Author
Sara Jeannette Duncan
1861-1922
Sara Jeannette Duncan (1861-1922) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Sara Jeannette Duncan
The Imperialist
"The Imperialist" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the early 20th century, likely during the early 1900s. The story is set in a small Canadian town called Elgin and revolves around the Murchison family, particularly focusing on Lorne Murchison and his relationships with the townspeople and his family dynamics. The narrative examines themes of colonialism, social change, and the complications of individual ambition versus societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces us to the character of Mother Beggarlegs, a mysterious vendor at the local market who captures the attention of children and their imaginations. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to Lorne, a young boy who demonstrates an early sensitivity towards the marginalized in his community, exemplified by his interactions with Mother Beggarlegs. The atmosphere of Elgin is richly depicted, with details about its celebrations, such as the Queen's Birthday, which shape the town's social landscape. The narrative sets the stage for the unfolding tensions between personal aspirations and the collective values of the close-knit community, hinting at the complexities of Lorne’s journey toward adulthood and social influence.
The Simple Adventures of a Memsahib
"The Simple Adventures of a Memsahib" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Helen Frances Browne, formerly Miss Peachey, who transitions from a genteel life in England to becoming a memsahib in colonial India. The novel explores her experiences, relationships, and the cultural dynamics she encounters as she adapts to her new life. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Helen Peachey, who is preparing for her marriage to George William Browne, an Anglo-Indian officer. The chapters detail her family's emotional farewells as she sets sail for India, a journey filled with hopes and anxieties. Helen is depicted as an idealistic young woman, striving to balance her previous life with her expectations as a memsahib, while young Browne navigates his responsibilities and the complexities of their impending married life. The opening sets the stage for a humorous and poignant exploration of love, cultural dislocation, and the social intricacies of British colonial society in India.
The Pool in the Desert
"The Pool in the Desert" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story centers on the life of a woman navigating the challenges of motherhood and societal expectations while living in British India. The protagonist, Mrs. Farnham, reflects on her relationship with her husband, John, and their daughter, Cecily, revealing the complexities of familial bonds against the backdrop of colonial life. The opening of the novel introduces Mrs. Farnham's struggle to manage her household's finances while caring for her family in a foreign land. She recounts the early days of her daughter's life and especially the difficulties posed by her husband's military duties and her eventual separation from Cecily. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Mrs. Farnham's relationship with Cecily is marked by distance, both physically and emotionally, as Cecily grows up with her aunts in England, creating a sense of alienation between mother and daughter. This dynamic sets the foundation for the exploration of maternal instincts, societal pressure, and the impact of separation on family ties in a colonial context.
An American Girl in London
"An American Girl in London" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Mamie Wick, an American girl from Chicago, as she embarks on a journey to London alone after her parents are unable to accompany her. Through her experiences, the book explores cultural contrasts, personal identity, and the unique perspective of an American girl navigating British society. At the start of the narrative, Mamie Wick introduces herself and sets the stage for her adventures in London. She discusses her upbringing, family background, and her motivations for travel, revealing her cheerful and inquisitive nature. As she sails towards her new destination, she grapples with feelings of loneliness and anticipation while reflecting on the curious impression the American girl has left on the English. Upon arrival, her interactions with various characters, from fellow passengers to her distant relative Mrs. Portheris, highlight the humorous and often bewildering cultural differences she encounters, establishing a foundation for the explorations and insights that will follow in her English adventures.
The Path of a Star
"The Path of a Star" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative introduces complex characters navigating their lives in Calcutta, particularly focusing on their roles in society and the contrasts between their personal beliefs and the expectations placed upon them. The story likely explores themes of identity, faith, and the arts, with a particular emphasis on the lives of women in a changing world. At the start of the novel, we meet two prominent characters: Hilda Howe, an actress with a vibrant personality, and Laura Filbert, a Salvation Army worker filled with conviction. Their interaction sets the stage for a discussion of their differing views on happiness and purpose. Hilda exhibits a sense of privilege and ease that comes with her artistic lifestyle, while Laura embodies the austerity and dedication of her mission work. The opening chapter delves into their dialogue, highlighting Laura's passionate beliefs and Hilda's charmingly cynical perspective, while also introducing a third character, Duff Lindsay, who becomes an element of their dynamic. The atmosphere is rich with cultural nuances, as the story unfolds against the backdrop of colonial India, setting the tone for a deeper exploration of societal roles and personal aspirations.
His Honour, and a Lady
"His Honour, and a Lady" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is centered around John Church, an English Commissioner in India, and his wife Judith, shedding light on their lives and the complexities of colonial society. The novel explores themes of ambition, social roles, and the expectations placed upon them in the Indian context. At the start of the book, we are introduced to John Church as he walks purposefully down a road in Hassimabad, India, indicating that something significant is afoot. His wife, Judith, is a vibrant character who has ambitions beyond the traditional role of a woman in their society; she looks forward to the social opportunities that John's new appointment as Acting Lieutenant-Governor will provide. The opening chapters set up the tension between John's serious approach to his duties and Judith's desire for personal fulfillment and excitement in the vibrant world of Calcutta's social scene. As they navigate their relationship and the expectations of their roles, an undercurrent of both admiration and concern for each other's aspirations begins to emerge.
