Subject
College students -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Edward Stratemeyer
The Rover Boys in Business; Or, The Search for the Missing Bonds
"The Rover Boys in Business; Or, The Search for the Missing Bonds" by Arthur M. Winfield is a novel from the early 20th century that is part of a series aimed at young readers. The narrative follows the Rover boys—Dick, Tom, and Sam—as they mature through various adventures and embark on a new journey to uncover the mystery behind some missing bonds that threaten their family's fortune. With themes of family, friendship, and youthful resilience, the story delves into the challenges faced by the brothers as they navigate both personal and business dilemmas. The opening of the story sets the tone by introducing the current situations of the main characters, particularly Dick who is now married and managing the family's business in New York, while Tom and Sam are at college. There is a sense of urgency when Dick sends a startling message to his brothers, summoning them to New York regarding the missing bonds. As Tom and Sam prepare to visit their brother, readers get a glimpse of their college life, camaraderie, and light-hearted moments even as they ponder serious family matters. Their suspenseful journey begins with an accident at a broken bridge, where they heroically rescue an unconscious young man from the river, foreshadowing the series of events that will unfold linked to the bonds and the mysteries surrounding their family's affairs.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell's Athletes; Or, The Boys Who Won
"Frank Merriwell's Athletes; Or, The Boys Who Won" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Frank Merriwell and his friends from Yale College, who embark on adventures filled with excitement and danger, as they traverse from New York to San Francisco. The narrative highlights themes of friendship, bravery, and the pursuit of justice as the boys find themselves in various predicaments, from witnessing a Chinese play to confronting shady figures trying to thwart them. The opening of the novel introduces Frank Merriwell and his companions as they arrive in Chinatown, where they are overwhelmed by the chaotic and noisy atmosphere of a Chinese theater. Their adventure takes a turn for the dramatic when they come to the aid of an old friend, Barney Mulloy, just as he faces an unexpected confrontation with a Chinaman in the theater. As tensions escalate, the group is thrust into a series of thrilling events, leading to a brawl and their escape into the streets. This initial chapter sets the stage for camaraderie among the friends and establishes Frank as a character determined to stand by his allies, laying the foundation for the adventures that follow in their quest to help their friend Inza, who is entangled in a dangerous situation with a lord intent on forcing a marriage.
Gordon Stables
From ploughshare to pulpit : $b A tale of the battle of life
"From Ploughshare to Pulpit: A Tale of the Battle of Life" by Gordon Stables is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story primarily follows Sandie M‘Crae, a determined ploughman-student, who aspires to become a clergyman while contending with the challenges of rural life and his own ambitions. The narrative explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the pastoral beauty of Scotland, illustrating Sandie's journey from his humble beginnings to the complexities of university life. The opening of the novel sets a vivid and serene scene in the Scottish Highlands, focusing on Mackenzie, the cheerful local minister, on a beautiful spring day. As he prepares to visit an ailing elder parishioner, readers get a glimpse of the idyllic setting filled with detail about the landscape, flora, and fauna. The atmosphere shifts dramatically as Mackenzie and his daughter Maggie May's lives are endangered by an uncontrollable pony, Larnie. The scene culminates in a heroic moment when Sandie M‘Crae intervenes to save them, establishing him as a central and noble character. This pointer introduces Sandie's aspirations and foreshadows the challenges he will face as he navigates life, love, and loyalty while nurturing his ambition of becoming a minister.
Edith K. (Edith Kellogg) Dunton
Betty Wales on the campus
"Betty Wales on the Campus" by Edith K. Dunton is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work follows the adventures and personal growth of Betty Wales as she navigates her college years at Harding College, its campus life, and her relationships with other students. The story combines elements of friendship, ambition, and exploration of responsibilities as Betty embarks on her journey in the context of academia and young adulthood. At the start of the story, Betty Wales is introduced as a vibrant character with a mix of domestic responsibilities and aspirations for her future. The opening chapter depicts a sunny day where she takes care of her family's home while also longing for the beach, showcasing her fun-loving nature. Betty’s interactions with her younger sister Dorothy and her friends build a warm atmosphere, hinting at her significant role among them. Shortly after, she receives an unexpected letter from the President of Harding College, inviting her to contribute her ideas for a new dormitory, Morton Hall, alongside the wealthy Mr. Morton. This development signifies the beginning of her journey to balance her personal ambitions with her considerable potential, setting the tone for the challenges and triumphs that will unfold throughout the narrative.
