Subject
Clerks -- Fiction Books
Best books
Joseph Conrad
An Outcast of the Islands
"An Outcast of the Islands" by Joseph Conrad is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the complex lives of its characters against the backdrop of colonial settings in the East Indies, focusing particularly on themes of identity, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The protagonist, Willems, is a conflicted character whose ambition and actions lead him to a precarious position on the fringes of society, suggesting a deeper commentary on colonial exploitation and personal downfall. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Willems, a man who struggles with his identity and morality. He initially views a misguided venture into dishonesty as a minor detour, believing he can easily return to his virtuous life. As he interacts with his wife Joanna and the Da Souza family, it becomes clear that his sense of superiority derived from his European status is shallow and ultimately fragile. In a critical scene, Willems experiences a dramatic confrontation with Joanna, revealing the tensions in their relationship that stem from his arrogance and neglect. The opening sets a tone of impending tragedy, establishing Willems as a man increasingly alienated from those around him and foreshadowing the chaotic moral landscape he must navigate.
Eden Phillpotts
From the Angle of Seventeen
"From the Angle of Seventeen" by Eden Phillpotts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the life of a young boy named Corkey Major, who is on the brink of adulthood. As he transitions from school to the world of work, the narrative explores his thoughts, ambitions, and the challenges he faces as he secures a clerkship at the Apollo Fire Office in London. The opening of the book introduces us to Corkey, who is summoned to the Doctor's study and learns that he must leave school for a job. Despite his heady ambitions and dreams of a bright future, he feels a mix of excitement and reluctance as he prepares for this new chapter in his life. He grapples with the mixture of pride in securing a clerkship and the sorrow of leaving behind the familiarity of school and friends. The narrative sets the stage for Corkey's journey through London, revealing the bustling city life and the many eccentric characters he encounters, highlighting his naiveté and the harsh realities of adulthood as he navigates this pivotal time in his life.
Edward Alden Jewell
The White Kami: A Novel
"The White Kami: A Novel" by Edward Alden Jewell is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story begins with Stella, a discontented young woman grappling with feelings of failure and longing for a more glamorous life. Through her interactions with family, including her practical sister Maud and their cheerful Aunt Alice, Stella's yearning for romance and excitement is established, setting the stage for her quest for fulfillment. The opening of the novel introduces Stella as she navigates her mundane life and explores her complex emotions towards her friend Elsa and her fiancé Jerome. While preparing for the day, Stella’s dissatisfaction becomes apparent, making her reminisce about an idealized version of life filled with romance and adventure. Her subsequent visit to Elsa, contrasted by the carefree lifestyle of her friend, merely amplifies her feelings of inadequacy. As the chapter unfolds, readers witness the stark reality of her existence juxtaposed with her extravagant aspirations, foreshadowing a pivotal turning point in her journey towards self-discovery and love.
Horatio Alger
Rufus and Rose; Or, The Fortunes of Rough and Ready
"Rufus and Rose; Or, The Fortunes of Rough and Ready" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. This work follows the adventures of Rufus, a resourceful and self-reliant boy who transitions from a newsboy in New York City to a young man working in Wall Street. The story highlights themes of perseverance, family loyalty, and the potential for personal growth amidst adversity, as Rufus also strives to protect his younger sister, Rose, from their neglectful stepfather. The opening of the book introduces Rufus on the brink of a new chapter in his life. After successfully recovering his sister Rose from their unfit stepfather, Rufus is preparing to start a job in Wall Street. The narrative establishes Rufus's character as both ambitious and protective, showcasing his determination to create a better life for himself and his sister. Other key characters, such as Miss Manning, who supports Rufus and Rose, and the looming presence of their abusive stepfather, shape their struggle, creating a contemplative reflection on the hardships faced by street children during that era. The opening sets the tone for a story grounded in resilience as Rufus embarks on his journey toward respectability and security.
Will Levington Comfort
Lot & Company
"Lot & Company" by Will Levington Comfort is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces a central character, Bellair, who navigates the complexities of life in New York City, grappling with his mundane job at a printing firm, Lot & Company, and his longing for adventure, as ignited by his fascination with a sailing ship, the "Jade of Adelaide". The book explores themes of personal significance versus societal expectations, as well as the yearning for a life filled with passion and depth. The opening of the story reveals Bellair's existential struggle amidst the monotonous backdrop of his daily life, which is starkly contrasted by his encounter with the "Jade". On a seemingly uneventful Sunday, he is stirred by a beautiful ship departing the harbor, sparking a deep longing for freedom and adventure. This moment catalyzes his introspection about his insignificance and the unfulfilled potential he feels, which has led him to view his life and relationships through a lens of quiet discontent. The narrative continues to shift between Bellair's internal experiences and his interactions with various characters within the Lot & Company establishment, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his desires and the moral quandaries of his work environment.
