and has the courage to reject him, despite the considerable power that he wields, which she claims ‘took away my liberty of mind’.
In refusing these predetermined roles, Jane chooses to carve out her own destiny, which is perhaps the strongest feminist assertion of the novel. She decides that she should find a new position after Lowood, asking no one for advice or support. She chooses to seek a new life away from Rochester, despite having no money or connections and ultimately chooses to return. This sense of agency is emphasised further once she discovers her inheritance, which allows her to live upon her own terms: ‘Independence would be glorious’. Free from the limitations of poverty, she is no longer dependant on anyone, neither Rochester nor Rivers, permitting her to act according to her own will: ‘It was my time to assume ascendancy. My powers were in play and in force.’ She decides to return to Rochester not because she is caving in to her female emotions, but because she is independent and can live her life as she pleases.
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Despite her recent reputation as a champion of women’s rights, there is plenty of material in the novel that would suggest that Jane Eyre is not what modern readers would call a feminist. One critic has gone so far as to say that ‘there is not a hint in the book of any desire for political, legal, educational, or even intellectual equality between the sexes.’ Indeed, Jane shows no particular inclination towards achieving a prosperous career, announcing that she is ‘not ambitious’. She has no great passion for teaching and does not seem to find joy in offering her female pupils the chance of a better life, referring to them as ‘hopelessly dull...heavy, gaping rustics.’ On the discovery of her inheritance, Jane is more than happy to give up her school and work; she is delighted to have the opportunity to enjoy a life of domesticity relishing in tasks such as baking, decorating and cleaning. This seems quite a contrast from the young woman desperate to see more of the world and seek new experiences, and seems to contradict her speech on the ramparts of Thornfield, lamenting the lack of opportunities for women beyond the home. It is as though the arrival of money gave her the opportunity to enjoy the life of boredom for which she secretly yearned. This may seem disappointing, and perhaps the modern reader is likely to agree with Rivers, who asks ‘What aim, what purpose, what ambition in life have you now?’ and hopes that ‘when the first flush of vivacity is over, you will look a little higher than domestic endearments and household joys.’
There seems to be little feminism also in the relationship between Jane and Rochester. He uses possessive, violent language when speaking to her: ‘I must have you as my own, entirely my own...when I have seized you‘ which she does not challenge, for all of her teasing. Her decision to leave Thornfield seems less to do with his questionable behaviour and more to do with her own shame: ‘I should fear even to cross his path now: my view must be hateful to him.’ Rather than blaming him (‘I will not say that he betrayed me’) she in fact blames herself; ‘how blind had been my eyes! How weak my conduct!’ She does not express any sense of anger at his lies, or moral indignation, admitting, almost guiltily: ‘Reader, I forgave him at that moment and on the spot.’ Although she insists on leaving Thornfield, she does not challenge Rochester on his behaviour and still refers to him as ‘my dear master’ upon departing. Furthermore, despite asserting her independence at Moor House and claiming that she will never marry, she still returns to her beloved. She does not express a particular plan to the reader (is she planning to agree to be his mistress after all? Is she happy to ignore Bertha’s existence and Rochester’s lies?) and seems driven there only by a desire to be with him. Upon her arrival, Rochester refers to her as ever before, as a child, plaything or animal ‘my fairy...my skylark’ and sits her on his lap. With Bertha helpfully removed from the picture, there seems to be no obstacle in Jane becoming a loving, devoted wife.
Although Jane tells Rochester ‘I am my own mistress now’, it is hard to see her decision to marry him as a sign of feminine independence, especially given the fact that, upon saying ‘I do’ all of her money would legally belong to him. Earlier in the novel, Jane firmly informs Rochester that she is ‘no angel’, subverting the Victorian concept of the Angel in the house in which it is the wife’s job, as a model of piety and humility, to guide her husband on the path to moral virtue. However, this is ultimately the role Jane assumes when she goes to Ferndean. As a result of Rochester’s disfigurement and blindness, Jane must literally lead him through life with her ‘soft ministry’, serving both ‘for his prop and his guide.’ Rather than widening her horizons, committing to Rochester limits them, causing her to live out her days as a carer, the most stereotypical female role, in almost total isolation. She does not seek the excitement of the wider world but a life that revolves entirely around her husband. It seems that wild Jane, with the bold, adventurous spirit, has finally been tamed by a jealous, patriarchal man.
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Despite her boldness of spirit and insistence on speaking her mind, Jane’s acceptance of the traditional Victorian role of a wife can make it difficult to present her as a feminist trailblazer. Her fierce assertions of independence all seem to melt away at the thought of a life without Rochester, for she does not want to live without him. However, we should be considerate of the context within which she and Brontë were operating, and the existence of restrictions no longer faced by modern women. Further education was barred to women in Victorian England, as were most professions. While teaching at Lowood, Jane dreams of a life of freedom and excitement, but she accepts that it is simply beyond her means. She desires liberty, but knows it will not be possible, and that ‘a new servitude’ is all that she can hope for. She may not be what we’d call a feminist, but she’s certainly pragmatic. Given her circumstances and the accepted behaviour for women at the time, her ability to speak her mind in front of Rochester and inform him of his faults should be seen in themselves a victory for women.
While it may be true that she makes no obvious cry for women’s political or economic rights, Jane does believe in equality. She is only able to return to Rochester once she has become financially independent, so that she no longer feels like the subject of pity or charity. Simultaneously, Rochester’s blindness means that he is now dependent on her: putting them on a more equal footing. But to Jane, emotional equality is even more important, and she is pushed to return to Rochester by the realisation of what life with Rivers would be like. She would be forced to ‘disown half my nature, stifle half my faculties’ in a cold, loveless marriage, in which she would be valued as a fellow labourer, not a twin soul. In contrast, the emotional connection between herself and Rochester can be in no doubt: Rochester refers to her as ‘my better self’ and believes that they are connected, soul to soul. Jane believes they should be together because she has ‘something in my brain and heart, in my blood and nerves, that assimilates me mentally to him.’ She does not refer to any specific gender role in their relationship, because she and Rochester are equals in love: ‘I am my husband’s life as fully as he is mine. No woman was ever nearer to her mate than I am.’
