Librarian's note: this entry is for the story, "The Blue Cross." Collections of short stories by the author can be found elsewhere. This Father Brown mystery is one of twelve from the first collection of short stories about the diminutive priest, "The Innocence of Father Brown."
The complete text of G.K. Chesterton's short story "The Blue Cross" is reprinted unabridged. In addition, study materials appropriate for grades 7-12 are included, featuring word study, comprehension questions, and writing prompts.
We meet Father Brown, Inspector Valentin, and the notorious criminal Flambeau for the first time. Valentin, head of the Paris Police, has tracked Flambeau across Europe and now, to the vicinity of London. It's only a matter of time but Flambeau is illusive. His only distinguishing feature? He's well over 6 foot tall.
Gilbert Keith Chesterton was one of the most influential English writers of the 20th century. His prolific and diverse output included journalism, philosophy, poetry, biography, Christian apologetics, fantasy and detective fiction.
Chesterton has been called the "prince of paradox". Time magazine, in a review of a biography of Chesterton, observed of his writing style: "Whenever possible Chesterton made his points with popular sayings, proverbs, allegories—first carefully turning them inside out.
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