Author
James Fenimore Cooper
1789-1851
James Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by James Fenimore Cooper
The Last of the Mohicans; A narrative of 1757
"The Last of the Mohicans; A narrative of 1757" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical romance novel published in 1826. Set during the French and Indian War, it follows the perilous journey of two sisters traveling to Fort William Henry through dangerous frontier territory. Guided by the frontiersman Natty Bumppo and his Mohican companions Chingachgook and Uncas, they face betrayal and attack from hostile forces. This tale of survival, loyalty, and conflict captures a pivotal moment in North American history as European powers and Native American nations clash for control.
The Deerslayer
"The Deerslayer" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1841. Set in 1740s upstate New York, it introduces young frontiersman Natty Bumppo on his first warpath. When a friend's home falls under siege by Huron warriors, Deerslayer becomes entangled in conflicts over scalping practices, a daring rescue mission, and family secrets. As violence escalates and loyalties are tested, Deerslayer must navigate the dangerous boundary between European American settlement and Native American territory, facing capture, betrayal, and impossible choices that will define his character.
The Pioneers; Or, The Sources of the Susquehanna
"The Pioneers; Or, The Sources of the Susquehanna" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical novel published in 1823. Set on the New York frontier, it follows elderly frontiersman Natty Bumppo and Judge Marmaduke Temple as they clash over environmental stewardship and the transformation of wilderness into settlement. When a mysterious young hunter arrives, loyalties are tested between those who respect the land and settlers driven by wastefulness. As civilization encroaches and a Mohican elder faces his fate, the novel explores whether humanity can coexist with nature or will destroy it through greed.
Afloat and Ashore: A Sea Tale
"Afloat and Ashore: A Sea Tale" by James Fenimore Cooper is a nautical fiction novel published in 1844. Set in the early 1800s, it follows Miles Wallingford Jr., a wealthy New York landowner's son who goes to sea after his parents' death. Drawing on Cooper's own maritime experiences, the novel explores Miles's adventures and his complicated relationship with Neb, a runaway slave who becomes his companion aboard ship. The story ends abruptly, requiring a sequel to resolve its plot and themes.
The Prairie
"The Prairie" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1827. It follows Natty Bumppo, the legendary frontiersman now in his final year, wandering the vast American prairies shortly after the Louisiana Purchase. When he encounters a rough family of squatters fleeing the law with a kidnapped bride, the aging trapper must use his frontier wisdom to navigate dangerous situations involving hostile tribes, desperate rescues, and conflicting loyalties on the untamed western plains.
The Pathfinder; Or, The Inland Sea
"The Pathfinder; Or, The Inland Sea" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical novel published in 1840. The fourth book featuring frontier hero Natty Bumppo, it follows the Pathfinder as he guides a young woman through dangerous wilderness around Lake Ontario. For the first time in the series, Natty experiences romantic love when he falls for nineteen-year-old Mabel Dunham. This tests his simple, honest nature as he faces the tension between domestic life and his true home in the wild.
The Spy
"The Spy" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1821. Set during the American Revolution, the story unfolds in the neutral ground between British and Continental forces in New York. When a mysterious stranger seeks shelter at a Loyalist family's home, a web of secrets, disguises, and divided loyalties emerges. At the center is Harvey Birch, a peddler suspected of espionage, whose true allegiance remains hidden. Romance, duty, and deception collide as characters navigate the dangerous landscape between warring sides.
The Last of the Mohicans: A Narrative of 1757
"The Last of the Mohicans: A Narrative of 1757" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical romance novel published in 1826. Set during the French and Indian War, it follows two sisters traveling through dangerous frontier territory to reach their father's fort. Guided by the frontiersman Natty Bumppo and his Mohican companions Chingachgook and Uncas, they face betrayal and pursuit by Magua, a Huron scout with hidden allegiances. The story unfolds against the backdrop of colonial warfare and the siege of Fort William Henry.
The Monikins
"The Monikins" by James Fenimore Cooper is a satirical novel written in the early 19th century. The narrative unfolds under the guise of an eccentric philosophical exploration, intertwining social commentary and personal histories. The main character, who appears to be the author himself, delves into his familial lineage as well as the peculiar practices and quirks associated with wealth, class, and human nature. The opening of the book sets the stage with the author’s introduction, detailing how he encountered a manuscript from a character named Viscount Householder while traveling in Switzerland. This encounter leads to Householder's request to publish an extraordinary tale filled with insightful observations about societal norms and motivations. The narrative then shifts to a reflection on the author's ancestry, emphasizing the comedic and often misguided journeys of his forebears through influences of commerce, morality, and relationships. The blend of humor and critique on the human condition is evident as the author approaches the complexities of his lineage, illustrating a society deeply entrenched in materialism and social stratification.
Satanstoe; Or, the Littlepage Manuscripts. A Tale of the Colony
"Satanstoe; Or, the Littlepage Manuscripts. A Tale of the Colony" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1845. This fictional autobiography opens the three-part Littlepage Manuscripts cycle, exploring life in eighteenth-century colonial New York. Through the narrative voice of its protagonist, the novel examines the social fabric, conflicts, and daily realities of America's colonial past, setting the stage for the subsequent volumes "The Chainbearer" and "The Redskins."
