John Passfield Book order

In a whimsical twist, John, the author, unexpectedly finds himself in a carnival filled with Mother Goose fairy tales while driving his granddaughter home. He encounters familiar characters like Jack, who reveal that Mother Goose has a special role for him, mistakenly believing he writes detective stories. As he navigates this enchanting world, John learns that many fairy-tale characters desire new narratives, prompting him to unravel the mystery behind their vanishing tales and discover his own significance in their stories.

The narrative explores the author's encounter with Apollo, the god who cursed Cassandra, as he contemplates writing her story. This meeting prompts a profound reflection on Cassandra's plight, symbolizing the broader suffering in the world. Driven by a desire for answers, he confronts Apollo, seeking to understand the rationale behind divine cruelty and to advocate for an end to human suffering. The book delves into themes of mythology, injustice, and the struggle against fate.

Set in 1938 against the backdrop of impending war, the story delves into L.M. Montgomery's reflections as she writes what she believes to be her final novel about Anne Shirley. As she grapples with personal struggles, Montgomery revisits the early days of Anne of Green Gables' success and the choice between keeping Anne as the beloved childhood character or allowing her to mature, mirroring Montgomery's own life challenges. This narrative explores themes of identity, growth, and the complexities of an author's journey.

Glenn Gould's remarkable journey in music starts with his acclaimed debut recording of the Goldberg Variations, propelling him to international fame as a concert pianist. However, at the peak of his career, he makes a pivotal choice regarding his music and lifestyle that divides opinions in the music community and continues to spark debate. This biography explores both his enchanting rise and the controversial decisions that shaped his legacy.

The story explores the life of John Passfield, delving into his experiences and challenges while navigating the complexities of modern existence. The narrative captures his introspections and interactions, revealing themes of identity, connection, and the passage of time. With a focus on character development and emotional depth, the author crafts a poignant tale that resonates with readers, earning recognition in the ReLit Awards for its compelling storytelling and insight into the human condition.

Set against a backdrop of Christmas magic, this enchanting tale weaves together themes of wonder and joy. The narrative unfolds with delightful characters and heartwarming moments, capturing the essence of the holiday spirit. With a touch of whimsy and a focus on the transformative power of love and kindness, the story promises to resonate with readers seeking a festive escape. The author, known for their previous work nominated for the ReLit novel award, brings a unique charm to this seasonal narrative.

The story explores the life of Eleonora Duse, a dedicated actress who feels her existence is tied to her performances. When a poet's novel depicts an aging actress merely as a muse for a young poet, Duse faces a personal crisis. The portrayal threatens to define her legacy and reshape her self-perception, as she grapples with the fear of being reduced to a pathetic stereotype. The narrative delves into themes of identity, the impact of art on reality, and the struggle against societal expectations.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the story follows 23-year-old Cyril Passfield and his friend Charlie Thompson as they embark on a journey across Canada in search of work and adventure. Leaving their hometown of St. Thomas, Ontario, they join the ranks of the unemployed riding freight trains, hoping to find opportunities in the harvest or even catch a freighter in Vancouver. The narrative is inspired by Passfield's own diary from that summer, capturing the struggles and aspirations of a generation.

Exploring the psychological landscape of Lord and Lady Macbeth, the narrative delves into the power of imagery as a dual force that enlightens and obscures. Their quest transcends the physical realm of Scotland, venturing into the complexities of the mind. The couple's contrasting experiences reflect their struggle to reconcile prose with the deeper, often hidden meanings of imagery, revealing how this conflict shapes their ambitions and ultimately their fates.

Exploring the duality of the Wright brothers' legacy, the narrative contrasts the celebrated 1903 flight with the subsequent struggles each brother faced. It delves into themes of collaboration versus isolation, highlighting their shared dream amidst personal and societal challenges. The story questions whether their journey embodies a harmonious creation or a tumultuous battle against skepticism and rivalry, suggesting that both aspects coexist in the pursuit of innovation and human aspiration.