H E Bates The Larkin Family Series 5 Book Set Complete Darling Buds of May Paperback

Delightful, warm-hearted, and perfect for fans of classic British fiction — this H E Bates The Larkin Family Series 5 Books Collection Set Darling Buds of May Paperback brings together five beloved novels about the Larkin clan. Ideal for parents, gift buyers, classroom readers, or anyone who loves a comforting, character-driven book collection, this boxed set invites you into a world of country charm, family mischief, and rollicking good humour.

Titles in this Set: The Darling Buds of May, A Breath of French Air, When the Green Woods Laugh, Oh! to be in England, A Little of What You Fancy

Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9789124192297

About the stories — what to expect in each paperback edition

The Darling Buds of May: Meet the Larkins — Pop, Ma, Mariette, Zinnia, Petunia, Primrose, Victoria and Montgomery — as they return from a May outing for fish and chips and ice cream to find an unexpected visitor: Cedric Charlton, Her Majesty's inspector of taxes. This opening volume sets the tone with charm, laughter, and the kind of family warmth that made H E Bates a beloved storyteller.

A Breath of French Air: When the entire Larkin brood — now ten strong with little Oscar — pile into the old Rolls to cross the Channel, they expect sunshine and perfick French idylls. Instead they discover that France can be less than welcoming to an eccentric English family, producing plenty of comic situations and tender family moments.

When the Green Woods Laugh: Pop Larkin, a junk-dealer with a taste for the finer oddities in life, sells a crumbling country house to city folk Mr and Mrs Jerebohm. With the proceeds he plans to fulfill Mariette’s request for a pool, leading to the sweetly chaotic plans that follow.

Oh! to be in England: A letter announcing Madame Dupont’s arrival sets off preparations for christenings — and unavoidable mischief — as Mr Candy prepares to officiate. The Larkins’ particular brand of affection and disorder makes for both comic and heartwarming scenes.

A Little of What You Fancy: After a mild heart attack and an attempt to give up indulgence, Pop Larkin finds himself off the booze and off the good life — to the horror of the rest of the family. Humour and humanity combine as the household navigates this temporary change.

• Perfect for: bedtime reading, family story hours, or a nostalgic bookshelf update
• Format: paperback edition — easy to share, gift, and pack for travel
• Author reputation: from celebrated author H E Bates — trusted by readers who love classic British fiction
• Great as: a gift set, classroom read-aloud collection, or collectible book collection

This five-book set offers laughter, warmth, and timeless family tales — a perfect gift and a cozy addition to any home library. Whether you’re introducing a younger reader to the Larkins or returning for a comforting reread, this collection is a timeless keepsake that celebrates community, mischief, and the simple pleasures of life.