Stephen Leacock is an unjustly forgotten master of the short-story genre, once considered the best-known humorist in the world. Although he was a prolific writer, publishing about fifty novels, memoirs and histories in his lifetime, he was best known for his story short-collections Literary Lapses, Nonsense Novels and Frenzied Fiction.
Exploring Canada's early history, the book offers a lively account that spans from Indigenous peoples to European settlement. Stephen Leacock employs his characteristic wit to examine cultural exchanges, conflicts, and significant events such as the arrival of French and British settlers and the fur trade. His humorous narrative style makes complex historical topics accessible and engaging, appealing to a broad audience. This work serves as both an introduction to Canada's rich past and a testament to Leacock's unique ability to blend history with humor.
With its humor and nostalgic charm, this classic, first published in 1910, remains enjoyable for contemporary readers. The short stories, known in Czech as "Literární poklesky," offer quick, delightful reads, making it an ideal gift even for those who aren't avid readers. The brilliant translation captures the essence of the original, ensuring that the wit and whimsy resonate across generations. Perfect for a light-hearted escape into the past!
Focusing on accessibility, this publication by Megali aims to provide historical works in large print format, catering specifically to readers with impaired vision. The initiative underscores the importance of inclusivity in literature, allowing a broader audience to engage with classic texts.
Set in the fictional town of Mariposa, inspired by the author's experiences in Orillia, Ontario, this collection presents a humorous portrayal of small-town life in Canada. Leacock captures the essence of numerous towns across the country, reflecting shared characteristics like square streets, maple trees, and community buildings. Through a series of engaging stories, he paints a vivid and comedic picture of everyday characters and events, making it a beloved classic in Canadian literature.
Although Stephen Leacock may well be remembered as a father of Canadian culture, he was a humorist of the school of Dickens and Mark Twain, exuding a universal quality that knew no borders. He taught the world, and perhaps more importantly Canada itself, that Canadians could laugh heartily and without reserve at themselves.This collection of his works—including several Sunshine Sketches and witticisms such as "How to Introduce Two People to One Another,""The Perfect Optimist,"and "How to Borrow Money"—demonstrates a warmth and wit that during his lifetime permeated his casual speech and possessed a timeless quality that lives on today.
Nonsense Novels
Exploring the concept of the state, this book delves into its origins, sovereignty, and the relationship between individual liberty and state power. It critiques fallacious theories while presenting a true understanding of the state's nature and structure. The text examines various forms of government, including colonial and local governance, and discusses political ideologies such as individualism and socialism. It also addresses the dynamics between states and the role of political parties in shaping modern governance.