Author
Ruth McEnery Stuart
1856-1917
Ruth McEnery Stuart (1856-1917) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Ruth McEnery Stuart
Gobolinks; or, Shadow Pictures for Young and Old
"Gobolinks; or, Shadow Pictures for Young and Old" by Ruth McEnery Stuart and Albert Bigelow Paine is a whimsical collection of children’s poems and illustrations created in the late 19th century. This enchanting book invites readers both young and old to explore a fantastical world filled with imaginative creatures known as Gobolinks. It serves as a celebration of creativity, encouraging readers to engage with the mysterious and playful aspects of their imagination through the art of making shadow pictures. The content of the book consists of a series of playful poems that describe various Gobolinks and their adventures, along with delightful illustrations that enhance the whimsical nature of the text. Each poem introduces unique characters, such as friendly chickens, jolly octopuses, and even a Butterfly Man, each bringing their own charm and curiosity. Discussions of life’s quirks, the amusing follies of shadow-people, and the myriad interactions between fantastical beings form the core of the narrative. The authors provide a playful tone, inviting readers to create their own Gobolinks by dropping ink on paper and folding it, fostering a DIY spirit that complements the book's imaginative themes. Overall, "Gobolinks" offers a playful romp through a fanciful world where creativity knows no bounds.
The River's Children: An Idyl of the Mississippi
"The River's Children: An Idyl of the Mississippi" by Ruth McEnery Stuart is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Mississippi River, the story unfolds during a time of strife and natural disaster, reflecting on themes of love, loss, and resilience through the lives of its characters. The narrative primarily revolves around the relationships and struggles of both the black and white populations living along the river during a period riddled with tension and hardship. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to the powerful and tumultuous Mississippi River, which is causing havoc and threatening communities and plantations in the area. Amid this turmoil, groups of laborers, primarily African American men, work tirelessly to shore up the riverbanks against flooding, showcasing their resilience and camaraderie through song. The interactions between characters such as Felix and Adolphe highlight not only the immediate dangers they face from the rampaging waters but also the deeper emotional struggles and community bonds formed in times of duress. The novel's opening sets the stage for these intertwined lives, hinting at a weaving of personal and collective stories that reflect a rich tapestry of life along the Mississippi.
Solomon Crow's Christmas Pockets and Other Tales
"Solomon Crow's Christmas Pockets and Other Tales" by Ruth McEnery Stuart is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book features the character of Solomon Crow, a young black boy whose upbringing influences his perception of honesty and morality as he navigates his childhood experiences against a backdrop of social and familial complexities. Through his narrative, the collection explores themes of innocence, temptation, and the search for redemption, particularly in the context of the Christmas spirit. The opening of the tale introduces us to Solomon Crow, a ten-year-old boy who is acutely aware of his mother's love as well as her shortcomings. His mother, Tempest, struggles with her own moral failings, which impact Crow’s understanding of honesty and integrity. As he ventures into various schemes to earn money for his family, he grapples with the temptation to cut corners, leading to a series of misadventures that culminate in a critical moment of consequence involving old Mr. Cary, a kind but stern figure in the community. This moment marks a turning point where Solomon begins to confront the repercussions of his actions and the true meaning of love and trust.
Sonny, a Christmas Guest
"Sonny, A Christmas Guest" by Ruth McEnery Stuart is a fictional story likely penned in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Sonny, a young boy who enters the world through the experiences of his father, unveiling themes of family, love, and the joys associated with childhood milestones, particularly his birth on Christmas day. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to the father, a character who is filled with emotions and apprehension as he clutches his newborn son in a quilt while navigating the chaos of a joyous yet overwhelming moment. The father reflects on the depth of his feelings as he prepares to introduce the child to his mother, and his nervousness is palpable. The scene captures the essence of the family dynamics as they embrace the new arrival, showcasing the father's hopes and worries. The father’s whimsical thoughts about the baby’s size and inheritance of family traits add a charming touch to the narrative, setting the tone for a story rich in humor and heartwarming moments.
Moriah's Mourning and Other Half-Hour Sketches
"Moriah's Mourning and Other Half-Hour Sketches" by Ruth McEnery Stuart is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The sketches revolve around life in the plantation communities, focusing on the humorous and poignant experiences of African American characters, particularly reflecting on their customs, relationships, and societal norms. The opening story introduces Moriah, a widow who, despite her recent loss, becomes the topic of lively gossip when she announces her intention to remarry just a month after her husband's death. At the start of the collection, the stage is set through Moriah's character, who embodies a strong sense of individuality and resilience. The narrative follows her decision to marry Pete, a widower, emphasizing the community's reactions to her quick transition from mourning to new beginnings. Moriah’s pragmatic and humorous approach to grief reveals the nuanced dynamics of love, loss, and social expectations among the plantation folk. The blend of humor and social commentary in these opening pages suggests that the collection will explore deeper themes of mortality, relationship dynamics, and cultural practices in a light-hearted yet insightful manner.
Daddy Do-Funny's Wisdom Jingles
"Daddy Do-Funny's Wisdom Jingles" by Ruth McEnery Stuart is a charming collection of whimsical poems and jingles that captures the humor and wisdom of a fictional character named Daddy Do-Funny, who is portrayed as a wise old man on a Southern plantation. Written in the early 20th century, specifically around the 1910s, this book reflects the dialect and social dynamics of African American culture during the post-Civil War period. The likely topic of the book centers on everyday observations, life lessons, and playful anecdotes, all expressed through light-hearted verse. The content of the book features a series of short poems that highlight both the humor and wisdom of Daddy Do-Funny as he shares his insights on various subjects, emphasizing the idiosyncrasies of life through the characteristics of animals, nature, and simple rural living. Each poem captures a unique moral lesson or humorous reflection, often illustrated with clever rhymes portraying Southern life and its challenges. Characters such as a proud rooster, an ambitious cow, and a wise owl serve as metaphors, reinforcing the messages of personal growth, community values, and the importance of humility and understanding. Through delightful humor and relatable themes, the poems provide a nostalgic glimpse into the cultural heritage and everyday wisdom of the era.