Jack Tier; Or, The Florida Reef
"Jack Tier; Or, The Florida Reef" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story begins against the backdrop of maritime adventures and follows the interactions between Captain Stephen Spike of the brigantine Molly Swash, his mate Harry Mulford, and the passengers, including the young Rose Budd and her aunt. The narrative opens with Spike preparing for a voyage, establishing the intrigue surrounding the vessel and its crew, while hinting at themes of danger, maritime law, and personal relationships. At the start of the narrative, Captain Spike communicates with his mate, Harry Mulford, as they prepare the brigantine Molly Swash for departure from a Manhattan wharf. The discussions reveal Spike's brusque character and foreshadow potential conflicts regarding a passenger named Rose Budd who is seeking a remedy for her health. As they begin to get underway, a past acquaintance of Spike's, Jack Tier, emerges, leading to potential complications as he unexpectedly reappears in Spike's life. The opening portion sets a tense, adventurous tone as it introduces the various characters and their motivations while hinting at the adventures and challenges that lie ahead on the treacherous waters.
The Chainbearer; Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts
"The Chainbearer; Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1845. The second book in the Littlepage trilogy, it explores land ownership and the displacement of American Indians during westward expansion. Through the figure of the chainbearer—a surveyor who measures land—Cooper examines the cultural divide between European and Native American concepts of property. The novel critiques the growing corruption of civilization and America's treatment of indigenous peoples as the nation expands.
The Water-Witch; Or, the Skimmer of the Seas: A Tale
"The Water-Witch; Or, the Skimmer of the Seas: A Tale" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative is set against the backdrop of early colonial Americana and explores themes of piracy, moral ambiguity, and the attributes of civilization. The story introduces a range of characters, including the astute Alderman Van Beverout, his niece Alida, and a mysterious mariner whose arrival disrupts their acquaintance with the world of seafaring and adventure. The opening of the novel establishes a vivid setting around the thriving New York harbor and its surroundings in the early 18th century. Through detailed exposition, Cooper provides context for the interplay of European influence and native tradition, alongside the socio-political dynamics of the time. The narrative commences with the Alderman departing his home, accompanied by his slaves, and engages in witty conversation that reveals his character and anxieties over the burgeoning city. The interactions set the stage for the conflicts and connections that will unfold as the Alderman, Alida, and others encounter the enigmatic "Skimmer of the Seas," which foreshadows the adventure and moral complexity that lies ahead.
The Pilot: A Tale of the Sea
"The Pilot: A Tale of the Sea" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical novel published in 1824. Set during the American Revolution, it follows a mysterious naval pilot—the legendary John Paul Jones—as he leads Continental Navy missions along England's treacherous coastline. His true identity and loyalties remain shrouded in secrecy as battles, betrayals, and daring sea chases unfold. Romance intertwines with warfare through characters caught between love and duty. Often considered the first American nautical novel, this adventure classic blends authentic maritime detail with Revolutionary War intrigue.
Oak Openings
"Oak Openings" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1848. Set in Michigan's oak savanna during the War of 1812, it follows Benjamin Boden, a professional honey-hunter nicknamed "Ben Buzz." Cooper's last wilderness novel explores the relationship between European settlers and Native Americans during westward expansion. The story weaves themes of property ownership, religion, and industry as the bee-hunter navigates this frontier landscape. This melancholy work serves as a final chapter to Cooper's exploration of early American wilderness life.
Autobiography of a Pocket-Handkerchief
"Autobiography of a Pocket-Handkerchief" by James Fenimore Cooper is a unique fictional narrative written in the early 19th century. This whimsical and satirical work features the unusual perspective of a pocket-handkerchief as the protagonist, exploring themes of societal norms, class distinctions, and the economic conditions of the time through its embroidered narrative. The story follows the handkerchief's observations about the people and events surrounding it, particularly focusing on topics such as social class and political upheaval in France. The opening of the book establishes the handkerchief as an introspective character that reflects on its ancestry, which humorously traces its lineage to the flax plant in Connecticut before recounting its journey to becoming a refined handkerchief in a Parisian shop. The narrative sets a tone of deep philosophical musings, exploring the nature of pride and identity among both humans and plants. The protagonist expresses a longing to be valued not merely as a decorative item but as a witness to human emotions and social dynamics, particularly through the tale of Adrienne de la Rocheaimard, a kind-hearted young woman facing societal challenges during a time of instability. This beginning hints at a rich exploration of personal and social themes framed within a delightful and unconventional narrative style.
The Wept of Wish-Ton-Wish
"The Wept of Wish-Ton-Wish" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical novel published in 1829. Set during the brutal King Philip's War, it follows Captain Mark Heathcote, a Puritan militiaman who carves out a settlement in the Connecticut wilderness. His family faces constant conflict with Native Americans, including a captured Narragansett youth named Conanchet. Years later, a shocking family reunion reveals the devastating human cost of frontier violence and cultural collision in colonial America.
