Christopher and Columbus   By: Elizabeth Von Arnim (1866-1941)

Christopher and Columbus by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a delightful and whimsical tale that is sure to capture the hearts of readers of all ages. Set in the early 20th century, this charming novel follows the adventures of two young cousins, Christopher and Columbus, as they embark on a journey of discovery and self-discovery.

The story begins when the two recently orphaned cousins are sent to live with their eccentric and overbearing Aunt Constance. Feelings of loneliness and confinement soon overwhelm them, prompting the imaginative Christopher to concoct a daring plan: they will run away and start a new life on their own. With their pockets filled with stolen money, the pair sets off on an enchanting adventure across the English countryside.

As Christopher and Columbus make their way through the world, their innocence and vulnerability capture the attention and kindness of several benevolent souls. From a group of warm-hearted gypsies to a compassionate artist, the cousins encounter a cast of remarkable characters who provide guidance and support along their journey.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in Von Arnim's ability to vividly depict the tender relationship between Christopher and Columbus. Their bond is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for their success every step of the way. Furthermore, the author masterfully renders the emotions and thought processes of young children, allowing readers to truly connect with the characters.

Another notable aspect of this book is Von Arnim's lyrical prose. Her descriptions of the idyllic landscapes and enchanting villages evokes a sense of whimsy and magic, transporting readers to a bygone era. The author's skillful attention to detail enriches the reading experience, painting a vivid picture of the world in which the cousins are exploring.

While Christopher and Columbus is undoubtedly a heartwarming and uplifting novel, it also touches upon deeper themes such as family, identity, and the importance of individuality. Through their journey, the cousins learn valuable life lessons that resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Von Arnim's Christopher and Columbus is a captivating and uplifting tale that combines adventure, self-discovery, and the timeless power of human connection. With its beautifully crafted characters, lyrical prose, and poignant themes, this novel is a true gem for readers of all ages.

First Page:

Their names were really Anna Rose and Anna Felicitas; but they decided, as they sat huddled together in a corner of the second class deck of the American liner St. Luke , and watched the dirty water of the Mersey slipping past and the Liverpool landing stage disappearing into mist, and felt that it was comfortless and cold, and knew they hadn't got a father or a mother, and remembered that they were aliens, and realized that in front of them lay a great deal of gray, uneasy, dreadfully wet sea, endless stretches of it, days and days of it, with waves on top of it to make them sick and submarines beneath it to kill them if they could, and knew that they hadn't the remotest idea, not the very remotest, what was before them when and if they did get across to the other side, and knew that they were refugees, castaways, derelicts, two wretched little Germans who were neither really Germans nor really English because they so unfortunately, so complicatedly were both, they decided, looking very calm and determined and sitting very close together beneath the rug their English aunt had given them to put round their miserable alien legs, that what they really were, were Christopher and Columbus, because they were setting out to discover a New World... Continue reading book >>