Author
Frank Norris
1870-1902
Frank Norris (1870-1902) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Frank Norris
McTeague: A Story of San Francisco
"McTeague: A Story of San Francisco" by Frank Norris is a novel published in 1899. It follows a San Francisco dentist and his wife as their marriage disintegrates into violence and tragedy, driven by jealousy, greed, and obsession with money. When McTeague loses his dental practice through betrayal, the couple descends into poverty while his wife's miserly hoarding intensifies. Their story builds toward a devastating climax in the desolate wasteland of Death Valley, where past grievances and stolen gold lead to a final, haunting confrontation.
The Octopus : A Story of California
"The Octopus: A Story of California" by Frank Norris is a novel published in 1901. It chronicles the brutal conflict between wheat farmers in California's San Joaquin Valley and a powerful railroad corporation seeking to seize their land. As ranchers band together to defend their livelihoods against monopolistic forces, loyalties fracture, violence erupts, and lives are destroyed. Through bribery, betrayal, and bloodshed, Norris depicts how impersonal economic powers crush individuals caught in their path, culminating in tragedy for both the innocent and the corrupt.
Moran of the Lady Letty
"Moran of the Lady Letty" by Frank Norris is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story begins with an intriguing mix of social events and adventure, detailing the life of Ross Wilbur, who finds himself unexpectedly drawn into a world of sailors, deception, and survival after he is shanghaied. The book explores themes of identity and transformation, particularly as Wilbur finds himself at the mercy of Captain Kitchell and the elusive Lady Letty, all while a complex relationship with the strong-willed Moran begins to form. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the affluent society of San Francisco through the lens of Ross Wilbur, who attends a debutante tea in honor of Josie Herrick. However, his plans are interrupted when he finds himself lured into a dangerous encounter with a group of sailors. After being drugged and discovering himself on the deck of a schooner, the "Bertha Millner," Wilbur learns that he has been shanghaied to sail on a fishing venture. The narrative intensifies as Wilbur navigates the rough seas and an even rougher crew, leading to encounters with the mysterious Moran, a girl with a fierce spirit and nautical proficiency. Themes of struggle and awakening take center stage as Wilbur grapples with his newfound reality, setting the stage for the unfolding adventure.
The pit : $b a story of Chicago
"The Pit: A Story of Chicago" by Frank Norris is a novel published in 1903. Set in the frenetic wheat trading pits of the Chicago Board of Trade, it follows Laura Dearborn's marriage to Curtis Jadwin, a successful businessman. As Jadwin becomes obsessed with wheat speculation, his attention shifts from his wife to the intoxicating thrill of the market. Left increasingly alone, Laura faces her own temptations while her husband risks everything in pursuit of wealth and power. This second installment of Norris's unfinished Epic of the Wheat trilogy explores marriage, ambition, and the consuming nature of greed.
Blix
"Blix" by Frank Norris is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story centers around the Bessemer family, particularly focusing on the character Travis Bessemer, a strong and vivacious young woman who navigates her relationships with her father, Mr. Bessemer, and her suitor, Condy Rivers, against the backdrop of social expectations and personal ambitions. The interactions within the family reveal a mix of affection and disconnection, highlighting themes of love, individuality, and societal norms. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the Bessemer household, filled with morning chaos as Travis and her brother Howard prepare for Sunday. The family dynamic is established through the characters' unique personalities: Mr. Bessemer is portrayed as self-absorbed and disconnected from his children, Howard embodies the typical troublesome boy, and Travis takes on a maternal role. The scene captures the everyday life of a family in San Francisco, rich with vibrant descriptions of their surroundings and conflicts. As Travis interacts with her siblings and her suitor, Condy, we catch glimpses of her determination and independence, suggesting a depth to her character that will drive the story forward. The initial chapters set the stage for the exploration of personal growth and the societal constraints that challenge the characters' aspirations.
The Third Circle
"The Third Circle" by Frank Norris is a novel set in the early 20th century that delves into the hidden aspects of San Francisco’s Chinatown. The narrative primarily focuses on the darker, secretive parts of Chinatown that are often overlooked, introducing characters like young Hillegas and Miss Ten Eyck, who embark on a seemingly innocuous visit only to find themselves embroiled in the mysteries and dangers of this subterranean world. At the start of the story, the setting unfolds in a quaint restaurant in Chinatown, where Hillegas and Ten Eyck find themselves captivated by the exotic ambiance. However, their night takes a sinister turn when they encounter a fortune-teller and decide to have a tattoo done, which marks a crucial moment linking them to the secrets of this hidden Chinatown. Subsequently, Ten Eyck mysteriously disappears, leaving Hillegas to grapple with the implications of her vanishing act. Through these events, the opening pages lay the groundwork for exploring themes of identity and the unspoken shadows that linger in urban environments.
