Subject
Apprentices -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles Dickens
Barnaby Rudge: A Tale of the Riots of 'Eighty
"Barnaby Rudge: A Tale of the Riots of 'Eighty" by Charles Dickens is a historical novel published in 1841. Set against the backdrop of London's violent Gordon Riots of 1780, the story weaves together forbidden romances, a decades-old murder mystery, and the simple-minded Barnaby Rudge with his pet raven. As anti-Catholic fervor ignites the city, families are torn apart and ordinary people are swept into mob violence. Churches burn, homes are destroyed, and innocent lives hang in the balance in this tale of social upheaval.
Charles Dickens
The Lazy Tour of Two Idle Apprentices
"The Lazy Tour of Two Idle Apprentices" by Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins is a humorous travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. The story follows two idle apprentices, Thomas Idle and Francis Goodchild, who escape their mundane lives for what they hope will be a carefree excursion. However, their journey quickly transforms into a comedic exploration of their contrasting personalities and views on idleness, which leads to a series of misadventures. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Idle and Goodchild as they abandon their responsibilities, longing for the simple pleasure of doing nothing. Their haphazard travel takes them from London to the northern English countryside, juxtaposing the idyllic rural landscape with their bumbling attempts at navigation and exploration. The characters are animated and engaging, with Goodchild often pushing Idle into ill-conceived plans that lead to humorous conflicts, particularly when their trip takes an unexpected turn in the rainy terrain of Cumberland, where they endeavor to climb the mountain Carrock. Their idleness and the absurdity of their situation set up a light-hearted but reflective commentary on the concept of leisure and purpose in life.
Horatio Alger
Bound to Rise; Or, Up the Ladder
"Bound to Rise; Or, Up the Ladder" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a classic novel written in the late 19th century that embodies the themes of striving for success and the pursuit of a better life. The story follows young Harry Walton, a determined boy who, despite his family's poverty, seeks to improve his circumstances through hard work and education. The novel captures the spirit of American optimism during that era, reflecting the belief that anyone can rise to achieve their dreams with perseverance and effort. At the start of the book, we meet the Walton family, deeply affected by financial struggles, particularly the loss of their only cow, which threatens their already tenuous livelihood. As the story introduces us to Harry, it highlights his caring nature and ambition, revealing his desire to help his family. After the cow's demise, Harry decides to leave home to seek work that can support his family financially, inspired by the life of Benjamin Franklin. This decision to strike out into the world sets the stage for his journey, filled with encounters that test his resolve and moral fortitude as he seeks to carve out a successful path for himself.
Charles Dickens
Barnabé Rudge, Tome II
"Barnabé Rudge, Tome II" by Charles Dickens is a historical novel published in 1841. Set against the violent Gordon Riots of 1780 London, this tale weaves together forbidden romances, long-buried murders, and religious upheaval. Young lovers face parental opposition while an innocent man named Barnaby wanders through escalating chaos with his pet raven. As anti-Catholic mobs ignite the city, mysterious strangers, family secrets, and brewing violence converge in a story of loyalty, betrayal, and survival during one of England's darkest periods.
Charles Dickens
Barnabé Rudge, Tome I
"Barnabé Rudge, Tome I" by Charles Dickens is a historical novel published in serial form from February to November 1841. Set against the violent Gordon Riots of 1780, the story weaves together forbidden romances, a decades-old unsolved murder, and a mysterious stranger who haunts the innocent Barnaby Rudge and his mother. As anti-Catholic tensions explode into mob violence, the fates of lovers, families, and enemies collide in this gripping tale of historical upheaval and personal drama.
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