Tweetalige editie van het beroemde toneelstuk Twee zwervers, Vladimir en Estragon, wachten ergens op een landweg naast een boom op iemand, of iets, met de naam Godot. Zo begint het belangrijkste en invloedrijkste toneelstuk van de afgelopen zeventig jaar. Het eind van de jaren veertig van de twintigste eeuw was in het leven van de Iers-Franse schrijver Samuel Beckett een bijzonder vruchtbare periode: niet alleen voltooide hij drie romans die als het hoogtepunt van zijn prozawerk worden beschouwd, hij schreef ook het toneelstuk dat tot op de dag van vandaag wordt opgevoerd: Wachten op Godot.

Wachten op Godot TWEETALIG

Ze worden nog regelmatig opgevoerd in het theater: de klassieke Griekse tragedies van Aischylos, Euripides en Sophokles. Op de affiches prijken de namen Medeia, Elektra of Oidiopus, maar wie waren dat ook alweer? Simone Kramer vertelt hun verhaal, en dat van onder anderen Agamemnon, Herakles, Antigone en Iphigeneia, op haar bekende fraaie en toegankelijke wijze. Een prachtig boek voor het hele gezin vanaf circa 9 jaar, gymnasiasten en volwassenen die hun ‘klassieken’ willen opfrissen, rijk geïllustreerd in kleur door Els van Egeraat.

De Griekse tragedies

Antigone in Molenbeek is het prangende relaas van een jonge vrouw die op zoek gaat naar haar dode broer. Zij wil niets liever dan hem kunnen begraven, maar dat blijkt onmogelijk. Verwijzend naar de bekende tragedie van Sophocles schreef Stefan Hertmans een uiterst actuele, beklemmende en poëtische tekst over medeleven met iemand die helemaal alleen is komen te staan: de zus van een zelfmoordterrorist.

Antigone in Molenbeek

In "De Ridders" creëert Aristophanes een scherpe en satirische benadering van de Atheense politiek door middel van humor en paradoxale situaties. Het stuk onderzoekt de corruptie van de heersende klasse en de vele tekortkomingen van de politiek, voorgesteld door de personages die de strijd aan gaan om de gunst van een belangrijke politieke figuur. Aristophanes maakt gebruik van zijn kenmerkende komische stijl, met nadruk op woordspelingen, ironie en pijler van het publiek als actieve participants. In de context van de zogenaamde 'gouden eeuw' van Griekenland, waar politieke intriges dagelijks voorkwamen, biedt deze komedie een vermakelijke reflectie met een diepere boodschap over sociale platforms en politieke machtsverhoudingen. Aristophanes, vaak beschouwd als de vader van de oude Griekse komedie, heeft met zijn innovaties op het gebied van theater en poëzie een blijvende impact op de literatuur achtergelaten. Geboren rond 446 v.Chr., was hij een scherpzinnige waarnemer van de maatschappelijke elementen van zijn tijd, wat zijn verlangen om via humor en drama politieke en morele thema's aan te kaarten, verklaart. "De Ridders" is daarin geen uitzondering, maar eerder een voortzetting van Aristophanes' toewijding om de hypocrisie van de elite te belichten en het bewustzijn van het volk te stimuleren. Dit boek is een aan aanrader voor iedereen die geïnteresseerd is in zowel de techniek van komisch theater als de politieke geschiedenis van het oude Griekenland. Aristophanes' briljante satire en ongeëvenaarde taalgebruik nodigen uit tot reflectie en discussie. Zijn vermogen om humor en maatschappelijke kritiek te mengen, maakt "De Ridders" tot een tijdloos stuk dat nog steeds relevant is in de hedendaagse context van politieke en sociale uitdagingen.