Jane Eyre can be a frustrating character for modern readers because, despite all her strong words against oppression on the grounds of her sex and status, she ultimately agrees to a conventional conclusion. She gives up her career and independence and returns to Rochester as a housewife and mother. Her behaviour may cause us to question why Brontë gave Jane a free spirit, if she ultimately does exactly what is expected. But what is most important to acknowledge is that, by giving Jane such independence and eloquence of thought, Brontë allows us to see and understand Jane’s choices. We may not agree with her decisions, but we cannot and should not judge her for making them. Jane decides on her fate: no one does it for her. She chooses to leave Thornfield, chooses to give up teaching, chooses not to become a missionary and chooses to marry Rochester. No one forces her to act and she refuses to bend to the selfish, harmful will of others. This is her one of her greatest strengths, and earns her the title of heroine. Feminism empowers women to have the freedom to choose their own destiny, and Jane does just that.
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Can't find the words to write in their Valentine's Day card? Here are fifteen romantic lines from classic literature to inspire you!
HIGHS
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BEST-SELLING
Four out of five of the bestselling products on our website last year were subscriptions! Coffee and Book Club, Classics Revisited, Classic of the Month Club and Tea and Book Club are all up there along with our random bookmark bundle. Our new subscription - Modern Classics - is right up there in the top ten since it launched in the autumn.
To our wholesale customers, the ‘Blind Date With a Book’ range, the fictional travel posters, ‘Read Banned Books’ and ‘Amazon Sucks’ dominated the top of the bestseller lists.
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We hope this transparency is insightful for our community, and also a comfort to other small businesses. We have lots of new exciting projects for 2024 and wish ourselves and others nothing but success and happiness.
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"Would you like to have an adventure now, or would you like to have your tea first?" - J.M Barrie.
"Rise free from care before the dawn, and seek adventures. Let the noon find thee by other lakes, and the night overtake thee everywhere at home." - Henry David Thoreau.
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]]>For many of us winter is a state of peacefulness and hibernation. It is a time we are accepted for our introverted tendencies to bury ourselves away with books for endless days. There is something special about switching on those fairy lights, drinking hot chocolate and reading romance novels deep until spring.
We wanted to take this moment to share with you some pieces by authors and poets that manage to beautifully express and deepen our love for winter. Grab a cup of tea, let's get cosy.
Winter, we are ready for you.
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Gerwig’s fresh take on the timeline means you become invested almost instantly, with the beginning of the film set seven years in the future. We learn about the sisters and their life together (the parts we’re all familiar with) through a series of flashbacks. Suddenly the decisions they make as teenagers, some of them seemingly fluffy, carry an immense weight. There are real implications to their choices - good and bad - that we’ve already seen their future selves navigating.
If you couldn’t tell, we’re obsessed.
So obsessed in fact, that we wanted to write a blog post detailing some of our favourite moments. If you’re yet to watch and dislike spoilers then come back once you’ve seen it! Just so you know, the moments aren’t in chronological order. (What can we say, we were inspired by the film.)
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1.
Laura Dern is amazing as Marmee and there are so many quiet, subtle moments where she displays huge amounts of dignity and grit. We loved the moment she had with an impassioned Jo, reminding her that we are all both a work in progress and a masterpiece at the same time.
“I’m not patient by nature, but with forty years of experience, I’m learning not to let it get the better of me.”
2.
Amy’s speech on marriage was a serious mic drop moment. Florence Pugh’s performance was wonderful throughout the film but it was particularly stunning in this scene.
“I’m just a woman. And as a woman, there’s no way for me to make my own money. Not enough to earn a living or to support my family, and if I had my own money, which I don’t, that money would belong to my husband the moment we got married. And if we had children, they would be his, not mine. They would be his property, so don’t sit there and tell me that marriage isn’t an economic proposition, because it is. It may not be for you, but it most certainly is for me.”
We have to mention her outfit in this scene too. The cape she puts on at the end is a thing of beauty.
3.
Eliza Scanlen captures the essence of Beth wonderfully. We loved the scene on the beach with Jo but our favourite was the quiet, understated moment she shared with Mr Laurence after he gifted her the piano.
4.
Meg’s scenes weren’t all memorable however she did have perhaps one of our favourite lines from the entire film.
“Just because my dreams are different than yours doesn’t mean they’re unimportant.”
Dreams don’t have to be world changing to be important. As long as we are working towards a dream that we’ve chosen for ourselves, then that’s enough.
Despite her sometimes shaky accent, Emma Watson was brilliant and we loved this heartfelt moment between the two sisters.
5.
A moment that really made us laugh (but for some reason not the rest of the cinema?) was Amy making a plaster cast of her feet to give to Laurie and subsequently getting stuck in a bucket. As though having nice feet was the make of break feature of a person. It was pure light-hearted silliness.
“I have lovely small feet, the best in the family.”
6.
There are so many great examples of wonderful cinematography throughout this film but our favourite was the scene that showed Jo sitting on the hill in the vast expanse of the countryside after rejecting Laurie’s proposal. The composition, the lighting - it reflects her feelings so beautifully; how she perhaps feels a little lost and small in that moment whilst simultaneously reinforcing how much she has left to conquer and achieve.
7.
Jo had a lot fantastic lines and Saoirse Ronan was incredible at performing them. We had a fair few that we wanted to include in this list, including the following:
“I’d rather be a free spinster and paddle my own canoe.”
“I can’t get over my disappointment at being a girl.”
“Writing doesn’t confirm importance. It reflects it.”
“I like good strong words that mean something.”
But our favourite, and perhaps the most recognisable due to its feature in the trailer, is this:
“Women have minds and souls as well as just hearts. And they’ve got ambition and talent as well as just beauty. And I’m sick of people saying that love is all a woman is fit for.
Saoirse Ronan delivered it so beautifully. Got us right in the feels.
Honestly, we could go on for quite some time and we can't wait to watch it again. We'd love to know your favourite moment and maybe which sister you relate to most?