A Deal in Wheat and Other Stories of the New and Old West
"A Deal in Wheat and Other Stories of the New and Old West" by Frank Norris is a collection of short stories published posthumously in 1903. These tales span the American West, from wheat speculation at the Chicago Board of Trade to isolated mining camps in California. The title story follows a Kansas wheat farmer destroyed by economic forces beyond his control, tracing his journey from rural ruin to urban poverty. Through naturalistic storytelling, Norris exposes the brutal truths underlying everyday life and the stark divisions between social classes.
A man's woman
"A Man's Woman" by Frank Norris is a novel written in 1900. Arctic explorer Ward Bennett returns home a hero after a harrowing expedition to the North Pole. He finds himself drawn to Lloyd Searight, a strong-willed nurse from a wealthy background. When tragedy strikes and Bennett's closest friend dies, their relationship fractures. As they navigate reconciliation and marriage, both must confront whether love means surrendering their ambitions—or whether true devotion means supporting each other's callings, no matter the cost.
Vandover and the Brute
"Vandover and the Brute" by Frank Norris is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character of Vandover, a young man filled with memories of his troubled past and struggles with his identity and desires as he navigates his adolescence and the expectations placed upon him by society. The opening of the book introduces Vandover and his fragmented memories surrounding pivotal moments in his life, notably the death of his mother during a family journey and his subsequent transition into a tumultuous adolescence. Norris paints a vivid picture of Vandover's environment in San Francisco and highlights his father's challenges in a declining business following a previous period of prosperity. As Vandover matures, he grapples with conflicting influences—his artistic ambitions, societal expectations, and the awakening of a more primal nature, foreshadowing the internal conflict that shapes his character throughout the novel.
Syvänne : $b Kuvauksia Chicagon pörssipiireistä
"Syvänne: Kuvauksia Chicagon pörssipiireistä" by Frank Norris is a novel published in 1903. Set in the wheat trading pits of the Chicago Board of Trade, it follows Curtis Jadwin, a successful businessman who becomes dangerously obsessed with grain speculation. As Jadwin plunges deeper into the intoxicating world of market manipulation, his wife Laura finds herself increasingly isolated and neglected. The novel explores how unchecked ambition and greed can consume a man's soul while threatening to destroy his marriage and everything he once held dear.
Nuoruuden rakkautta
"Nuoruuden rakkautta" by Frank Norris is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work explores the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the dynamics between young characters, such as Victorine and Travis Bessemer, as well as their interactions with family members and friends. The setting of San Francisco provides a vibrant backdrop that complements the personal and emotional narratives unfolding in the story. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the Bessemer family during a Sunday breakfast that sets the tone for family dynamics and character relationships. Victorine is seen attending to the breakfast routine while her father, Mr. Bessemer, displays his indifferent demeanor towards his family. Interactions among siblings, including young Howard and Detti, highlight the typical chaos of family life. The arrival of Travis Bessemer, the daughter, introduces a strikingly beautiful and capable young woman who navigates her responsibilities with grace. The opening establishes a sense of expectation regarding Travis's relationships—with her vibrant personality and the underlying tensions that might arise, suggesting themes of love and youthful longing that will likely play a central role in the narrative.
Naisen mahti
"Naisen mahti" by Frank Norris is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the harrowing journey of an Arctic expedition led by Ward Bennett, who faces not only the physical challenges of navigating through treacherous icy terrain but also the psychological strains experienced by his crew. Their struggle for survival against the unforgiving elements becomes a compelling narrative about human endurance and the will to succeed. The beginning of the novel sets the scene during a grueling Arctic expedition where Bennett and his men, exhausted from continuous efforts to traverse a thick field of ice, find themselves grappling with the harsh realities of their environment. As they make slow progress towards their destination, Bennett's leadership and determination shine through. The opening details the crew's dire circumstances, freezing temperatures, and dwindling supplies, as well as Bennett’s resolve to push forward despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The introduction effectively establishes an atmosphere of tension and foreboding, hinting at the struggle that lies ahead for these men against the formidable forces of nature.
The Surrender of Santiago An Account of the Historic Surrender of Santiago to General Shafter, July 17, 1898
"The Surrender of Santiago" by Frank Norris is a historical account detailing the significant military event that occurred during the Spanish-American War in the late 19th century. This book provides a vivid narrative of the surrender of Santiago de Cuba to American forces under General Shafter on July 17, 1898. Written in the early 20th century, it captures not only the military maneuvers but also the human experiences and the atmosphere surrounding this pivotal moment in American history. The narrative is centered around the tense buildup to the surrender, capturing the moments leading up to the ceremony where the American flag would be raised over the city. Norris describes the scenes with rich detail, from the preparations of the generals and the assembled troops to the tense anticipation and eventual relief of the surrender itself. As the American forces move into Santiago, the triumph is palpable, with accounts of the soldiers' emotions and the reactions of Spanish troops as they relinquish power. The book serves as both an action-packed recount of military events and a reflective observation on the implications of conquest and nationalism, showcasing the conflicting sentiments of pride and solemnity felt by those present at this historic surrender.