De Ridders

"Het is te snel, te wild, te roekeloos. Teveel een bliksemschicht die al weer weg is als iemand zegt 'het bliksemt'. Slaap wel, liefste. De liefde is ontloken." - Julia, II.2 Op een gemaskerd bal worden de jonge Romeo en Julia op slag verliefd. Maar hun families zullen een huwelijk nooit toestaan... Daarmee begint het bekendste liefdesdrama ter wereld. De thema's van het stuk zijn oeroud en even tragisch als romantisch. Hartstocht gedwarsboomd door haat. Jeugdige onschuld, onbezonnenheid en opstandigheid tegen de oudere generatie. Liefde die weigert zich neer te leggen bij onoverbrugbare verschillen in cultuur en afkomst. Ook al ligt het noodlot op de loer. Maar welk verliefd hart wil daar ooit van weten? Voor het eerst in de geschiedenis verschijnt er een volledige Nederlandse audioversie van Shakespeare's meesterwerk Romeo en Julia. Deze productie kwam mede tot stand dankzij een bijdrage van het VSB Fonds. Opgenomen in De Muziekschuur in Abcoude op 12 en 13 mei 2007 Cast Toneelgroep De Geest JULIA, dochter van Capuletti: Marleen Scholten ROMEO, zoon van Montecchi: Joep van der Geest MERCUTIO, verwant van de vorst, vriend van Romeo: Erik Koningsberger BENVOLIO, neef van Montecchi, vriend van Romeo: Mattijn Hartemink TEBALDO, neef van gravin Capuletti: Geert Jan Romeijn DONNA, voedster van Julia: Rian Gerritsen CAPULETTI: Ivar van Urk GRAVIN CAPULETTI: Doris Baaten PARIS, een jonge edelman: Michiel Balemans MONTECCHI: Gerrit Jan Pulles GRAVIN MONTECCHI: Fleur Ledeboer TONIO, bediende van Capuletti: Martijn van de Kamer SAMSON, dienaar van Capuletti: Marc Nochem GREGORIO, dienaar van Capuletti: Cees Heyne BALTHAZAR, Romeo's dienaar: Vincent Moes FRATER LORENZO, Franciscaner monnik: Felix-Jan Kuypers FRATER GIOVANNI, Franciscaner monnik: Wil van der Meer DELLA SCALA, vorst van Verona: Christiaan Montanus KOOR: Kyra Macco APOTHEKER: Maarten Wansink BEDIENDE 1 & NACHTWAKER 1: Arnoud Bos BEDIENDE 2 & NACHTWAKER 2: Feyo Sickinghe PAGE, van Paris: Dieter Jansen BURGERS, WACHTERS, FEESTGANGERS: gespeeld door leden van de cast Regie: Maarten Wansink Productie: Gerrit Jan Pulles/Stichting De Geest Geluid: Frits de Bruijn Ontwerp: Floris Tilanus Vertaling: Gerrit Komrij Muziek Walshingham (Francis Cutting, 1583-c.1603) Liefde is een vreemde ziekte (Dorine Wiersma) Dorine Wiersma - gitaar/Annette Visser - blokfluit Folk Song (Traditional) - The Cantilena Concert Choir Inhoud Eerste bedrijf I.1: Het Koor introduceert de vete tussen twee invloedrijke families in Verona, de Montecchi en de Capuletti. Op een warme zomerdag breekt een gevecht uit tussen leden van de twee families. Vorst Della Scala beëindigt het gevecht. Romeo vertelt zijn vriend Benvolio van zijn liefde voor Rosalina. I.2: Capuletti spreekt met de jonge Paris over een mogelijk huwelijk met zijn dochter Julia. Op een feest in huize Capuletti zullen zij elkaar kunnen ontmoeten. Romeo hoort van het feest en besluit te gaan, in de hoop Rosalina te zien. I.3: Mevrouw Capuletti en de Voedster spreken met Julia over trouwen. Julia lijkt niet geïnteresseerd. I.4: Romeo en zijn vrienden Benvolio en Mercutio zijn op weg naar het feest. Allen hebben een onbestemd voorgevoel. Mercutio houdt zijn 'Vrouwe Mab' toespraak. I.5: Op het feest worden Romeo en Julia op slag verliefd op elkaar. Tebaldo herkent Romeo als een Montecchi, een aartsvijand. Capuletti voorkomt dat Tebaldo Romeo aanvliegt. Tweede bedrijf II.1: Het Koor bezingt de jonge liefde. Romeo klimt over de tuinmuur van Capuletti, terwijl zijn vrienden hem zoeken. II.2: De balkonscène. Romeo hoort Julia haar liefde voor hem uiten. Hij treedt uit de schaduw en bekent zijn liefde. Zij maken een plan om de volgende dag nog te trouwen. II.3: Romeo zoekt Frater Lorenzo op en overreedt hem het huwelijk met Julia te sluiten. II.4: Romeo, Benvolio en Mercutio bespreken de afgelopen avond. De Voedster brengt Romeo een groet van Julia. Romeo vraagt de Voedster Julia te vertellen hem te ontmoeten bij Frater Lorenzo waar zij zullen trouwen. II.5: Julia wacht ongeduldig op haar Voedster. Die geeft haar uiteindelijk Romeo's boodschap. II.6: Julia en Romeo treffen elkaar bij Frater Lorenzo. Zij vertrekken naar de kapel voor hun huwelijk. Derde bedrijf III.1: Mercutio en Benvolio komen oog in oog te staan met Tebaldo. Romeo probeert tevergeefs een gevecht te voorkomen. Daarbij wordt Mercutio per ongeluk dodelijk gewond. Romeo neemt wraak en doodt Tebaldo. De Vorst komt wederom tussenbeide en verbant de gevluchte Romeo naar Mantua. III.2: De Voedster vertelt Julia het nieuws van Tebaldo's dood en Romeo's verbanning. Ze zal Romeo halen om Julia te komen opzoeken. III.3: Romeo hoort ontsteld van zijn verbanning. De Voedster draagt hem op die nacht naar Julia te gaan. III.4: Capuletti belooft Paris de hand van Julia en bepaalt dat zij nog dezelfde week zullen trouwen. III.5: In de vroege ochtend nemen Romeo en Julia afscheid. Julia hoort ontzet dat zij aan Paris is uitgehuwelijkt. Haar ouders zijn des duivels als zij weigert. De Voedster probeert Julia te overtuigen dat het verstandiger is met Paris te trouwen, tot ontsteltenis van Julia. Vierde bedrijf IV.1: Julia smeekt de Frater om hulp. Hij vertelt haar van een slaapdrank die haar schijndood zal maken. Zij hoeft dan niet met Paris te trouwen en zal worden herenigd met Romeo. IV.2: Julia lijkt zich tegenover haar vader te schikken in haar aanstaande huwelijk met Paris. IV.3: Met een ongerust gevoel drinkt Julia haar slaapdrank. IV.4: In huize Capuletti worden de voorbereidingen voor het huwelijk getroffen. IV.5: Julia wordt 'dood' in bed gevonden. Frater Lorenzo spoort de familie aan haar spoedig bij te zetten in het familiegraf. Vijfde bedrijf V.1: Op straat in Mantua hoort Romeo dat Julia zou zijn gestorven. Hij koopt vergif om haar in de dood te volgen. V.2: Frater Lorenzo hoort van zijn collega Frater Giovanni dat Romeo niet weet dat Julia slechts schijndood is. Hij haast zich naar het familiegraf in de hoop een drama te kunnen voorkomen. V.3: Romeo ontmoet de rouwende Paris bij het graf. Zij vechten en Romeo doodt Paris. Bij het opgebaarde lichaam van Julia drinkt Romeo het vergif en sterft. Frater Lorenzo arriveert en probeert de ontwaakte Julia over te halen te vluchten. Maar als zij Romeo ziet doodt zij zichzelf. Als de Vorst en de vaders van de gestorven geliefden arriveren sluiten de families eindelijk vrede.

Romeo en Julia

In Tien jaar vrijheid vertelt Natacha Kampusch over het leven na haar bevrijding, blikt terug op haar ontvoering en laat zien dat hoop nooit opgegeven mag worden In 2006 eindigde een van de heftigste ontvoeringen uit de hedendaagse geschiedenis: Natascha Kampusch ontsnapte uit de kelder waar ze al meer dan acht jaar werd vastgehouden. Deze zomer is het tien jaar geleden dat de toen achttienjarige Natascha zichzelf bevrijdde. Wat is er in het afgelopen decennium gebeurd? Ruim acht jaar was ze gescheiden van vrienden en familie; hoe heeft ze haar plek in de samenleving weer gevonden en hoe ging ze om met de spoken uit haar verleden? Natascha is uitgegroeid van een onschuldig slachtoffer tot een ambitieuze en moedige jonge vrouw die andere slachtoffers van misbruik probeert te helpen. In Tien jaar vrijheid vertelt ze over haar leven na haar bevrijding, maar kijkt ze ook met een volwassen blik terug op haar ontvoering. De pers overDe diefstal van mijn jeugd 'Halverwege wilde ik het huis uit vluchten, maar haar in de steek laten kun je dan allang niet meer.' NRC Handelsblad 'Nauwelijks te bevatten.' Margriet 'Het grijpt je naar de keel.' nrc.next 'Een boek over macht, onderdrukking en overlevingsmechanismen.' De Groene Amsterdammer

Tien jaar vrijheid

On Christmas Eve, young Pip, an orphan being raised by his sister and her husband, encounters a convict in the village churchyard. The man, a convict who has escaped from a prison ship, scares Pip into stealing him some food and a file to grind away his leg shackle. On Christmas Eve, young Pip, an orphan being raised by his sister and her husband, encounters a convict in the village churchyard. The man, a convict who has escaped from a prison ship, scares Pip into stealing him some food and a file to grind away his leg shackle. This incident is crucial: firstly, it gives Pip, who must steal the goods from his sister's house, his first taste of true guilt, and, secondly, Pip's kindness warms the convict's heart. The convict, however, waits many years to truly show his gratitude. At his sister's house, Pip is a boy without expectations. Mrs. Joe beats him around and has nothing good to say about her little brother. Her husband Joe is a kind man, although he is a blacksmith without much ambition, and it's assumed that Pip will follow in his footsteps. Only when Pip gets invited unexpectedly to the house of a rich old woman in the village named Miss Havisham, does Mrs. Joe, or any of her dull acquaintances, hold out any hope for Pip's success.

