The new BBC adaptation of Cranford begins soon. Why not read the book first or try one of Elizabeth Gaskell's other novels from the Library:
Cranford
Cranford in the 1840s is a small Cheshire market town on the cusp of great change. The railway is pushing its way relentlessly towards the town from Manchester, bringing fears of migrant workers and the breakdown of law and order. The arrival of handsome new doctor, Frank Harrison from London causes a stir; not only because of his revolutionary medical methods, but also because of the effect he has on many of the ladies' hearts in the town...
Mary Barton
Mary's father is a mill-hand and staunch fighter for workers' rights. When the owners ignore their workers' requests for better treatment, the men decide to murder Henry Carson as a warning, and nominate Barton to fire the gun. Mary's beloved Jem is arrested for the crime, and Mary has to face the agony of proving his innocence by incriminating her father.
North and South
A moving story of the developing relationship between southern-born Margaret Hale and John Thornton, the young northern mill-owner.
Cousin Phillis
Newly arrived in Eltham, young Paul Manning eagerly takes up his position as clerk to Mr Holdsworth, a railway engineer. His distant cousins - the robust and learned Reverend Holman, his wife and their clever daughter Phillis - warmly welcome him into their home.Although drawn to Phillis, who is as beautiful as she is innocent, he feels himself to be her unequal. When Mr Holdsworth, a handsome, well-travelled young man, meets the Holmans they are captivated by his wit and knowledge of the world. An enchanted summer ensues as Paul and he become regular visitors to Hope Farm. There is the promise of love ... but where, Paul wonders, will is lead to?
