Author
J. J. (John Joy) Bell
1871-1934
J. J. (John Joy) Bell (1871-1934) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by J. J. (John Joy) Bell
Courtin' Christina
"Courtin' Christina" by J. J. Bell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Macgregor Robinson, a young painter navigating the complexities of adolescence in Glasgow, as he grapples with love, friendship, and family dynamics. The book delves into his efforts to court a girl named Jessie Mary, showcasing the challenges he faces while balancing his work and developing relationships with family and peers. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the Robinson family during a somewhat chaotic mealtime as they await the arrival of Macgregor, who is late due to work obligations. We learn about the family's dynamics and the changes that have taken place over the past eight years, particularly highlighting the personalities of Macgregor's siblings and parents. The narrative then shifts focus to Macgregor, emphasizing his growing restlessness and his budding feelings for Jessie Mary, who he only recently began to notice as a potential romantic interest. As he fumbles with personal grooming and interactions with his family, the opening portion skillfully sets the stage for Macgregor's journey into budding adulthood, capturing both the innocence and awkwardness of young love.
Kitty Carstairs
"Kitty Carstairs" by J. J. Bell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Kitty Carstairs, a young woman living in a dull village, who longs for adventure and independence from her oppressive relatives. The narrative unfolds her struggles with familial expectations and unrequited affection, particularly with Colin Hayward, who feels suffocated by his own family's ambitions for him. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Kitty as she watches the London mail train pass through her village, sparking her dreams of departure. Kitty is soon confronted by Colin Hayward, who has just returned home after failing yet again to meet his family's expectations of him. Their conversation reveals both of their discontent with their respective lives and hints at Kitty's desire to escape the confines of her aunt and uncle's household. The opening chapters vividly depict Kitty's emotional landscape as she navigates her unacknowledged feelings for Colin while also facing the pressure from her relatives to marry a man named Alec Symington, whom she detests. The intricate dynamics of their relationships set the stage for Kitty's quest for personal freedom and self-discovery.
Till the Clock Stops
"Tilt the Clock Stops" by J. J. Bell is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Alan Craig, a young man eager to embark on an Arctic expedition, and the complex dynamics between him and several other characters who intertwine their fates through a will, diamonds, and the looming presence of death. The opening of the book introduces Alan as he finalizes a significant agreement in the directors' room of the Aasvogel Syndicate that will enable him to fulfill his long-held ambition of exploring the Arctic. He expresses heartfelt gratitude to the men supporting him, particularly to Robert Lancaster and Francis Bullard, who have provided financial backing. As the scene unfolds, it is revealed that Alan has a strained relationship with his Uncle Christopher Craig, who is nearing death and holds a mystery surrounding a valuable collection of diamonds. This prologue sets the stage for a narrative rich with themes of ambition, loyalty, the implications of wealth, and the secrets that lie within familial bonds, all of which promise to evolve intriguingly as the plot unfolds.
Wee Macgreegor Enlists
"WEE MACGREEGOR ENLISTS" by J. J. Bell is a novel written during the early 20th century, likely around the time of World War I. This light-hearted narrative centers around a young Scottish lad named Macgreegor, who impulsively decides to enlist in the army, marking a significant transition from his mundane life to the uncertainties of military service. Through his interactions with his uncle and his sweetheart, Christina, the book explores themes of duty, bravery, and young romance against the backdrop of the era's patriotic fervor. The opening of "WEE MACGREEGOR ENLISTS" introduces us to the titular character as he rushes to enlist, betraying a mix of excitement and trepidation about leaving his familiar life behind. Initially secretive about his decision, he confesses to his understanding uncle and later shares his news with Christina, revealing his desire to solidify their bond before departing for the front. The initial chapters highlight the interplay of camaraderie among friends, particularly with Willie Thomson, as they prepare for the journey into service, while also infusing humor into the characters' experiences and misconceptions about life as soldiers. Overall, the opening presents a charming and engaging portrayal of a young man's journey into adulthood amidst the chaos of war.