Author
Catharine Parr Strickland Traill
1802-1899
Catharine Parr Strickland Traill (1802-1899) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Catharine Parr Strickland Traill
Canadian Crusoes: A Tale of the Rice Lake Plains
"Canadian Crusoes: A Tale of the Rice Lake Plains" by Catharine Parr Traill is a novel published in 1852, considered the first Canadian novel for children. Three children—two English Canadian and one French Canadian—become lost in the wilderness near Rice Lake in southern Ontario and must survive together. When they meet a Mohawk girl who joins their group, the children combine their different skills and knowledge to endure the harsh Canadian landscape, ultimately suggesting themes of cooperation and nation-building in the new world.
The Backwoods of Canada Being Letters from the Wife of an Emigrant Officer, Illustrative of the Domestic Economy of British America
"The Backwoods of Canada" by Catharine Parr Strickland Traill is a collection of letters written in the early 19th century, documenting the experiences of an emigrant officer's wife. The narrative focuses on her journey from Britain to Canada and the subsequent challenges and observations she encounters as settlers in the Canadian backwoods. The opening of the book begins with a detailed introduction where the author expresses her intent to provide practical insights into the domestic life of a settler in Canada, particularly for women who will be responsible for managing households in a new and often challenging environment. She reflects on her departure from Greenock aboard the brig "Laurel," describing the monotony of sea travel and the evolving sights and experiences as they approach Newfoundland. Traill's letters reveal her observations of the natural beauty of the Canadian landscape while also preparing readers for the hardships ahead, setting the stage for her transition into life as a settler in the unfamiliar wilderness.
Ansiedlungen in den Urwäldern von Canada. Ein Wegweiser für Auswandrer nach Amerika von einer Emigrantin.
"Ansiedlungen in den Urwäldern von Canada" by Catharine Parr Strickland Traill is a practical guide written in the early 19th century. The work serves as a comprehensive resource for female emigrants, detailing the challenges and responsibilities they will face in establishing a home amidst the wilderness of Canada. Through a blend of personal experience and observation, it addresses practical advice for managing a household, particularly for women who are essential to the comfort and order of settler families. The opening of the book introduces the author's intentions and the motivations behind her guide. Traill emphasizes the lack of adequate resources available for women planning to immigrate, particularly regarding domestic responsibilities and the realities of life in the Canadian wilderness. She reflects on the serious misrepresentation of what life in Canada entails, striving instead to provide honest insights into the arduous tasks of settling new land, managing household duties, and finding enjoyment in nature. Through her letters, she shares her journey from Greenock to Canada, offering vivid descriptions of her experiences aboard the brig Laurel and observations of the natural beauty she encounters, while also recognizing the challenges that await those who choose to leave their homeland for a new beginning.
North American Wild Flowers
"North American Wild Flowers" by Catharine Parr Strickland Traill is a scientific publication likely written in the mid-19th century. This work features beautifully painted and lithographed illustrations of various North American wildflowers, alongside detailed botanical descriptions and narratives highlighting their significance and beauty. The book aims to educate its readers about the diverse flora found across Canada and the Eastern United States. The opening of "North American Wild Flowers" introduces readers to a collection of illustrations paired with botanical descriptions of various wildflowers, including the Liver-Leaf, Bellwort, Wood Anemone, and Spring Beauty, among others. The author emphasizes not only the aesthetic qualities of these plants but also their importance within the natural world and their connection to human emotions and cultural narratives. She invokes poetic imagery and philosophical reflections on nature, urging a greater appreciation of the wildflowers that often go unnoticed in everyday life. Throughout the introduction, Traill expresses her passion for the natural beauty surrounding her and the educational purpose behind the collection of flowers presented.
Lost in the Backwoods: A Tale of the Canadian Forest
"Lost in the Backwoods: A Tale of the Canadian Forest" by Mrs. Traill is a romantic adventure novel written during the late 19th century. The story vividly captures the struggles and experiences of early settlers in the Canadian wilderness, particularly focusing on the lives of young characters, their friendships, and their connection to the natural world surrounding them. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces the setting of Cold Springs, a once desolate valley transformed by human settlement. The main characters, Duncan Maxwell and his wife, Catharine, are depicted alongside their children, who find themselves on an unexpected adventure that leads them into the depths of the surrounding wilderness. The opening chapters detail their early lives and interactions, highlighting Catharine's close relationship with her cousin Louis and brother Hector. As they venture into the forest for a seemingly innocent exploration, they soon become lost, facing the challenges posed by nature and their own youthful misconceptions, setting the stage for themes of resilience, companionship, and the journey back to safety.
