An Elder Brother

A novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Michael Betts, an elderly bookseller who lives a reclusive and solitary life, deeply invested in his bookshop in Bloomsbury. The narrative delves into themes of loneliness, moral dilemmas, familial relationships, and the transformation of Michael's character sparked by his interactions, particularly with a young girl named Margery, the daughter of a recently deceased professor. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Michael Betts, a somewhat lonely and reclusive man who runs a second-hand bookshop. His monotonous life is disrupted by the unexpected visit of a bright young girl named Margery, who asks for a copy of “Pilgrim’s Progress” for her and her brother. Their innocent conversation prompts reflections on his own life, his estranged brother, and deeper issues surrounding morality and sin. Meanwhile, news about the illness of Margery's father and the subsequent passing of him creates a sense of foreboding, compelling Michael to confront his own emotional burdens and the impact of his solitary existence. As the story unfolds, Betts faces a series of events that challenge his previous notions of right and wrong.