Hugh S. (Hugh Stuart) Fullerton
Jimmy Kirkland of the Cascade College Team
"Jimmy Kirkland of the Cascade College Team" by Hugh S. Fullerton is a sports fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around James "Larry" Kirkland, a young freshman navigating his new life at Cascade College, where he grapples with feelings of insignificance, rivalry, and the pursuit of athletic achievement on the baseball field. With a backdrop of camaraderie among students from various backgrounds, the narrative also delves into themes of personal growth and resilience. At the start of the novel, we meet Larry Kirkland, freshly enrolled at Cascade College, feeling both eager and isolated amid the joyful return of other students. As he observes the friendly reunions and engages with classmates, he tries to find his footing but is reminded of his unfamiliarity in this new environment. Larry's initial encounters highlight his athletic background and aspirations, yet he struggles with the looming presence of a rival, Harry Baldwin, who jeopardizes his standing. This opening effectively sets the stage for Larry's journey of self-discovery and redemption within the competitive, sometimes hostile atmosphere of college athletics.
Edith Bancroft
Jane Allen, Junior
"Jane Allen, Junior" by Edith Bancroft is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the character Jane Allen, a junior at Wellington College, exploring her relationships and challenges as she navigates school life with her friends, including Judith and Dozia. The story blends themes of friendship, personal growth, and the trials associated with college life, creating a vibrant picture of youthful exuberance and social dynamics. The beginning of the book unfolds on a warm September day as the students at Wellington College prepare for the new school year. Jane and her friends gather under a poplar tree, discussing the start of classes and their apprehensions about new arrivals, particularly a freshman named Shirley Duncan who seems destined to cause a stir. Amidst chatter about school duties and the antics of their peer group, Jane's friends notice something is off with her, hinting at a deeper conflict in Jane's mind. As the chapter progresses, a sense of camaraderie develops among the girls, setting the stage for various misadventures and interpersonal conflicts as they navigate their roles in college. The narrative hints at drama ahead, particularly with the arrival of new students and the potential implications of the scholarship Jane inadvertently associated with a girl from a different social stratum.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell's Alarm; Or, Doing His Best
"Frank Merriwell's Alarm; Or, Doing His Best" by Burt L. Standish is an adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows Frank Merriwell and his friends as they embark on a thrilling yet perilous journey, facing various challenges in a harsh desert environment. The narrative is centered around themes of bravery, camaraderie, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. The opening of the story introduces Frank and his companions as they navigate the American desert, grappling with extreme thirst and the physical toll of their journey. Initially optimistic, the boys experience a critical moment when a mirage of a lake triggers despair and conflict among them. Frank takes on a leadership role, demonstrating his determination to keep the group united and motivated. The tension escalates as he races to save his friend Jack from pursuing a non-existent lake, showcasing both the physical and psychological struggles they endure. Overall, the beginning sets up the high-stakes adventure that unfolds as they confront both internal squabbles and external dangers in their quest for survival.
Ralph Henry Barbour
Weatherby's Inning: A Story of College Life and Baseball
"Weatherby's Inning: A Story of College Life and Baseball" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Jack Weatherby, a freshman at Erskine College, who grapples with feelings of isolation and the stigma of being labeled a coward after failing to rescue a drowning boy. With themes of friendship, personal growth, and the spirit of competition in college baseball, the book promises to explore the personal challenges that arise in the formative years of young adulthood. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jack Weatherby, who faces a tumultuous emotional environment at Erskine College following a traumatic incident at the river. Overwhelmed by loneliness and struggling with a sense of alienation from his peers, Jack's journey is marked by introspection and a desire for acceptance. After being publicly accused of cowardice when he hesitated to act during the emergency, he decides to persist and try out for the college baseball team, seeking redemption. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for Jack's evolving relationships and highlight the contrasting personalities he encounters, setting the stage for his quest to prove himself both on and off the field.
