Parnassus on Wheels

Parnassus on Wheels by Christopher Morley

The narrative follows Helen McGill, a practical woman who has spent years managing her brother Andrew's farm and household. When Andrew, a once-successful businessman turned author, becomes increasingly absorbed in his literary pursuits, Helen feels neglected and decides to take a bold step. She buys a traveling bookstore, Parnassus, from a quirky bookseller named Roger Mifflin, seeking adventure and independence. As Helen embarks on her journey, she experiences the joys and challenges of selling books while navigating her feelings of self-worth and identity. Mifflin, who becomes her companion, is a passionate advocate for literature and shares his idealistic views on bringing books to the masses. Their relationship develops as they face various obstacles, including a confrontation with a group of tramps and a misunderstanding that leads to Mifflin's arrest on charges of fraud, instigated by Andrew. Throughout the story, Helen grapples with her emotions, realizing her love for Mifflin and the importance of pursuing her own happiness. After a series of misadventures, including a near-tragic train wreck, Helen's determination to rescue Mifflin from jail leads her to confront her brother and assert her independence. In the end, Helen and Mifflin's bond deepens, culminating in their decision to marry. The story highlights themes of self-discovery, the value of literature, and the complexities of familial relationships, ultimately celebrating the transformative power of love and adventure.

By Christopher Morley · First published 1917 · Genre: Fiction, Literary Fiction, Comedy · 15 chapters · 42,725 words

First lines

I wonder if there isn't a lot of bunkum in higher education? I never found that people who were learned in logarithms and other kinds of poetry were any quicker in washing dishes or darning socks. I've done a good deal of reading when I could, and I don't want to "admit impediments" to the love of books, but I've also seen lots of good, practical folk spoiled by too much fine print. Reading sonnets always gives me hiccups, too.

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Parnassus on Wheels is listed on Textopian as a novel by Christopher Morley, dated 1917 CE.

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Literary Fiction · Road Trip · Adventure · Friendship · Philosophy · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · American Literature · 20th Century Literature · Novel · Coming of Age

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