Author
Jennette Lee
1860-1951
Jennette Lee (1860-1951) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Jennette Lee
Mr. Achilles
"Mr. Achilles" by Jennette Lee is a novel published in 1912. When twelve-year-old Betty Harris, daughter of a wealthy meatpacking magnate, loses her way home after a music lesson, she encounters Achilles Alexandrakis, a Greek immigrant who runs a fruit stand in Chicago. Their unlikely friendship forms as he shares stories of Greek culture with the attentive girl. But when Betty is kidnapped, Achilles must step forward to rescue her, navigating prejudice and the dangerous world of early twentieth-century crime.
Uncle William: The Man Who Was Shif'less
"Uncle William: The Man Who Was Shif'less" by Jennette Lee is a fictional narrative likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Uncle William Benslow, who is characterized by a carefree and generous spirit despite being labeled as 'shif'less' by those around him. Focused on themes of simplicity, contentment, and the importance of human connection, the book showcases William’s engaging interactions with a young artist, delving into the essence of life by the sea. The opening of the book introduces Uncle William as he comfortably embraces his "shif'less" identity while conversing with an artist who is painting the harbor view. Their dialogue reflects the contrasting worlds of work and creativity, as William expresses a preference for the free nature of sailing over the steadiness of painting. Throughout this initial interaction, the portrayal of Uncle William's deep connection to the sea and his simple, fulfilling lifestyle unfolds. As he prepares a chowder in his quaint home, the dynamics of warmth, generosity, and the passage of time begin to take shape in the narrative, solidifying William's likable, down-to-earth character and setting the tone for a story that values both relationships and the beauty found in everyday life.
The Woman in the Alcove
"The Woman in the Alcove" by Jennette Lee is a novel written in the early 20th century. This narrative delves into the complexities of love, identity, and social expectations through the life of Eldridge Walcott, a businessman who becomes unexpectedly captivated by the secretive dual existence of his wife, Rosalind. The story explores themes of personal transformation and emotional awakening, as Eldridge grapples with the realization that his once-familiar wife holds deeper layers of beauty and desire than he previously acknowledged. At the start of the novel, Eldridge Walcott visits Merwin’s café for business purposes but stumbles upon a surprising sight—his wife, Rosalind, elegantly dressed and enjoying herself in a social environment that starkly contrasts with the drab reality of their home life. As he watches her, Eldridge experiences a whirlwind of emotions, from confusion to unexpected admiration. The initial encounter sets the tone for Eldridge’s journey of self-discovery, forcing him to reconcile his mundane existence with his yearning for a more passionate connection with Rosalind. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the alcove not only serves as a physical space but also symbolizes the hidden parts of identity and intimacy that couples often overlook in their day-to-day lives.
Simeon Tetlow's Shadow
"Simeon Tetlow's Shadow" by Jennette Lee is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores the intricate dynamics of a railroad president, Simeon Tetlow, and his dedicated assistant, John Bennett, as they navigate their personal and professional challenges within a rapidly changing industrial landscape. The narrative centers around their relationship and the toll that ambition, duty, and personal sacrifice take on their lives. The opening of the book establishes a tense work environment in Tetlow's modest office high above the bustling streets, where the aging president is portrayed as an irritable yet brilliant figure, consumed by his responsibilities to the railroad. John, the young assistant, exhibits a quieter strength, dedicated to supporting Tetlow while dealing with personal matters concerning his ailing mother. As John contemplates resigning to care for her, their professional relationship is tested, revealing themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the quest for fulfillment amidst the harsh realities of their work life. The dynamic between the two characters foreshadows deeper explorations of their inner conflicts and the choices they must make as they confront the pressures of their respective lives.
Unfinished Portraits: Stories of Musicians and Artists
"Unfinished Portraits: Stories of Musicians and Artists" by Jennette Lee is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The work explores the lives and experiences of renowned musicians and artists, delving into their creative struggles and personal relationships. Through vivid storytelling, the author captures the essence of their artistry and the emotional turmoil that often accompanies it." "The opening of the collection introduces us to a painter in a studio in Florence, who is grappling with the completion of a portrait of a woman named Lisa. As he works, he is joined by another man who expresses frustration over the time it has taken to finish the piece. This initial scene sets the stage for a complex relationship between the artist and his subject, highlighting themes of obsession and the nature of beauty in art. We witness the tension between creative ambition and the capriciousness of the woman he depicts, as well as hints of deeper emotional connections that complicate their interactions. The atmosphere is rich with the historical context of Renaissance Florence, making it a captivating start to the stories that follow."
The Chinese Coat
"The Chinese Coat" by Jennette Lee is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Eleanor More, who is captivated by a striking Chinese coat while at a sale in a department store. The novel explores themes of desire, identity, and self-worth as Eleanor grapples with her aspiration to own the coat and what that transfer of ownership represents in her life. At the start of the book, Eleanor is drawn to a vibrant Chinese coat during a shopping trip but hesitates to purchase it due to financial constraints. She returns home, where her interactions with her husband Richard reveal a supportive yet complex dynamic. Eleanor dreams of the coat that night, reflecting its significance in her psyche, symbolizing her desires for beauty, expression, and perhaps a different life. Her subsequent dismissal of the coat underscores the tension between her material wishes and her sense of practicality and responsibility within the evolving narrative of her life and aspirations.
Aunt Jane
"Aunt Jane" by Jennette Lee is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Aunt Jane Holbrook, a nurturing and sensible matron at the Berkeley House of Mercy, a hospital where her expertise and caring nature are respected by both patients and staff. As she tends to patients, Aunt Jane demonstrates a remarkable blend of warmth, practical wisdom, and humor, creating an atmosphere of comfort and healing. The opening portion of the book introduces Aunt Jane in her role at the hospital, showcasing her interactions with patients and medical staff. A scene unfolds in which a young man, a patient in the men's ward, curiously inquires about Aunt Jane's thoughts, only to find her contemplating mundane tasks like adjusting a mattress. This mix of the ordinary with the profound establishes her dual nature as a caretaker—she manages daily hospital duties while exuding a sense of peace and comfort to those around her. The narrative hints at Aunt Jane's deep connections with the patients, revealing her capacity to uplift their spirits, which becomes a recurring theme of the novel. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that Aunt Jane's presence is vital not only to the physical well-being of her patients but also to their emotional healing.
Happy Island: A New "Uncle William" Story
"Happy Island: A New 'Uncle William' Story" by Jennette Lee is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the endearing character of Uncle William Benslow, who navigates the simple, rustic life on an island while managing relationships with various individuals, including a contractor named Benjamin Bodet and young men from the community. The book explores themes of friendship, home, and the quirks of human nature in a delightful, heartwarming manner. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Uncle William as he interacts with his surroundings and the people in his life. We witness his daily routine, which includes examining a map and discussing plans with a local boy named Andy. As they prepare lobsters for dinner, conversations hint at the underlying relationships and tensions, such as Benjamin's struggle with a contractor and the anticipation of a new girl coming to live with them. This beginning sets a tone that is both charming and reflective, with nuanced dynamics among the characters that suggest a deeper exploration of community life and connections in the chapters to come.