Books with author J. J. Gardner

The first and most terrifying monster in English literature, from the great early epic Beowulf, tells his own side of the story in this frequently banned book. This classic and much lauded retelling of Beowulf follows the monster Grendel as he learns about humans and fights the war at the center of the Anglo Saxon classic epic. This is the book William Gass called "one of the finest of our contemporary fictions."

This classic guide, from the renowned novelist and professor, has helped transform generations of aspiring writers into masterful writers—and will continue to do so for many years to come. John Gardner was almost as famous as a teacher of creative writing as he was for his own works. In this practical, instructive handbook, based on the courses and seminars that he gave, he explains, simply and cogently, the principles and techniques of good writing. Gardner’s lessons, exemplified with detailed excerpts from classic works of literature, sweep across a complete range of topics—from the nature of aesthetics to the shape of a refined sentence. Written with passion, precision, and a deep respect for the art of writing, Gardner’s book serves by turns as a critic, mentor, and friend. Anyone who has ever thought of taking the step from reader to writer should begin here.

From USA Today bestselling author A. Gardner comes the latest deadly delicious Poppy Peters installment...Poppy Peters, sometimes-sleuth and recent pastry school graduate, is soaking up the southern sun as the new official pastry chef of Magnolia Harbor Inn and Spa. But the sunny tourist town of Gator Bay is anything but pleasant when a country music star turns up dead in one of the hotel rooms...after eating one of Poppy's pastries! Ready to do anything to prove her tasty strawberry tartlets aren't to blame, Poppy's search for the killer takes her everywhere from a local fish n' fry to an abandoned gator farm. With the help of her kitchen mate Bree, an old flame, and a not-so-sweet cat named Muffin, Poppy finds herself wrapped up in a hurricane of clues. But which ones lead to the killer? Poppy must solve the riddle quickly or else she too might be fed a bite of a deadly dessert. **Recipes included!**Poppy Peters Mysteries:Southern Peach Pie & A Dead Guy (book #1)Chocolate Macaroons and a Dead Groom (book #2)Ice Cream Bombes and Stolen Thongs (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection)Bananas Foster and a Dead Mobster (book #3)Strawberry Tartlets and a Dead Starlet (book #4)Wedding Soufflé and a Dead Valet (book #5)What critics are saying:"A charming cozy mystery featuring likable characters. A. Gardner does a marvelous job at keeping the storyline fresh and entertaining. I look forward to seeing what surprises A. Gardner has in store for us next!"—Fresh Fiction"If you are a fan of tasty mysteries that showcase delectable desserts and a strong heroine, this is one to pick up."—Night Owl Reviews"One of the best perks of summer is eating a warm slice of Georgia peach pie. Throw in a murder and you’ve got the makings of a juicy cozy mystery. Southern Peach Pie and a Dead Guy: A Poppy Peters Mystery by debut author A. Gardner is a delicious e-book."—MomTrends, Ebook Pick for Summer

The first and most terrifying monster in English literature, from the great early epic Beowulf, tells his own side of the story in this frequently banned book. This classic and much lauded retelling of Beowulf follows the monster Grendel as he learns about humans and fights the war at the center of the Anglo Saxon classic epic. This is the book William Gass called "one of the finest of our contemporary fictions."

Four tales of fantasy from a twentieth-century literary master—selected as the 1975 New York Times Outstanding Book for Children John Gardner’s first children’s book takes the traditional fairy tale and turns it on its head. In the title story, a meddlesome dragon meets his match. “The Tailor and the Giant” tells the story of a cowardly man who finally faces his fears. A villainous beast of burden attempts to rid himself of his master in “The Miller’s Mule.” And in “The Last Piece of Light,” a brave young chimney-sweep saves the world from darkness.Filled with irreverent twists on the classic elements of princes and princesses, witches and wizards, and the magical realms that they inhabit, Dragon, Dragon is a collection of fun and fantastic tales to be cherished by readers of all ages.