Subject
Christian Science -- Fiction Books
Best books
Clara Louise Burnham
Jewel: A Chapter in Her Life
"Jewel: A Chapter in Her Life" by Clara Louise Burnham is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the life of a young girl named Jewel, who is introduced as she is brought to her grandfather's house after her father expresses a desire to have her stay while he and her mother travel abroad. The story unfolds in a setting that reflects familial dynamics, responsibilities, and the contrasting lives of different characters. The opening of the novel introduces us to 'Zekiel Forbes, the new coachman, and his mother, Mrs. Forbes, who discusses 'Zekiel's new job caring for horses and maintaining the estate of Mr. Evringham. As Mrs. Forbes shares her concerns about Mr. Evringham's past and his family, we learn of the arrival of Jewel, who is to be taken care of by her grandfather while her parents are away. Jewel's excitement about her new home and her interactions with various characters showcase her innocence and curiosity. The narrative sets the stage for exploring themes of family relationships, duty, and the evolving dynamics within the Evringham household.
Lilian Bell
Carolina Lee
"Carolina Lee" by Lilian Bell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces us to Carolina, an ardent young girl born in Paris to an American diplomat, who grapples with her identity as an expatriate while cherishing her Southern heritage. The narrative delves into her complex relationships, especially with her father, and explores themes of family legacy, cultural pride, and personal ambitions. The beginning of the novel paints a rich picture of Carolina's childhood and her yearning for connection with her Southern roots. Following her father's passionate tales, Carolina feels an intense desire to honor her lineage, particularly in regards to the family estate, Guildford. As she grows, her idyllic life is marred by the sudden loss of her parents, leaving her with a painful void and a yearning for the past. Amidst this turmoil, she grapples with her family's financial changes and the looming threat of losing Guildford, while a new and intriguing male character enters her life, adding a layer of complexity to her already tumultuous journey.
Georgie Sheldon
Katherine's Sheaves
"Katherine's Sheaves" by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story centers around Katherine Minturn, a new student entering Hilton Seminary, as she navigates the complexities of school life, friendships, and her beliefs as a Christian Scientist within a possibly unsympathetic environment. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Katherine as she arrives at the seminary. We witness her awkward yet determined arrival, her interaction with the gracious teacher Miss Reynolds, and her first glimpse of her classmates, who entertain various reactions to her presence. As she establishes herself in her new surroundings, Katherine must contend with her beliefs clashing with the principal's rigid views, particularly his disapproval of her Christian Science beliefs. This sets the stage for potential conflicts and character development as we move forward in the story, highlighting themes of faith, acceptance, and the struggles of maintaining personal beliefs amidst opposition.
Maude Mary Butler
A Soldier's Son
"A Soldier's Son" by Maude Mary Butler is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Carol, who is the son of a soldier killed in battle. The narrative explores themes of grief, healing, and the impact of Christian Science as Carol navigates his new life with his cousins after his father's death, all while facing his own health struggles and forming deep connections with those around him. The opening of the book introduces the aftermath of the war, depicting the emotional turmoil of a family awaiting the return of a beloved member while grappling with loss. Carol's transition from a life of illness and sorrow into one where he is cherished by his new family unfolds as he arrives at the Manor House. The early chapters highlight Carol's innocence, his desire to help others, and his pursuit of understanding his healing journey through Christian Science, setting the stage for further exploration of his interactions with both family and the wider community as he begins to forge his identity in this new environment.
William W. Walter
The Pastor's Son
"The Pastor's Son" by William W. Walter is a thought-provoking novel that seems to have been written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Walter, the sickly son of Rev. James A. Williams, as he grapples with deep theological questions about suffering, God's nature, and the reality of illness. The initial chapters hint at the family’s struggles with health, poverty, and the emotional turmoil that arises from Walter’s chronic condition, as well as the contrasting perspectives on faith held by the father and son. At the start of the book, the atmosphere is set on a Thanksgiving morning, with the family preparing for church, but the joyous occasion is overshadowed by Walter's illness and his existential doubts about God's plan and intentions regarding his suffering. Early interactions between Walter and his mother reveal the tensions in their understanding of faith, particularly regarding the nature of God and good versus evil. Walter’s struggle culminates in his discovery of a new perspective through the text "Science and Health," leading him to question longstanding beliefs and seek a more spiritual understanding of his illness, which presents a radical shift in the family's traditional Christian views. This opening sets the stage for an exploration of religion, healing, and the pursuit of truth, as Walter's journey may challenge and transform the faith of those he loves.
Helen Van-Anderson
The Right Knock A Story
"The Right Knock" by Helen Van-Anderson is a novel written in the late 19th century. This fiction work explores the spiritual and metaphysical themes of healing and personal growth through the experiences of its central character, Mrs. Hayden. The story delves into her life, encompassing her societal status, struggles with health issues, and the transformative journey she embarks upon after a devastating fire. The opening of the narrative sets the stage with a lavish party at Mrs. Hayden’s home, showcasing her prominence in society. Conversations among her guests reveal a critical perspective on her wealth and social standing while hinting at deeper personal struggles, including a lack of fulfillment. Following the disastrous fire, Mrs. Hayden faces a significant turning point in her life, leading her to explore Christian Healing and its implications. This exploration ignites a quest for true happiness and purpose, impacting not only her physical health but also her relationships with her family and friends as she begins to seek a more profound connection with herself and the world around her.
E. F. (Edward Frederic) Benson
The House of Defence v. 2
"The House of Defence" by E. F. Benson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative appears to explore complex themes of faith, skepticism, and personal struggle through its characters, particularly focusing on the character of Maud, who finds herself engaging in debates about Christian Science and its implications on life and death. Set against a backdrop of social gatherings, it hints at deeper emotional and psychological conflicts experienced by the characters involved. At the start of the novel, Maud is actively defending Christian Science against mockery at a social gathering, led by her ally, Alice Yardly. However, it becomes evident that Maud's own belief in its principles is shaky, as she recalls instances where she witnessed miraculous recoveries that she struggles to understand fully. This leads into deeper discussions about illness, healing, morality, and misunderstandings among friends, particularly focusing on the tension between how illness is perceived and treated within the context of faith versus medicine. The opening lays the groundwork for complex character dynamics, particularly between Maud, her brother Thurso, and her sister-in-law, Catherine, who are all grappling with the fallout of Thurso's drug addiction and the impact it has on their relationships as they navigate through their emotional turmoil.
E. F. (Edward Frederic) Benson
The House of Defence v. 1
"The House of Defence, Vol. 1" by E. F. Benson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative begins with a sense of urgency and concern as Lord Thurso and his sister, Lady Maud Raynham, arrive at their estate in Caithness to address a typhoid epidemic striking the nearby village. The story explores themes of family loyalty, duty, and the interplay between health and emotional well-being as the characters navigate their circumstances. At the start of the novel, Lady Maud waits for her brother to return from delivering aid to the villagers affected by the epidemic. The setting portrays a stark contrast between the tranquil yet exposed grandeur of their home and the grim reality of the healthcare crisis unfolding in the nearby village. As the narrative unfolds, we witness the siblings' dynamic, particularly how Maud's optimism serves to uplift her brother's spirits. The foundation is laid for interactions with other characters such as Bertie Cochrane, an American with compelling beliefs about healing that may challenge Maud's perspectives as the story progresses. The opening chapters establish an intimate portrait of Maud's inner world and set the stage for the exploration of themes of illness, responsibility, and the potential for healing.
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