]]>Deck the halls with wit and wisdom! Introducing our brand new FSC certified wooden Christmas decorations, a whimsical fusion of holiday cheer and literary rebellion. These ornaments proudly declare, "Obstinate Headstrong Girl," paying homage to the timeless spirit of strong-willed heroines. Embrace the revolutionary holiday spirit with declarations like "Smash the Patriarchy" and add a dash of literary satire to your seasonal décor. For a touch of irreverent humor, don't miss the ornament that proclaims, "Eat the Rich," a cheeky nod to social commentary that's sure to spark conversations around the holiday table.
Click here to shop the Christmas Decoration Collection.
This Christmas, gift-giving takes on a literary twist with our enchanting book subscriptions, ensuring a season of joy and discovery for the avid reader in your life. Immerse them in the magic of a carefully selected book paired with indulgent luxury chocolate, creating a sensory experience that transcends the pages. Our Classic of the Month subscription invites them to explore timeless literary masterpieces, while the Vintage Book paired with exquisite tea or coffee subscription offers a cozy escape into the past.
Modern Classics Book and Luxury Chocolate Subscription.
Classics Revisited Book and Luxury Chocolate Subscription
Coffee and Vintage Book Club OR Tea and Vintage Book Club
Indulge in the enchanting ambiance of the holiday season with our exquisite Christmas collection candles, each a literary-inspired masterpiece. Transport yourself to the cozy warmth of "Christmas at the Burrow" with its delightful blend of butterscotch, cream soda, caramel, butter and brown sugar, reminiscent of the cherished Weasley family home. Experience the timeless charm of "March Family Christmas," inspired by Little Women, as notes of mince pies, vanilla and cinnamon fuse together to create a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of the beloved March sisters' festive celebrations. For those who appreciate a touch of tradition with a hint of skepticism, "Bah Humbug" offers a unique blend of minty mintiness, capturing the essence of Dickens' iconic character, Ebenezer Scrooge. Hand-poured with love, these soy wax candles come in charming amber apothecary-style jars, ensuring a perfect blend of literary magic and festive cheer in every flicker. Illuminate your holidays with the essence of classic literature and make this season truly memorable.
Click here to shop our literary-inspired candles.
Your favourite person deserves to put their feet up this Christmas. Fact! And a cosy afternoon spent reading sounds pretty good to us. 📖 Answer a few questions on their behalf and we’ll set you up with a book from our collection of classics. Oh and because they deserve nothing less, we’ll throw in the matching bookmark for free.
2024 Classic Literature Art Postcard Calendar
Our 2024 postcard calendar features our popular classic literature art. Twelve pieces of beautiful artwork throughout, featuring books such as Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, The Importance of Being Earnest. This comes with an optional freestanding wooden holder that’s perfect for desktops, sideboards, shelves and worktops - a great way to stay organised!
2024 Romantic Postcard Calendar
This 2024 postcard calendar set features handpicked romantic lines from some of the greatest literary works in history. Running from January to December 2024. It comes with an optional freestanding wooden holder that's perfect for desktops, sideboards, shelves and worktops - a great way to stay organised!
In the timeless pages of classic literature, the environment emerges not merely as a backdrop, but as a profound source of inspiration that has woven its essence into the fabric of countless narratives. From the vast, untamed landscapes that stir the imagination to the delicate ecosystems that mirror the fragility of the human spirit, the natural world has long been a muse for some of the greatest literary minds. Join me on this journey through the pages of timeless works, as we explore how authors have harnessed the power of the environment to awaken our senses, provoke contemplation, and kindle a collective passion for the preservation of our planet. In the dance between words and nature, we find not only stories but a call to action that transcends the bounds of fiction, inviting us to become stewards of the Earth we so intricately share with the characters on the page. 🌍✨
'On our way back to her house, I didn't look at the city lights any longer. I looked into the sky and felt as if the moon was following us. When I was a child, my grandmother told me that the sky speaks to those who look and listen to it. She said 'In the sky there are always answers and explanations for everything: every pain, every suffering, joy, and confusion.' That night I wanted the sky to talk to me.'
-Ishmael Beah
'He stood breathing, and the more he breathed the land in, the more he was filled up with all the details of the land. He was not empty. There was more than enough here to fill him. There would always be more than enough.'
-Ray Bradbury
'The woods call to us with hundred voices, but the sea has one only - a mighty voice that drowns our souls in its majestic music. The woods are human, but the sea is of the company of the archangels.'
- L. M Montgomery
'Time is more complex near the sea than in any other place, for in addition to the circling of the sun and the turning of the seasons, the waves beat out the passage of time on the rocks and the tides rise and fall as a great clepsydra.'
- John Steinbeck
“How healing it was to be back at Gombe again, and by myself with the chimpanzees and their forest. I had left the busy, materialistic world so full of greed and selfishness and, for a little while, could feel myself, as in the early days, a part of nature."
- Jane Goodall
“The glitter in the sky looks as if I could scoop it all up in my hands and let the stars swirl and touch one another but they are so distant so very far apart that they cannot feel the warmth of each other even though they are made of burning.”
- Beth Revis
'I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery - air, mountains, trees, people. I thought, this is what it is to be happy.'
-Sylvia Plath
'Not just beautiful, though - the stars are like the trees in the forest, alive and breathing. And they're watching me.'
-Haruki Murakami
'Some people could look at a mud puddle and see an ocean with ships.'
- Zora Neale Hurston
'Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we've ever known'
- Carl Sagan
'There is a pleasure in the pathless woods, there is a rapture on the lonely shore, there is society, where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar: I love not man the less, but nature more.'
- Lord Byron
Classic literature is full of the delights of the past - which is exactly what gives its charm. However, its language and topics are sometimes a little heavy and difficult to understand. Here are our top five accessible books to get you into classical literature without the need for a dictionary!
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott - a heartwarming novel set in 1860s Massachusetts about the March sisters - fiercely independent Jo, charming Meg, caring and benevolent Beth, and romantic and self-centred Amy. It follows their adventures as they navigate love, heartbreak, war, friendships, and the delights and hardships of womanhood.