Great Expectations

Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare about a regicide and its aftermath. It is Shakespeare's shortest tragedy and is believed to have been written sometime between 1603 and 1606. This is a classic audiobook recording read by Sir Anthony Quayle, Robert Hardy and other cast members. Promised a golden future as ruler of Scotland by three sinister witches, Macbeth murders the king to ensure his ambitions come true. But he soon learns the meaning of terror – killing once, he must kill again and again, and the dead return to haunt him. A story of war, witchcraft and bloodshed, Macbeth also depicts the relationship between husbands and wives, and the risks they are prepared to take to achieve their desires.

Macbeth

Hamlet is not only one of Shakespeare's greatest plays, but also the most fascinatingly problematical tragedy in world literature. First performed around 1600, this a gripping and exuberant drama of revenge, rich in contrasts and conflicts. Its violence alternates with introspection, its melancholy with humour, and its subtlety with spectacle. The Prince, Hamlet himself, is depicted as a complex, divided, introspective character. His reflections on death, morality and the very status of human beings make him 'the first modern man'. Countless stage productions and numerous adaptations for the cinema and television have demonstrated the continuing cultural relevance of this vivid, enigmatic, profound and engrossing drama.

Shakespeare Collection

Hamlet

The Sorrows of Young Werther is an epistolary and loosely autobiographical novel by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, first published in 1774; a revised edition of the novel was published in 1787. Werther was an important novel of the Sturm und Drang period in German literature, and influenced the later Romantic literary movement. Finished in six weeks of intensive writing during January–March 1774, its publication instantly made the 24-year-old Goethe one of the first international literary celebrities. Of all his works, this book was the most known to the general public. Towards the end of Goethe's life, a personal visit to Weimar became crucial to any young man's tour of Europe.

The Sorrows of Young Werther

King Lear is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1603 and 1606. READ BY PAUL SCHOFIELD AND CAST. King Lear is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1603 and 1606. It is considered one of his greatest works. King Lear descends into madness after wrongly distributing his estate on the strength of flattery. The play is based on the legend of Leir of Britain, a mythological pre-Roman Celtic king. It has been widely adapted for stage and screen, with the part of Lear played by many of the world's most accomplished actors. There are two distinct versions of the play: The True Chronicle of the History of the Life and Death of King Lear and His Three Daughters, which appeared in quarto in 1608, and The Tragedy of King Lear, a more theatrical version, which appeared in the First Folio in 1623. The two texts are commonly printed in a conflated version, although many modern editors have argued that each version has its individual integrity. After the Restoration, the play was often modified by theatre practitioners who disliked its dark and depressing tone, but since the 19th century it has been regarded as one of Shakespeare's supreme achievements. The tragedy is particularly noted for its probing observations on the nature of human suffering and kinship

King Lear

This final play from the pen of Oscar Wilde is a stylish send-up of Victorian courtship and manners, complete with assumed names, mistaken lovers, and a lost handbag. Jack and Algernon are best friends, both wooing ladies who think their names are Ernest, "that name which inspires absolute confidence." Wilde's effervescent wit, scathing social satire, and high farce make this one of the most cherished plays in the English language. Includes an interview with director Michael Hackett, Professor of Theater in the School of Theater, Film and Television at UCLA. An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring: James Marsters as Jack Charles Busch as Lady Bracknell Emily Bergl as Cecily Neil Dickson as Lane and Merriman Jill Gascoine as Miss Prism Christopher Neame as Chasuble Matthew Wolf as Algernon Sarah Zimmerman as Gwendolen Directed by Michael Hackett. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles.

Importance of Being Earnest

Jane Austens tongue in cheek Coming of Age story, Northanger Abbey tells the story of Catherine Moorland and her first entry into society at Bath, and then of her time in the titular Northanger Abbey. Narrated by Michael Ward.

Northanger Abbey

In this “compelling, bighearted, emotionally precise page-turner” (Sunday Times), the New York Times bestselling writer and acclaimed television host explores the aftermath of a tragedy on a small-town to illuminate the shame and longing that can flow through generations—and how the secrets of the heart cannot stay be buried forever. It is 1987 and a small Irish community is preparing for a wedding. The day before the ceremony, a group of young friends, including the bride and groom, are involved in an accident. Three survive. Three are killed. The lives of the families are shattered and the rifts between them ripple throughout the small town. Connor survived, but living among the angry and the mourning is almost as hard as carrying the shame of having been the driver. He leaves the only place he knows for another life, taking his secrets with him. Travelling first to Liverpool, then London, he eventually makes a home—of sorts—for himself in New York, where he finds shelter and the possibility of forging a new life. But the secrets—the unspoken longings and regrets that have come to haunt those left behind—will not be silenced. Before long, Connor will have to confront his past. A powerful and timely novel of emigration and return, Home Stretch demonstrates Norton’s keen understanding of the power of stigma and secrecy—and their devastating effect on ordinary lives.

Home Stretch

This special edition of the international hit play Prima Facie features the definitive version of the award-winning script, together with colour photos and exclusive additional content, giving you a fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the production and the issues it explores. In the play, Tessa is a young, brilliant barrister who has worked her way up from working-class origins to the top of her game: defending, cross-examining and winning. But when an unexpected event forces her to confront the patriarchal power of the law – where the burden of proof and morality diverge – she finds herself in a world where emotion and integrity are in conflict with the rules of the game. After acclaimed productions in Australia and winning the Australian Writers' Guild Award for Drama, Prima Facie received its European premiere in a sold-out run at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London's West End in 2022 starring Jodie Comer in her West End debut. It was named Best New Play at both the 2023 Olivier and WhatsOnStage Awards. A filmed version, released in 2022, went on to become the highest-grossing event cinema release ever in the UK. This edition, published alongside Prima Facie's Broadway transfer in 2023, includes contributions from writer Suzie Miller, actor Jodie Comer, director Justin Martin, producer James Bierman and other key members of the creative team, letting you go deeper into the world of the play. There are also essays on the legal context and how the play has become a vehicle for change in attitudes towards the treatment of female victims of sexual assault.

