J. B. Priestley

John Boynton Priestley was an English novelist, playwright, screenwriter, broadcaster, and social commentator. He is perhaps best known for his play 'An Inspector Calls'.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Good Companions

    "The Good Companions" is a heartwarming tale that follows a diverse group of individuals who come together to form a traveling concert party. As they embark on a journey across England, they encounter various challenges and adventures that test their friendships and resilience. Through their shared experiences, the characters discover the transformative power of companionship and the importance of finding joy and purpose in life. With its lively and engaging narrative, this novel celebrates the beauty of human connection and the pursuit of happiness.

    The 3039th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  2. 2. The Other Place And Other Stories

    The book is a collection of intriguing short stories that explore the complexities of human nature and the mysterious aspects of life. Each story delves into themes such as time, reality, and the supernatural, often blurring the lines between the ordinary and the extraordinary. Through richly drawn characters and unexpected plot twists, the narratives invite readers to reflect on the deeper meanings behind everyday experiences and the unseen forces that might influence them. The stories are crafted with a blend of suspense, wit, and philosophical insight, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

    The 5383rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 3. English Journey

    Being a Rambling but Truthful Account of What One Man Saw and Heard and Felt and Thought During a Journey Through England During the Autumn of the Year 1933

    The book is a travelogue that captures the author's observations and reflections during his journey across England in the 1930s. It provides a vivid depiction of the social and economic conditions of the time, highlighting the stark contrasts between the industrial north and the more affluent south. Through his encounters with various people and places, the author offers a critical yet empathetic commentary on the impact of industrialization, unemployment, and social change on the English landscape and its inhabitants. The narrative is both a personal exploration and a broader social critique, offering insights into the challenges and resilience of the nation during a period of transition.

    The 13359th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 4. The Image Men

    The novel explores the lives of two men, a cynical advertising executive and a disillusioned academic, who become entangled in a satirical journey through the world of media and public relations. As they navigate the complexities of image-making and manipulation, they confront the ethical dilemmas and personal consequences of their professions. The story delves into themes of authenticity, identity, and the pervasive influence of media on society, ultimately questioning the true nature of reality in a world dominated by constructed images.

    The 14457th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 5. A Course Of Lectures On Oratory And Criticism

    This insightful work delves into the art of effective communication and the principles of literary criticism, offering readers a comprehensive exploration of oratory techniques and the nuances of critical analysis. Through a series of lectures, the author provides a detailed examination of rhetorical strategies, emphasizing the importance of clarity, persuasion, and emotional appeal in speech-making. Additionally, the book addresses the evaluation of literary works, guiding readers on how to discern quality and intent in various forms of writing. It serves as both a practical guide for aspiring speakers and a thoughtful reflection on the power of language and critique.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  6. 6. Oversubscribed

    The book delves into the art of creating a business or product that is in high demand, exploring strategies to make customers eager to buy and ensuring that supply never quite meets demand. It emphasizes the importance of building anticipation and exclusivity, using real-world examples and practical advice to guide entrepreneurs in crafting a compelling narrative around their offerings. The narrative focuses on understanding customer psychology, leveraging scarcity, and creating a buzz that makes a product or service irresistible, ultimately leading to a thriving and sustainable business model.

  7. 7. An Inspector Calls

    Set in 1912, this gripping play unfolds during a seemingly ordinary dinner party at the affluent Birling family home, which is interrupted by the unexpected arrival of a mysterious Inspector Goole. As he interrogates each family member about their connection to a young woman's tragic suicide, hidden secrets and moral failings are revealed, exposing the family's complicity in her demise. The narrative serves as a powerful critique of social responsibility and class inequality, leaving the characters—and the audience—questioning their own ethical obligations.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  8. 8. The Mechanic

    Set against the backdrop of post-war England, this compelling narrative delves into the life of a skilled mechanic whose world is turned upside down by a series of unexpected events. As he grapples with personal and professional challenges, the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting the ghosts of his past while navigating the complexities of human relationships. The story intricately weaves themes of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of hope, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition and the transformative power of change.

  9. 9. Tales Of Terror From The Black Ship

    Set against the backdrop of a fierce storm, two siblings find themselves stranded in their isolated inn, awaiting their father's return. As the tempest rages outside, a mysterious sailor seeks refuge within their walls, bringing with him a collection of eerie and spine-chilling tales. Each story he shares is more unsettling than the last, weaving a tapestry of maritime horror that captivates and terrifies the young listeners. As the night unfolds, the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur, leaving the siblings to question the true nature of their enigmatic guest and the dark secrets he harbors.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  10. 10. Uncle Montague's Tales Of Terror

    In a chilling collection of stories, a young boy visits his enigmatic Uncle Montague, who resides in a secluded, eerie mansion. As the boy listens, his uncle recounts a series of spine-tingling tales, each more unsettling than the last, involving mysterious artifacts and sinister occurrences. The stories blur the line between reality and the supernatural, leaving the boy—and the reader—questioning the true nature of the uncle's experiences. With each tale, the atmosphere grows darker, culminating in a haunting revelation that ties the stories together in a web of terror and intrigue.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  11. 11. The Teacher's Tales Of Terror

    In a chilling collection of stories, a group of students find themselves captivated by their teacher's eerie tales, each one more unsettling than the last. As the narratives unfold, the line between fiction and reality blurs, drawing the listeners into a world where the supernatural and the macabre lurk just beneath the surface of everyday life. With each story, the tension mounts, leaving the students—and the reader—questioning the true nature of fear and the power of storytelling.

  12. 12. Key Person Of Influence

    The Five-Step Method to Become One of the Most Highly Valued and Highly Paid People in Your Industry

    null