The third summer reading selection is for adult readers. This book covers the life of E. Nesbit, a woman regarded as the first famous children’s book author. One of her most famous books was the first summer reading book, The Railway Children. While trains are not the focus of this biography, they are a key piece of the landscape and historic setting of E. Nesbit’s lifetime. E. or Edith, lived in England her entire life (1858 – 1924) and witnessed the Age of Steam. Various settings and characters in her works were pulled from Edith’s life.
Beyond the setting and the time, why does the Education Team recommend this book? It is a carefully researched book that not only covers Edith’s long life, but many of the other people in Edith’s life including her husband, children, stepchildren, various friends, and other prevalent society figures. Throughout the chapters are paragraphs from real letters, newspapers, journals, and other recollections. These inclusions break up the text into delightful segments. Although the book is long at 330 pages, it reads quickly.
E. Nesbit c. 1890
Edith Nesbit lived a life full of drama and unusual relationships. Her marriage would be considered an ‘open marriage’ today. Her progressive views brought her into contact with some of the brightest minds of the time, but also with the biggest egos. Just like trying to keep up with modern celebrities, readers will be invested in tracking Edith through all the falling outs, flings, and friendships she took part in. Strangely enough, her life reads much like modern tabloids!
The Life and Loves of E. Nesbit is for sale at the Snoqualmie Depot bookstore. KCLS has the print book at five locations, including one copy in Issaquah.