Prima Facie: Special Edition (NHB Modern Plays)

Mr and Mrs Twit are not very nice. In fact they're extremely nasty. They're nasty to each other, and they're VILE to everyone else. They hold a family of monkeys hostage in a cage and force them to stand on their heads. ALL THE TIME. We told you they weren't very nice. Can the monkeys find a way to show those vicious Twits what for? Mischievously adapted from Roald Dahl's story, acclaimed playwright Enda Walsh turns The Twits upside down and brings this revolting revolution to the stage. First performed at the Royal Court Theatre in April 2015.

Roald Dahl's The Twits (NHB Modern Plays)

When The Unbearable Lightness of Being was first published in English, it was hailed as ""a work of the boldest mastery, originality, and richness"" by critic Elizabeth Hardwick and named one of the best books of 1984 by the New York Times Book Review. It went on to win the Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction and quickly became an international bestseller. Twenty years later, the novel has established itself as a modern classic. To commemorate the anniversary of its first English-language publication, HarperCollins is proud to offer a special hardcover edition. A young woman in love with a man torn between his love for her and his incorrigible womanizing; one of his mistresses and her humbly faithful lover -- these are the two couples whose story is told in this masterful novel. Controlled by day, Tereza's jealousy awakens by night, transformed into ineffably sad death-dreams, while Tomas, a successful surgeon, alternates loving devotion to the dependent Tereza with the ardent pursuit of other women. Sabina, an independent, free-spirited artist, lives her life as a series of betrayals -- of parents, husband, country, love itself -- whereas her lover, the intellectual Franz, loses all because of his earnest goodness and fidelity. In a world in which lives are shaped by irrevocable choices and by fortuitous events, a world in which everything occurs but once, existence seems to lose its substance, its weight. Hence we feel, says the novelist, ""the unbearable lightness of being"" -- not only as the consequence of our private acts but also in the public sphere, and the two inevitably intertwine. This magnificent novel encompasses the extremes of comedy and tragedy, and embraces, it seems, all aspects of human existence. It juxtaposes geographically distant places (Prague, Geneva, Paris, Thailand, the United States, a forlorn Bohemian village); brilliant and playful reflections (on ""eternal return,"" on kitsch, on man and animals -- Tomas and Tereza have a beloved doe named Karenin); and a variety of styles (from the farcical to the elegiac) to take its place as perhaps the major achievement of one of the world's truly great writers.

The Unbearable Lightness of Being

The classic of eternal youth. 'How sad it is! I shall grow old, and horrid, and dreadful. But this picture will remain always young… If it was only the other way!' Wilde's first and only published novel recounts the story of handsome Dorian Gray who upon having his portrait painted desires that it will age and grow ugly while he may remain eternally beautiful. The painting, which reflects each of Gray's sins and transgressions in its hideousness, haunts him until it finally becomes unbearable. In this dark tale of duplicity and mortality, Wilde creates a world where art and reality collide.

The Picture of Dorian Gray

'So, if you Americans already have cornflakes and Woolworths, what brings you to England?' It's 1973, and a young man from Des Moines, Iowa, has arrived on the ferry at Dover. He intends to conquer the whole of the island, like Caesar attempted before him. But Caesar didn't have to deal with counterpanes, kippers, Cadbury's Curly Wurlies, or Mrs Smegma the landlady's eccentric house rules. As Bill travels the length and breadth of Britain, through villages with names like Titsey and Little Dribbling, something strange starts to happen. Can it be true? Is he really starting to feel at home? Bill Bryson's smash-hit memoir Notes from a Small Island spent three years in The Sunday Times bestseller list, sold over two million copies, and was voted the book which best represents the UK. Tim Whitnall's hilarious stage adaptation was first produced at the Watermill Theatre, Newbury, in 2023. Written for an ensemble cast of seven (but suitable for a cast of dozens), it will appeal to amateur drama groups as a glorious celebration of one of the nation's most beloved books, and a brilliant dissection of the enduring quirks of our small island. 'So, if you Americans already have cornflakes and Woolworths, what brings you to England?' 'A comic pleasure… has a revue-like charm… abounds in nostalgia and warmth' - Telegraph 'A thoroughly enjoyable piece of theatre… With more than 80 characters and incorporating almost as many cities, Tim Whitnall's adaptation [is] a hugely ambitious project… it manages to capture the spirit of the novel… This tour of Britain has been lovingly recreated… with a strong, diverse ensemble, gradually building up a picture of Britain over the decades… hilarious' - The Stage 'A pilgrimage of delight… Delicious fun… wonderfully vivid cameos, to great comic effect and always affectionate rather than simply caricature' - WhatsOnStage 'A whirlwind of adventure… lovingly evokes images of Britain in times gone by… ignites an unexpected surge of patriotism' - West End Best Friend

Notes from a Small Island (NHB Modern Plays)

Bruno has a friend called Shmuel. Like Bruno, Shmuel is nine years old. Their birthdays are on the same day. But Shmuel lives on the other side of a fence, and he's always wearing striped pyjamas... Based on the best-selling novel by John Boyne, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is a heart-wrenching tale of an unlikely friendship between two innocent boys. Angus Jackson's deeply affecting adaptation was produced by The Children's Touring Partnership and Chichester Festival Theatre on a UK tour in 2015. 'Heart-breaking... A marvelous piece of theatre' - The Public Reviews 'Parents and teachers looking for a good way of introducing children to the horrors of the holocaust will find what they need in this adaptation of John Boyne's multimillion-selling novel' - The Times

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (NHB Modern Plays)

An epic new fantasy romance from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author C. L. Wilson After three long years of war, starkly handsome Wynter Atrialan will have his vengeance on Summerlea's king by taking one of the man's beautiful, beloved daughters as his bride. But though peace is finally at hand, Wynter's battle with the Ice Heart, the dread power he embraced to avenge his brother's death, rages on. Khamsin Coruscate, Princess of Summerlea and summoner of Storms, has spent her life exiled to the shadows of her father's palace. Reviled by her father, marriage to Wintercraig's icy king was supposed to be a terrible punishment, but instead offers Kham her first taste of freedom—and her first taste of overwhelming passion. As fierce, indomitable Wynter weathers even Khamsin's wildest storms, surprising her with a tenderness she never expected, Kham wants more than Wynter's passion—she yearns for his love. But the power of the Ice Heart is growing, dangerous forces are gathering, and a devastating betrayal puts Khamsin and Wynter to the ultimate test.

