Subject
Avarice -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
William P. (William Pendleton) Chipman
Budd Boyd's Triumph; or, The Boy-Firm of Fox Island
"Budd Boyd's Triumph; or, The Boy-Firm of Fox Island" by William P. Chipman is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the journey of a young boy named Budd Boyd as he seeks employment and navigates the challenges of farm life, eventually embarking on an entrepreneurial venture with a newfound friend, Judd Floyd. As Budd grapples with hardships and develops resilience, themes of friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of a better life are central to the narrative. The opening of the story sets a somber mood, describing a cold March day as Budd Boyd walks along a highway in search of work. He is a determined and strong young man, despite the challenges he faces, and the narrative explores his interactions with Mr. Benton, a strict and unkind farmer who hires him. Budd endures hard labor under Benton’s harsh conditions, reflecting on his troubled past while displaying a remarkable spirit of perseverance. Through his journey, including a significant accident and the arrival of his friend, the foundation is laid for Budd's transition from a life of labor to an enterprising venture as he and Judd explore the potential of starting their own business on Fox Island.
L. T. Meade
David's Little Lad
"David's Little Lad" by L.T. Meade is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Gwladys Morgan, a Welsh girl who feels stifled and trapped in her quiet, rural life at Tynycymmer. As the narrative unfolds, her longing for adventure and excitement takes a turn when complicated family dynamics begin to surface, revolving around her brother David, and her beloved but flawed brother Owen, who is returning home after a scandalous past. The opening portion introduces us to Gwladys as she reflects on her life and the men in her family. She feels burdened by a sense of monotony as well as a desire for a larger existence outside the confines of her home. The narrative shifts between her self-pity, the yearning for her brother Owen's return, and the revelation of his troubled past. As Gwladys dreams of adventure, she learns about the responsibility and flaws tied to her family's legacy, particularly concerning Owen's moral failings, setting the stage for her emotional growth and the trials ahead. This initial glimpse into her world highlights themes of familial love, aspirations, and the burdens of reputation, making it an inviting read for those intrigued by character-driven tales.
Mary Martha Sherwood
The Wishing Cap
"The Wishing Cap" by Mary Martha Sherwood is a children's moral tale written during the early 19th century. This book features a story about a wealthy lady and the five children in her care, exploring themes of faith, desire, and the search for true happiness. The likely topic of this book revolves around the importance of seeking God's blessings over material possessions. In the story, the lady introduces a playful "wishing-cap" to the children, inviting them to express their desires. While the other children eagerly make wishes for toys and dolls, Charles, an orphaned boy, declines to wish for anything material, instead valuing the love and blessings of God, as taught by his late parents. When the children receive their wished-for toys, their joy turns to chaos, leading to fights and tears, reinforcing that material possessions do not equate to happiness. In the end, as Charles grows gravely ill, he shares a profound insight on the comfort of divine love before passing away, leaving a lasting impact on the lady and the other children, prompting her to shift her focus towards seeking heavenly rather than earthly treasures.
Newton Crosland
The Young Lord, and Other Tales; to which is added Victorine Durocher
"The Young Lord, and Other Tales; to which is added Victorine Durocher" by Mrs. Newton Crosland and Mrs. Sherwood is a collection of moral tales written in the mid-19th century. The stories focus on themes of virtue, morality, and the consequences of one's choices, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and kindness. The protagonist of the first tale, "The Young Lord," is Charles Sidney, a selfish boy who inherits a title and wealth but struggles with the responsibilities that come with it. At the start of the collection, we are introduced to Charles Sidney, a young boy characterized by his avarice and selfishness, which deeply concerns his mother. Despite the death of his benevolent elder brother, Frank, and the subsequent inheritance that should uplift his spirits, Charles remains preoccupied with his own financial hoarding. The narrative then leads to a series of events, including the tragic deaths of relatives, which transform Charles into Lord Sereton, ultimately revealing his inner turmoil and introspection during a life-altering accident. As the story unfolds, themes of remorse and the possibility of redemption emerge, foreshadowing a moral reckoning for Charles. The opening sets the stage for a rich exploration of character and moral development throughout the collection.
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
The old Stanfield house : $b or, The sin of covetousness
"The Old Stanfield House; or, The Sin of Covetousness" by Lucy Ellen Guernsey is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Calista Stanfield, a young girl facing the challenges of her family legacy and the dynamics of her relationships, particularly with her Aunt Priscilla, who has inherited the estate after General Stanfield's death. The narrative explores themes of ambition, societal expectations, and the dichotomy of wealth and moral integrity. The opening portion of the novel introduces Calista as she stands at the gate of the dilapidated Stanfield house, reflecting on its neglected state and her own position within the family. As she grapples with feelings of abandonment and a desire for acceptance, we learn about her father Richard's troubled past and the stern authority of her Aunt Priscilla. Calista’s conversations reveal her longing for warmth and belonging, as well as her struggles with financial limitations that inhibit her aspirations. The groundwork is laid for a deeper exploration of her quest for identity, the influence of wealth, and the complexities of her familial relationships.
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
Lolla : $b or,The sin of greediness
"Lolla : or,The sin of greediness by Lucy Ellen Guernsey" is a didactic children's novella written in the mid- to late-1800s, likely during the Victorian era. The book follows the experiences of a young girl named Lolla who, due to delicate health and her parents' circumstances, is sent to live with her strict but caring Aunt Delight in Dorchester. The story explores the topic of greediness—particularly concerning a child's unhealthy obsession with food—and the moral and physical consequences it brings, all set against the backdrop of domestic life and gentle religious instruction. The story centers on Lolla's struggle with gluttony and deceit as she adapts to the structured, wholesome lifestyle of her aunt's household after a more indulgent upbringing. Lolla secretly consumes sweets and treats, develops health problems as a result, and ultimately falls dangerously ill after a bout of overeating and dishonesty. Throughout her recovery, aided by Aunt Delight and the compassionate Mr. Locke, Lolla is guided to reflect on her mistakes, confess her wrongdoing, and seek moral improvement not just in her habits but in her heart. The book intertwines Lolla's journey with the stories of other household members, such as Philly, a once-mistrusted servant girl who proves her integrity. By the end, Lolla matures into a disciplined, responsible, and faithful young woman, having learned the importance of self-control, honesty, and dependence on God's help to overcome her faults.
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