Only a farm boy; or, Dan Hardy's rise in life

by Frank V. Webster

"Only a Farm Boy; or, Dan Hardy's Rise in Life" by Frank V. Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Dan Hardy, a hardworking farm boy struggling under the harsh and miserly conditions set by his employer, Mr. Savage. Despite his difficult circumstances, Dan possesses ambitions for a better life and is determined to educate himself, although he faces numerous obstacles along the way. At the start of the novel, we meet Dan Hardy as he toils on Mr. Savage's farm, where he endures constant criticism and excessive labor in exchange for basic necessities. The narrative introduces us to his challenging life, including his longing for his deceased mother and his aspirations for a more fulfilling future. The opening also hints at a mysterious stranger who shows interest in the local community, setting the stage for potential intrigue. As Dan grapples with the drudgeries of farm life, he encounters various situations, including a dangerous bull incident, that highlight both his resourcefulness and the trials he must navigate in pursuit of a brighter future.