Weathermages of Mystral

The Winter King

A heart-wrenching full-cast adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by John Steinbeck, starring Jeffrey Donovan and Shirley Knight. Set during the Great Depression, The Grapes of Wrath tells the powerful story of the Joad family's trek from the dust bowl of Oklahoma to the promise of a new life in California. But what they find threatens to rip apart their lives, and sever the ties that bind them together. Starring Shirley Knight as Ma Joad, Frank Galati's play finds its timeless heart in the generous spirit of the common man. An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring: Shirley Knight as Ma Joad Jeffrey Donovan as Tom Joad Emily Bergl as Rose of Sharon Michael Buie as Connie and others Daniel Chacon as Al Joad Maurice Chasse as Deputy Sheriff and others Shannon Cochran as Mrs. Wainwright and Elizabeth Sandry Trista Delamere as 2nd Narrator and Al's Girl Francis Guinan as Jim Casy Charlie Matthes as Willy and others Gas Station Attendant and Hooper Ranch Guard Rod McLachlan as Uncle John Robert Pescovitz as Pa Joad Joel Rafael as Car Salesman and Man with Guitar Stephen Ramsey as 1st Narrator and others Nick Sadler as Agricultural Officer and others Andy Taylor as Gas Station Owner and others Floyd Knowles and Weedpatch Camp Director Todd Waring as Hooper Ranch Bookkeeper and others Fredd Wayne as Grampa, Mayor of Hooverville and Camp Guard Michael Weston as Noah Joad and others Kate Williamson as Gramma and others Live music performed by the Joel Rafael Band. Adapted by Frank Galati. Directed by Richard Masur. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles.

The Grapes of Wrath

On a distant island, Prospero waits. The noise of thunder, flashes of lightning and a swelling sea, this tempest sets the stage for William Shakespeare’s most enigmatic play. As we meet characters and creatures set in a world far from our own, we still encounter universal themes of freedom, power and control. After years of planning, Prospero finally seizes the opportunity for vengeance as his feud’s ship is destroyed and the waves wash its sailors ashore. Even his own daughter Miranda is plotted in Prospero’s revenge scheme, leaving the reader wondering if his vicious plan will ever end. Not only is this play clearly concerned with its own nature as a play, but it is also Shakespeare's farewell to the stage. Do not let the opportunity to discover this monument in Western literature pass you by! For fans of Margaret Atwood and Lois Lowry. William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is widely considered the world's greatest dramatist and is often referred to as England's national poet or the Bard. Most famous for his timeless plays, he also wrote a multitude of poems and sonnets. Shakespeare was the blockbuster writer of his day, his many works concerning universal themes of life, love, death, revenge, grief, jealousy, murder, magic, and mystery. Among some of his most famous are "Macbeth", "Romeo and Juliet", and "Hamlet", but the list is long, and many continue to be studied and performed, both their original form and modern adaptations.

World Classics

The Tempest

The chilly nights of Elsinore are haunted by a spectre who demands to speak to the heir to the throne, young Hamlet. When Hamlet understands that the ghost is his father, murdered by his brother who later married his widow, Hamlet decides to avenge the late king. This is the beginning of the end, the motive for the best-known and best-loved revenge tragedy in Western literature. Written at the turn of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, at the end of Elizabeth I's reign and at the time of a deep religious and social change, Hamlet is Shakespeare's play that more than any other recounts the waning of the ancient world and the dawning of a modern consciousness. A whirling sequence of action and thought, of spectres and mirrors, Shakespeare's masterpiece of the abyss is a founding myth of our culture. Full edition with an interactive table of contents.

We came into the world like brother and brother; And now let's go hand in hand, not one before another. - Dromio of Ephesus The Comedy of Errors is likely the very first play Shakespeare ever wrote, and for that reason alone it deserves a special place in literary history. Yet, despite the author's lack of maturity, the play is unmistakably the work of a burgeoning master. A farce of a type that was wildly popular in Shakespeare's day, The Comedy of Errors transcends its genre, and is as accessible and as entertaining as any of the Bard's later comedies. Revolving around the naturally comedic themes of identical twins and mistaken identity, The Comedy of Errors is a delightful milestone in the remarkable career of the greatest dramatist of all time.

The Comedy of Errors

Richard the Second is a poet’s play, full of great speeches and fine writing rather than subtle character drawing and keen insight. Performed by Sir John Gielgud, Jeremy Brett, and a Full Cast.

King Richard the Second

All the Summer Girls by Meg Donohue is a riveting coming-of-age tale set on the New Jersey shore. Donohue, the author of the bestselling novel How to Eat a Cupcake, is a master of literary fiction; her skill is demonstrated in this charming and moving second novel. Set among the sunsets and dunes, All the Summer Girls is the story of how three former best friends, their lives rapidly unraveling, are reunited at the beach town of their past—where the ambience of summer encourages them to explore new experiences they would never otherwise attempt. When dark secrets threaten to surface, Kate, Vanessa, and Dani begin to realize just how much their lives—and friendships—have been shaped by the choices they made one fateful summer night years ago. In the hope of finally moving forward, the women turn to one another for forgiveness—but how can they forgive each other when they can’t forgive themselves? Meg Donohue is a phenomenal talent, and fans of Sarah Pekkanen, Susan Mallery, and Catherine McKenzie, will be enthralled by this rich and detailed novel about women, relationships, and forgiveness.

All the Summer Girls

Kiss me, Kate, we will be married o'Sunday - Petruchio A Shakespeare Society Production. The complete play in five acts.

The Taming of the Shrew

A Shakespeare Society Production. The complete play in five acts.

Twelfth Night

William Collins Books and Decca Records are proud to present ARGO Classics, a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse read by some of the world’s most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly remastered stories are now available to download for the first time. ‘Life is as tedious as a twice-told tale Vexing the dull ear of a drowsy man.’ Shakespeare's King John is a rarely performed history which tells the story of John's turbulent reign from 1199 to 1216.. King John goes to war against the French after claims that his nephew should be king instead. John has conflict with the church, orders his nephew's death, and turns the nobles against himself. In the end, John dies from poison, the French retreat, and his son becomes King. All of the Shakespeare plays within the ARGO Classics catalogue are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. The Marlowe was founded in 1907 with a mission to focus on effective delivery of verse, respect the integrity of texts, and rescue neglected plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries and the less performed plays of Shakespeare himself. The Marlowe has performed annually at Cambridge Arts Theatre since its opening in 1936 and continues to produce some of the finest actors of their generations. Thurston Dart, Professor of Music at London University and a Fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, directed the music for this production. The full cast includes: Michael Hordern; Anthony Jacobs; David Jones; Tony Church; Roderick Cook; David Buck; John Kimber; George Rylands; Toby Robertson; Richard Marquand; Anthony Jacobs; Roger Prior; Gary Watson; Donald Beves; Olive Gregg; Margaretta Scott; Christine Baker; Freda Dowie.

