Author
Homer Greene
1853-1940
Homer Greene (1853-1940) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Homer Greene
The Blind Brother: A Story of the Pennsylvania Coal Mines
"The Blind Brother: A Story of the Pennsylvania Coal Mines" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around two brothers, Tom and Bennie Taylor, who are navigating the harsh realities of life in the Pennsylvania coal mines during a time of labor strikes. Tom, the older brother, is determined to help his blind sibling regain his sight, highlighting themes of familial loyalty, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas faced by the working class. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Bennie, a blind boy who works as a door-boy in the coal mine, relying on his older brother Tom for support and guidance. The narrative sets the stage for their struggles as they navigate the complexities of life in a mining community facing turmoil from strikes. A significant moment occurs when Bennie shares his hopes of saving money to seek medical treatment for his blindness, which underscores the brothers' deep bond. As the story unfolds, Bennie becomes lost in the mine, prompting a desperate search by Tom, which ultimately tests their resilience and love for one another amid a backdrop of social unrest and personal sacrifice. This opening sets up a poignant exploration of the intersection of personal dreams and harsh realities.
Coal and the coal mines
"Coal and the Coal Mines" by Homer Greene is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work explores the geological processes behind coal formation, the structure of coal beds, and the development of the coal mining industry, particularly in the U.S. The book emphasizes the importance of coal as a natural resource and its historical significance to economic growth. The opening of the book introduces readers to the fundamental question of how mineral coal was formed and sets the stage for an exploration of geological history, beginning with theories like the Nebular Hypothesis. Greene discusses the layers of the Earth’s crust and the role of ancient vegetation in creating the coal deposits that we mine today. He also touches on the major geological periods, leading up to the Carboniferous age, during which the coal plants thrived, giving way to a rich narrative on the complexities and the environment that fostered the eventual creation of coal over millions of years. The text is rich in scientific detail yet aims to remain accessible, illustrating Greene's intent to provide a comprehensive understanding of coal mining’s intricate nature to a broad audience.
The unhallowed harvest
"The Unhallowed Harvest" by Homer Greene is a social commentary novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Reverend Robert Bruce Farrar, who finds himself embroiled in a court case involving a working-class family, the Bradleys, after the husband suffers a life-altering injury at work. Through the lens of this legal struggle, the narrative explores themes of social justice, inequality, and the human condition. At the start of the novel, the Reverend Farrar attends a courtroom trial where a negligence case is being decided against the Malleson Manufacturing Company. He is particularly interested in the case due to the human elements involved, namely the struggles of the injured worker, John Bradley, and the emotional turmoil faced by his wife, Mary. As the court proceedings unfold, it becomes clear that while the law is being upheld, a greater moral injustice may be at play, as the ruling favors the corporation despite its negligence. Mary Bradley’s fierce determination to fight for her husband’s dignity and their family's rights highlights the stark divide between the wealthy and the working class, setting the stage for further developments in their lives and in the socio-economic landscape of the time.
A Lincoln Conscript
"A Lincoln Conscript" by Homer Greene is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative is set during the American Civil War, capturing the divided sentiments of families and communities regarding loyalty and duty. The story centers around Bob Bannister, a boy caught between his love for his father, Rhett Bannister, an outspoken opponent of the war and a suspected "copperhead," and his own fervent patriotism. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the tumultuous atmosphere of July 1863, with tensions high as the Battle of Gettysburg rages. Young Bob struggles with the dishonor that comes from his father's anti-war stance, leading to his exclusion from local patriot groups. The chapter reveals the complex dynamics within Bob's family, highlighting the contrasting beliefs held by his father and the community and setting the stage for a conflict rooted in familial loyalty versus patriotic duty. As societal pressures mount, Bob finds himself torn between the ideals of loyalty to his father and his desire to serve and uphold the Union cause.
Pickett's Gap
"Pickett's Gap" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Abner Pickett, a proud and strong-willed farmer who struggles with his son Charlie's desire to pursue surveying instead of farming, creating tension between them. The narrative explores themes of family conflict, land ownership, and reverence for the dead, set against the backdrop of impending railroad development threatening Abner's beloved homestead and family graveyard. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Abner Pickett, who is deeply affected by the recent death of his daughter-in-law and the strain it puts on his relationship with his son, Charlie. The dynamic shifts further when Charlie, drawn to surveying, wishes to escape the burdens of farm life, leading to a confrontation with Abner, who values their land above all. Following their argument, Charlie leaves in anger, and years pass with Charlie still estranged. Then, in a new turn of events, Charlie is recruited into a railroad project that jeopardizes Abner's land. Meanwhile, young Dannie, Abner's grandson, grapples with the loss of his father and the family lore surrounding the graveyard, setting in motion a series of events that challenge familial ties and raise questions about legacy and respect for the past.
