Subject
British -- India -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Herbert Strang
One of Clive's Heroes: A Story of the Fight for India
"One of Clive's Heroes: A Story of the Fight for India" by Herbert Strang is an adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Robert Clive, a notable historical figure in Britain's colonial exploits in India, and focuses on a young character named Desmond Burke, who aspires to rise above his mundane existence on a farm and emulate Clive's remarkable life. The narrative combines historical events with fiction, aiming to entertain while also providing insights into the context of the period. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Desmond Burke, a young boy living in Market Drayton, who is enraptured by tales of Robert Clive's adventures in India. The proceedings are marked by a banquet held in honor of Clive’s return, where Desmond yearns to be a part of the excitement. His older brother, Richard, is domineering and critical, which further drives Desmond's dissatisfaction with his life. After a series of interactions, including Desmond's encounter with a mysterious stranger named Marmaduke Diggle, who speaks of the wonders of the East Indies, Desmond is determined to pursue an adventurous life, setting the stage for his journey. The opening chapters establish his longing for adventure and introduce the conflicts that propel him towards a decisive turn in his life.
Herbert Strang
The Air Patrol: A Story of the North-west Frontier
"The Air Patrol: A Story of the North-west Frontier" by Herbert Strang is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of Northern India, particularly exploring themes of adventure, military strategy, and the nascent use of aircraft in warfare. Central to the plot are the young Appleton brothers, Robert and Lawrence, who venture into the rugged mountains to join their adventurous uncle in his mining endeavors, ultimately becoming embroiled in the geopolitical intrigues and dangers of borderlands. At the start of the story, the Appleton brothers are traveling with Major Endicott, a political officer tasked with negotiating peace with a troublesome tribe. As they navigate the treacherous mountain terrain, they come across armed hill-men laying in ambush, which sets the stage for the unfolding action and tension. The narrative hints at the complexity of the region’s politics and the dynamics between the British, local tribes, and the looming threat of Russian expansion. The brothers’ journey not only involves physical challenges but also deepens their understanding of bravery and the complexities of leadership as they adapt to their dangerous surroundings.
Herbert Strang
The Old Man of the Mountain
"The Old Man of the Mountain" by Herbert Strang is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of young English tea-planters in Assam, India, who find themselves entangled in a mysterious and dangerous adventure after they encounter an injured man from the jungle who speaks of his captured companion. As they delve deeper into the wilderness, they face not only the challenges of nature but also the apprehensions surrounding supernatural elements suggested by local folklore. The opening of the book sets the stage for an intriguing expedition as three friends—Bob Jackson, Alan Mackenzie, and Dick Forrester—enjoy a meal near a stream in Assam, reminiscing about their time together as tea-planters. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of a fevered and delirious man who speaks of an imminent danger to his companion, Beresford, beckoning the planters to help him. This chance encounter sparks their courage and determination to venture into the unknown, prompting them to form a rescue plan. Through vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue, the story introduces a sense of urgency and mystery as the protagonists prepare to navigate treacherous terrain and unravel the secrets hidden in the jungle.
Sara Jeannette Duncan
The Story of Sonny Sahib
"The Story of Sonny Sahib" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a historical novel set during the late 19th century, exploring themes of identity, colonialism, and human connection against the backdrop of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The narrative introduces a diverse cast of characters surrounding young Sonny Sahib, an English child who finds himself orphaned amidst the chaos of conflict, and his care is taken over by his ayah, Tooni, and a servant named Abdul. At the start of the story, readers are thrust into a tense atmosphere as the doctor-sahib tends to the feverish memsahib, urging the ayah Tooni to prepare for an urgent departure via river to Allahabad. Amidst gunfire and chaos, the ayah's fears for both her mistress and the baby intertwine with memories of past violence, building a vivid image of their desperate reality. Tooni and Abdul ultimately adapt to their new roles as guardians, raising Sonny Sahib in a village, far removed from the original brutality, while grappling with their grief and loss. As Sonny grows, the inquiry into his origins begins, highlighting the complexities of belonging and cultural identity within colonial India.
G. E. (George Edward) Farrow
The Jungle Baby
"The Jungle Baby" by G. E. Farrow is a children's story written in the early 20th century. This charming tale revolves around a young boy named Bab-ba living in India, surrounded by a lush jungle filled with exotic creatures. The narrative centers on Bab-ba's innocent adventures and encounters with various animals, particularly highlighting themes of bravery, friendship, and the bond between humans and nature. In the story, Bab-ba, a little white boy with enchanting blue eyes, is raised by his Ayah and enjoys playing with his pets on the verandah of his home. One day, mischievous Hoodo, a wicked snake, lures Bab-ba into the jungle with promises of beautiful flowers. Throughout his journey, Bab-ba encounters a tiger, a wolf, and a bear, each of whom is initially intent on making him their meal. However, rather than being frightened, Bab-ba's sweet nature endears him to the animals, causing them to forget their predatory instincts. Eventually, his true friends, including his dog Wooff-Wooff, come to the rescue, leading to a triumphant reunion with Bab-ba, who learns about the kindness that can exist even among the wildest of creatures. Meanwhile, Hoodo's plot for revenge ends tragically, demonstrating the consequences of wickedness.
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