Subject
Colorado -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
A. R. (Alfred Rochefort) Calhoun
Lost in the Cañon The Story of Sam Willett's Adventures on the Great Colorado of the West
"Lost in the Cañon" by A. R. Calhoun is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around young Sam Willett, his father Mr. Willett, and their companions as they navigate the treacherous landscapes and challenges of Southwestern Colorado while pursuing a life as miners. The narrative unfolds in a wilderness setting filled with adventure, danger, and the struggle for survival, highlighting themes of camaraderie and resilience. The opening of the novel introduces Sam Willett and his companions, including the young Ute boy Ulna and the stout black boy Ike, as they hunt in the unforgiving terrain in search of food. After successfully capturing a bighorn sheep, they make their way back to their camp known as Gold Cave Camp, where Mr. Willett awaits. The father-son duo, along with their diverse group of friends, face not only the challenges of the wild but also interpersonal conflicts, as hinted by tensions surrounding a recent murder that entwines them with the local mining community in Hurley’s Gulch. Through rich descriptions and engaging dialogue, the stage is set for a coming adventure filled with peril and moral dilemmas as they navigate their harsh realities.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell's brother : $b Or, The greatest triumph of all
"Frank Merriwell's Brother: Or, The Greatest Triumph of All" by Burt L. Standish is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Frank Merriwell and his college experiences at Yale, where he enjoys immense popularity and success. The narrative encompasses themes of friendship, rivalry, and the pursuit of honor, highlighting Frank's journey as he prepares to graduate and confront various challenges. The opening of the book presents a lively and humorous scene as Frank Merriwell enters his room to a joyful and chaotic reception from his friends celebrating his achievements. Among the group are familiar characters from his college days, each expressing delight and camaraderie. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, banter, and a sense of nostalgia as Frank reflects on his time at Yale. However, this joyful moment is juxtaposed with an underlying tension introduced by the mention of a mysterious message, which prompts questions about loyalty and rivalry, especially considering the presence of characters like Roland Packard, who harbors darker intentions. The setting establishes a contrast between Frank's triumphs and the challenges that lie ahead, setting the stage for a mix of lighthearted adventure and serious conflict in the chapters to follow.
H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
The Young Engineers in Colorado; Or, At Railroad Building in Earnest
"The Young Engineers in Colorado; Or, At Railroad Building in Earnest" by H. Irving Hancock is a fictional work likely written during the late 19th century. The book follows young engineers Tom Reade and Harry Hazelton as they embark on their first major project in the Colorado wilderness, encountering challenges both professional and personal as they strive to establish their careers in civil engineering. At the start of the story, Tom and Harry arrive at a mountainous camp to join the S.B. & L. Railroad project. Their initial encounters reveal a mix of excitement and trepidation, particularly when they meet the ominously-named "Bad Pete" and realize the rugged reality of the West is not quite like the romantic tales they imagined. The opening chapters establish their background as schoolboy athletes turned aspiring engineers, their hopes and fears, and introduce the harsh environment of their new work camp, where they must prove themselves amidst tension with local characters and the stakes of railroad construction.
Evelyn Raymond
Dorothy on a Ranch
"Dorothy on a Ranch" by Evelyn Raymond is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Dorothy and her adventures as she embarks on a trip to a Colorado ranch with her friends, Alfaretta and Leslie. The narrative unfolds with themes of friendship, discovery, and the experiences of young people navigating the challenges of travel and personal growth in a vibrant western setting. At the start of the book, Dorothy is traveling aboard the private railroad car of Mr. Dan Ford to his family ranch. She is filled with excitement and a tinge of sadness about leaving her beloved Aunt Betty, who has opted to return home instead of joining her on this adventure. The opening scene is light-hearted, featuring humorous exchanges among the young characters as they pack their belongings and reflect on the journey. During their trip, they are introduced to the idea of ranch life, cowboys, and the conundrums that come with travel—filled with both joy and misadventure—setting the stage for the unfolding narrative. Dorothy's sweet but conflicted emotions about her friendship with her host's family and her upcoming summer at the ranch are evident, establishing emotional stakes that promise a rich exploration of her character development throughout the story.
