Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell 
Cranford 

‘Cranford’ is a novel by Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell, set in the fictional English town of Cranford during the early 19th century. The book is a series of vignettes that depict the lives of the town’s inhabitants, particularly its middle-aged and elderly women, who navigate the challenges of daily life with wit, humor, and grace. Through the various characters and their stories, Gaskell explores themes of community, friendship, and the changing social norms of the era. The book is known for its warm and affectionate portrayal of small-town life, as well as its insightful commentary on class and gender roles. ‘Cranford’ is a charming and delightful novel that continues to captivate readers with its timeless humor and humanity.