The MFLIBRA Antique Books Blog

Amidst the cherished tomes and unique finds at MFLIBRA Antique Books, there exists a luminous narrative that once captured the hearts of countless readers – Maria Susanna Cummins' "The Lamplighter." Today, we delve into the magic of this classic, exploring its background, its themes, and its lasting impact on the literary world. A Glimpse into the Past Published in 1854, "The Lamplighter" became an instant sensation. It was one of the bestsellers of its time, even rivalling the popularity of Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin". Set in 19th century Boston, Cummins' tale paints the life journey of Gertrude Flint,...

Heidi, the enchanting tale of a young orphan girl living in the Swiss Alps, has captivated readers' hearts for generations. Penned by Swiss author Johanna Spyri in the late 19th century, the book has experienced an enduring legacy, proving its timeless appeal. Let's embark on a journey through the ages and explore the magic of Heidi, its evolution, and its place in literary history. 1. The Origins: Johanna Spyri's Masterpiece Johanna Spyri introduced the world to Heidi in 1881. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps, the story narrates the adventures of Heidi, a cheerful and kind-hearted girl,...

  Every so often, a work emerges from the annals of literature that is not only enchanting but also enlightening. George MacDonald's "At the Back of the North Wind" is precisely one such masterpiece. This timeless tale, with its elements of fantasy and profound wisdom, has been a cherished gem in the world of literature for over a century. Today, we delve deeper into its significance and the allure of its antique editions. Stepping into MacDonald's Magical Realm George MacDonald, a Scottish author, and minister, is often hailed as the godfather of modern fantasy. Through works like "At the Back...

In the hidden corners of our world, there have always been tales of mystical beings – entities that coexist with humans, unseen and often unknown. Nestled within the collection of MFLIBRA Antique Books is one such fascinating gem that delves into this subject: "The Secret Commonwealth of Elves, Fauns & Fairies" by Robert Kirk. A Peek into the Unknown Written in the 17th century by the Scottish minister Robert Kirk, this manuscript offers a meticulous and comprehensive account of the world of supernatural creatures. Unlike many other treatises of the time, Kirk's work is not purely fictive; it is an...

Arthur Conan Doyle: Delving into "The Coming of the Fairies" For many of us, the name Sir Arthur Conan Doyle immediately conjures up images of the iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes, and the fog-covered streets of Victorian London. Yet, Conan Doyle was not just a writer of detective stories. His oeuvre spanned across multiple genres including history, science fiction, and spiritualism. One of the lesser-known works, but a highly intriguing one, is “The Coming of the Fairies.” The Background Published in 1922, "The Coming of the Fairies" is a world away from the logical deductions of Holmes. This book details Conan...