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett - this must-read novel tells the delightful story of Mary Lennox, who is sent away to live with a distant relative in a manor on the Yorkshire moors. It’s there that she begins to uncover the mysteries of the house and its inhabitants: the reclusive Mr Craven, the wailing in the night, and, of course, the secret garden. You’ll find it hard not to fall in love with Mary’s dry, witty charm and Hodgson Burnett’s delightful descriptions.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll - one of the most famous children’s books of all time, the novel introduces us to the delights of Wonderland told by the naive but loveable Alice, who describes her surroundings with a charming innocence. Its whimsical simplicity means it has remained loved by children and adults alike for generations.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë - in arguably one of the greatest pieces of feminist literature, Brontë tells the tale of Jane Eyre - of her journey from an abusive home to the recourse of school to a sprawling manor; of her captivating and explosive love with the Byronic Mr Rochester and the subsequent agonising heartbreak; and, above all, of her identity as a boldly independent woman taking control of her destiny. Though occasionally complex in its wording, the book remains easy to follow throughout, and is the perfect introduction to the wonders of the Brontë sisters.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - we couldn’t finish this list without an Austen classic! Pride and Prejudice is one of our all-time favourite romance novels, and features some of the most iconic quotes in all of literature. It follows the romance of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy, alongside the various exploits and adventures of the other Bennets. Like Jane Eyre, its descriptions are relatively accessible (if sometimes a little wordy).
]]>Our friends over in the US are having much more trouble with this though. Books are being removed from schools classrooms and libraries all over the place! That's why when Alan from Share Banned Books got in touch, we knew this was a project we could get behind. They are distributing banned and challenged books to Little Free Libraries across the USA to help increase access to some really important titles.
We're really proud that our 'read banned books' bookmarks will be popping up in those books, to help people understand why they are there!
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It - Stephen King
“Smells of dirt and wet and long-gone vegetables would merge into one unmistakable ineluctable smell, the smell of the monster, the apotheosis of all monsters. It was the smell of something for which he had no name: the small of It, crouched and lurking and ready to spring. A creature which would eat anything but was especially hungry for boymeat.”
Coraline - Neil Gaiman
“I swear it on my own mother’s grave.”
“Does she have a grave?“ asked Coraline.
“Oh yes,“ said the other mother. “ I put her in there myself. And when I found her trying to crawl, I put her back.”
Dracula - Bram Stroker
“Even if she be not harmed, her heart may fail her in so much and so many horrors; and hereafter she may suffer–both in waking, from her nerves, and in sleep, from her dreams.”
Knock - Fredrik Brown
“The last man on earth sat alone in a room. There was a knock on the door.”
Frankenstein - Mary Shelley
“There is something at work in my soul, which I do not understand.”
The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde
“The brain had its own food on which it battened, and the imagination, made grotesque by terror, twisted and distorted as a living thing by pain, danced like some foul puppet on a stand and grinned through moving masks.”
Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
“Do you think she can see us, talking to one another now? Do you think the dead come back and watch the living?”
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - Robert Louis Stevenson
“…That insurgent horror was knit to him closer than a wife, closer than an eye lay caged in his flesh, where he heard it mutter and felt it struggle to be born; and at every hour of weakness, and in the confidence of slumber, prevailed against him, and deposed him out of life.”
The Tempest - William Shakespeare
“Hell is empty and all the devils are here.”
Antigonish - William Hughes Mearns
“Last night I saw upon the stair A little man who wasn’t there. He wasn’t there again today. Oh, how I wish he’d go away.”
]]>To get you in the autumnal mood, we’ve compiled a little list of all of our favourite literary quotes about Autumn. We’d love to know if you have any more that you’d like to add to the list!
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"There is something incredibly nostalgic and significant about the annual cascade of autumn leaves."
- Joe L Wheeler.
“I would rather sit on a pumpkin, and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion.”
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Autumn, we're so ready for you!
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The Enchanting World of Audiobooks: Unveiling the Charms of Classic Literature
In a world where technology continues to shape our reading habits, audiobooks have emerged as a powerful medium, enabling literature to come alive through the spoken word. With the digital age opening up new possibilities, audiobooks have become a valuable gateway to experiencing classic literature in an entirely fresh and captivating way. This post delves into the power of audiobooks and the positive impact they have on immortal classics, as well as the reasons why our brand has joined hands with Audrey, a classic literature audiobook company, to offer a delightful free audiobook this month.
1. Rediscovering Classic Literature: A Melodic Journey
Audiobooks possess the remarkable ability to transport readers to distant lands and eras, unlocking the magical essence of classic literature. The rich narrations, infused with emotions and distinct character voices, transform mere words into vibrant stories. Audiobooks breathe new life into these timeless works.
2. Enhancing the Accessibility of Classic Literature
For some, the daunting language and complex sentence structures of classic literature may act as a barrier to appreciation. Audiobooks, however, break down these barriers by making the stories more accessible. The audio format allows listeners to immerse themselves in the world of Dickens or Shakespeare without the need to decipher archaic language. It also caters to the visually impaired, ensuring that these literary treasures can be enjoyed by everyone.
3. Enabling Multitasking and Convenience
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to sit down and read a book cover to cover can be a challenge. Audiobooks come to the rescue by turning mundane tasks into moments of literary indulgence. Whether it's commuting to work, doing household chores, or taking a leisurely stroll, audiobooks provide the perfect accompaniment to turn otherwise ordinary activities into enriching experiences.
4. The Immersive Journey with Audrey
Our brand understands the profound impact that audiobooks can have on readers, especially when it comes to classic literature. That's why we've teamed up with Audrey, a classic literature audiobook company, to bring the joy of literature to more people. Audrey's vast collection of classics, narrated by talented voices, is sure to captivate listeners of all ages.
5. Giving Back to Our Community
As part of our commitment to promoting literature and fostering a love for reading, we're delighted to offer a free audiobook from Audrey's impressive library this month only with any Bookishly purchase on our website, Etsy, Not on the High Street or Faire Wholesale. By giving away this audio gem, we hope to encourage more people to explore the magical world of classic literature through audiobooks.