A Tale of the Tow-Path
"A Tale of the Tow-Path" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a fourteen-year-old boy named Joe Gaston, who is struggling with feelings of rebellion and frustration towards his strict father. After a severe punishment for disobeying his father's commands and sneaking off to go fishing, Joe makes a rash decision to run away from home, setting off an adventure filled with challenges and self-discovery. The opening portion of the book introduces Joe as he grumbles about the hard labor of hoeing corn and dreams of the summer activities he wishes he could partake in instead. After sneaking away for a fishing trip, he is caught by his father, leading to a punishment that leaves him feeling hurt and resentful. This encounter plants the seed for Joe's decision to flee from home, aiming to reclaim his freedom. The narrative quickly unfolds into a poignant portrayal of his internal conflict as he grapples with the consequences of his disobedience and the love for his family, hinting at the trials he will face on his journey.
The Guardsman
"The Guardsman" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the youthful characters in the town of Fairweather as they navigate the mischief of Hallowe'en and face the consequences of their actions. The main characters, Halpert McCormack and Benjamin Barriscale, both come from prominent families and engage in a series of antics that culminate in the theft of a statue from Barriscale's home, which leads to unintended afflictions and moral dilemmas. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the mischief and chaotic spirit of Hallowe'en in 1909, showcasing a group of boys, led by Hal McCormack, who embark on a nighttime escapade that involves removing a cobbler's sign and aiming to place it on the property of Benjamin Barriscale, the wealthy head of the Barriscale Manufacturing Company. However, their adventure escalates when they consider stealing an ornamental marble statue from Barriscale’s fountain, leading to the accidental breaking of the statue later in the story when a rival group encounters it. The narrative sets up a conflict rooted in youthful indiscretion, friendship, and the pursuit of social standing, paving the way for themes of accountability and personal growth as Hal must face the repercussions of their Hallowe'en antics.
The Flag
"The Flag" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Penfield Butler, a fourteen-year-old boy living in the village of Chestnut Hill, where rivalries between local youth lead to playful yet intense conflicts. The narrative opens against a backdrop of snowy winter, highlighting Pen's interactions with family and friends as well as his involvement in a school initiative to raise money for an American flag. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Pen and his family, including his strict yet loving Aunt Millicent and his grandfather, Colonel Butler. The tension between the Hilltops and the Riverbeds, two boyhood factions, is evident as excitement grows for a more significant "battle" involving snowball fights. As the story unfolds, Pen's determination to see off his grandfather on a train is interrupted by an accident during coasting, which inadvertently leads to rivalry and competition for the flag being the centerpiece of their conflicts. The opening chapters set the stage for a tale of youthful conflict, camaraderie, and the exploration of patriotism, setting up deeper themes of honor and self-reflection.
The Riverpark Rebellion
"The Riverpark Rebellion" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the cadets of Riverpark Academy, particularly focusing on Lieutenant Horace E. Brightly and his trajectory through military discipline, rivalry, and rebellion. The narrative explores themes of integrity, peer pressure, and the complexities of youthful emotions as the boys navigate their school lives. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the disciplined world of Riverpark Academy, where cadets are trained in military conduct under the watchful eye of Colonel Silsbee. The chapter highlights the challenges faced by Brightly, who is struggling with feelings of frustration and humiliation after being overlooked for a captaincy, leading to a fight with Cadet Belcher and growing tensions among the students. As discontent brews, a spirit of rebellion begins to take hold of the cadets, culminating in the formation of the "Order of the Black Star," suggesting an impending clash between youthful defiance and the strict order of their academy.
Whispering Tongues
"Whispering Tongues" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds at Concord College, focusing on a group of sophomores enjoying their youth, but it soon delves into themes of rivalry, hazing, and moral dilemmas. The central characters include Parmenter, a popular and charismatic student, and Charley Lee, the professor's son, who navigate the complexities of friendship, ambition, and the consequences of their actions. At the start of the novel, a group of Concord College sophomores sings jovially as they make their way across the campus during a moonlit evening. Among them is Parmenter, who is admired for his leadership. The mood shifts when the sophomores encounter Van Loan, an arrogant freshman who flaunts college rules by carrying a cane and wearing a silk hat, which leads to a physical confrontation. The gathering turns chaotic, culminating in an escalation of tensions that highlights the culture of hazing at the college. The fallout from this conflict sets the stage for deeper explorations of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral implications of their youthful antics as friendships are tested.
Burnham Breaker
"Burnham Breaker" by Homer Greene is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the backdrop of Scranton, Pennsylvania, a city entrenched in the coal-mining industry, and follows the lives of young boys toiling under harsh conditions, particularly highlighting the character of Ralph. Ralph, who yearns for a sense of belonging and searches for his identity, becomes entwined with Robert Burnham, the compassionate manager, whose kindness touches the lives of those working under him. The opening of "Burnham Breaker" sets up a vivid portrayal of the coal breaker where boys work long hours, picking slate from coal, while dreaming of freedom and a better life outside their prison-like environment. On a significant day, which happens to be circus day, the screen-room boys find their mundane toil interrupted when Burnham rewards their loyalty by granting them time off to visit the circus. This gesture highlights Burnham's compassion and foreshadows the deeper connections that will unravel between him and Ralph, especially as Ralph's past comes to light, revealing his lack of identity and longing for family. The narrative begins to weave themes of identity, loss, and the struggles of the working class in an industrial society.