Subject
Abandoned children -- Juvenile fiction Books
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Anonymous
The Mysterious Basket; or, The Foundling. A Story for Boys and Girls
"The Mysterious Basket; or, The Foundling. A Story for Boys and Girls" by Anonymous is a fictional narrative likely written in the late 19th century. This tale appears to follow the journey of Christlieb Fundus, a foundling discovered in a mysterious basket, as he navigates life through various adventures after being abandoned. The opening chapters introduce various characters and settings, hinting at themes of kindness, transformation, and the struggles of upbringing. At the start of the story, we find Hicup, a cranky innkeeper, lamenting the lack of customers at his establishment while overhearing merriment from the rival inn. His interaction with a mysterious woman seeking shelter sparks a series of events that lead to the shocking discovery of twin children in the woman's basket. The opening chapters set the stage for misunderstandings and comic relief, as characters like the skeptical landlord and the compassionate landlady deal with the unexpected arrival of the foundlings, ultimately leading to Christlieb’s adoption. Through his new foster father, Kummas, the narrative hints at deeper journeys of personal growth and the quest for belonging, laying the groundwork for Christlieb’s future challenges and triumphs.
Olga Eschenbach
Molly and Kitty, or Peasant Life in Ireland; with Other Tales
"Molly and Kitty, or Peasant Life in Ireland; with Other Tales" by Olga Eschenbach et al. is a collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. The opening tale, "Molly and Kitty," introduces readers to the harsh realities of peasant life in Ireland through the plight of two sisters, Molly and Kitty, who endure severe poverty and familial struggles. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of social injustice and personal sacrifice, exploring themes of love, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of humanity amid despair. At the start of the tale, the setting is described as desolate, highlighting the miserable conditions of the hovels where the impoverished Irish live. The primary focus is on Molly, a young maiden who takes care of her blind sister, Kitty, as they face the trauma of hunger and the absence of their father. Their father's return becomes a source of anxiety for Molly, suggesting that his presence might herald change or impending misfortune. Ultimately, Molly embodies strength and hope, steadfast in her love for her sister even as they both are confronted with the relentless hardships of their lives. As the story develops, it becomes clear that their survival is intricately tied to themes of family bonds, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit against overwhelming odds.
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Polly in New York
"Polly in New York" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. This story follows the adventures of Polly Brewster, a young girl who has left her rural Colorado home for the bustling city life in New York. The narrative captures her impressions as she navigates this new urban environment, with her friends Eleanor and Anne, and introduces themes of adaptation and friendship. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Polly's first journey away from home, expressing her awe and trepidation as she travels by train, observes the busy streets of Chicago, and finally arrives in New York City. Polly's personality emerges as curious and outspoken, providing humorous observations about the city and its inhabitants, particularly as she attempts to adjust her expectations to the realities of urban life. The beginning depicts her excitement mixed with candid critiques of city life, setting a rich backdrop for her adventures to come in the big city.
Carroll Watson Rankin
The Adopting of Rosa Marie (A Sequel to Dandelion Cottage)
"The Adopting of Rosa Marie" by Carroll Watson Rankin is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. This charming sequel to "Dandelion Cottage" features four young girls—Jean Mapes, Marjory Vale, Mabel Bennett, and little Bettie Tucker—who establish a close friendship while playing in their beloved cottage. Their summer adventures take an exciting turn when they decide to care for a little Indian girl named Rosa Marie, navigating the trials of childhood imagination, responsibility, and unexpected challenges. The opening of the story introduces the four friends as they relish their carefree days at Dandelion Cottage, where they play games like "Mother" and deal with the humorous trials of borrowing babies from their neighbors. Mabel's initiative to bring home Rosa Marie, a foundling girl, sets the stage for a series of heartfelt adventures filled with laughter, mischief, and the occasional chaos typical of childhood. However, Mabel soon realizes the challenge of keeping Rosa Marie's presence a secret from the adults, leading to dilemmas that explore themes of belonging, friendship, and the innocence of youth.
Anonymous
The hermit of the forest : $b or, Wandering infants, a rural tale
"The Hermit of the Forest: Or, Wandering Infants, A Rural Tale" by Anonymous is a rural tale written in the early 19th century. This book tells the story of a hermit named Honestus who retreats into the forest after suffering devastating losses, including his family and livelihood, due to foreign invaders. The narrative centers around themes of solitude, resilience, and the innocence of childhood, contrasting the harshness of the outside world with the tenderness of familial bonds. In this poignant story, Honestus lives a reclusive life in the forest, finding solace in nature and the company of animals, until he discovers two abandoned children. Taking them in, he raises them with love, nurturing their innocence and teaching them virtues. As the story unfolds, the children's true identity is revealed, leading to a reunion with their father, Mr. Simpson, who had been searching for them. Eventually, Honestus is reunited with his own long-lost daughters, bringing a bittersweet resolution to the tale as he transitions from isolation back into the community, highlighting the profound effects of loss and the joy of reunion.
Ouida
Bébée; Or, Two Little Wooden Shoes
"Bébée; Or, Two Little Wooden Shoes" by Ouida is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story follows a young girl named Bébée, who has grown up in the Belgian countryside under the care of Antoine Mäes, a humble flower seller. As she reaches her sixteenth birthday, Bébée reflects on her life, the joy of flowers, and the painful loss of Antoine, her father figure. The narrative is steeped in themes of innocence, the simplicity of rural life, and the struggles of a girl coming of age in a harsh world. The opening of the novel introduces Bébée as she wakes up to the sounds of nature, delighted to be sixteen and considered a woman. It depicts her beauty and connection to the flowers she tends to, emphasizing how the natural world has been her nurture. Following the death of Antoine, Bébée grapples with the loneliness of being orphaned and the desire for independence, despite the well-meaning but opportunistic advances of her neighbors. Through her interactions, we see Bébée's innocence challenged as she strives to honor Antoine's memory by taking care of their garden, setting the stage for her development amid the complexities of adult life and societal expectations.
L. T. Meade
Outcast Robin : $b or, Your brother and mine : a cry from the great city
"Outcast Robin: or, Your Brother and Mine: A Cry from the Great City" by L.T. Meade is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story presents a poignant portrayal of poverty and child neglect in urban settings, emphasizing societal failures and the dire consequences for innocent lives. Central to the narrative is Robin, a baby born into a chaotic and impoverished family, whose early life is marked by the absence of nurturing parental care. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Timbs family in Blind Alley, London. The bleak circumstances of Robin's birth are revealed alongside his dying mother’s final wishes for her children. Immediately after her death, Robin is handed off, ultimately ending up in a workhouse after being abandoned by his alcoholic father. The opening sets a deeply emotional tone, vividly illustrating the harsh realities faced by the family as they struggle against adversity, thus foreshadowing Robin's tumultuous journey through childhood in a world rife with neglect and hardship.
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