Frank R. Stockton
Rudder Grange
"Rudder Grange" by Frank R. Stockton is a humorous novel written in the late 19th century that explores domestic life through the experiences of a newly married couple, Euphemia and her husband. The story centers on their quest to leave behind boarding house life and establish a home of their own, leading them to unconventional choices and amusing challenges along the way. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to Euphemia and her husband as they struggle to find a suitable house after their marriage. Disillusioned with boarding, they consider various rental options but face high prices and unsuitable accommodations. This leads them to the idea of living in a canal-boat, inspired by a visit with an oyster man who has made a comfortable life aboard his vessel. After securing an old canal-boat and setting it up as a home, they encounter further challenges, including their boarder, who complicates their domestic tranquility with unexpected suggestions. The narrative combines wit and observational comedy, setting the tone for the couple's misadventures in household management and the pursuit of happiness in their unique living situation.