Josephine Chase
Marjorie Dean, College Junior
"Marjorie Dean, College Junior" by Josephine Chase is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows Marjorie Dean and her friends as they return to Hamilton College, exploring themes of friendship, music, and the social dynamics of college life. The characters are college girls navigating their academic and social lives, emphasizing camaraderie and shared experiences. The opening of the novel sets a lively scene as Phyllis Moore and her choristers organize a serenade for Marjorie Dean and her friends, celebrating their return to college after summer vacation. Phyllis is depicted as an enthusiastic organizer, keen on maintaining the spirit of friendship among the group, while the girls discuss familiar faces and friendships, stirring nostalgia and excitement. They plan their serenade amidst chatter and laughter, showcasing the joy and bonds of their shared collegiate experience. As the serenade unfolds, it evokes a sense of harmony and warmth, indicating the strong connections within this group of young women.
Katharine Ellis Barrett
The Wide Awake Girls in Winsted
"The Wide Awake Girls in Winsted" by Katharine Ruth Ellis is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Catherine Smith, a young girl returning home from college for the summer, who is driven by a desire to contribute to her community in Winsted. The novel explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the importance of education as Catherine, motivated by her experiences and friendships, embarks on a mission to establish a library in her town with the help of her peers. At the start of the narrative, Catherine is introduced as a passionate and earnest character, eager to express her thoughts and feelings through writing, particularly a song for her college. While struggling with her inspiration, she interacts with a range of characters, including the ever-talking Algernon Swinburne and his mischievous younger brother, Elsmere. As the story unfolds, Catherine’s recollections of friendships from college lead her to the idea of bringing her friends together for the purpose of creating a library, setting the stage for a community-centered journey filled with cooperation and adventure. The opening not only establishes Catherine’s motivations but also hints at the coming themes of collaboration and self-discovery as she navigates her relationships and aspirations.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell at Yale; Or, Freshman Against Freshman
"Frank Merriwell at Yale; Or, Freshman Against Freshman" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story chronicles the adventures of Frank Merriwell, a freshman at Yale University, as he navigates the challenges of college life, rivalries, and friendships, particularly with his brash roommate Harry Rattleton. The narrative introduces themes of athletic competition and personal courage typical of fiction from this time, revealing a spirited college environment. The opening of the book sets the stage for Frank Merriwell's arrival at Yale and presents his initial challenges, including his successful admission after rigorous preparation with the help of his guardian, Professor Scotch. As he settles into college life and meets his more outgoing roommate Rattleton, he encounters aggressive confrontations from sophomores, especially from Jack Diamond, who feels wronged by Frank's earlier actions. The chapter builds tension as it leads to a looming duel between the two freshmen, showcasing college hazing traditions and the budding friendships that will shape Frank's experiences at Yale.
Nell Speed
Molly Brown's Junior Days
"Molly Brown's Junior Days" by Nell Speed is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work is part of a series focusing on the life of a spirited protagonist named Molly Brown, following her college adventures alongside her friends at Wellington College. The narrative highlights themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the challenges of transitioning from youth to adulthood amid academic and social pressures. The opening portion of the book introduces the chaotic arrival of students back at Wellington College, particularly focusing on Nance Oldham, who finds herself overwhelmed by the tumult of settling in. As she navigates her surroundings and encounters her diverse classmates, including her friend Otoyo Sen, Nance reflects on her fondness for the college and the excitement of the new academic year. The chapter sets the stage for the dynamics of friendship among the girls and hints at forthcoming challenges, including the treatment of a brash newcomer, Minerva Higgins, whose confidence may not align with the college's established social norms. This introduction establishes a lively college atmosphere filled with humorous interactions and the promise of growth and adventure for the characters involved.
Recently surfaced classics