Ned Myers, or, a Life Before the Mast
"Ned Myers, or, A Life Before the Mast" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work chronicles the life and experiences of Ned Myers, a sailor, exploring the hardships and moral transformations typical of seafaring life. It delves into themes of adventure, personal growth, and the often tumultuous maritime environment through the lens of Myers' journey from his childhood to adulthood. At the start of the narrative, Myers introduces himself, reflecting on his past as he recounts the events that shaped his life on the sea. He shares memories of his family, including his father, a soldier, and his early childhood in Halifax. As he expresses his desire to become a sailor, he describes the rigorous and often harsh environment of his upbringing, which included strict discipline from his schoolmaster, Mr. Marchinton. Driven by a longing for freedom and adventure, Myers ingeniously hatches a plan to escape, leading him to stow away on a schooner bound for New York. His early experiences are filled with a mix of excitement, peril, and self-discovery, setting the stage for the trials and tribulations he will face later in his maritime career.
The Wing-and-Wing; Or, Le Feu-Follet
"The Wing-and-Wing; Or, Le Feu-Follet" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel likely written during the early 19th century. The story is set against the vibrant backdrop of the Mediterranean, a region portrayed as both enchanting and tumultuous, reflecting the historical tensions of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The plot begins to unfold through the eyes of key characters including the intriguing Ghita and her connection with the mysterious Captain Raoul Yvard aboard the lugger, the Wing-and-Wing, hinting at themes of loyalty, distrust, and the allure of adventure. At the start of the tale, readers are introduced to the picturesque Mediterranean setting and the unique socio-political climate of Elba, where residents respond with curiosity and apprehension to the arrival of the unfamiliar lugger. Observers gather to speculate about the ship's origin and purpose, showcasing community dynamics and fears related to foreign vessels in turbulent times. As the story progresses, intrigue deepens with the introduction of characters like the wise mariner Tommaso Tonti, who knows the sea and its dangers well, while the younger Ghita emerges as a focal point of interest, caught between her affection for Raoul and the tensions incited by his presence. Through vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue, Cooper sets the stage for a complex narrative filled with intrigue, personal conflict, and the looming specter of historical hostilities.
The Red Rover: A Tale
"The Red Rover: A Tale" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1827. The story follows sailor Dick Fid, free black sailor Scipio Africanus, and Royal Navy officer James Wilder as they encounter the infamous pirate known as "The Red Rover." Praised as one of Cooper's finest sea adventures, the novel was an immediate success, swiftly adapted for theater in both America and England. Notable for featuring some of the first serious depictions of African lineage characters in American literature, it helped establish Cooper's reputation as a pioneer of the maritime fiction genre.
The Lake Gun
"The Lake Gun" by James Fenimore Cooper is a satirical short story published in 1850. Set on Seneca Lake in Central New York, the story follows a traveler investigating mysterious explosions echoing across the water and a floating tree trunk known as the "Wandering Jew." A college-educated Iroquois shares a legend about See-wise, a demagogue who defied the Great Spirit and suffered eternal punishment. Cooper uses this Native American tale to satirize political demagoguery, warning against leaders who abandon tradition and manipulate their followers for personal gain.
Mercedes of Castile; Or, The Voyage to Cathay
"Mercedes of Castile; Or, The Voyage to Cathay" by James Fenimore Cooper is an historical novel published in 1840. Set in fifteenth-century Europe, the story follows Christopher Columbus as he prepares for and undertakes his momentous westward expedition to the New World. Cooper blends historical accuracy with fictional narrative, chronicling the famous explorer's ambitious journey into unknown waters. Contemporary critics noted the novel's strong focus on historical elements over romance, finding it a detailed portrayal of one of history's most significant voyages.
The Crater; Or, Vulcan's Peak: A Tale of the Pacific
"The Crater; Or, Vulcan's Peak: A Tale of the Pacific" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative centers around the character of Mark Woolston, who is introduced as a young man navigating the complexities of his life, including familial relationships, personal ambition, and love, set against the backdrop of maritime adventures in the Pacific Ocean. The opening of the novel establishes Mark's background, detailing his upbringing and the contrasting relationships between his family and that of his rival’s, the Yardleys. As Mark Woolston embarks on his journey at sea, his motivations are intermingled with romantic interests, particularly in Bridget Yardley, the daughter of his father's professional competitor. The narrative begins to set the stage for both his personal growth and the larger ecological and societal themes that may unfold as he ventures into the unknown of the Pacific waters and grapples with the consequences of his choices.
The Spy: Condensed for use in schools
"The Spy: Condensed for use in schools" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1821. Set during the American Revolution, it unfolds in the neutral ground between British and Continental forces. When a mysterious stranger named Mr. Harper seeks shelter at a Loyalist family's home, a web of intrigue begins involving a suspected spy, disguised officers, and dangerous loyalties. The peddler Harvey Birch becomes central to questions of patriotism and deception, while romance and duty collide amid the chaos of war.