The Children
1928
The Children is a 1928 novel by Edith Wharton that centers on Martin Boyne, a middle-aged engineer who becomes involved with the complex Wheater family, comprised of step-siblings and children of divorced parents. As Boyne navigates the chaotic dynamics of the Wheater clan, he witnesses the impact of modern divorce and remarriage on the children, particularly through the eyes of caretaker Judith and her delicate twin, Terry. The novel explores themes of family, loyalty, and the emotional toll of adult decisions on children, making it a notable work in American fiction of the 20th century.
Editions
X-Ray
“When two people part who have loved each other it is as if what happens between them befell in a great emptiness - as if the tearing asunder of the flesh must turn at last into a disembodied anguish.””
— Edith Wharton
“When people ask for time, it’s always for time to say no. Yes has one more letter in it, but it doesn’t take half as long to say.””
— Edith Wharton
“Cuando un hombre amaba a una mujer ésta siempre tenía la edad que él quisiera; y cuando dejaba de amarla se convertía en demasiado vieja para los hechizos o en demasiado joven para la técnica .””
— Edith Wharton
