Author
Clarence Budington Kelland
1881-1964
Clarence Budington Kelland (1881-1964) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Clarence Budington Kelland
Mark Tidd, Editor
"Mark Tidd, Editor" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a humorous fictional story likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows Mark Tidd, a resourceful and good-natured boy with a stutter, as he takes on the ambitious role of editor for the town's struggling newspaper, the Wicksville Trumpet, alongside his friends. The narrative is bright with youthful exuberance as it explores themes of friendship, community, and the trials of entrepreneurship. The opening of the story sets the stage for Mark's aspirations and the relationships among the boys in their small town. Mark's determination to revive the Trumpet comes into focus as he humorously navigates the challenges of acquiring the newspaper, from persuading his father to help buy it at a sheriff's sale to confronting the mystery surrounding the recent death of a local figure, Henry Wigglesworth. The narrative introduces various quirky characters including Mark's father, a forgetful inventor, and the eccentric Tecumseh Androcles Spat, who becomes part of their team. The blend of Mark's cleverness and the subtle humor of their youthful endeavors promises an entertaining tale filled with adventures in journalism, friendships, and confrontations with town rivals.
Mark Tidd: His Adventures and Strategies
"Mark Tidd: His Adventures and Strategies" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the titular character, Mark Tidd, and his friends in the small town of Wicksville as they encounter life, inventions, and unexpected adventures. Central to the narrative is Mark's inventive father, whose turbine project serves as a backdrop for the boys' misadventures and interactions with a diverse cast of characters. At the start of the novel, we meet the narrator, a boy named "Tallow," who recounts the arrival of the overweight, stuttering Mark Tidd and his family to town. The narrative introduces us to Mark's unique personality, his father's eccentricities, and his mother's nurturing nature. As the boys help the Tidd family settle in, they quickly form a bond with Mark, leading to light-hearted challenges, secret societies, and intriguing encounters, including a mysterious stranger showing interest in Mark's father's turbine invention. The opening sets up a whimsical tone while hinting at deeper themes of friendship and loyalty as the boys navigate childhood together in a changing world.
Sudden Jim
"Sudden Jim" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around James Ashe, known as Jim, who inherits a clothespin manufacturing business from his father, Clothespin Jimmy. The narrative explores themes of personal growth, responsibility, and the challenges faced in both business and personal relationships as Jim navigates his new role and the dynamics of small-town life. The opening portion of the book introduces us to Jim Ashe as he suddenly finds himself in charge of his father's business after his father's retirement plans. With the weight of expectations and responsibilities on his shoulders, Jim grapples with his own aspirations and the future of the mill. He faces urgent decisions about accepting ownership, contending with market competition, and understanding the inner workings of the clothespin business. Alongside his professional challenges, Jim encounters the intriguing and conflicted character of Marie Ducharme, whose frustrations with life in Diversity mirror his journey of self-discovery and ambition in a world that seems restrictive and mundane. The engaging dialogue and relatable conflicts set the stage for Jim's growth as a character, inviting readers to invest in his journey.
Contraband
"Contraband" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a small town and follows the life of Carmel Lee, who unexpectedly inherits the struggling "Gibeon Free Press" after the death of her uncle. Faced with the challenge of running the newspaper, Carmel must navigate her relationships with the quirky staff, including Tubal and Simmy, while contending with the local power dynamics that threaten her new endeavor. The novel blends humor with a sense of social commentary as Carmel strives to establish herself as a capable editor. The opening of the story introduces us to Carmel's arrival in Gibeon, where she discovers the dire state of her inheritance, a nearly defunct newspaper. In conversations with her staff, particularly with the cynical Tubal and the ambitious Simmy, Carmel learns the challenges that await her, including the lurking influence of Abner Fownes, the town's powerful man. The narrative sets a witty tone as Carmel recognizes the hurdles ahead, including the impending arrival of a new young female editor and the mysterious disappearance of the sheriff. Despite the evident struggles, Carmel remains determined to revitalize the publication while uncovering the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the town's politics and its inhabitants.
