Rumer Godden Books

Exploring the tension between spiritual renunciation and worldly engagement, the book delves into the lives of individuals who navigate their faith while remaining deeply connected to the modern world. Through personal stories and reflections, it examines how one can reject societal norms without completely withdrawing from life, emphasizing the importance of balance and authenticity. Themes of inner conflict, community, and the pursuit of meaningful existence are woven throughout, offering readers a thought-provoking perspective on spirituality in contemporary society.

The narrative explores the contrast between worldly ambition and spiritual fulfillment through the life of Philippa Talbot, who leaves her successful career to embrace a life of devotion at Brede Abbey. Amidst the abbey's rigorous routine of work and prayer, she faces challenges that test her spirit and reshape her mission. The story emphasizes themes of self-gift, personal transformation, and the true essence of peace, illustrating that one's worth in God's eyes is determined by aspirations rather than past achievements.

A captivating classic novel of a poor girl striving to create beauty among the bombsites of postwar London.

When Gem moves into The House Next Door, Nona and Belinda think she’s stuck up and vow to have nothing to do with her. But the beautiful Japanese doll in her window soon attracts their attention. They name her Little Plum because her clothes are decorated with plum blossom – but unlike Nona’s Japanese dolls, Miss Happiness and Miss Flower, Little Plum seems unloved and uncared for. Will the three girls ever become friends?

Set within the confines of a convent, this gripping novel delves into the complexities of monastic life through the lens of master storyteller Rumer Godden. The narrative explores the intricate dynamics among the nuns, revealing their struggles, faith, and the challenges they face in a cloistered environment. This edition is part of a luxurious reissue collection by Virago Modern Classics, highlighting Godden's profound storytelling and the rich tapestry of life behind convent walls.

Miss Happiness and Miss Flower is a charming story about friendship and family from one of our greatest ever storytellers, Rumer Godden.

A delightful adaptation of a traditional tale with a Scottish twist! With a story by Rumer Godden, one of the UK's most acclaimed authors, and charming artwork by best-selling illustrator Mairi Hedderwick, creator of Katie Morag.

A hotel in southern India serves as the backdrop for a tapestry of romantic intrigues and human misadventures in this engaging novel by a New York Times bestselling author. Long before The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Rumer Godden captivated readers with the lives of those at Patna Hall, a charming resort on the lush Coromandel coast. The resourceful Anglo-Indian owner, Auntie Sanni, has hosted a diverse array of guests over the years, and with an election approaching, her hotel is bustling with Indian politicians, British diplomats, journalists, American tourists, and even a few animals. Among the guests are Mary and Blaise, a young English couple on their honeymoon. While Mary is enchanted by the vibrant Indian culture, Blaise perceives only squalor and danger. Tensions rise when Mary becomes drawn to local politics, particularly to the charming candidate Krishnan, whose kindness resonates with her. As the couple's differences deepen, Auntie Sanni faces the challenge of managing the situation, which threatens to spiral into tragedy. Godden, renowned for works like Black Narcissus and The River, invites readers back to her beloved India in a story filled with heart, wit, and memorable characters. This ebook includes an illustrated biography of the author, featuring rare images from the Rumer Godden Literary Estate.

The faded elegance of Les Oeillets, with its bullet-scarred staircase and serene garden bounded by high walls; Eliot, the charming Englishman who became the children's guardian while their mother lay ill in hospital; sophisticated Mademoiselle Zizi, hotel patronne, and Eliot's devoted lover; 16 year old Joss, the oldest Grey girl, suddenly, achingly beautiful. And the Marne river flowing silent and slow beyond them all...The Greengage Summer is Rumer Godden's tense, evocative portrait of love and deceit in the Champagne country of the Marne - which became a memorable film starring Kenneth More and Susannah York.

A beautiful illustrated edition of Rumer Godden's classic story about Tottie, the little wooden doll.