The Hampdenshire Wonder

"The Hampdenshire Wonder" by J. D. Beresford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the extraordinary experiences associated with a remarkable child, Victor Stott, who is characterized by his unusual intellect and atypical physical features. Through the lens of those who encounter him, the novel explores themes of normalcy, intelligence, and societal perceptions of difference. At the start of the novel, the narrator describes a train journey where he observes a woman with an unusual baby, sparking curiosity and a mix of unspoken apprehension among the passengers. This intriguing child, with his large head and perceived intelligence, captivates the attention of others, prompting discussions filled with both fascination and disdain. The opening chapter sets the stage for the life of Ginger Stott, Victor's father, who is determined to mold his son into a cricketing prodigy despite the challenges posed by Victor's extraordinary nature. As the tale unfolds, we glimpse the complexities of parenting, societal expectations, and the struggle between ambition and acceptance of one’s differences. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Davys Beresford was an English writer, now remembered mainly for his early science fiction and some short stories of the horror story and ghost story genres. Beresford was a great admirer of H. G. Wells, and wrote the first critical study of Wells in 1915. His Wellsian novel The Hampdenshire Wonder (1911) was a major influence for the author Olaf Stapledon. His other science-fiction novels include The Riddle of the Tower, about a dystopian, hive-like society.