Youth Challenges
"Youth Challenges" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows Bonbright Foote VII, a young man from a powerful family, as he begins his journey in the family business amidst the expectations and traditions of his lineage. Central to the story is Bonbright's struggle to navigate the pressures of his inherited responsibilities, including his family's legacy and societal expectations, while also grappling with the turbulent dynamics between capital and labor during a time of rising union activity. The opening of "Youth Challenges" introduces Bonbright Foote VII as he prepares to take his place in the family firm. Through a ceremonial transfer of roles from his father, Bonbright feels the weight of generational expectations thrust upon him and is acutely aware of his responsibilities, particularly in the context of marriage and business succession. As he interacts with the company and its employees, he encounters the realities of labor unrest, leading to a strike that challenges his views and the legacy he must contend with. The narrative quickly establishes the conflicting ideologies surrounding class and power dynamics, igniting Bonbright's internal conflict as he begins to question his family's traditions and his role in the unfolding events.
Mark Tidd's Citadel
"Mark Tidd's Citadel" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Mark Tidd and his friends as they venture to a seemingly abandoned summer hotel for their vacation, only to discover it has not been operational for years. Faced with the challenge of their unexpected situation, they decide to rent the hotel and take on the adventure of running it themselves, all while encountering a mystery surrounding a Japanese boy named Motu, who seems to be hiding from unknown pursuers. The opening of the novel introduces Mark Tidd, his friends Plunk, Binney, and Tallow as they arrive at the long-desired summer destination, only to find the hotel closed and dilapidated. The laughter quickly turns to concern as they realize the implications of their predicament. However, Mark's determination shines through as he swiftly proposes they reach out to the hotel's owner and negotiate for a rental. As the boys settle into their adventure, they also encounter strange happenings and an air of intrigue when they discover that Motu is connected to an impending danger, setting the stage for their coming challenges as they attempt to protect him.
Scattergood Baines
"Scattergood Baines" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book introduces the character Scattergood Baines, who is portrayed as a large and affable man embarking on a journey into the Coldriver Valley with aspirations to make a significant life for himself. He arrives with minimal resources but a wealth of ambition, demonstrating a strategy of both determination and cleverness as he considers how to integrate himself into the community and its economy. The beginning of the story establishes Scattergood's entrance into Coldriver, where he immediately captivates the attention of the townsfolk with his size, demeanor, and refreshing outlook on business. Upon his arrival, he expresses a keen interest in the needs of the community and the potential for growth, revealing his plans to contribute positively while securing his own financial footing. He negotiates for a store, indicating his intention to stay and make a mark on the valley. As he engages with the locals, it becomes clear that Scattergood is not just a newcomer; he is an invader with a vision for transforming Coldriver through commerce and innovation, setting the stage for his upcoming endeavors and the relationships he will build.
The Little Moment of Happiness
"The Little Moment of Happiness" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with American soldiers and workers arriving in France during World War I, capturing their sense of awe and trepidation as they approach a country steeped in history and significance. The narrative primarily follows Captain Kendall Ware, who is exploring this new world, and introduces various characters who accompany him on his journey of discovery and personal growth. The opening portion of the story paints a vivid picture of the emotions felt aboard a ship as its passengers catch their first glimpse of France, a land that symbolizes hope and adventure amidst war. Captain Ware is depicted as a young, eager officer, ready to face the challenges ahead, while also reflecting on his family’s influence and his upbringing. The story details his interactions with a young woman named Maude Knox, showcasing the budding friendships and complex relationships formed in the context of war. As the characters navigate their new environment, the reader is invited to experience the profound realizations and growth that accompany their experiences in a foreign land.
Mark Tidd in the Backwoods
"Mark Tidd in the Backwoods" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around young Binney Jenks and his adventure with his friend Mark Tidd, along with other companions, as they embark on an exciting summer vacation to the wilderness to visit Binney's uncle Hieronymous. Along the way, they encounter a series of misadventures, including a train wreck and the mysterious intentions of two men who seem to have ulterior motives regarding Binney's uncle. The opening of the book introduces us to the main characters and sets the stage for their adventure. Binney is thrilled when he receives a letter from his uncle inviting him and his friends to stay at his cabin in the woods for the summer. The boys' eagerness is palpable as they prepare for the trip, underscored by their lively personalities and camaraderie. However, the plot thickens when they encounter a train wreck that leads to a chance meeting with John Collins, one of two men who have their sights set on uncle Hieronymous's property, hinting at a potential mystery that will unfold as the story progresses. These early chapters capture the essence of youthful adventure and the promise of summer escapades amid the enchanting backdrop of the wilderness.