Marshall Saunders
Daisy
"Daisy" by Marshall Saunders is a children's story written during the early 20th century. The book explores the tender relationship between a young girl named Daisy and a troubled young man named Roland Robertson, highlighting themes of innocence, affection, and personal transformation. This engaging narrative illustrates how the pure heart of a child can influence and elevate the lives of those around her. The story unfolds in a boarding house, where Daisy, a neglected child, first encounters Roland, a lonely bank clerk who is struggling with his own inner demons. As their unlikely friendship develops, Daisy's innocent affection acts as a catalyst for change in Roland's life. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Daisy falls gravely ill, and it becomes a test of love and responsibility for both characters. Ultimately, Daisy's recovery not only brings joy and healing to her own life but also revitalizes Roland’s spirit, leading to mutual growth and a hopeful future for both. The tale concludes with their enduring bond, emphasizing how their lives are intertwined, and hints at a promising reunion as adults.
Harold Bindloss
Kit Musgrave's Luck
"Kit Musgrave's Luck" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the journey of Kit Musgrave, a young clerk from Liverpool, who embarks on an adventure to the Canary Islands and West Africa for work. As he navigates the complexities of his new environment and the characters he meets, Kit grapples with his aspirations for success, the challenges of adapting to a different culture, and his feelings for a girl back home. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of Kit's arrival in Las Palmas, revealing his initial disappointment with the perceived romanticism of the place versus the reality of its industrial backdrop. As Kit reflects on his life choices, including leaving behind his job and the girl he likes, Betty, his sense of duty and ambition propels him forward. The narrative introduces us to various characters who will shape his experiences, including Don Arturo and the spirited Spanish crew of the ship he will join. This beginning sets up a tale of personal growth, cultural clashes, and the unpredictability of fortune that will likely unfold throughout Kit's adventures in the new world he is entering.
Henry Irving Dodge
Skinner's Dress Suit
"Skinner's Dress Suit" by Henry Irving Dodge is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the central character, Skinner, a cashier at McLaughlin & Perkins, who is trapped in his mundane job and longs for a raise to accommodate his wife's aspirations. The narrative explores themes of self-esteem, ambition, and the transformative power of outward appearances, particularly highlighted by Skinner's apprehensions and dreams associated with his desire for a dress suit. The opening of the book introduces Skinner, affectionately dubbed the "cage man" by messenger boys, who is gripped by anxiety over asking his boss for a raise. Skinner's fears stem not from physical intimidation, but from his internal struggle and fear of failure, as he has always strived to be a hero in the eyes of his supportive wife, Honey. The narrative captures his reluctance and reflections on their modest savings, the sacrifices Honey has made, and the pressure he feels to prove himself. Ultimately, the stage is set for Skinner's journey as he steps out of his comfort zone, seeking validation and transformation through the lens of social status and material success, embodied by the coveted dress suit.
Emile Gaboriau
Les gens de bureau
"Les gens de bureau" by Émile Gaboriau is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces Romain Caldas, an aspiring civil servant who feels out of place in the bureaucratic system of the French administration, depicting the intricacies and absurdities of governmental employment. Through Romain's journey, the book explores themes of ambition, disillusionment, and the farcical elements of bureaucracy, ultimately questioning the integrity and meritocracy within the public sector. The opening of the novel establishes Romain Caldas as a character who is keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead in pursuing a position within the civil service, especially as he prepares for the daunting examination that determines employment. As he navigates the crowded examination hall, he contemplates the backgrounds and connections of his fellow candidates, grappling with the realization that merit alone may not secure him a position. The bureaucratic atmosphere is characterized by a mixture of anxiety and hope as Romain enters this world, painted vividly through Gaboriau's humorous yet critical lens. The early chapters lay the groundwork for Romain's subsequent trials and tribulations within the administrative landscape, as well as his relationships with various characters he encounters in this new environment.
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