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Polly of Pebbly Pit
"Polly of Pebbly Pit" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story centers around a young girl named Polly Brewster who lives on a ranch in the unique setting of an extinct volcanic crater in Colorado, known as Pebbly Pit. With her affinity for animals and her strong connection to nature, Polly navigates the interplay of family life, friendships, and the anticipation of new experiences as her family prepares for the arrival of visitors from the city. The opening of the book introduces readers to Polly and her loving relationship with her pet burro, Noddy, who experiences a life-threatening accident. As Polly tends to Noddy's recovery, we learn about her family's simple yet fulfilling life on the farm and meet her father, Sam Brewster, who is a devoted rancher. The narrative swiftly shifts focus with the arrival of a letter from Denver, hinting at the impending visit of city girls, Eleanor and Barbara Maynard, along with their tutor, Anne Stewart. This sets the stage for an exploration of contrasts between rural and urban lifestyles and the adjustments Polly and her family must make with their distinguished guests.
Margaret Penrose
Dorothy Dale in the West
"Dorothy Dale in the West" by Margaret Penrose is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. This installment in the Dorothy Dale series embarks on an adventurous journey with the main character, Dorothy Dale, and her friend Tavia Travers, as they venture westward to Colorado after receiving a surprise inheritance of a vast ranch estate. The story gives a glimpse into the lives of these spirited young women and the exciting escapades that await them. The opening pages introduce us to Dorothy and Tavia as they discuss an intriguing surprise from Aunt Winnie, building a sense of anticipation. As they enjoy a leisurely walk, their encounter with a mysterious man in a black hat adds an element of suspense. They soon learn that they will be traveling west, which promises adventure and potential mischief. As preparations for the trip unfold, the girls find themselves in a series of amusing conversations about boys and their future, establishing the light-hearted tone of the narrative. The beginning sets the stage for adventure, friendship, and exploration of the unknown as they embark on their journey.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell's New Comedian; Or, The Rise of a Star
"Frank Merriwell's New Comedian; Or, The Rise of a Star" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the trials and tribulations of Frank Merriwell, a determined playwright and actor who faces the downfall of his latest production due to poor reception and sabotage. As he grapples with disappointment, he draws on his unwavering resolve and optimism, determined to revive his career and succeed against adversity. At the start of this engaging novel, Frank Merriwell awakens in Pueblo, Colorado, feeling the weight of failure after his new play, "For Old Eli," flops drastically on its opening night. He reflects on the events that led to the disastrous performance, including meddling from jealous rivals and his own self-doubt. His old friend Bart Hodge enters the scene, further highlighting Merriwell's struggles with setbacks. The plot thickens as he receives a letter exposing an enemy's treachery and the loss of his backer. However, fortune turns in Merriwell's favor when he receives unexpected news about a treasure he’d deposited, leading to newfound hope and the potential to make a compelling comeback in the theater world.
Sidford F. (Sidford Frederick) Hamp
The Boys of Crawford's Basin The Story of a Mountain Ranch in the Early Days of Colorado
"The Boys of Crawford's Basin" by Sidford F. Hamp is a historical adventure novel set in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the lives of two boys, Phil and Joe, as they navigate ranch life and face various challenges in the rugged landscape of early Colorado. Through their adventures, they encounter local wildlife, engage in prospecting, and develop their character in a frontier environment. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Phil and Joe as they wake to the alarming news that Big Reuben, a notorious grizzly bear, is raiding their pig-pen. The boys quickly join their father in an adventure to ward off the bear, showcasing their bravery and quick thinking. The opening chapters establish the friendly camaraderie between Phil and Joe, hinting at their teamwork and resilience as they deal with threats to their ranch. Additionally, we learn about their aspirations and everyday life, which includes work on the ranch and interactions with their communities, setting the stage for further adventures throughout their journey.
Eva Wilder Brodhead
A Prairie Infanta
"A Prairie Infanta" by Eva Wilder Brodhead is a novel written in the early 20th century that revolves around the life of a Mexican-American girl named Lola and her complicated relationship with her guardian, Jane Combs. The story unfolds in a Colorado mining town and explores themes of identity, cultural conflict, and maternal bonds as it follows Lola in her journey from childhood grief following her mother's death to navigating her father's return and the expectations that come with it. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jane Combs, a rugged and independent woman who lives on a small plot of land. The narrative begins with her observation of the town and a sense of community tension—particularly with her neighbor, Señora Vigil, who harbors resentment due to a land dispute. The pivotal moment arrives when Jane learns from the town doctor about a sick woman in a wagon who has passed away, leaving behind her young daughter, Lola. Jane is then thrust into the role of caretaker for Lola. Throughout the opening chapter, Jane's inner thoughts reveal her uncertainty about motherhood, while Lola's reactions to the loss and her father's inadequacies set the tone for the emotional intricacies that will unfold as the story progresses. The stage is set for a deep exploration of love, sacrifice, and the challenges of nurturing a child in a harsh world.
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