Subject
Betrothal -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston
The Little Colonel's Knight Comes Riding
"The Little Colonel's Knight Comes Riding" by Annie F. Johnston is a novel written in the early 20th century. This charming installment in the Little Colonel series follows the adventures of young Gay Melville, who has returned to Lloydsboro Valley for the summer. The story encapsulates themes of friendship, youthful romance, and the inviting atmosphere of a close-knit community. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to a June morning in Kentucky, where Alex Shelby, a medical student, is drawn into the woods by the smell of honeysuckle. He discovers that the charming Lindsey Cabin, which has been abandoned, now has new inhabitants. He is particularly taken by a girl named Gay, seen precariously climbing a ladder to hang a mirror. The narrative unfolds as Alex and his friends, including the spirited Lloyd and Kitty, rally to welcome the new residents while navigating their own budding romances and friendships, setting the stage for charming interactions and social engagements throughout the summer.
Margaret Vandercook
The Ranch Girls in Europe
"The Ranch Girls in Europe" by Margaret Vandercook is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of four young women, known as the Ranch girls, as they embark on an exciting journey to Europe, filled with adventure and mystery. The narrative begins with the girls facing an alarming situation when one of their companions, Frieda Ralston, goes missing shortly after they depart on their ocean voyage. At the start of the book, the Ranch girls are aboard the ocean liner Martha Washington, experiencing the thrill of their upcoming travel. However, the mood quickly shifts to concern when they realize that Frieda is nowhere to be found on the ship. Amid their growing panic and the support of a mysterious and elegant fellow passenger, Princess Beatrice Colonna, the girls search desperately for their lost friend. The opening sets the stage for the girls' character dynamics and introduces themes of friendship, adventure, and the trials of travel as they navigate both the excitement and anxieties of their European escapade.
Harriet Pyne Grove
Greycliff Heroines
"Greycliff Heroines" by Harriet Pyne Grove is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story appears to center around a group of young female characters, primarily focusing on Cathalina Van Buskirk and her friends, as they navigate their summer experiences and the initial days of their academic year at Greycliff. The narrative likely explores themes of friendship, coming-of-age, and the transition from childhood to adolescence within the context of their social lives and family dynamics. The opening of the book introduces Cathalina and her mother as they arrive at Bath, Maine, reuniting with friends after a summer at camp. The excitement of their arrival and the anticipation of reunions sets a lively tone for the story. As Cathalina interacts with her friends and prepares for upcoming social events, the narrative begins to examine her relationships, particularly with boys from camp, and hints at the budding romance and camaraderie that will shape their experiences at Greycliff. With charming interactions between characters and humorous moments punctuating their adventures, the initial chapters establish a warm, inviting atmosphere and suggest a delightful exploration of youthful exuberance and the challenges of navigating social dynamics.
Josephine Chase
Marjorie Dean Macy
"Marjorie Dean Macy" by Josephine Chase is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Marjorie Dean, a young woman navigating her post-graduate life, friendships, and romantic entanglements, particularly focusing on her relationship with Hal Macy as they express their hopes and dreams. Set against the backdrop of southern California's picturesque ranch, the narrative is likely to explore themes of love, ambition, and the challenges faced by young women in this time period. At the start of the novel, Marjorie is introduced in a lively and beautiful setting as she prepares for a riding adventure with her friend Veronica Lynne. Their playful banter showcases their close friendship, reflecting their happiness and excitement for the future, particularly as Marjorie is engaged to Hal. As they ride into the refreshing countryside, Marjorie contemplates her feelings about her upcoming marriage and the dynamics of her relationships with those around her. This opening sets a vibrant tone for the story, hinting at Marjorie's aspirations and internal struggles as she balances love and personal growth in a changing world.
Nell Speed
Molly Brown's Post-Graduate Days
"Molly Brown's Post-Graduate Days" by Nell Speed is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Molly Brown and her friend Judy Kean, who have just graduated from Wellington College and are heading to Molly's home in Kentucky for a visit. The narrative offers a glimpse into their lives, character relationships, and the different dynamics of family and friends as they navigate love, ambition, and the vibrant life in rural Kentucky. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Molly and Judy as they arrive home, filled with anticipation about their time together and the people they will encounter. Molly is nostalgic about her college days and fondly reminisces about her family, while Judy expresses excitement about meeting Molly's brothers. Their arrival sets the stage for a series of events, including family dynamics, wedding preparations for another sister, and the quirky interactions among family members and friends, ultimately painting a warm and engaging picture of Southern life in a post-graduate setting.
Mabell S. C. (Mabell Shippie Clarke) Smith
Ethel Morton at Rose House
"Ethel Morton at Rose House" by Mabell S. C. Smith is a juvenile fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Ethel Morton and her cousin, Ethel Blue, along with their friends, as they organize a Fresh Air project to care for mothers and children from New York City who need a respite in the country during the summer. Through their community efforts and engaging interactions, the young characters face challenges that allow them to learn valuable life lessons about empathy, cooperation, and the importance of service. The opening of the novel sets the scene during a May Day celebration in New Jersey, where the girls are involved in preparing games and activities for the younger children. As the United Service Club members gather to evaluate their community service efforts, Roger Morton, Ethel's cousin, proposes an ambitious plan to provide a summer retreat for needy families from the city, sparking enthusiasm among the group. The girls quickly brainstorm various ideas and discuss practical logistics, from decorating the old farmhouse provided by Roger's grandfather to recruiting a cook, all while weaving in camaraderie, friendly banter, and hints of romantic interest. This introduction showcases the characters' determination and teamwork, promising readers an uplifting tale of youthful idealism and community spirit.
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