Audiobooks have proven to be a powerful medium in breathing life into classic literature, making it more accessible, enjoyable, and immersive for modern audiences. Our collaboration with Audrey aims to share the wonders of audiobooks and the enduring charm of literary classics with our community. So, embark on a melodic journey into the realm of timeless tales, and let the magic of audiobooks transport you to a world of enchantment and wonder. Happy listening!
]]>Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping young minds, inspiring creativity, and imparting knowledge. As the academic year comes to a close, it's a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude to these exceptional individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to educating our children. In this comprehensive thank you teacher gift guide, we will explore unique and heartfelt gift ideas that are sure to make teachers feel appreciated and cherished.
Introducing our captivating bookish journal, a perfect thank-you gift for the extraordinary teachers who ignite a spark of joy in the hearts of their students! Adorned with the inspirational words of Albert Einstein, "It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge," this journal serves as a heartfelt tribute to their unwavering dedication.
Introducing our charming framed Book Page Print: "May Your Shelves Always Overflow with Books." This exquisite piece captures the essence of gratitude and admiration for teachers in a simple yet powerful message. Crafted with care, it serves as the perfect thank-you gift for the educators who have nurtured and inspired us.
The perfect gift for extraordinary teachers who deserve a taste of relaxation and literary charm! This exquisite set luxury tea bags combines the soothing pleasure of high-quality tea with bookish themes and puns, creating a heartfelt token of gratitude for the mentors who have shaped our lives.
Introducing our exquisite Vintage Penguin Paperback Mini Library, the perfect thank-you gift for teachers! This set of six timeless classics embodies nostalgia, sophistication, and literary charm, making it an ideal addition to any teacher's bookshelf - a delightful memento that celebrates their dedication and inspires their intellectual pursuits.
Introducing our charming retro-inspired "Thank You, You're the Best" greetings card—a perfect token of gratitude for your incredible teachers! This delightful card combines the warmth of nostalgia with a heartfelt message. With its vibrant colors, vintage design, and carefully chosen typography, our retro card captures the essence of appreciation in a unique and stylish way.
Introducing our enchanting greetings card, designed to be the perfect thank-you gift for teachers. Featuring the timeless quote, "It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge," this card encapsulates the profound impact teachers have on our lives.
Free shipping on all UK orders.
]]>Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin: James Baldwin's groundbreaking novel delves into the complexities of love, desire, and self-acceptance. Set in 1950s Paris, the story follows David, an American expatriate, as he navigates his identity and relationships in a society rife with prejudice.
Orlando by Virginia Woolf: Virginia Woolf's timeless classic takes readers on a remarkable journey through time and gender. Spanning centuries, Orlando explores the fluidity of identity, transcending societal boundaries and expectations, while providing a rich tapestry of LGBTQIA+ experiences.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller: Transport yourself to ancient Greece with this enchanting retelling of the Trojan War from the perspective of Patroclus, Achilles' beloved companion. Miller's lyrical prose beautifully captures the tender romance and sacrifices that unfold, making this novel a heartfelt ode to love and heroism.
Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield: A story of falling in love, loss, grief, and what life there is in the deep, deep sea. An electrifying and haunting contemporary gothic tale - intense, transcendental, claustrophobic and absolutely fascinating.
A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers: In this thought-provoking science fiction novella, Becky Chambers weaves a tale of a tea monk, Sibling Dex, who embarks on a soul-searching journey in a world where robots seek to understand the meaning of their existence. With themes of connection and finding one's place, this story captures the essence of introspection and acceptance.
In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado: Carmen Maria Machado's haunting memoir intricately examines the harrowing reality of an abusive same-sex relationship. Through a blend of genres and storytelling devices, Machado delves into the complexities of queer domestic violence, shedding light on a topic rarely explored.
Bad Gays edited by Huw Lemmey and Ben Miller: This collection of essays celebrates the lives of LGBTQIA+ figures throughout history, challenging conventional notions of heroism and villainy. Hugh Ryan brings together diverse perspectives, offering a nuanced exploration of queer history and its significant contributions.
Nevada by Imogen Binnie: Imogen Binnie's raw and unflinching novel delves into the life of Maria Griffiths, a transgender woman navigating love, identity, and self-discovery. Nevada explores the challenges and triumphs of one woman's journey, offering an authentic and captivating portrayal.
If Not, Winter: Fragments of Sappho: translated by Anne Carson: Anne Carson's translation of Sappho's fragments breathes life into the ancient Greek poet's words, celebrating queer desire and the beauty of same-sex love. This collection offers a glimpse into Sappho's poetic genius and her enduring legacy.
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong: Ocean Vuong's critically acclaimed novel is a lyrical and profound exploration of identity, memory, and the complexities of love. Through the lens of a queer Vietnamese-American protagonist, the book unravels a tender yet unflinching narrative, inviting readers into a world filled with poignant reflection.
This top 10 LGBTQIA+ reading list serves as an invitation to celebrate and support the diverse voices within the queer community. By immersing ourselves in these literary works, we can gain a deeper understanding of the LGBTQIA+ experience, foster empathy, and expand our horizons. Let us embrace the joy, struggles, and triumphs of queer individuals and use this Pride Month as an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community. Happy reading and happy Pride!
Shop these books on our Bookishly Bookshop.org here.
Shop our full PRIDE collection here.
]]>Fathers Day is a magical time to celebrate the wonderful men in our life. The ones who raised us. The ones who inspired us to grow. The ones who gifted us with life. The ones who makes us laugh. The ones who read to us. The fathers-to-be. The step-fathers. The trans-fathers. The grandfathers.
Fathers Day takes place on 18th June this year, giving you plenty of time to get organised. We have taken all the stress away and prepared the perfect gift guide to put a smile on their face.
CLICK HERE to view all our Fathers Day's products.
