This book contains the following story:
"The House of Arden" is a children's fantasy novel written by Edith Nesbit, first published in 1908. The story combines elements of time travel, magic, and adventure. Here is a plot summary of "The House of Arden":
Setting and Characters: The story is set in England in the early 20th century and features two main characters, siblings Edred Arden and Elfrida Arden, who live at Arden Castle. The children's parents are deceased, and they are cared for by their Aunt Edith.
The Initial Situation: The Arden family is impoverished, and Arden Castle has fallen into disrepair. Edred and Elfrida discover that they are the rightful heirs to the Arden estate, but they must prove their lineage to inherit the castle and its wealth.
The Magic and Time Travel Element: One day, the children stumble upon a magical ancient artifact known as the Mouldiwarp, a talking creature that grants wishes. With the help of the Mouldiwarp, they embark on a magical adventure. They discover a time-traveling ability that allows them to visit various historical periods, including medieval England.
The Quest for the Missing Heirlooms: Edred and Elfrida travel back in time to retrieve valuable heirlooms that will help them prove their lineage and inherit the Arden estate. They must navigate the challenges and dangers of different historical eras and interact with various historical figures.
Meeting Historical Figures: Throughout their journey, the siblings meet several historical characters, including Richard III, who plays a significant role in the story. These encounters add depth and historical context to the narrative.
Challenges and Lessons: As they travel through time and face numerous challenges, Edred and Elfrida learn important life lessons about responsibility, courage, and the value of family and friendship.
Resolution: The children ultimately succeed in their quest to recover the missing heirlooms, and they return to their own time. Armed with the proof of their lineage, they are able to claim their rightful inheritance and restore Arden Castle to its former glory.
Conclusion: "The House of Arden" is a whimsical and adventurous tale that combines elements of historical fiction, time travel, and magic. It explores themes of identity, family, and the power of imagination. The story encourages readers to embrace their heritage and take responsibility for their destiny while also highlighting the importance of love and loyalty within a family.
