Abaft The Funnel - Rudyard Kipling

"Behind the Beyond" by Stephen Leacock is a delightful collection that features a parody of Problem Plays alongside humorous anecdotes that showcase the wit and charm of this renowned Canadian humourist. Leacock's comedic storytelling offers a timeless reflection on societal norms and human behavior, making it a joy to listen to even today. The clever satire and lighthearted narratives resonate wi...

"Borden of Yale '09" tells the inspiring story of William Borden, a young American millionaire who, during his travels, felt a deep calling to become a missionary after witnessing the world's need for the gospel. As he prepared at prestigious institutions like Yale and Princeton, and while studying Arabic in Egypt, Borden touched the lives of those around him and generously supported various minis...

"Cats: Their Points and Characteristics with Curiosities of Cat Life and a Chapter on Feline Ailments" by W. Gordon Stables offers a captivating exploration of the history and characteristics of our feline companions. This insightful study delves into what makes cats such beloved pets, alongside delightful anecdotes that showcase their unique personalities. As the age-old adage suggests, while dog...

"Adventures of Joel Pepper" by Margaret Sidney invites listeners into the lively world of the Pepper family, comprised of three boys, two girls, and their loving Mamsie, who thrive in their modest "Little Brown House." Centered on the mischievous middle child, Joel, the story unfolds through his various escapades, including encounters with a snake, a thief, and even a nail pile, as well as staging...

"Puck of Pook's Hill" by Rudyard Kipling is a captivating collection of fantasy stories that transport listeners through various periods of English history, interwoven with magical elements. Through the enchanting character of Puck, who draws historical figures into the lives of two children near Burwash, Kipling explores themes of history, magic, and the interplay between past and present. Each t...

"Adventures of Grandfather Frog" by Thornton W. Burgess captures a delightful moment in nature as Longlegs the Blue Heron grapples with an empty stomach on a beautiful morning. Despite the cheerful surroundings, his discomfort reminds us that even in the midst of joy, basic needs can overshadow happiness. The story reflects timeless themes of the struggle between desire and contentment, making it...

"Stalky & Co." by Rudyard Kipling is a compelling collection of linked short stories set in an English boarding school by the seaside, exploring the lives of the titular characters, Stalky, Beetle, and their friends. With its blend of macabre elements, bullying, and hints of sexuality, the narrative challenges the typical portrayal of school life, revealing a more complex and darker reality. The t...

"Black Buccaneer" by Stephen W. Meader transports listeners to the early 1700s, where two teenage boys find themselves kidnapped by pirates along the Atlantic coast of the American colonies. This gripping tale of adventure and survival is not only a captivating piece of young adult historical fiction but also serves as a reflection of its time, revealing the language and cultural attitudes of the...

"Power of the Dog" showcases Rudyard Kipling's mastery as a storyteller, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of relationships. Kipling, a celebrated writer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was recognized with the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1907, marking him as a significant voice of his time. His exploration of themes such as loyalty, power, and the moral di...

"Life and Marvelous Adventures of Wild Bill the Scout" by J.W. Buel presents a riveting account of the legendary frontier figure, Wild Bill, whose daring exploits and unique character set him apart in American history. As a scout and spy, he navigated the complexities of lawlessness with a blend of cunning and honor, embodying the spirit of a civilizer amidst chaos. His actions, often taken in sel...

"After World's End" by Jack Williamson presents a gripping tale of humanity's struggle against the formidable Robot monster, Malgarth. As Earthmen grapple with their fate, they find a glimmer of hope in the awakening of Barry Horn, who emerges from an age-long amnesic sleep, and Dona Keradin, the extraordinary wonder-girl encased in carbon crystal. This story explores themes of resilience and the...

"Black Riders and Other Lines" by Stephen Crane is a captivating collection of enigmatic poems that invites listeners to explore the depths of human emotion and experience. With its rich imagery and thought-provoking themes, this work remains relevant today, as it delves into the complexities of existence, identity, and the often uncharted territories of the human psyche. Crane's ability to evoke...

"Chemical Phenomena in Life" by Frederick Czapek offers a compelling introduction to the chemistry of cells within the realm of plant physiology, providing a fascinating overview of biochemistry and related sciences as understood in 1911. This insightful work invites listeners to explore the foundational concepts that underpin our understanding of life processes, showcasing Czapek's expertise as a...

