Auld Licht Idylls by J. M. Barrie is a novel about life in late 19th century small town Scotland. The whole set of stories revolves around the town of Thrums and more especially the members of one of the four churches in that community. The Auld Licht Kirk happens to be more hard core Calvinist's than any other group in Scotland at the time. In English they would be called the Old Light Church as they believed that the traditional morals of the church had been compromised and so they broke away from the proper Presbyterians. This group and there methods and traditions shows that people can live hard working, strict lives and still barely be about to survive.

A collection of stories of Scottish life, charmingly written, full of the grace and humor that characterize this writer's productions. If there is a drawback to the pleasure of reading them, it is the want of a glossary to give the benighted English reader some notion of the meaning of Scotch "wut." We regard the 'Auld Licht Idylls' as having paved the way for Mr. Barrie's subsequent books. The Auld Lichts were a section of godly professors who seceded from a secession. They prided themselves on the purity of their gospel faith, on the consistency of their walk and conversation, and above all on the stringency of their ceremonial observances. That they could keep a minister for themselves in the paltry townlet of Thrums was the crowning proof of their zeal and earnestness ...

Bestseller Works of J. M. Barrie Part 2: This collection of books by J. M. Barrie showcases some of his best-selling works that have charmed readers over the years. The anthology includes "Sentimental Tommy", "Auld Licht Idylls", and "The Little Minister". Through these captivating works, readers can experience Barrie's skillful storytelling, memorable characters, and exploration of themes such as childhood, love, and the complexities of human emotions. Key Aspects of the Book "Sentimental Tommy": Coming-of-Age Story: "Sentimental Tommy" is a coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of its protagonist, Tommy Sandys, as he navigates the challenges of growing up. Character Development: Barrie's narrative delves into the development of Tommy's character and his evolution from a mischievous boy to a young man seeking meaning in life. Exploration of Childhood: The book provides a poignant exploration of the complexities and innocence of childhood. Key Aspects of the Book "Auld Licht Idylls": Scottish Village Life: "Auld Licht Idylls" presents a charming portrayal of life in a Scottish village, depicting its traditions and characters with warmth and humor. Short Stories: The book is a collection of short stories, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives and experiences of the villagers. Themes of Community and Tradition: Barrie's narratives celebrate the sense of community and the endurance of tradition in the village setting. Key Aspects of the Book "The Little Minister": Romantic Drama: "The Little Minister" is a romantic drama that unfolds in the Scottish countryside, revolving around the love story between Gavin Dishart, a young minister, and Babbie, a mysterious and spirited young woman. Conflict and Tensions: Barrie's narrative weaves themes of love, social expectations, and societal tensions into an emotionally charged plot. Character of Babbie: The character of Babbie, with her independent spirit, adds intrigue and complexity to the story. J. M. Barrie was a Scottish author and playwright, known for creating the beloved character of Peter Pan. His literary works, including these bestsellers, continue to be celebrated for their charm, wit, and insights into the human experience.

For more than a century, the word 'Kailyard' has been a focal point of Scottish literary and cultural debate. Originally a term of literary criticism, it has come to be used, often pejoratively, across a whole range of academic and popular discourse. Historians, politicians and critics of Scottish film and media have joined literary scholars in using the term to set out a diagnosis of Scottish culture. This is the first comprehensive study of the subject. Andrew Nash traces the origins of the Kailyard diagnosis in the nineteenth century and considers the critical concerns that gave rise to it. He then provides a full reassessment of the literature most commonly associated with the term - the fiction of J.M. Barrie, S.R. Crockett and Ian Maclaren. Placing this work in more appropriate contexts, he considers the literary, social and religious imperatives that underpinned it and discusses the impact of these writers in the publishing world. These chapters are succeeded by detailed analysis of the various ways in which the term has been used in wider discussions of Scottish literature and culture. Discussing literary criticism, film studies, and political and sociological analyses of Scotland, Nash shows how Kailyard, as a critical term, helps expose some of the key issues in Scottish cultural debate in the twentieth century, including discussions over national representation, popular culture and the parochialism of Scottish culture.

"Auld Licht Idylls" is Barrie's second book and first serious work of fiction, a series of stories centering around a religious sect called Auld Licht in the Scottish community of Thrums.

The Colbeck collection was formed over half a century ago by the Bournemouth bookseller Norman Colbeck. Focusing primarily on British essayists and poets of the nineteenth century from the Romantic Movement through the Edwardian era, the collection features nearly 500 authors and lists over 13,000 works. Entries are alphabetically arranged by author with copious notes on the condition and binding of each copy. Nine appendices provide listings of selected periodicals, series publications, anthologies, yearbooks, and topical works.