So, before the snickers begin, I’ll be clear: we’re talking about the 19th century novelist, Anthony Trollope.

As part of the Folio Society collection of books we inherited from Dad and Mom, there are 49 volumes by Anthony Trollope waiting to be read (48 novels plus a collection of short stories).

The Folio Fans group on Facebook came through for me when I asked for advice regarding where to start. Does each book stand on its own, or is there a series to follow? I’d already arranged the books alphabetically and then, thanks to another reader’s advice, rearranged them to group by series and then chronologically.

We’re closing in on three years since Trollope moved to our Indiana home, and so guilt managed to override intimidation; I read the first volume this month.

Book 1: The Warden by Anthony Trollope

It feels a little silly to reference this storyline as “ripped from the headlines,” as it was published in 1855. But that’s exactly what The Warden is.

How can so many decades have passed, and yet people haven’t changed? Not one bit.

Our hero, Mr. Harding, has admirable integrity, even when no one is watching. He’s the warden over a home for elderly indigent men. A member of the clergy, he is loudly accused of misusing funds when, indeed, he’s just following in the footsteps of those who came before him.

It’s fascinating to take in the story of how politics, greed, jealousy, power, and all that rot overpower others in his world. And, indeed, this story is based on a similar legal challenge back then.

I do believe this vast collection of Trollope’s work will be read in full. Eventually.

Book 2: The Burnt-Out Case by Graham Greene

And as one collection is begun, another comes to an end.

Our protagonist is a famous architect who desperately needs a break from the world. But who would have guessed that even hiding out namelessly in an African leper colony would not be far enough from nosy neighbors.

Graham Greene is a master storyteller.

Week 3: The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain

This book was not what I expected. I’m not sure what I expected, other than some creepy postman making trouble.

Spoiler: Nope.

There’s still plenty of trouble, though. This would make a great read on an airplane, or by a crackling fire. It’s a quick, adventuresome tale. And you’re never sure whom to root for … but it sure won’t be the postman, because there isn’t one!

Book 4: My Life and Hard Times by James Thurber

When I think of James Thurber, I picture the William Windom television show in 1969-70 called My World and Welcome to It. The show incorporated Thurber’s stories and humorous line-art.

Frankly, this collection of stories was hit-or-miss with me. Some of the characterizations were perhaps appropriate (or acceptable) for the time, but nowadays are what the cool kids call cringe-worthy.

The cartoons, however, never disappoint.

Book 5: The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie

I must say, Dame Christie just gifted me with a new favorite insult: “You impudent young jackanapes!”

I’m pretty sure this is the first Christie mystery I’ve read with Miss Marple featured in lieu of Hercule Poirot as the true mastermind. She doesn’t seem to garner the level of respect we see for Monsieur Poirot, but perhaps a few more examples should be read before growling j’accuse! Jackanapes one and all!

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