Argo Classics

King John

William Collins Books and Decca Records are proud to present ARGO Classics, a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse read by some of the world’s most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly remastered stories are now available to download for the first time. ‘All things are ready, if our mind be so.’ Henry V covers events during the Hundred Years' War, immediately before and after the Battle of Agincourt (1415). After an insult from the French Dauphin, King Henry V of England invades France to claim the throne he believes should be his. Henry stops an assassination plot, gives powerful speeches, and wins battles against the odds. In the end, he woos and marries the Princess of France, linking the two nations. All of the Shakespeare plays within the ARGO Classics catalogue are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. The Marlowe was founded in 1907 with a mission to focus on effective delivery of verse, respect the integrity of texts, and rescue neglected plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries and the less performed plays of Shakespeare himself. The Marlowe has performed annually at Cambridge Arts Theatre since its opening in 1936 and continues to produce some of the finest actors of their generations. Thurston Dart, Professor of Music at London University and a Fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, directed the music for this production. The full cast includes: William Squire; Gary Watson; Julian Curry; Ian McKellen; Denis McCarthy; John Tracy-Phillips; Peter Orr; Donald Beves; John Barton; John Perceval; Peter Foster; Giles Slaughter; David Rowe-Beddoe; Philip Strick; Trevor Nunn; Dudley Jones; Andrew Parkes; Michael Burrell; Tony Church; John Sharpe; Terrence Hardiman; Anthony White; George Rylands; John Tracy-Phillips; Derek Jacobi; Corin Redgrave; Frank Duncan; Corin Redgrave; Corin Redgrave; Roger Hammond; Frank Duncan; Suzanne Fuller; Micheline Samuels; Prunella Scales; Vivienne Chatterton.

Henry V

William Collins Books and Decca Records are proud to present ARGO Classics, a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse read by some of the world’s most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly remastered stories are now available to download for the first time. ‘No, no, I am but shadow of myself: You are deceived, my substance is not here.’ Henry VI Part I is part of Shakespeare’s trilogy centred on the Wars of the Roses. After Henry V's death and while Henry VI is young, nobles rule England and fight the French, including Joan of Arc. As Henry VI becomes King, the noble houses begin to divide and take sides between York and Lancaster. The war with France winds down, and the nobles try to find Henry a wife and disagree about who Henry chooses. All of the Shakespeare plays within the ARGO Classics catalogue are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. The Marlowe was founded in 1907 with a mission to focus on effective delivery of verse, respect the integrity of texts, and rescue neglected plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries and the less performed plays of Shakespeare himself. The Marlowe has performed annually at Cambridge Arts Theatre since its opening in 1936 and continues to produce some of the finest actors of their generations. Thurston Dart, Professor of Music at London University and a Fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, directed the music for this production. The full cast includes: Richard Marquand; David King; Carleton Hobbs; Terrence Hardiman; Denis McCarthy; Roger Croucher; Peter Orr; Frank Duncan; John Tydeman; Gary Watson; William Devlin; Gordon Gardner; Cyril Luckham; John Nettleton; John Shrapnel; Raymond Clark; Brian Batchelor; David Rowe-Beddoe; Anthony Arlidge; Bob Jones; Patrick Garland; Clinton Baddele; John Hopkins; John Tracy-Phillips; David Buck; John Bartom; Ronald Grey; Mary Morris; Yvonne Bonnamy; Freda Dowie.

Henry VI, Pt.1

All's Well That Ends Well is a play by William Shakespeare. It is believed to have been written between 1604 and 1605, and was originally published in the First Folio in 1623 Though originally the play was classified as a comedy, the play is now considered by some critics to be one of his problem plays, so named because they cannot be neatly classified as tragedy or comedy. When the clever and appealing Helena cures the ailing king of France of an illness, she asks for the hand of Bertram (a proper young Englishman) in return. Her efforts to win Bertram's love are rendered with wit and verve by a distinguished cast including Claire Bloom, John Stride, Dame Flora Robson, Eric Portman and Jack MacGowan. This performance brings to life this surprisingly modern play.

All’s Well That Ends Well

Henry IV, Part 2 is a history play by William Shakespeare, believed written between 1596 and 1599. It is the third part of a tetralogy, preceded by Richard II and Henry IV, Part 1 and succeeded by Henry V. GOD KNOWS, MY SON, BY WHAT BY-PATHS AND INDIRECT CROOK'D WAYS I MET THIS CROWN; AND I MYSELF KNOW WELL HOW TROUBLESOME IT SAT UPON MY HEAD. TO THEE, IT SHALL DESCEND WITH BETTER QUIET, BETTER OPINION, BETTER CONFIRMATION… Following his victory at the battle of Shrewsbury that ended Part 1, King Henry now finds that he must deal with a rebellion by Scroop, Hastings and Mowbray. They are eventually tricked into disbanding their army and are sentenced to death. Henry is finally secure on the throne, but it has come too late: he is dying. The play ends with the accession of his son, Prince Hal, as Henry V. The new king immediately reforms, renouncing his dissolute lifestyle; and when his former companion Sir John Falstaff hastens to London in the belief that the new king will show him favour he is cruelly disillusioned. Harry Andrews, Richard Johnson and Sir Anthony Quayle lead a distinguished cast in this powerful production.

Henry IV (Part Two)

Coriolanus is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1605 and 1608. Coriolanus is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1605 and 1608. The play is based on the life of the legendary Roman leader, Gaius Marcius Coriolanus. Performed and recorded by the wonderful Richard Burton and cast.

