The Wood Fire in No. 3 By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)
In "The Wood Fire in No. 3," Francis Hopkinson Smith showcases his remarkable talent in crafting vivid narratives that transport readers to another time and place. Set in the heart of a small New England village, this enchanting tale captivates from the very first page, leaving an indelible mark on the readers' hearts and minds. The story revolves around the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the fictional No. 3 Kimball Street, the abode of an eccentric old woman named Miss Betsey. A wood fire crackles and dances in her living room, becoming the centerpiece of the narrative and a metaphor for the hearth of her life. As the plot unfolds, Smith intertwines the lives of the unique inhabitants of the village, each drawn to No. 3 for their own reasons. From the reserved and enigmatic Professor Tomkins, who seeks solace in the warmth of the fire, to the mischievous children who gather around its glow, the wood fire acts as a catalyst for transformations, connections, and discoveries. Smith illustrates his characters with meticulous detail, painting them as relatable and endearing individuals with their own hopes, dreams, and struggles. Through their interactions, he explores themes of community, acceptance, and the power of human connection. Moreover, he skillfully weaves elements of nostalgia, humor, and introspection into the fabric of the narrative, enhancing the depth and texture of the story. One of Smith's greatest strengths lies in his ability to transport readers to a bygone era through vivid descriptions. He seamlessly brings to life the sights, sounds, and even scents of the village, awakening a sense of nostalgia and familiarity within the readers' hearts. From the crunch of snow underfoot to the comforting aroma of baking bread, his prose evokes a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression. "The Wood Fire in No. 3" is a heartfelt book that reminds us of the simple joys and profound connections that can be discovered in the most unexpected places. Francis Hopkinson Smith's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions create an irresistibly immersive reading experience. This beautifully crafted tale is sure to captivate readers of all ages, leaving them with a warm and lasting impression of the power of community and the warmth of a wood fire. First Page: THE WOOD FIRE IN No. 3 BY F. HOPKINSON SMITH ILLUSTRATED IN COLORS BY ALONZO KIMBALL CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS NEW YORK 1913 Copyright, 1905, by CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SON Published, October, 1905 [Illustration: Mac had the floor this afternoon.] A WORD OF WELCOME: To those of you who love an easy chair, a mug, a pipe, and a story; to whom a well swept hearth is a delight and the cheery crackle of hickory logs a joy; the touch of whose elbows sends a thrill through responsive hearts and whose genial talk but knits the circle the closer, as well as those gentler spirits who are content to listen how rare they are! do I repeat Sandy MacWhirter's hearty invitation: "Draw up, draw up! By the gods, but I'm glad to see you! Get a pipe. The tobacco is in the yellow jar." Yours warmly, THE BACK LOG. THE HEARTH, Room No. 3, Old Building, October, 1905. CONTENTS I. In which Certain Details regarding a Lost Opal are set Forth II. Wherein the Gentle Art of Dining is Variously Described III. With Especial Reference to a Girl in a Steamer Chair IV. With a Detailed Account of a Dangerous Footpad V. In which Boggs Becomes Dramatic and Relates a Tale of Blood VI... Continue reading book >>

The Wood Fire in No. 3 By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)

In "The Wood Fire in No. 3," Francis Hopkinson Smith showcases his remarkable talent in crafting vivid narratives that transport readers to another time and place. Set in the heart of a small New England village, this enchanting tale captivates from the very first page, leaving an indelible mark on the readers' hearts and minds.

The story revolves around the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the fictional No. 3 Kimball Street, the abode of an eccentric old woman named Miss Betsey. A wood fire crackles and dances in her living room, becoming the centerpiece of the narrative and a metaphor for the hearth of her life.

As the plot unfolds, Smith intertwines the lives of the unique inhabitants of the village, each drawn to No. 3 for their own reasons. From the reserved and enigmatic Professor Tomkins, who seeks solace in the warmth of the fire, to the mischievous children who gather around its glow, the wood fire acts as a catalyst for transformations, connections, and discoveries.

Smith illustrates his characters with meticulous detail, painting them as relatable and endearing individuals with their own hopes, dreams, and struggles. Through their interactions, he explores themes of community, acceptance, and the power of human connection. Moreover, he skillfully weaves elements of nostalgia, humor, and introspection into the fabric of the narrative, enhancing the depth and texture of the story.

One of Smith's greatest strengths lies in his ability to transport readers to a bygone era through vivid descriptions. He seamlessly brings to life the sights, sounds, and even scents of the village, awakening a sense of nostalgia and familiarity within the readers' hearts. From the crunch of snow underfoot to the comforting aroma of baking bread, his prose evokes a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression.

"The Wood Fire in No. 3" is a heartfelt book that reminds us of the simple joys and profound connections that can be discovered in the most unexpected places. Francis Hopkinson Smith's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions create an irresistibly immersive reading experience. This beautifully crafted tale is sure to captivate readers of all ages, leaving them with a warm and lasting impression of the power of community and the warmth of a wood fire.

First Page:

THE WOOD FIRE IN No. 3

BY F. HOPKINSON SMITH

ILLUSTRATED IN COLORS BY ALONZO KIMBALL

CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS NEW YORK 1913

Published, October, 1905

[Illustration: Mac had the floor this afternoon.]

A WORD OF WELCOME:

To those of you who love an easy chair, a mug, a pipe, and a story; to whom a well swept hearth is a delight and the cheery crackle of hickory logs a joy; the touch of whose elbows sends a thrill through responsive hearts and whose genial talk but knits the circle the closer, as well as those gentler spirits who are content to listen how rare they are! do I repeat Sandy MacWhirter's hearty invitation: "Draw up, draw up! By the gods, but I'm glad to see you! Get a pipe. The tobacco is in the yellow jar."

Yours warmly,

THE BACK LOG.

THE HEARTH, Room No. 3, Old Building, October, 1905.

CONTENTS

I. In which Certain Details regarding a Lost Opal are set Forth

II. Wherein the Gentle Art of Dining is Variously Described

III. With Especial Reference to a Girl in a Steamer Chair

IV. With a Detailed Account of a Dangerous Footpad

V. In which Boggs Becomes Dramatic and Relates a Tale of Blood

VI... Continue reading book >>

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