'In Brief Authority' Summary

The story centers around the Willoughby family, a nouveau riche British family who find themselves transported to the magical land of Maerchenland. The family matriarch, Mrs. Willoughby, is mistakenly crowned queen and determined to introduce British social customs to the land of fairies, gnomes, giants, and a dragon. This clash of cultures leads to hilarious consequences as the Willoughby's attempt to impose their modern values on a world where magic and whimsy prevail. Their son, Bertie, becomes entangled with the magical inhabitants and a charming princess, further complicating matters. As the true heir to the throne emerges, the Willoughbys face a moral dilemma. Their experiences in Maerchenland offer a satirical reflection on the social structures and values of their own society, particularly during the tumultuous period of World War I. The novel blends humor, fantasy, and social commentary in a thought-provoking and entertaining narrative.