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In the years since its establishment, Penguin Books has become the most famous name in British publishing history. Founded by Sir Allen Lane in 1935, the vision was to create contemporary fiction that was affordable and accessible to all. Within the first year, the publisher sold three million paperbacks, laying down a clear path to success.
The first ten books to fly through Penguin Books' printing presses certainly contributed to this success. Penned by authors such as Agatha Christie and Ernest Hemingway, alongside lesser known writers, these books thrust Penguin towards an exciting future.
The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935First published in 1920, The Mysterious Affair at Styles was Christie’s debut novel. It saw the introduction of her famous Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot. Set on a country estate, the story is riddled with mystery and suspicion following a poisonous murder. The novel is a magnificent example of Christie’s literary talent which, decades later, is still admired by millions.
Madame Claire by Susan Ertz, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935Madame Claire tells the story of an elderly lady who attempts to sort the affairs of her family from her Kensington hotel room. Marriage, romance and spinsterhood threaten children and grandchildren alike while Madame Claire works to set them all on the right course. Susan Ertz tells her story with wit and charm, creating a lighthearted but utterly delightful read.
A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935Much like Agatha Christie, Hemingway became one of Penguin’s most famous writers. His semi-autobiographical novel, A Farewell to Arms, tells of an American Ambulance driver and his passion for an English nurse. Set against the backdrop of WWI, it is an unforgettable tale of love, loss, loyalty, pain and passion – a true masterpiece penned by one of America’s most talented writers.
Poet's Pub by Eric Linklater, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935Linklater’s snappy and subtly comedic novel, Poet’s Pub, tells the story of an Oxford poet who becomes the manager of the Pelican Pub in Downish. The peaceful Saturday Keith hopes to experience is broken as the pub starts to attract an eccentric mix of people. It is a madcap tale, filled to the brim with brilliantly bizarre characters, witty dialogue, misunderstandings and spirited farce.
Carnival by Compton Mackenzie, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935First published in 1912, Carnival is a forgotten gem. The story focuses on Jenny Pearl, a dancer who falls in love with a young aristocrat but refuses to become his mistress. It is a tale of youthful romance but also of jealousy and lovelessness. The writing is detailed in its descriptions of landscapes and cityscapes and is told with wit and understated humour.
Ariel by André Maurois, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935André Maurois (known by birth as Emile Herzog) must have been delighted when his fictionalised biography of the romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley was chosen as the first ever Penguin Book to be published. Ariel or The Life of Shelley, is a wonderful introduction to the interesting and diverse life of the famed poet. The writing is detailed and vivid, containing fascinating details and intriguing characters.
Twenty-Five by Beverley Nichols, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935Twenty-Five is another brilliant Penguin classic. The first of six autobiographical novels by Beverley Nichols, it is an easy yet vivid read. Though it comes across as the show of a young man wishing to share his life with the world, Nichols’ deep interest in people is also evident throughout. The book is a series of recollections, revealing his fascination with fame and the frenzied pace of his young life.
The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club by Dorothy L. Sayers, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935This novel was Dorothy L. Sayers' fourth book featuring her serial character Lord Peter Wimsey. This time, the skills of the gentleman are required to solve the mystery of the elderly General Fentiman’s death. While the novel is a light read, it is riddled with mystery, exploring legal battles and the brutalising effects of PTSD caused by war.
Gone to Earth by Mary Webb, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935Set in the Shropshire hills, Gone to Earth tells the story of a Welsh gypsy’s daughter known as Hazel Woodus. While a spirit of nature, Hazel draws the attention of the local men who offer her their cruel love. Innocence is easily abused and the dangers of mortal desire become apparent. Webb writes with skill, exploring the power of nature, emotion and individualism between the pages of her book.
William by E.H. Young, first published by Penguin Books in July 1935The launch of Penguin Books was hugely successful; the first ten publications detailed above gripped the imaginations of millions of readers. Brilliant writing, paired with the bold coloured covers so famously associated with Penguin Books, appealed to readers across the country and beyond. With such an eclectic mix of fiction and non-fiction, Penguin Books kick-started a new age of publishing that endures to this day.
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