The Tell-Tale: An Original Collection of Moral and Amusing Stories
"The Tell-Tale: An Original Collection of Moral and Amusing Stories" by Traill is a collection of children's short stories written in the early 19th century. The book presents a series of tales infused with moral lessons, intended to entertain and educate young readers. The stories feature various characters, including whimsical fairies and relatable children, exploring themes of behavior, kindness, and the consequences of one's actions. The opening of the book sets the stage with a scene featuring Mrs. Dormer, who is approached by her children for a story. This interaction reveals the children's eagerness for tales of wonder, which prompts Mrs. Dormer to narrate "Arphu, or the Fairy Kitten." The story introduces Arphu, a mischievous fairy prince who, despite his beautiful appearance, derives pleasure from tormenting harmless creatures. After being caught in an act of cruelty, Arphu is transformed into a kitten as punishment, leading him to experience the suffering he once inflicted on others. This transformation serves as a pivotal moment, and carries the moral that one should reflect on how their actions affect others, underscoring the collection’s intent to deliver valuable life lessons to its young audience.
In the Forest; Or, Pictures of Life and Scenery in the Woods of Canada: A Tale
"In the Forest; Or, Pictures of Life and Scenery in the Woods of Canada: A Tale" by Mrs. Traill is a children's fiction book written in the late 19th century. The narrative, rich with descriptions of forest life, explores the experiences of young Lady Mary, the Governor's daughter, as she engages with her environment and her pet flying squirrel, as well as learning about Canadian wildlife and indigenous culture through her conversations with her nurse, Mrs. Frazer. The opening of the tale introduces Lady Mary and her curiosity about nature, specifically focusing on her new pet, a flying squirrel. As she interacts with her nurse, they discuss various aspects of the animal's life, including its diet and the dangers in the wild, such as wolves and other predators. The text sets a whimsical tone, blending factual wildlife information with imaginative storytelling, allowing young readers to be enchanted by the beauty of the Canadian woods while learning about the creatures that inhabit them. The chapter hints at adventures to come, as Lady Mary prepares to learn more about her surroundings and her animal companion.
Lady Mary and Her Nurse; Or, A Peep into the Canadian Forest
"Lady Mary and Her Nurse; Or, A Peep into the Canadian Forest" by Mrs. Traill is a children's story written during the mid-19th century that encapsulates the flora and fauna of the Canadian wilderness through the eyes of its main character, Lady Mary. The narrative primarily revolves around Lady Mary and her interactions with her nurse as they explore the wonders of nature, focusing on animals such as the flying squirrel and other woodland creatures. The opening of the story introduces Lady Mary, the daughter of the Governor of Canada, who is enchanted by a flying squirrel her nurse has brought into the room. As they converse about this small creature and its lifestyle, the nurse educates Lady Mary on various aspects of life in the Canadian forest, including the food habits of beavers and the sights and sounds of the wilderness. The conversation flows into anecdotes about life in the woods, Indian villages, and the activities of various animals. This section sets a warm and educational tone, establishing a rich backdrop of natural beauty and wildlife in Canada, while also introducing themes of curiosity, innocence, and the bond between Lady Mary and her nurse.
Little Downy: The History of a Field-Mouse
"Little Downy: The History of a Field-Mouse" by Catharine Parr Strickland Traill is a moral tale aimed at children, written in the early 19th century. The book narrates the adventures and misadventures of a field mouse named Downy, emphasizing themes of prudence, industriousness, and the consequences of idleness and disobedience. It serves as an allegory for children to learn important life lessons through the experiences of its animal characters. The story begins with a young boy named Alfred whose cake is eaten by a mouse, leading to a discussion with his mother about cruelty toward animals. This segues into the tale of Downy, a field mouse who faces various challenges as she tries to find safety and food after her family is killed. As Downy navigates the dangers of her environment, including predators and traps, she learns the importance of hard work and caution. Eventually, she befriends a male mouse named Silket, but their life together becomes complicated as Silket's mischievous behavior leads to further troubles. In the end, Downy loses both her mate and her daughter Velvet, reinforcing the story's central message on the need for responsibility and care towards others.