Subject
Child abuse -- Fiction Books
Best books
Maria S. (Maria Susanna) Cummins
The Lamplighter
"The Lamplighter" by Maria S. Cummins is a novel published in 1854. This female coming-of-age story follows Gertrude Flint, an abandoned orphan rescued at age eight by a kind lamplighter from her abusive guardian. Raised with love and religious faith, Gertrude transforms from a mistreated child into a moralistic woman. Her journey of suffering and virtue ultimately leads to unexpected rewards in adulthood. An immediate bestseller, the novel sold over 40,000 copies in eight weeks and became a cultural phenomenon of its era.
Eleanor Gates
The Rich Little Poor Boy
"The Rich Little Poor Boy" by Eleanor Gates is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a ten-year-old boy named Johnnie Smith, who lives in a tenement and is under the care of harsh foster father Big Tom Barber. As Johnnie navigates the challenges of his difficult home life, he uses his imagination to escape into a world where he dreams of adventure and a brighter future. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to Johnnie's grim reality, marked by his oversized, tattered clothes and the oppressive presence of Big Tom, who issues commands and instills fear. Despite these conditions, Johnnie possesses a vibrant imagination, vividly visualizing a life of nobility and freedom. He shares a bond with his step-sister Cis, who provides some comfort as they communicate using a secret system due to Barber’s harsh nature. The opening sections establish Johnnie's character, his struggles, and his escapist tendencies, setting the stage for a tale about resilience, dreams, and the quest for kindness amidst adversity.
Maria S. (Maria Susanna) Cummins
Il lampionaio
"Il lampionaio" by Maria S. Cummins is a sentimental novel published in 1854. The story follows Gertrude Flint, an abandoned orphan rescued at age eight by Trueman Flint, a lamplighter, from her abusive guardian. Raised with love and taught virtues and religious faith, Gertrude grows into a moralistic woman whose long suffering is ultimately rewarded. An immediate bestseller, the novel sold over 40,000 copies in eight weeks and became one of the most popular works of its era.
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