First each published separately between the years of 1852-1861, the short works of fiction within Curious, If True can be read as stand-alone pieces while still working together to create a chilling tone and mood. Typically known for her biographies and Victorian fiction depicting homelife, Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell breaks from her mold to deliver these delightfully spooky stories. With intricate prose, strong characterization, and compelling plots, Gaskell proves that her merit extends across many genres, and that her work remains to be applicable even to modern audiences.
Now presented in an easy-to-read font and featuring a stunning new cover design, this edition of Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell’s Curious, If True, is catered to modern readers, updating the classic to be accessible and conformed to contemporary standards while preserving the original genius of the work.
Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell (1810-1865) was an English author who wrote biographies, short stories, and novels. Because her work often depicted the lives of Victorian society, including the individual effects of the Industrial Revolution, Gaskell has impacted the fields of both literature and history. While Gaskell is now a revered author, she was criticized and overlooked during her lifetime, dismissed by other authors and critics because of her gender. However, after her death, Gaskell earned a respected legacy and is credited to have paved the way for feminist movements.