Results narrated by "Ben Allen" in All categories

A compelling series of twenty essays sees Chesterton take aim at fashionable contemporary thinkers – writers and philosophers such as H. G. Wells, Rudyard Kipling and Bernard Shaw – who are proponents of rebellion and relativism. With his razor-sharp wit and charm, Chesterton cleverly unpicks these concepts, arguing that there is a better way forward.

Published in 1885, Dickens As I Knew Him recounts Dolby's time managing Dickens's reading tours across Britain and America from 1866 to 1870. Dolby's narrative offers a firsthand account of these tours, illustrating Dickens's dedication to both his craft and his readers. From the extensive travelling, logistical challenges of the events and the enthusiastic audiences Dickens received it paints a vivid portrait of the literary giant's career in his later years, providing valuable insights into the man behind some of the most popular works of the century.

In this work, Smith sets out a foundation for a general system of morals where the greatest prudence, may lie in following economic self-interest in order to secure the basic necessities. This is only the first step, however, toward the much higher goal of achieving a morally virtuous life. Smith's ideas have resonated through the decades and he continues to inspire and challenge modern listeners.

The Professor is Charlotte Brontës first novel. Our protagonist is William Crimsworth and, like Jane Eyre, he is parentless; like Lucy Snowe in Villette he leaves the familiar surroundings of England to forge a life in Brussels. Brontë explores the relationship between power and sexual desire through William's first person narration.

Initially published in 1775, A Journey to the Western Isles recounts a three-month trip to upper Scotland that Samuel Johnson undertook with James Boswell a couple of years previously. During their adventure, they discover a novel culture, stunning landscapes and welcoming locals – all described in Johnson's captivating prose.