Hilda: A Story of Calcutta
"Hilda: A Story of Calcutta" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces readers to Hilda Howe, an actress navigating her life and career in Calcutta, where interactions with other characters, such as Captain Laura Filbert from the Salvation Army, highlight the contrasts between different social classes and ethical beliefs. The novel explores themes of identity, artistic ambition, and the complexities of human relationships within the vibrant setting of colonial India. The opening of the novel presents Hilda Howe engaging in a conversation with Laura Filbert, who embodies a life of self-sacrifice and moral conviction. The two women share a moment in Laura's modest room, contrasting their experiences and outlooks on life. Hilda's appreciation for her chosen profession stands in stark contrast to Laura's unwavering dedication to her faith and mission work. As they converse, Hilda's charm and wit emerge, displaying her struggles with societal expectations and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. Their interaction sets the tone for the novel, highlighting the nuanced interplay between aspiration, obligation, and self-identity amid the cultural backdrop of Calcutta.
The Story of Sonny Sahib
"The Story of Sonny Sahib" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a historical novel set during the late 19th century, exploring themes of identity, colonialism, and human connection against the backdrop of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The narrative introduces a diverse cast of characters surrounding young Sonny Sahib, an English child who finds himself orphaned amidst the chaos of conflict, and his care is taken over by his ayah, Tooni, and a servant named Abdul. At the start of the story, readers are thrust into a tense atmosphere as the doctor-sahib tends to the feverish memsahib, urging the ayah Tooni to prepare for an urgent departure via river to Allahabad. Amidst gunfire and chaos, the ayah's fears for both her mistress and the baby intertwine with memories of past violence, building a vivid image of their desperate reality. Tooni and Abdul ultimately adapt to their new roles as guardians, raising Sonny Sahib in a village, far removed from the original brutality, while grappling with their grief and loss. As Sonny grows, the inquiry into his origins begins, highlighting the complexities of belonging and cultural identity within colonial India.
The crow's-nest
"The Crow’s-Nest" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the early 20th century. It explores the life of a woman, the narrator, who finds herself banished to the garden of a remote residence in Simla, India, where she reflects on her experiences and the objects of her domestic life, longing for the comforts of her house as she is made to embrace the outdoors. The novel presents a humorous yet poignant commentary on her attempts to find beauty and meaning in her banishment while adapting to her surroundings. At the start of the narrative, the main character grapples with her sudden exile to the garden, where she feels at odds with nature and laments her loss of familiar comforts. She observes the landscapes and the mundane occurrences around her in a state of both disdain and curiosity. As she reluctantly acknowledges the beauty of her surroundings, she reflects on human existence, personal discomforts, and the quirks of the people around her, particularly her interactions with the local staff and their lives. This opening encapsulates her battle between social expectations and personal desires, setting the tone for her journey of self-discovery in the face of external circumstances.
A Voyage of Consolation (being in the nature of a sequel to the experiences of 'An American girl in London')
"A Voyage of Consolation" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story follows Mamie Wick, the protagonist who reflects on her past experiences in England and her broken engagement to Arthur Greenleaf Page. As she embarks on a journey to Europe with her family, the narrative explores themes of cultural differences, personal identity, and the complexities of relationships. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Mamie, who has returned to Chicago after a delightful time in England, only to find her engagement to Arthur dissolving shortly thereafter. Her humorous and introspective voice sets the tone as she recounts her experiences and musings, including her interactions with Arthur and her thoughts on American versus British social customs. Amidst the family dynamics, Mamie's mother insists on reconciling her with Arthur, which leads to their planned trip to Europe. The stage is set for Mamie’s adventures as they begin their travels across the Atlantic, eagerly anticipating what awaits them while grappling with unresolved feelings and family expectations.
A Daughter of To-Day
"A Daughter of To-Day" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel thought to be written in the late 19th century. This work examines the life and struggles of young women in a changing society, centering on the character Elfrida Bell, who seeks to navigate her ambitions in both art and her personal identity amidst societal expectations and familial pressures. The opening of the novel introduces Miss Kimpsey, a school teacher, as she visits Mrs. Leslie Bell to discuss her daughter, Elfrida. Kimpsey is portrayed as a somewhat nervous figure who grapples with her own insecurities as she observes Mrs. Bell and her refined surroundings. It becomes clear that there is a growing concern regarding Elfrida's intellectual development, particularly her audacity to quote Rousseau in her schoolwork, which Miss Kimpsey views as potentially improper. The initial interactions set the stage for the exploration of Elfrida's character and her artistic aspirations, foreshadowing themes of ambition, class conflict, and the evolving role of women in society.