The Water Ghosts

The Water Ghost and Others

In "The Water Ghost and Others," John Kendrick Bangs weaves a captivating tapestry of supernatural tales that blend humor and Gothic elements, reflecting the Victorian-era fascination with the ethereal and macabre. With a unique literary style characterized by its playful language and satirical wit, the collection features eclectic characters and whimsical plots, challenging conventional narratives while engaging readers with what the author calls "ghostly humor." Set against the backdrop of the late 19th century, the stories echo the period's cultural preoccupations with the afterlife and the unknown, inviting readers to explore the fine line between reality and the fantastical. John Kendrick Bangs was a notable American author and humorist, celebrated for his contributions to literature that often critiqued society through a humorous lens. His varied career includes work as an editor, playwright, and satirist, which undoubtedly informed the creation of "The Water Ghost and Others." Bangs' inclination toward the supernatural may stem from the Victorian appetite for ghost stories, while his sharp satirical edge offers insight into the era's existential musings, creating a rich context for his narratives. This collection is highly recommended for readers who delight in the interplay of humor and horror, as Bangs masterfully captures the absurdities of human nature through his ghostly protagonists. Fans of classic literature, as well as those intrigued by the supernatural, will find themselves enchanted by these timeless tales that are both amusing and thought-provoking.

Ghost in the Water

Ghosts of the Tsunami

'A remarkable and deeply moving book' Henry Marsh, bestselling author of Do No Harm 'A breathtaking, extraordinary work of non-fiction' Times Literary Supplement On 11 March 2011, a massive earthquake sent a 120-foot-high tsunami smashing into the coast of north-east Japan. It was Japan's greatest single loss of life since the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. Richard Lloyd Parry, an award-winning foreign correspondent, lived through the earthquake in Tokyo, and spent six years reporting from the epicentre. Learning about the lives of those affected through their own personal accounts, he paints a rich picture of the impact the tsunami had on day to day Japanese life. Heart-breaking and hopeful, this intimate account of a tragedy unveils the unique nuances of Japanese culture, the tsunami's impact on Japan's stunning and majestic landscape and the psychology of its people. Ghosts of the Tsunami is an award-winning classic of literary non-fiction. It tells the moving, evocative story of how a nation faced an unimaginable catastrophe and rebuilt to look towards the future. **WINNER OF THE RATHBONES FOLIO PRIZE**