"Coffee Break Collection 005 - Love and Relationships" is a delightful anthology featuring 20 short works that explore the multifaceted nature of love and connections between individuals. Ranging from three to fifteen minutes in length, these stories are perfect for brief interludes during your day, whether you’re on a commute, taking a break, or enjoying a workout. The collection touches on vario...

"David Crockett: His Life and Adventures" by John Stevens Cabot Abbott is a captivating narrative that chronicles the life of the iconic American folk hero, Davy Crockett. From his ancestors' journey into the American wilderness to his adventurous encounters with Native Americans, the book paints a vivid picture of a man who embodied the spirit of the frontier. It details his political career in T...

"Adventures of Unc' Billy Possum" by Thornton W. Burgess invites listeners into the whimsical world of Unc' Billy Possum and his delightful escapades. This charming tale captures the essence of adventure and curiosity, showcasing the timeless themes of exploration and the joy of discovery that resonate with young minds today. Burgess's engaging storytelling style encourages children to embrace the...

"Adrift in the Unknown or Queer Adventures in a Queer Realm" by William Wallace Cook invites listeners on a whimsical journey through early science fiction, where a noble scientist and his dubious companions embark on an adventure aboard a seemingly magical spaceship. Upon landing on Mercury, they find themselves embroiled in a conflict between advanced city-states, forcing each character to grapp...

"The Adventures of the Eleven Cuff-Buttons" is a delightful parody that transports listeners to the iconic setting of 221-B Baker Street, where the famous detective Hemlock Holmes, as chronicled by his friend Dr. Watson, embarks on one of his most perplexing cases. Set against the backdrop of an eventful April morning in 1912, this story promises a whirlwind of confusion and mystery that rivals ev...

"Chateau and Country Life in France" by Mary King Waddington offers a captivating glimpse into the life of an American expatriate navigating the French countryside in the early 20th century. Through a blend of memoir and diary-like entries, Waddington shares her experiences visiting chateaux, celebrating local holidays, and observing country customs, painting a vivid picture of a bygone era. This...

"Camp Fire Girls Across the Seas" by Margaret Vandercook takes listeners on a journey with the Camp Fire Girls as they navigate new influences and circumstances after several years apart from their previous adventures. As they cross the seas, the story explores how their foundational Camp Fire experiences continue to shape their lives and decisions. This tale resonates with themes of growth, frien...

The Life and Adventures of Alexander Selkirk recounts the true story of a Scottish sailor whose varied early life led him to become a buccaneer and ultimately a castaway on a deserted island for 52 months. This gripping narrative showcases Selkirk's remarkable resilience and ingenuity as he battles isolation and the challenges of nature with minimal resources. John Howell's meticulous research int...

"Adventures of a Woman Hobo" by Ethel Grace Lynn chronicles the journey of Ethel and Dan Lynn as they navigate the challenges of life in the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Facing financial ruin and Ethel's diagnosis of tuberculosis, the couple embarks on a daring trek across the western United States on a retrofitted tandem bicycle. This poignant journal captures their resilience...

"Adventures of a Suburbanite" by Ellis Parker Butler takes a humorous look at the quirks and concerns of suburban life in 1911, exploring themes that remain relevant today. From the neighbor's obsession with his car to the perennial question of holiday traditions like having a Santa Claus at the Christmas party, the book captures the essence of suburban living and the social dynamics that accompan...

"Child-life in Art" by Estelle M Hurll explores the profound connection between childhood and artistic expression, highlighting how artists interpret the beauty, innocence, and purity of children. The book emphasizes the Christ-child as the pinnacle of this ideal, illustrating how such representations have influenced all depictions of youth, from royalty to street children. Hurll's insights remind...

"Breviate of the Life of Margaret Baxter" by Richard Baxter offers a poignant glimpse into the life of Margaret, the daughter of Francis Charlton and wife of the author. This work serves as a heartfelt tribute, born from deep grief, capturing the essence of Margaret's character while also reflecting on her mother's legacy through a funeral sermon. Baxter's candid approach reveals the complexities...