A Change of Air

"A Change of Air" by Anthony Hope is a story about a poet named Dale Bannister who decides to leave London and move to a small town, causing quite a stir among the locals. The story looks at how different social classes interact and how city life compares to country life through Dale's experiences with his friends Arthur Angell and Philip Hume. The book begins with Dale talking to his friends about his big move, where they share excitement and worry about what's to come. Dale is set on enjoying his new life in the country while staying true to himself as an artist, especially as we learn more about the need for his friend Nellie to have a place of rest. The conversations between the friends highlight their different views about status and success, which sets the stage for the social challenges that will arise in Denborough as Dale navigates his new relationships and the resulting conflicts with the people who live there.