Author
J. Macdonald (James Macdonald) Oxley
1855-1907
J. Macdonald (James Macdonald) Oxley (1855-1907) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by J. Macdonald (James Macdonald) Oxley
My Strange Rescue, and Other Stories of Sport and Adventure in Canada
"My Strange Rescue and Other Stories of Sport and Adventure in Canada" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a collection of short stories published in the early 20th century. The book captures thrilling adventures and sportsmanship in a Canadian setting, prominently featuring young characters and their daring exploits amidst the wilderness. The stories likely draw inspiration from the themes of courage, childhood ambition, and encounters with nature. The opening of the first story, "My Very Strange Rescue," introduces Walter, a spirited young boy determined to prove his bravery to his older brothers by hunting a bear on his own. This leads to a series of events where he ventures into the forest with his loyal dog, Tiger, and inadvertently falls into a bear's den. After losing consciousness, he finds himself in a perilous situation with the potential return of the bear, creating a tense atmosphere as he works to escape while his canine companion valiantly tries to defend him against the approaching danger. Walter's initial bravado quickly becomes overshadowed by fear, setting the stage for a gripping tale of adventure and resilience.
Donalblane of Darien
"Donalblane of Darien" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Donalblane, a young Scotsman deeply inspired by William Paterson's ambitious plan to establish a Scottish colony at Darien in Panama. The novel unfolds against the backdrop of 17th-century Scotland's venture into new territory and explores themes of adventure, national pride, and the perils of colonization. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to the significant historical context and key characters. Donalblane, adopted by a shipowner named Alexander Blane, has grown into an adventurous boy filled with the ambition to join the Darien expedition. As the narrative begins, we learn about the struggles faced by Paterson in organizing the colony while establishing the intrigue of young Donalblane, who is determined to prove himself worthy of adventure. The text sets the stage for a thrilling journey filled with hopes, challenges, and the spirit of exploration, as Donalblane prepares to leave Scotland behind for the promise of the New World.
Bert Lloyd's Boyhood: A Story from Nova Scotia
"Bert Lloyd's Boyhood: A Story from Nova Scotia" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a nostalgic children’s novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the spirited young boy, Cuthbert Lloyd, affectionately known as Bert, as he navigates life in Halifax and experiences the joys and challenges of childhood. Through his adventures, readers can expect to engage with themes of family, friendship, and moral growth in a bygone era. The opening of the book introduces Bert as a lively and imaginative child born to a loving family in Halifax, Nova Scotia. As he grows, his rambunctious nature causes both delight and concern for his parents. Their interactions reveal a warm home environment where Bert is encouraged yet faces the trials of discipline and independence. We see his early ambitions of wanting to be a fireman and his carefree exploration of his surroundings, illustrating his boundless energy and curiosity. The chapter ends with a strong sense of Bert as a character who inspires both love and exasperation in those around him, setting the tone for his adventures to come.
The Family on Wheels
"The Family on Wheels" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Tamby family, a group of young siblings and their beloved elephant, Nalla, as they navigate the challenges of life as traveling performers. Their adventures include amusing escapades, encounters with various characters, and the struggle for survival in a world that often overlooks them. The opening of the book introduces us to the boys of Morainville in their excitement for an upcoming military parade. They play as pretend soldiers, but their plans are quickly changed when they encounter the Tamby family, who are performing with their elephant, Nalla. As curiosity overcomes them, the children abandon their military drill to form a guard of honor for this remarkable troupe. Nadine, the eldest sister of the Tamby family, soon becomes a central figure as she seeks permission from the local mayor to perform publicly, showcasing her maturity and determination. This early setup signals a blend of adventure, humor, and the theme of resilience as the children rely on one another and their unique talents to face obstacles.
With Rogers on the Frontier: A Story of 1756
"With Rogers on the Frontier: A Story of 1756" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the French and Indian War, the narrative centers on the conflict between English and French forces as it unfolds in the wilderness of North America. The story primarily follows Seth Allen, a young man driven by vengeance after losing his family to Indian attacks allied with the French, as he joins a military expedition against the enemy. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a pivotal moment in history, detailing the buildup of colonial forces under the command of William Johnson, who aims to capture the French stronghold at Crown Point. Young Seth Allen, motivated by a personal vendetta, wrestles with impatience as preparations drag on. We learn of the diverse soldiers from various New England colonies, and Seth's determination to fight alongside them. His journey begins as he volunteers for a perilous scouting mission, setting the stage for adventure and conflict as the story unfolds.
