Showing results by author "Ellis Parker Butler" in All Categories

Join old Peter Lane, a whimsical character living on a houseboat along the picturesque Mississippi River. Peter spends his days whittling and enjoying the tranquility of life—until an unexpected knock at his door changes everything. One fateful night, a weary woman arrives, cradling her sickly son, Buddy. This chance encounter ignites a heartwarming friendship as Peter vows to protect and raise Buddy as his own, all while fending off those who seek to claim the orphan for themselves. (Note Although the online text suggests the absence of chapter 7, rest assured that all chapters are included...

Discover the heartbeat of American poetry through 101 Great American Poems — a carefully curated collection that spans centuries of voices. From the reflective verses of Anne Bradstreet to the bold rhythms of Langston Hughes, this anthology captures the soul of a nation through themes of love, loss, freedom, and hope. Tracing a journey from Puritan resolve to the artistic fervor of the Harlem Renaissance, these poems invite readers to explore America's evolving identity across generations and genres.

Ellis Parker Butler (1869-1937) was an American author of more than 30 books and more than 2,000 stories and essays. He is best known for his famous short story "Pigs Is Pigs", in which a bureaucratic stationmaster insists on levying the livestock rate for a shipment of two pet guinea pigs, which soon start proliferating exponentially.

Dive into the eerie and enthralling world of the supernatural with master anthologist Joseph Lewis Frenchs collection of the finest ghost stories ever penned. From the early influential works of Daniel Defoe and Edward Bulwer-Lytton to the chilling narratives of contemporary legends like M. R. James, Algernon Blackwood, and E. F. Benson, this anthology promises to deliver a treasure trove of haunting tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat and awake through the darkest hours of the night! - Summary by Ben Tucker

Two older men are set to oppose each other for sharing a similar interest in business. Once a pie is mashed into the head of one, and a bit of a 'raslin' match is concluded, the elderly men set about making up while planning the largest business in the nation. If their plan works it would change America, but would their wives approve? Will the men even be bold enough to share their idea with their brides?

This is the story about Ed, Sam, and Pete - and Pete's a horse. This delightful classic shares the vision of boys who want the best futures by dreaming big dreams. Ed is a follower, Sam is a know-it-all, and Pete, well he's not much to look at. A delight for all ages.

All of us want to leave a mark on our world. We want to be remembered for the good we did. This is the dilemma for author Ellis Parker Butler, a contemporary of Mark Twain. In the case of Butler, he found that the more he followed rabbit trails and gathered 'goat-feathers' without actually doing much to finish the work he thought was more important, the less fulfilled he became. Filled with humor and wit, this author's lamentation is both understood and smiled at.

If you’ve ever participated in an "over the hill' party you know they can be a fun way to roast a friend who reaches a mythical milestone. Acclaimed author Ellis Parker Butler wrote a wonderful story about facing life at 50 and his observations may seem different, yet very relatable. Welcome to a world where some lifelong pains become friends, where some of the best work in life begins, and where things that once seemed so important are relegated to the dust bin of vanity.

This short story takes you back to the start of radio in America. Filled with just the right amount of humor this story takes a millionaire's final wish and makes it possible for him to broadcast an approved message through a loud speaker in his headstone. This captured the attention of the nation, but no one expected the worst case scenario, but it is just this scenario that empties a cemetery. Narrated by Glenn Hascall.

A comedy of misunderstandings and idealism. Mr. Moorehouse arrived at the train station to claim his baggage and other items. He believed he was being overcharged, but Mr. Flannery wouldn't budge. In time Mr. Flannery wished he had. A fun listen from start to finish. Narrated by Glenn Hascall.

Dive into the witty world of Ellis Parker Butler, the mastermind behind the beloved classic Pigs Is Pigs. In this delightful tale, we explore the life of Hiram and Marthy, a couple living a peaceful life in their charming Colorado town. They pride themselves on not having children, relishing the quiet and the savings that come with it—after all, how else could Hiram afford to surprise Marthy with a new silk dress? Their lives take a humorous turn as they navigate their feelings toward the adorable neighborhood kids while secretly enjoying their child-free existence. But everything changes ...

Two mature neighbors are weary of seeing a young boy raise rabbits and chickens that always annoyed the old men. The two elder neighbors sought to teach the boy how to raise livestock. What ensues is a misadventure with comic moments throughout. A tale of simple times and men who are funny, even when they don't know they possessed the skill.

Join us for a delightful romp through the world of advertising, where Perkins and the narrator concoct hilarious promotions for some truly questionable products. This duo targets a gullible public, and rather than facing the typical downfall of con artists, they revel in their success, growing wealthier and more content with every scheme. Experience these amusing tales that turn the notion of morality on its head, as Perkins and Co. thrive in their charmingly dubious endeavors. (Summary by Arnold Banner)

In the charming town of Kilo, Iowa, wandering salesman Eliph Hewlitt discovers the love of his life and decides to put down roots. Join him on this heartfelt journey of romance and self-discovery. - Summary by Dale Barkley

In a whimsical twist inspired by Lives of the Saints, the slothful and hapless Harvey Redding decides to abandon his junk-collecting ways to pursue a path to sainthood. However, with mounting debts owed to his sister, he has reluctantly placed his son Lem in pawn with her until he can find a way to repay what he owes. Will Harvey find redemption, or will his laziness lead him further astray? (Summary by Dale Barkley)

Join Georgie, Swatty, and Bony on their thrilling adventures as they navigate through flooded rivers, deal with emotional girls, face burning buildings, explore haunted houses, and uncover dark caves. From encounters with mean teachers to run-ins with murderers and ice jams, this tale is packed with excitement and laughter. (Summary by Dale Barkley)

Dive into the delightful world of Ellis Parker Butler, a celebrated American author known for his wit and humor. With over 30 books and more than 2,000 stories and essays to his name, Butler offers a charming collection of eight short stories that capture the quirks of everyday life. Join us for a journey filled with laughter and insight, narrated by KirksVoice.

Join us as we explore the challenges of saving for a babys education in Cheerful Smugglers. How can a young family cultivate the discipline to consistently add to their piggy bank? Our quirky solution? Impose a tariff on all the items entering the household—just like the U.S. government once did! But beware, the devil is in the details. What do we do about the items visitors bring? Are guests themselves taxable? And how do we differentiate between essentials and luxuries? As guests arrive, they might just resort to smuggling items in their luggage to dodge a hefty 30% tax, or simply wear ...

Ever wondered why your neighbor seems overly devoted to his car? Or where to find a top-notch gardener? What about the debate over whether to invite Santa Claus to the Christmas party? Welcome to suburbia, a world that remains largely unchanged since 1911. Join Sarah Jennings as she explores these quirky dilemmas and everyday adventures of suburban life.

"Geoffrey's Panklaggephone" is the equivalent of a sponge – for sound. This short story from humorist Ellis Parker Butler demonstrates that even the best inventions will have their quirks. Sometimes those quirks can make the invention useful in an application no one suspected.