Coriolanus

A wonderful classic recording of some of the greatest actors performing Shakespeare for the first time release on digital download. Richard II is the main character of the play. The first Act begins with King Richard sitting majestically on his throne in full state. We learn that Henry Bolingbroke, Richard's cousin, is having a dispute with Thomas Mowbray, and they both want the king to act as judge. The subject of the quarrel is Bolingbroke's accusation that Mowbray had squandered monies given to him by Richard for the King's soldiers. Bolingbroke also accuses Mowbray of the recent murder of Duke of Gloucester, although John of Gaunt—Gloucester's brother and Bolingbroke's father—believes that Richard himself was responsible for the murder. After several attempts to calm both men, Richard acquiesces and Bolingbroke and Mowbray challenge each other to a duel, over the objections of both Richard and Gaunt

Richard II

Measure for Measure is a play by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1603 or 1604 performed by Sir John Gielgud and cast. Measure for Measure is a play by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1603 or 1604. It was (and continues to be) classified as comedy, but its mood defy those expectations. As a result and for a variety of reasons, some critics have labeled it as one of Shakespeare's problem plays. Originally published in the First Folio of 1623 (where it was first labeled as a comedy), the play's first recorded performance was in 1604. The play deals with the issues of mercy, justice, and truth, and their relationship to pride and humility: "Some rise by sin, and some by virtue fall".

Measure for Measure

Sir Derek Jacobi and cast perform another Shakespeare classic which has been released for the first time as a digital download. The play opens with the King of Navarre and three noble companions, Berowne, Dumaine, and Longaville, taking an oath to devote themselves to three years of study, promising not to give in to the company of women — Berowne somewhat more hesitantly than the others. Berowne reminds the king that the princess and her three ladies are coming to the kingdom and it would be suicidal for the King to agree to this law. The King denies what Berowne says, insisting that the ladies make their camp in the field outside of his court. The King and his men comically fall in love with the princess and her ladies. The main story is assisted by many other humorous sub-plots. A rather heavy-accented Spanish swordsman, Don Adriano de Armado, tries and fails to woo a country wench, Jaquenetta, helped by Moth, his page, and rivaled by Costard, a country idiot. We are also introduced to two scholars, Holofernes and Sir Nathaniel, and we see them converse with each other in schoolboy Latin. In the final act, the comic characters perform a play to entertain the nobles, an idea conceived by Holofernes, where they represent the Nine Worthies. The four Lords — as well as the Ladies' manservant Boyet — mock the play, and Armado and Costard almost come to blows. At the end of this 'play' within the play, there is a bitter twist in the story. News arrives that the Princess's father has died and she must leave to take the throne. The king and his nobles swear to remain faithful to their ladies, but the ladies, unconvinced that their love is that strong, claim that the men must wait a whole year and a day to prove what they say is true. This is an unusual ending for Shakespeare and Elizabethan comedy. A play mentioned by Francis Meres, Love's Labour's Won, is sometimes believed to be a sequel to this play

Love’s Labours Lost

The Two Gentlemen of Verona is a comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1590 or 1591. It is considered by some to be Shakespeare's first play, and is often seen as his first tentative steps in laying out some of the themes and tropes with which he would later deal in more detail. The play deals with the themes of friendship and infidelity, the conflict between friendship and love, and the foolish behaviour of people in love. The highlight of the play is considered by some to be Launce, the clownish servant of Proteus, and his dog Crab, to whom "the most scene-stealing non-speaking role in the canon" has been attributed

Timeless Classic

Two Gentlemen of Verona

Henry V is a history play by William Shakespeare, believed to be written in approximately 1599. Its full titles are The Chronicle History of Henry the Fifth (in the First Quarto text) and The Life of Henry the Fifth (in the First Folio text). It tells the story of King Henry V of England, focusing on events immediately before and after the Battle of Agincourt (1415) during the Hundred Years' War. The play is the final part of a tetralogy, preceded by Richard II, Henry IV, part 1 and Henry IV, part 2. The original audiences would thus have already been familiar with the title character, who was depicted in the Henry IV plays as a wild, undisciplined lad known as "Prince Hal." In Henry V, the young prince has become a mature man and embarks on an attempted conquest of France.

Shakespeare

William Collins Books and Decca Records are proud to present ARGO Classics, a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse read by some of the world’s most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly remastered stories are now available to download for the first time. ‘Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.’ Shakespeare's most popular comedy, set in an enchanted forest with fairies, sparring lovers and a group of amateur actors who are putting on a play. Four Athenians run away to the forest only to have Puck the fairy make both of the boys fall in love with the same girl. The four run through the forest pursuing each other while Puck helps his master play a trick on the fairy queen. In the end, Puck reverses the magic, and the two couples reconcile and marry. All of the Shakespeare plays within the ARGO Classics catalogue are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. The Marlowe was founded in 1907 with a mission to focus on effective delivery of verse, respect the integrity of texts, and rescue neglected plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries and the less performed plays of Shakespeare himself. The Marlowe has performed annually at Cambridge Arts Theatre since its opening in 1936 and continues to produce some of the finest actors of their generations. Thurston Dart, Professor of Music at London University and a Fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, directed the music for this production. The full cast includes: Frank Duncan; Joan Hart; Julian Curry; John Tracy-Phillips; Ian McKellen; Terrence Hardiman; Jeannette Sterke; Prunella Scales; Miles Malleson; Peter Woodthorpe; John Sharp; John Wood; Trevor Nunn; Christopher Kelly; Anthony White; Jill Balcon; Richard Goolden; Elizabeth Proud; George Rylands; John Sharp; Richard Kay.

A Midsummer Night's Dream

James Goldman's brilliant historical drama pits King Henry II of England against the strong-willed Eleanor of Aquitaine. Back stabbing, spying, double crossing, and rampant infidelity-a typical family Christmas. Typical, that is, for the Plantagenets. Kathleen Chalfant and Alfred Molina bring to life the witty, eloquent battle of the sexes that was immortalized in the Academy Award-winning film of the same name. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring: Lars Carlson as John Kathleen Chalfant as Eleanor of Aquitaine Kevin Daniels as Richard Coeur de Leon Spencer Garrett as Philip Capet Laurel Moglen as Alais Capet Alfred Molina as Henry Plantagenet Steven Sutcliffe as Geoffrey Includes interviews with Scott Waugh, the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost at UCLA and theatre director Ethan McSweeny joins dramaturges Gavin Witt and Anne Hamilton to examine family-based plays-including Henry IV, Major Barbara, and True West. Directed by Rosalind Ayres. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles in December of 2001.