Terry's Trials and Triumphs
"Terry's Trials and Triumphs" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Terry Ahearn who comes from harsh beginnings in Halifax, facing struggles within a rough neighborhood known as Blind Alley. As the plot unfolds, Terry saves the life of Miss Drummond, leading to unexpected opportunities that challenge him to rise above his circumstances. The opening of the novel introduces Terry as a scrappy youth involved in a street fight to help a friend, showcasing his brave but impulsive nature. The narrative quickly sets the stage for Terry's challenging environment, framed against the backdrop of the Civil War and the lively activities around Long Wharf. Following his daring rescue of Miss Drummond from drowning, Terry’s world begins to shift, presenting him with new possibilities and hopes for a better life. This part of the story lays the groundwork for an exploration of Terry’s character as he navigates his ambitions and confronts the trials that come with his newfound prospects.
The Wreckers of Sable Island
"The Wreckers of Sable Island" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the year 1799 as it follows a young boy named Eric Copeland, who embarks on a perilous journey across the Atlantic to reunite with his father in Nova Scotia. Amidst the tumultuous sea voyages and the mysteries of Sable Island, Eric encounters the darker side of human nature through the dangerous life of wreckers that prey on shipwrecks, revealing both adventure and deep moral questions. At the start of the novel, we meet Eric Copeland, a spirited and determined fifteen-year-old boy eager to join his father, a surgeon serving in the British army. Despite the anxiety of his grandfather about the dangers of the new world, Eric's resolve only strengthens after he learns of his father's request. The opening chapters detail his departure from Oakdene Manor, his challenges aboard the troop ship "Francis", and the fateful shipwreck near Sable Island during a violent storm. Eventually, he washes ashore alongside his loyal mastiff, Prince, only to discover he is not alone on the desolate island, as he comes face to face with men who lead a dangerous life as wreckers. The gripping narrative blends elements of adventure, peril, and the struggle for survival as Eric navigates his new reality.
The Young Woodsman; Or, Life in the Forests of Canada
"The Young Woodsman; Or, Life in the Forests of Canada" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a coming-of-age novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Frank Kingston, a determined and ambitious boy who aspires to follow in his father's footsteps and take up a lumbering career in the forests of Canada after the sudden death of his father. As he embarks on this new chapter of his life, readers are introduced to the contrasts between the comforts of his previous life and the challenges he is about to face in a rugged and demanding wilderness environment. The opening of the book depicts Frank's transition from childhood to the responsibilities of adulthood following the death of his father. As he expresses his eagerness to begin work in the lumber camps, there is tension between him and his mother, who fears for his safety and wishes for him to pursue a different path. Oxley skillfully portrays the dynamics of Frank's family life, his character development, and the allure of adventure in the Canadian wilderness. As he sets off for the woods, Frank's initial excitement is palpable, yet it is mixed with both the grief of his loss and the weight of the expectations placed upon him. This rich beginning promises an engaging exploration of Frank's journey into the harsher realities of a woodsman's life, compelling readers to follow his trials, growth, and the relationships he will forge along the way.
In Paths of Peril: A Boy's Adventures in Nova Scotia
"In Paths of Peril: A Boy's Adventures in Nova Scotia" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a historical novel written in the early 20th century, likely during the early 1900s. This book chronicles the adventurous life of a young boy named Raoul de Bernon who, along with his aunt Constance, escapes from the persecution faced by Huguenots in France to start anew in the wilds of Nova Scotia. The novel explores their experiences with adventure, survival, and personal growth in the challenging yet beautiful new world. Set against the backdrop of early colonial life in Canada, the story follows Raoul as he navigates various adventures, including bear hunting, encounters with Indigenous tribes, and thrilling moments during conflicts over territory and resources. His uncle, Charles La Tour, plays an essential role in the narrative as a trader and leader, while Constance embodies the spirit of compassion and determination, often serving as the moral compass for Raoul. As they face external threats from rivals and internal struggles, Raoul matures, learns valuable life lessons, and develops a strong sense of identity and purpose. The book highlights themes of bravery, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life in a frontier environment, making it a captivating read for fans of adventure and historical fiction.
Ti-Ti-Pu: A Boy of Red River
"Ti-Ti-Pu: A Boy of Red River" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the journey of a Scottish family, the Macraes, who leave their homeland to settle in North America. The protagonist, Hector Macrae, embarks on various adventures with his younger sister Ailie and their loyal dogs, Dour and Dandy, as they navigate the challenges and dangers of their new frontier life. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the Macrae family as they make their transatlantic journey to join Lord Selkirk's new colony in the Red River area. Through rich descriptions, we come to understand the close-knit family dynamic and the character traits of each member, particularly Hector, who is depicted as brave and adventurous. The narrative unfolds as they encounter rough conditions on the ship and even face hostility upon their arrival at York Factory. The chapter concludes with a tense moment when Hector attempts to defend his dogs from a bear, setting the stage for a story full of courage, companionship, and the trials of pioneer life.