Coffee and Vintage Book Club Subscription
Our Coffee and Book Club subscription makes a wonderful book lover gift. A special monthly book box straight through the letterbox: a surprise vintage paperback book and delicious ground coffee. Also available in a Tea and Vintage Book Subscription
Vintage James Bond Mini Library
Six James Bond classics to delve in to! Ian Fleming's writings are always a classy and welcome addition to any bookshelf. Your books will be selected at random from the Bond range, adding to the charm of this gift! They are gift wrapped before being sent out to you or the lucky recipient.
Peter Pan 'Neverland and back' Baby Grow
This Peter Pan inspired babygrow is the perfect gift for any expecting mothers. "I love you to Neverland and back". The handwritten style font is printed in a rainbow effect across the front as a daily reminder of the joyous occasion.
Great Gatsby 'I've been drunk for about a week now' book page print
An amusing and witty quote from F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby'. This framed book page print would make a lovely literary gift for both book lovers and those who enjoy the occasional alcoholic beverage.
Beard lover Gift 'He That Hath No Beard' Shakespeare Sweatshirt
A literary sweatshirt for all of us who appreciate a good beard, featuring an amusing quote from William Shakespeare. Whether you’re known for taking pride in your facial hair or you’re just particularly fond of a certain bearded gentleman in your life, this jumper is for you!
Father's Day Card
Starting at only £3.25 with FREE UK SHIPPING.
Shop our 'Independent Bookstore' Collection. In purchasing from this collection you will be supporting our wonderful small bookish business. A business that in turn supports and creates for all other Independent bookstores worldwide.
Also available in wholesale.
We have joined with the wonderful people over at Bloom & Wild and pledged to their Thoughtful Marketing Movement.
The aim of The Thoughtful Marketing Movement is to change the culture around brand communications and improve the experience for customers across the industry.
- Bloom & Wild
We began this Mother’s Day 2023 by offering our wonderful bookish customers the option of opting-out of emails relating to Mother’s Day. The response was positively overwhelming, with hundreds of people opting-out. Therefore, we pledge to continue offering opt-out services and trigger warnings to any sensitive occasions in the future.
Bookishly are proud to be announcing this. We believe it is a necessary and compassionate step towards improving our marketing and customer experience.
If you have any feedback on your customer experience or ideas for thoughtful marketing, then please do not hesitate to contact us on hello@bookish.ly or leave a comment below. We are always looking to improve and grow our thoughtful bookish business.
]]>Mothers Day is a beautiful time to celebrate the wonderful women in our life. The ones who raised us. The ones who inspired us to grow. The ones who gifted us with life. The ones who makes us laugh. The ones who read to us. The mothers-to-be. The step-mothers. The trans-mothers. The grandmothers.
Mothering Sunday takes place on 19th March this year, giving you plenty of time to get organised. We have taken all the stress away and prepared the perfect gift guide to put a smile on their face.
CLICK HERE to view all our Mothers Day's products.
Coffee and Vintage Book Club Subscription
Our Coffee and Book Club subscription makes a wonderful book lover gift. A special monthly book box straight through the letterbox: a surprise vintage paperback book and delicious ground coffee. Also available in a Tea and Vintage Book Subscription
Jane Austen ‘Sobriety’ Funny Mug Gift
A funny mug gift with a great quote from literature and a simple but eye-catching design. “She has many rare and charming qualities, but Sobriety is not one of them.” - Jane Austen, The Beautifull Cassandra.
'I'd Rather Take Coffee Than Compliments Just Now' Coffee Lover Mug
This mug makes a brilliant gift for coffee lovers and features a relatable quote about coffee from the classic book, Little Women. “I’d rather take coffee than compliments just now.”
Motherhood Tote Bag
A tote bag that celebrates the emotional roller-coaster of motherhood; the strength it requires and the joy it brings. It’s no secret that all mums require a bag to keep track of their endless essentials. Our quality totes make the perfect gift for mothers everywhere: new mums, experienced mums and mums-to-be.
Peter Pan 'Neverland and back' Baby Grow
This Peter Pan inspired babygrow is the perfect gift for any expecting mothers. "I love you to Neverland and back". The handwritten style font is printed in a rainbow effect across the front as a daily reminder of the joyous occasion.
Motherhood Art Print
Our motherhood print celebrates mums everywhere. Wall art for new mums, experienced mums and mums to be - we’re all part of the same club. The motherhood heart graphic is set against natural, earthy tones and is printed using high quality inks onto 230gsm card. Give your print a scandi finish with our soft obeche wooden poster hangers with tapered edges.
Classics Revisited Book and Luxury Chocolate Subscription.
Starting at only £18, this monthly book subscription will delight readers and chocolate lovers everywhere. A modern book based on or inspired by literature’s best loved classics and a delicious bar of artisan handmade chocolate, gift wrapped and delivered straight through the letterbox each month.
Mother's Day Card
Starting at only £3.25 with FREE UK SHIPPING, Bookishly has a wide range of wonderful Mother's Day Cards to choose from.
It’s been a great experience, we’ve learned a lot and overcome some challenges, and ultimately we’ve decided to make the 4 Day Week permanent. Great news! I’ve spent a bunch of time talking to journalists in the last week, here’s an article on Raconteur that we contributed to, and one from Northants Live. The PR side of things has been fun, but it’s really all about the difference it makes to the Bookishly team.
The benefit to work-life balance has been clear from the start. As well as using Wednesdays for general life-admin, we have team members that are volunteering, creating music, studying and working on side hustles. Sick days have reduced, and while we were recruiting late last year, it was clear that the 4 Day Week was a draw for some great candidates. I really believe it’s the future of work. As technology improves efficiency across all industries it should create more free time for people, not just more profit for CEOs.
I think it’s also important to share the challenges. We managed to pre-empt a few of them but the whole point of a trial is to learn! There were two main things we had to overcome. We have increased efficiency but there is obviously a limit to what’s possible there. So we found that we didn’t have as much capacity for major errors, or for our (very) relaxed holiday schedule!
During the summer it was clear that our usual policy of people being able to book annual leave at the last minute, pretty much no matter who else is already off, wasn't going to work. So we discussed it as a team and agreed that a more ‘normal’ approach to holiday with more notice and a calendar that shows who else is already on leave would be worth putting in place.
