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A Novel Introduction

If you’ve never read a novel by Elizabeth Gaskell, a visit to her former home is the perfect place to be inspired.  And when you visit Elizabeth Gaskell’s House during Manchester Literature Festival you will be able to book a special ticket that includes a surprise edition of one of Elizabeth’s most celebrated novels.

The initiative ties in with the House’s current exhibition, I’ve Never Read Elizabeth Gaskell.  This explores how three young writers in residence – Georgia Affonso, Princess Arinola Adegbite, and Guruleen Kahlo – have engaged with Elizabeth’s legacy for the first time.  They are not alone: a poll conducted during the exhibition has revealed that approximately half of visitors have not read her work before.

Sally Jastrzebski-Lloyd, Director of Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, says, ‘Visitors are drawn by Elizabeth’s fascinating life story as a changemaker within Victorian society and the chance to explore Manchester’s only literary house.  We understand that – but we also thought this was the perfect opportunity to offer an introduction to her novels. With our special ticket, visitors can now enjoy both.’

A variety of paperback titles will be wrapped in brown paper and waiting for visitors to select their mystery read.  They include Wives and Daughters, North and South, Mary Barton, Cranford, Sylvia’s Lovers, Ruth and a short story collection – all subject to availability.  The special ticket (priced £13.50, including entry and novel) will be available to book on open days from Wednesday 15 October until Sunday 26 October and is one of the ways in which Elizabeth Gaskell’s House will be marking this year’s Manchester Literature Festival (11 to 26 October).

I’ve Never Read Elizabeth Gaskell is an immersive exhibition that flows throughout the House.  It’s very contemporary in its approach, with author ‘profiles’, ‘biogs’ and QR codes connecting to Georgia, Princess and Guruleen’s work, alongside historical objects that have inspired them.  The project has been supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with The Writing Squad and Manchester City of Literature.