Oscar; Or, The Boy Who Had His Own Way

by Walter Aimwell

"OSCAR; Or The Boy Who Had His Own Way" by Walter Aimwell is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story centers around Oscar, a headstrong boy who often gets his way due to his overindulgent upbringing, leading to various troubles and lessons about behavior and consequences. The book aims to provide moral lessons intertwined with the everyday life experiences of Oscar and those around him. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Oscar's mischievous nature through a scene in the kitchen where he annoys Bridget, the family’s servant, and his siblings. Oscar's antics include rummaging through the kitchen for pie, playfully harassing his younger brother George, and shooting peas at others. His mother's frustration with his behavior is evident when she chastises him for his lack of manners and increasing bad conduct. This opening sets the stage for Oscar's journey of self-discovery and the potential pitfalls of his irresponsible actions as the narrative unfolds.