When it comes to errors, most things were easy to manage but larger errors (eg a wholesale order printed entirely with the wrong logo on, or an entire batch of subscription parcels packed with an item missing) would be too difficult for one person to correct in a 4 day week. So we agreed as a team that if that happened (it’s very rare) then we would have an ‘all hands on deck’ situation where everyone helped fix it. No blame or shame, just teamwork to get it sorted. We all felt this was preferable to customers having to wait or people having to work extra hours to fix mistakes.
It’s been a great experience, we’re pleased to have been part of the research and delighted to be making it permanent for the team here. I really must thank the people at 4 Day Week Global and David at Brett Nicholls Associates for their support. Thank you!
For any further press inquiries, please contact hello@bookish.ly
]]>We reached out to them and here is what they had to say..
“I’ve been a Bookishly subscriber for many years and it’s my favorite book subscription. I love unwrapping the mystery book each month and seeing which gem has arrived. I’ve received so many wonderful, vintage books from Bookishly! And there’s nothing I love more than curling up with a good cup of tea and reading so, for me, it’s been the perfect monthly present 💕”
- @wellreadladies
This is your sign to grab yourself a cuppa and join our reading club.
Noughts and Crosses - Malorie Blackman - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a heart-wrenching story of two individuals falling in love when society deems it unlawful and frowned upon. The writing was addictive with the drama and explosive plot twists of the characters' lives. I found myself routing for Callum and Sephys relationship no matter how doomed it was from the start. The ending broke me and I will be reading more of Blackman's work.
Pet - Awaeke Emenzi - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
I think this is a great story for younger and older readers about black, trans, and queer people and their journeys. Set in its whimsical and fairytale-like world it's a fun and adventurous read. Pet is a young black trans girl who becomes friends with a mysterious creature as they wander through a futuristic utopia. It's a short, sweet, and heartbreaking story with many metaphors about being a black/trans woman and the daily challenges they face.
The Taking of Jake Livingston - Ryan Douglass - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Jake is one of the only black kids in his school and is struggling to fit in and to make matters worse he can see the dead. This novel is Get out meets The Sixth Sense with an emotional and thrilling punch. You follow Jake through his daily struggles while also fighting off meddling spirits, Jake is relatable and you're on the edge of your seat rooting for him.
Nightcrawling - Leila Mottley - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Seventeen-year-old Kiara is struggling to make ends meet for her and her brother Marcus in Oakland. Her brother Marcus struggles to keep a job, her family is torn apart due to death and prison sentences, and she has dropped out of high school, and is looking after the 9year old boy next door all while being the main income for her own family. Luckily she finds a job "night crawling" and everything changes for her. I loved the twists and turns that were thrown at Kiara and how she dealt with them, if I were to recommend any book for Black History Month it would be this one!
January’s author in our postcard desk calendar is the great Virginia Woolf. Here’s some facts and quotes to celebrate!
For more about Virginia Woolf, we highly recommend the video 'Why should you read Virginia Woolf?' by the Education department of Ted Talks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcMLkce_BLg
Let us know your thoughts and experiences of reading Virginia Woolf. What's your favourite book by Woolf? Have you ever tried writing your stream of consciousness? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
]]>
JANUARY
3rd January 1892 - J.R.R Tolkien
7th January 1903 - Zora Neale Hurston
17th January 1820 - Anne Brontë
18th January 1882 - A.A Milne
19th January 1809 - Edgar Allan Poe
25th January 1882 - Virginia Woolf
27th January 1832 - Lewis Carroll
FEBRUARY
1st February 1901 - Langston Hughes
7th February 1812 - Charles Dickens
7th February 1867 - Laura Ingalls Wilder
26th February 1802 - Victor Hugo
27th February 1902 - John Steinbeck
MARCH
2nd March 2023 - World Book Day
20th - 26th 2023 - Shakespeare Week
21st March 2023 - World Poetry Day
APRIL
2nd April 2023 - International Children’s Book Day
4th April 1928 - Maya Angelou
21st April 1816 - Charlotte Brontë
26th April 1564 - William Shakespeare’s Baptism
28th April 1926 - Harper Lee
MAY
3rd May 1896 - Dodie Smith
9th May 1860 - J.M Barrie
13th May 1907 - Daphne Du Maurier
22nd May 1859 - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
31st May 1819 - Walt Whitman
JUNE
2nd June 1840 - Thomas Hardy
12th June 1929 - Anne Frank
13th June 1865 - W.B Yeats
22nd June 1947 - Octavia E Butler
29th June 1900 - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
JULY
12th July 1817 - Henry David Thoreau
18th July 1811 - William Makepeace Thackeray
21st July 1899 - Ernest Hemingway
26th July 1802 - Alexandre Dumas
26th July 1856 - George Bernard Shaw
28th July 1866 - Beatrix Potter
30th July 1818 - Emily Brontë
AUGUST
1st August 1819 - Herman Melville
2nd August 1924 - James Baldwin
9th August 2023 - Book Lover’s Day
9th August 1914 - Tove Jansson
9th August 1899 - PL Travers
16th August 1902 - Georgette Heyer
17th August 1837 - Charlotte Forten Grimké
30th August 1797 - Mary Shelley
SEPTEMBER
15th September 1890 - Dame Agatha Christie
21st September 1866 - H.G Wells
24th September 1896 - F. Scott Fitzgerald
OCTOBER
Black History Month (every year)
1st - 7th October 2023 - Banned Books Week
14th October 1894 - E.E Cummings
16th October 1854 - Oscar Wilde
27th October 1932 - Sylvia Plath
NOVEMBER
8th November 1847 - Bram Stoker
13th November 1850 - Robert Louis Stevenson
18th November 1939 - Margaret Atwood
22nd November 1819 - George Eliot
24th November 1849 - Frances Hodgson Burnett
29th November 1832 - Louisa May Alcott
29th November 1898 - C.S Lewis
30th November 1874 - L.M Montgomery
30th November 1835 - Mark Twain
DECEMBER
10th December 1830 - Emily Dickinson
16th December 1775 - Jane Austen
30th December 1865 - Rudyard Kipling
TBC
London Literature Festival
]]>
Little Women is a novel by American author Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888), which was originally published in two volumes in 1868 and 1869. Alcott wrote the books over several months at the request of her publisher. Following the lives of the four March sisters, the novel details their passage from childhood to womanhood and is loosely suspected to be based on the author and her three sisters.
