Courage
 A story wherein every one comes to the conclusion that the Courage in question proved a courage worth having

by Ruth Ogden

"Courage" by Ruth Ogden is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a little girl named Courage Masterson who grapples with love, loss, and resilience as she navigates her early life. Orphaned at a young age, Courage finds herself cared for by a kind woman named Mary Duff, while her father, Hugh, attempts to mourn the death of his wife and raise their daughter. As the story unfolds, we see Courage's journey of growing up, marked by her unique name and the expectations it carries. At the start of the book, the narrative introduces Courage as a charming but neglected child, struggling to understand her unusual name. As she matures, she longs for connection and stability, particularly seeking out her friend Larry, who represents a father figure in her life. The opening chapters highlight key aspects of her life: her father's sorrow and commitment to work, her fondness for Larry, and the sudden loss of her father which further amplifies her solitude. Courage's unique character and experiences set the stage for her adventures and challenges ahead, instilling in her a profound sense of bravery that resonates throughout the story.