Catty Atkins, Sailorman
"Catty Atkins, Sailorman" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures of two boys, Catty Atkins and his friend, who embark on a summer cruise aboard a yacht called the Albatross after being invited by Mr. Browning, a businessman. The narrative combines elements of youthful curiosity and mischief with a hint of mystery and potential danger as they become entangled in the world of suspected pirates and tales of buried treasure. At the start of the novel, Catty and his friend are excitedly preparing for their cruise after meeting Mr. Browning, who seems to have secrets of his own. As they set sail, they learn about the crew members, including the bickering Naboth and the quirky cook, Rameses III. The atmosphere becomes tense when they notice a sinister black yacht, the Porpoise, trailing them, leading to speculation about hidden treasure and possible danger. The boys' adventure takes a humorous twist as they overhear crew discussions about the treasure map they unwittingly provided to the crew of the Porpoise, placing them at the center of a thrilling chase intertwined with their youthful escapades.
Mark Tidd, Manufacturer
"Mark Tidd, Manufacturer" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the character Marcus Aurelius Fortunatus Tidd, a determined and inventive boy who, along with his friends, takes on the challenge of running a struggling mill owned by the absent-minded Silas Doolittle Bugg. Combining elements of humor and adventure, the narrative explores themes of entrepreneurship, friendship, and the spirit of perseverance. The opening of the book introduces us to Mark and his friends as they eagerly await the end of Mark's father's lengthy supper. The scene is filled with lively dialogue that highlights Mark's character—confident, resourceful, and somewhat overweight—as well as a comedic atmosphere surrounding his father's absent-mindedness and the absurd situations they find themselves in. When Silas arrives, overwhelmed by financial troubles and unable to manage the failing mill, Mark proposes an ambitious plan to take over the mill operations and make it profitable. This sets in motion a blend of misadventures and ingenuity as the boys embark on a journey to transform the mill while confronting various challenges and colorful characters along the way.
Catty Atkins
"Catty Atkins" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Catty Atkins, who, alongside his father, leads a nomadic existence marked by a lack of stability and a struggle for respectability in their small town. Their unconventional lifestyle comes under scrutiny when they are labeled as "shiftless" or "tramps" by local residents, leading to themes of social class, identity, and the pursuit of belonging. At the start of the novel, the main character, Catty, is seen attempting to shoot a bottle with a new rifle, an exercise that illustrates his early frustrations and innocence. His encounter with another boy, Wee-wee Moore, introduces him as someone who is curious about the world but also grappling with the stigma of his family's lifestyle. The narrative quickly explores Catty's relationship with his father, showcasing their playful banter and the father's humorous yet misguided philosophy about a "shiftless" life. As they navigate social challenges and confront judgments from the townspeople, including an outright eviction order from the town marshal, Catty's desire to prove their worth and create a respectable life sets the stage for their journey toward self-discovery and community acceptance.
Mark Tidd in Business
"Mark Tidd in Business" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Mark Tidd and his friends as they face the challenges of running a local store in Wicksville while their fathers are away due to health issues. The plot highlights themes of resilience, creativity, and friendship, as the boys devise clever plans to keep the store afloat and compete against a new rival. The opening of the narrative sets in motion a series of events following the hospitalization of Plunk Smalley's father, who runs Smalley's Bazar. With both parents unable to manage the store, Mark Tidd proposes that he and his friends take over the business for six weeks. They seek to prove their capability amidst self-doubt and external competition from a new five-and-dime store run by the shrewd Jehoshaphat P. Skip. As they brainstorm ideas, their entrepreneurial spirit is ignited, particularly with Mark's initiative to host an auction and a contest to boost sales, showcasing the boys' determination to overcome challenges with ingenuity and teamwork.
The Highflyers
"The Highflyers" by Clarence Budington Kelland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of a group of affluent young men in Detroit, particularly focusing on Potter Waite, whose reckless adventurisms and family background are central to the narrative. As the tumult of World War I begins to creep into their lives, the characters grapple with themes of wealth, responsibility, and the looming specter of war. The opening of "The Highflyers" introduces Fred La Mothe and his friends as they engage in lively conversation in the Hotel Pontchartrain, reflecting their privileged lives and the era’s carefree spirit. The narrative quickly shifts to discussions about Potter Waite, a charismatic but reckless figure, showcasing his carefree attitude towards life and impending war, along with the tensions brewing beneath the surface of their social environment. The chapter gives a vivid depiction of Detroit's transformation through the wealth generated by the automobile industry, setting the stage for the personal and social conflicts that will unfold against the backdrop of the war. In a tense climax, Potter's reckless behavior leads to an aeronautical accident involving Hildegarde von Essen, foreshadowing the consequences of their luxurious but aimless lives.