Nothing illustrates Christmas more than the magical and uplifting world of Little Women. A family where all the graceful and independent women hand-craft their necessities and feel gratitude from giving. Some may consider this a dated lifestyle. Many have in-fact claimed Little Women no longer has value and that it should never be recommend because 'It's saccharine, has a religious agenda, and sends a bad message to girls that they should all be little domestic homebodies.' claimed one reviewer.
Many others believe Little Women reteaches us our morals and the true meaning of Christmas. Alcott guides us through the perspective of a family coping with the financial and emotional strain of grief and having a loved one away at war, something that is unfortunately all too relatable today. However, it is quite astonishing how all the beauty of nature and minimalist living can influence a positive perception of the world. As the modern economy collapses and our sinking funds continue to.. well, sink, perhaps we should be taking inspiration from such a natural and delicate lifestyle.
Whilst a natural lifestyle sounds idyllic to some, our modern day is distorted with invasive technologies and social media. The controversial reality is that you're probably reading this on a screen right now. Whilst this is very beneficial for our small business and to stay connected with one another. The true meaning of Bookishly is to celebrate great authors, start a conversation and build a bookish community who love and appreciate one another. Inspired by the beloved March Sisters, talented author-to-be Jo, tragically frail Beth, wholesome Meg, and romantic, spoiled Amy, united in their devotion to each other and their struggles to survive in New England during the Civil War. We all carry different personalities and dreams, but nonetheless, our motivations to live a rich and wholesome life remains intact.
If your feeling inspired this Christmas by the gift of giving then check out our donate a book - Christmas Edition and nominate someone special who may be in need of a little pick-me-up.
Join the conversation! Do you believe Little Women is dated or the future? Let us know your thoughts in the comment below.
Donate a book - Christmas Edition.
Purchase a surprise classic book at a discounted rate and we will send it to someone that has let us know via our signup form that they're in need of a pick-me-up. We'll gift wrap it and add a bookmark too.
Little Women Bookishly Edition.
Little Women - March Family Christmas Bookishly Candle.
'I am not afraid of storm, for I am learning how to sail my ship' Book page print from Bookishly.
We have loved collaborating with Law & Moore, creating this brand new striking and timeless classic literary print collection this Autumn/Winter 2022. We are over the moon to release this collection to our bookish family and hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The collection features our famous pieces Hamlet, The Great Gatsby, A Casebook of Sherlock Holmes, Dracula, A Midsummer Nights Dream and Peter Pan. If you would like to find out more then please check out our blog post here.
Looking for a slightly different idea? Enjoy the element of surprise!
Purchase a surprise classic book at a discounted rate and we will send it to someone that has let us know via our signup form that they're in need of a pick-me-up. We'll gift wrap it and add a bookmark too.
If you would like to nominate yourself or someone to receive one of these books then please fill out the form here.
We are over the moon to release this collection to our bookish family and hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The collection features our famous pieces Hamlet, The Great Gatsby, A Casebook of Sherlock Holmes, Dracula, A Midsummer Nights Dream and Peter Pan.
To celebrate this amazing collaboration we interviewed our designer, Jess, to get an in-house perspective.
Peter Pan - J. M. Barrie
The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald
Hamlet - William Shakespeare
A Midsummer Night's Dream - William Shakespeare
A Casebook of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Dracula - Bram Stoker
Let us know in the comments below which is your favourite print!
Even better, send us a photo to hello@bookish.ly or tag @bookishlyUK on Instagram of your gallery wall with our new prints and we can feature them on our socials!
]]>Grab a cuppa, lets have a laugh.
1. We know Halloween is over.. but why is this still terrifying?!💀 Especially, if you are collecting a series and then BAM.. one doesn't match!
2. AMEN. Anyone else agree?!🙏🏼 Let's start a petition and make it happen!
3. If Mary Shelley didn't doubt herself.. then you shouldn't doubt yourself!
4. Sounds like the Government during Lockdown.. 👀😅
5. Anyone else's house look like they are preparing for an apocalypse and need to eat, breathe and live off books?🙃
Just us?🙃
6. Manifesting that modest little home everyday. 🏠
7. A minor inconvenience...
8. Omg imagine. 😍
9. Get wrecked, mean boys!
10. 👀😅
]]>Our latest delivery advice is here.
As you will know, the Royal Mail workers are going to be striking a number of times over the next few months in the run up to Christmas. This will cause occasional delays to us being able to post your orders, and there will be delays to delivery too.
The dates are ever changing as negotiations progress. The latest information will be detailed here.
Whilst we want to be able to get your orders to you promptly, we are 100% behind the striking workers. Our business wouldn't be possible without the Royal Mail and the Communication Workers Union are not only fighting for the pay and conditions of the striking workers, but the future of the Royal Mail in its current form.
I spoke to Pete Bracey, one of our local CWU reps about the strikes and what it means for small businesses:
You can read more about the reasons the CWU members have voted to strike here. There is no other delivery service available that can come close to the service level and price of the Royal Mail across all the sorts of parcels we post, and we value this important public service.
I recently spoke to BBC Radio Northampton about how the strikes are effecting us and why we support them:
If you're here because you've seen the stickers on our parcels and would like to get your own printed, click here to download the print file!
So far, our amazing customers have been incredibly understanding about slight delays to their mail, and we really appreciate that thank you! If you have a gift giving occasion and the strikes might mean your parcel misses the deadline, then we have made this free printable gift note to explain the situation and thank the recipient for their patience in the circumstances.
The Christmas delivery periods of 2020 and 2021 were incredibly difficult for our postal workers. They were true frontline workers and I know many of them lost colleagues to covid. No one deserves the kind of changes to their working terms and conditions that are being imposed. We hope that they are listened to and a really good outcome is found soon.