J.M. Barrie was a Scottish author and playwright who lived from 1860 to 1937. He is best known for creating the character of Peter Pan, a mischievous boy who never grows up and can fly. Barrie’s literary style was whimsical and imaginative, and his works often explored themes of childhood, imagination, and the power of storytelling.
He was influenced by the works of Lewis Carroll and Robert Louis Stevenson, and his influence can be seen in the works of other authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. In addition to Peter Pan, Barrie’s notable works include The Little White Bird, a novel that introduced the character of Peter Pan, and the play Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up.
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1952: The Admirable Crichton, by J. M. Barrie
$25.00“The Admirable Crichton,” a play written by J. M. Barrie, was first performed in 1902. J. M. Barrie, best known for creating “Peter Pan,” crafted this work as a social commentary wrapped in a comedic format. The play stands out for its satirical take on class distinctions and social structures in Edwardian society.
The plot revolves around the character of Crichton, a competent and resourceful butler serving the aristocratic Loam family. The central event of the play is a shipwreck that leaves Crichton and the Loams stranded on a deserted island. In this new setting, away from the rigid class structures of British society, Crichton’s practical skills and leadership qualities come to the fore. He becomes the natural leader of the group, reversing the traditional servant-master relationship. This role reversal is central to the play’s exploration of class dynamics and the question of whether social hierarchies are a product of nature or nurture.
“The Admirable Crichton” is characterized by Barrie’s signature wit and clever dialogue. The play humorously yet thoughtfully examines the artificiality of social status and the true nature of nobility and competence. It poses philosophical questions about equality and the inherent worth of individuals, irrespective of their social standing.
The play was well-received and has been adapted into various forms, including films and television, testament to its enduring appeal. “The Admirable Crichton” remains a significant work in the canon of British theatre for its engaging narrative, its critique of social structures, and its insightful observations on human nature and societal norms.
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1912: The Little Minister, by J. M. Barrie
$45.00“The Little Minister”, by J. M. Barrie, a small hardcover volume published by Cassell in London in early 1900s. This 375-page book is bound in burgundy cloth with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine. The cover shows minor wear, with rubbing mostly around the edges, corners, and spine folds. The front blank end paper features an owner inscription dated to 10/12, but there is no other writing or markings throughout the book. Despite a small damp stain with runny color on the corner of the title page (not obtrusive), the book remains well bound. The top page edges are gilt. The book is in good to very good condition.
“The Little Minister” tells the story of Gavin Dishart, a young and ambitious minister in the fictional Scottish village of Thrums. Set in the late 19th century, the novel explores themes of love, faith, and the clash between tradition and progress. Barrie’s vivid descriptions and engaging characters bring the village and its inhabitants to life, making this book a must-read for fans of classic literature.
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1919: Quality Street, by J. M. Barrie, Theatre Play in Three Acts
$105.00Quality Street is a theatre play in three acts written by J. M. Barrie and published in 1919 by Charles Scribner’s Sons. The play is set in the early 19th century in Quality Street, a fictional street in England, and follows the story of two sisters, Phoebe and Susan, who are in love with the same man, Valentine Brown. When Valentine goes off to war, the sisters decide to open a school for girls and dress up as their younger selves to attract students. However, when Valentine returns, he fails to recognize them and falls in love with Phoebe, causing a series of misunderstandings and comedic situations.
The book is a uniform edition with a green cloth hardcover and gilt stamped lettering on the cover and spine. It is in exceptionally good condition for a 103-year-old book, with only minor rubbing on the cover and some fading and occasional foxing on the pages. The book features thick, quality paper and printing and is tightly bound and clean. It also includes an ink inscription on the inside cover dated to 1922. Quality Street is a charming and entertaining play that would make a wonderful gift for theatre enthusiasts and fans of J. M. Barrie’s work.