Author

Laura Preston

Born 1846

Read free books by Laura Preston on Rivro. Explore public-domain classics and related works.

Subjects

Adventure storiesAnimals -- Juvenile fictionChildren -- Conduct of life -- Juvenile fictionConduct of life -- Juvenile fictionFrontier and pioneer life -- Juvenile fictionIndians of North America -- Juvenile fictionMexico -- Social life and customs -- FictionMothers and sons -- Juvenile fictionNatural history -- Juvenile fictionOutdoor life -- Juvenile fictionWagon trains -- Juvenile fictionWest (U.S.) -- Description and travel -- Juvenile fictionWilderness survival -- Juvenile fiction

Books by Laura Preston

Chata and Chinita: A Novel

"Chata and Chinita: A Novel" by Laura Preston is a work of historical fiction written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a richly described hacienda, Tres Hermanos, in Mexico, focusing on the complexities of social hierarchy, love, and revenge as seen through the lives of the inhabitants. The narrative introduces engaging characters, notably Juan Planillos, a humble traveler with a hidden agenda, and Doña Isabel, the determined matriarch of the hacienda. The opening portion of the novel sets the stage as a mysterious traveler arrives at Tres Hermanos, seeking shelter, which is begrudgingly granted by the gatekeeper, Tio Pedro. As the traveller, revealed to be Juan Planillos, interacts with the hacienda's residents, he unknowingly becomes entangled in a web of intrigue surrounding Doña Isabel's family and their dealings. The narrative quickly escalates with tension as Juan harbors a personal vendetta that will impact the family dynamics, leading to a shocking murder that echoes throughout the hacienda. The interplay of social class, personal ambition, and the looming shadows of the environment carve out a gripping foundation for the unfolding drama.

A Boy's Trip Across the Plains

"A Boy's Trip Across the Plains" by Laura Preston is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative follows a young boy named Guy Loring, who, along with his mother, struggles with poverty after the death of his father. Facing the harsh realities of life, they embark on a journey across the plains, fueled by hope for better circumstances and health. At the start of the story, we meet Guy and his mother, Mrs. Loring, as they grapple with their dwindling resources and her declining health during a harsh winter in Missouri. After overhearing a conversation about a family traveling to California, Guy hatches a plan to persuade a kind woman named Mrs. Harwood to take his mother on the trip as a nurse to help benefit her health. Spurred by love and determination, Guy's initiative sets the stage for their journey across the plains, where they face numerous challenges and hopeful prospects. The opening portrays themes of hardship, resilience, and familial love, creating a rich landscape for Guy's adventures ahead.