Subject
Children with disabilities -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charlotte M. (Charlotte Mary) Yonge
Friarswood Post Office
"Friarswood Post Office" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story centers around the King family, particularly focusing on young Alfred King, who is bedridden due to illness, and his sister Ellen, who takes care of him. The narrative explores their struggles with family, health, and the complexities of life in a rural community, compounded by the arrival of a mysterious boy named Paul Blackthorn, who complicates their lives further. The opening portion of the novel sets the stage by introducing Alfred, a once-active boy now confined to bed, grappling with pain and longing for the simple joys of life he can no longer partake in. Ellen, caring and devoted, tries to distract him with stories and news from the outside world, even as they encounter a ragged tramper whose presence stirs unease among them. Their mother runs a small post office and is shown to be a pillar of support, providing a glimpse into the family's history and connections with the Selby family. The arrival of the new clergyman, Mr. Cope, adds another layer to their lives as he begins to interact with the family, particularly Alfred, who is desperate for companionship and understanding amidst his sufferings. The narrative deftly intertwines the lives of these characters, hinting at themes of compassion, societal judgment, and the innocence of youth against the backdrop of illness and recovery.
Roger D. Aycock
To Remember Charlie By
"To Remember Charlie By" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Joey, who is confined to a wheelchair and is grieving the loss of his one-eyed dog, Charlie. The narrative intertwines themes of faith, hope, and the extraordinary bond between a boy and his pet, ultimately suggesting that belief can alter reality in unforeseen ways. The plot unfolds in a trailer court where Joey waits in vain for Charlie, who has been hit by a car. As Joey mourns, he begins to exhibit strange abilities, claiming that he can move stars in the sky. His neighbor, Doc Shull, initially doubts these claims, attributing them to Joey's imagination and coping mechanism. However, as more stars seem to move in the heavens, the story blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural. Ultimately, through the emotional journey of the characters, Joey finds the strength and inspiration to get up from his wheelchair, symbolizing a profound transformation fueled by love and remembrance—a poignant testament to healing and the power of belief.
Elizabeth Stuart Phelps
Loveliness: A Story
"Loveliness: A Story" by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a poignant narrative penned in the late 19th century. This beautifully illustrated novella centers around the deep bond between a little girl named Adah and her beloved dog, Loveliness. It explores themes of love, loss, and the profound connection between humans and their pets, as experienced through the heart-wrenching circumstances they face. The story unfolds in a serene professor's household where Loveliness, a silver Yorkshire terrier, embodies both affection and intelligence. Adah, a fragile child, relies on Loveliness for comfort and companionship. When Loveliness goes missing, the household plunges into despair, reflecting the emotional ties that bind them. Phelps intricately portrays Adah’s heartbreak and gradual decline in health as she mourns for her canine companion. The narrative reaches a climax when Loveliness is discovered in the university’s medical school, having suffered indignities that test the professor’s moral fiber. Ultimately, the reunion between Adah and Loveliness serves as a testament to the healing power of love, illustrating how joy can triumph in the face of overwhelming grief.
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