Vice Versa

Vice Versa (1882) is a comic novel by Thomas Anstey Guthrie. Guthrie’s debut novel was a popular success, earning him a reputation as a leading humorist of his time. Adapted several times for film, theater, and radio, the novel inspired Mary Rodgers’ beloved Freaky Friday (1972) and is referenced in such wide-ranging works as C. S. Lewis’ That Hideous Strength, James Joyce’s Ulysses, and Malcolm Lowry’s Under the Volcano.As holidays draw to a close, Dick prepares to return to boarding school. Dreading the inevitable encounter with harsh headmaster Dr. Grimstone, he shows obvious signs of trepidation as he packs his luggage to leave. Watching from the doorway, his father, businessman Paul Bultitude, attempts to console his son. He encourages him to enjoy his time at school, warning that life gets much more tiresome as one ages. Nevertheless, Dick remains morose throughout the day. At the last minute, the boy asks if he can take with him the stone brought back by his uncle from India. Hesitant at first, Mr. Bultitude goes to fetch it, failing to realize its potent magical properties. Struggling to convince Dick to leave, he admits that his only wish in life would be to live as a boy once more. Just then, the magic of the stone takes hold, transforming Mr. Bultitude into a child the same age as his son. Terrified, he begs Dick—now doubled over with laughter—to change him back. But the boy senses a once in a lifetime opportunity and wishes on the stone to become a middle-aged man. As they navigate one another’s daily lives, father and son gain a deeper understanding of one another’s fears, dreams, and desires, all while desperately attempting to keep their transformations secret. This edition of Thomas Anstey Guthrie Vice Versa is a classic of British literature reimagined for modern readers.

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