The Lion in Winter

William Collins Books and Decca Records are proud to present ARGO Classics, a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse read by some of the world’s most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly remastered stories are now available to download for the first time. All 17 of Shakespeare’s timeless comedies, performed by the celebrated Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. Young love, bawdiness, and exuberance are played out in these comedies that continue to make us laugh and cheer. Performed by an incredible array of the 20th century’s greatest actors, Marlowe alumni including Ian McKellen, Diana Rigg, Derek Jacobi, and Prunella Scales can be heard in these recordings. All of the Shakespeare plays within the ARGO Classics catalogue are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. The Marlowe was founded in 1907 with a mission to focus on effective delivery of verse, respect the integrity of texts, and rescue neglected plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries and the less performed plays of Shakespeare himself. The Marlowe has performed annually at Cambridge Arts Theatre since its opening in 1936 and continues to produce some of the finest actors of their generations. Thurston Dart, Professor of Music at London University and a Fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, directed the music for this production. This collection includes 17 comedies: • All’s Well That Ends Well • As You Like It • Comedy of Errors • Cymbeline • Love’s Labour’s Lost • Measure for Measure • The Merry Wives of Windsor • The Merchant of Venice • A Midsummer Night’s Dream • Much Ado About Nothing • Pericles, Prince of Tyre • The Taming Of The Shrew • The Tempest • Troilus And Cressida • Twelfth Night • The Two Gentlemen of Verona • The Winter’s Tale The full casts for each production in this collection can be found in the description of the individual play’s product page.

Shakespeare: The Comedies

Mansfield Park is the third published novel by Jane Austen.The novel tells the story of Fanny Price, starting when her overburdened, impoverished family sends her at age ten to live in the household of her wealthy aunt and uncle; it follows her development and concludes in early adulthood.

Mansfield Park (Illustrated)

Julius Caesar is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1599. It portrays the 44 BCE conspiracy against the Roman dictator Julius Caesar, his assassination and the defeat of the conspirators at the Battle of Philippi. Although the title of the play is Julius Caesar, Caesar is not the central character in its action; he appears in only three scenes, and is killed at the beginning of the third act. The protagonist of the play is Marcus Brutus, and the central psychological drama is his struggle between the conflicting demands of honour, patriotism, and friendship. The play reflected the general anxiety of England over succession of leadership. At the time of its creation and first performance, Queen Elizabeth, a strong ruler, was elderly and had refused to name a successor, leading to worries that a civil war similar to that of Rome might break out after her death

Julius Caesar

One of the great Shakespearean tragedies, Macbeth is a dark and bloody drama of ambition, murder, guilt, and revenge. Prompted by the prophecies of three mysterious witches and goaded by his ambitious wife, the Scottish thane Macbeth murders Duncan, King of Scotland, in order to succeed him on the throne. This foul deed soon entangles the conscience-stricken nobleman in a web of treachery, deceit, and more murders, which ultimately spells his doom. Set amid the gloomy castles and lonely heaths of medieval Scotland, Macbeth paints a striking dramatic portrait of a man of honor and integrity destroyed by a fatal character flaw and the tortures of a guilty imagination.

William Shakespeare Collection

In News from Heaven, Jennifer Haigh—bestselling author of Faith and The Condition—returns to the territory of her acclaimed novel Baker Towers with a collection of short stories set in and around the fictionalized coal-mining town of Bakerton, Pennsylvania. Exploring themes of restlessness, regret, redemption and acceptance, Jennifer Haigh depicts men and women of different generations shaped by dreams and haunted by disappointments. Janet Maslin of the New York Times has called Haigh's Bakerton stories "utterly, entrancingly alive on the page," comparable to Richard Russo's Empire Falls.

News from Heaven

Big Brother is a striking novel about siblings, marriage, and obesity from Lionel Shriver, the acclaimed author the international bestseller We Need to Talk About Kevin. For Pandora, cooking is a form of love. Alas, her husband, Fletcher, a self-employed high-end cabinetmaker, now spurns the “toxic” dishes that he’d savored through their courtship, and spends hours each day to manic cycling. Then, when Pandora picks up her older brother Edison at the airport, she doesn’t recognize him. In the years since they’ve seen one another, the once slim, hip New York jazz pianist has gained hundreds of pounds. What happened? After Edison has more than overstayed his welcome, Fletcher delivers his wife an ultimatum: It’s him or me. Rich with Shriver’s distinctive wit and ferocious energy, Big Brother is about fat: an issue both social and excruciatingly personal. It asks just how much sacrifice we'll make to save single members of our families, and whether it's ever possible to save loved ones from themselves.

Big Brother

In "Sganarelle, or, the Self-Deceived Husband," Moli√®re masterfully intertwines humor and social critique, unraveling the complexities of marital relationships and the follies of human nature. This one-act play is a quintessential example of Moli√®re's sharp wit and keen observational prowess, encapsulating the spirit of 17th-century French comedy. The narrative revolves around the titular character, Sganarelle, whose delusions about his own authority lead to comedic misadventures, deftly illuminating themes of jealousy, deception, and the absurdities of self-perception within domestic spheres. The dialogue is laced with ironic undertones, making sharp commentary on the societal norms governing marriage and masculinity during Moli√®re's time. Moli√®re, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was an influential figure in French literature and regarded as one of the greatest masters of comedy. His diverse background in both law and theater provided a unique perspective on the social dynamics of his era. Familiar with the tensions of bourgeois life, Moli√®re utilized comedy as a lens to challenge societal pretensions and moral hypocrisy, which are evident in the layers of irony found in "Sganarelle." For readers and theater enthusiasts alike, "Sganarelle, or, the Self-Deceived Husband" is not just a comedic escapade but a profound exploration of human folly. Moli√®re'Äôs timeless wit and insightful critique make this work a compelling read, inviting laughter while prompting reflection on the intricate dance between self-deception and reality in personal relationships.

Sganarelle, or, the Self-Deceived Husband

This historical fiction is set in ancient Britain when it belonged to the Roman Empire. Cymbeline, a Celtic king who has lost both his sons, opposes his only child, princess Imogen’s marriage to the lowborn gentleman, Posthumus. In anger Cymbeline sends Posthumus to exile in Italy, where he falls into the company of the sleek Iachimo. Imogen's stepmother and Iachimo forge sinister plans against the poor king's daughter. She soon decides to flee from her father's court keen to find her beloved Posthumus. This bestseller contains plenty of surprising twists and turns, bloody confrontations and fatal encounters. But can the drama come to an end? ‘Cymbeline’ is one of William Shakespeare’s strongest plays, intertwined with themes of envy and forgiveness. As one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known romances, this historical romance mixes some of his most stunning verse with an interesting blend of history, legend and fairy tale. For fans of Meg Mason, Jennifer Weiner and Sally Thorne. William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is widely considered the world's greatest dramatist and is often referred to as England's national poet or the Bard. Most famous for his timeless plays, he also wrote a multitude of poems and sonnets. Shakespeare was the blockbuster writer of his day, his many works concerning universal themes of life, love, death, revenge, grief, jealousy, murder, magic, and mystery. Among some of his most famous are "Macbeth", "Romeo and Juliet", and "Hamlet", but the list is long, and many continue to be studied and performed, both their original form and modern adaptations.

Cymbeline

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