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Cruelty -- Juvenile fiction Books
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Cinderella : $b or, The little glass slipper
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G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
At Agincourt
"At Agincourt" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The story centers around the backdrop of the long-standing feud between the houses of Orleans and Burgundy in France, particularly focusing on the events leading up to the famous Battle of Agincourt. The narrative seems to highlight characters such as Sir Eustace de Villeroy and his son Guy, who are drawn into this turbulent conflict, navigating themes of loyalty, warfare, and the complexities of medieval life. The opening of the novel introduces us to the tensions brewing in France as Sir Eustace prepares to take his family to their estate across the channel. We meet various characters, including Guy, a young warrior-in-training, who is filled with ambition and eager to prove himself in battle. The narrative provides a rich historical context, outlining the personalities and incidents that contribute to the looming conflict between the opposing factions. As preparations unfold for a potential confrontation with French forces, the stage is set for both internal and external conflicts, establishing an engaging atmosphere steeped in the realities of feudal power struggles and the impending violence of battle.
Kirk Munroe
Through Swamp and Glade: A Tale of the Seminole War
"Through Swamp and Glade: A Tale of the Seminole War" by Kirk Munroe is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the Seminole War, specifically focusing on the character Coacoochee, a young Seminole leader, who is caught between his people's struggle for survival and the encroaching dangers from white settlers and slave catchers. The story interweaves themes of friendship, betrayal, and the fight against oppression within the context of a tumultuous time in American history. At the start of the novel, the setting is vividly described as Florida's wilderness, where Coacoochee mourns his deceased twin sister, Allala. As he contemplates her spirit guiding him, he encounters Nita Pacheco, the daughter of a neighboring planter. The opening chapters introduce us to the oppressive circumstances facing the Seminoles following their forced removal by white settlers and the treachery embodied by slave traders like Troup Jeffers. The young Indian's path is haunted by the threat of violence as he grapples with changing alliances and the looming impact of the white man’s ambition on both his life and that of his friend Louis Pacheco.
Abby Morton Diaz
The cats' Arabian nights, or, King Grimalkum
"The Cats' Arabian Nights, or, King Grimalkum" by Abby Morton Diaz is a fictional tale written in the late 19th century. The book narrates whimsical stories centered on a feline kingdom ruled by King Grimalkum, exploring themes of cruelty and kindness among cats, featuring main characters such as Pussyanita and her great ancestor, Pinky-White. It promises a blend of humor and moral lessons through a series of enchanting feline adventures. The opening of the story introduces a playful setting where children and adults are engaged in sharing cat tales, leading to a suggestion to create a "Cats' Arabian Nights" compilation. This concept becomes the premise for the literary work, with Pussyanita, a charming cat faced with King Grimalkum’s cruel decree regarding acceptable cat colors, setting the stage for a series of interwoven stories. In this beginning, Pussyanita hints at the backstory of her ancestor Pinky-White, promising to narrate how she transitioned from unhappiness to joy while navigating the complexities of their cat society. The dialogues offer a humorous yet poignant peek into the feline world and its characters, foreshadowing a delightful journey through different cat tales.
Edith Carrington
Poor Blossom: The Story of a Horse
"Poor Blossom: The Story of a Horse" by Edith Carrington is a fictional account written in the late 19th century. The story is narrated from the perspective of Blossom, a horse, and chronicles his life journey from his early days in a kind farm setting to his varied experiences under different masters in urban life. The story explores themes of kindness, cruelty, and the struggle of the horse as a sentient creature within human society. At the start of the tale, Blossom reminisces about his idyllic beginnings on a farm where he learned valuable lessons from his mother about the human-animal relationship. The narrative shifts as he learns about the complexities of life with humans, including the cruelty of their kind. We are introduced to other horses, like Rip, providing a glimpse into their dynamics and aspirations. Blossom’s early innocent play transitions into a realization of his future labor and subservience as he prepares to be broken in for service. This opening sets the stage for Blossom's subsequent trials, creating a poignant contrast between his naive youth and the harsh realities of life as a working horse in society.
Upton Sinclair
The Cruise of the Training Ship; Or, Clif Faraday's Pluck
"The Cruise of the Training Ship; Or, Clif Faraday's Pluck" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Clif Faraday, a young naval cadet, who faces challenges and rivalries during his training cruise on the practice ship "Monongahela". The narrative explores themes of camaraderie, courage, and the trials of growing up, set against the backdrop of naval academy life. The opening portion of the narrative introduces readers to the environment of the "Monongahela", where the dangerous mock hazing culture is prevalent among the older cadets. Clif learns that his younger classmate, Nanny Gote, is being targeted for hazing by the more senior cadets. Rather than standing by, Clif prepares to intervene and protect Nanny, showcasing his willingness to stand up against bullying and defend his friends. The scene sets a tone of adventure and camaraderie among the plebes, hinting at the conflicts and camaraderie that will be explored throughout their training and experiences at sea.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
In the Hands of the Cave-Dwellers
"In the Hands of the Cave-Dwellers" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows William Harland, a young sailor who becomes embroiled in adventures in early Californian territories during the early 1830s, as he encounters and befriends Juan Sarasta, a young Mexican nobleman. As the narrative unfolds, tensions mount with the threat of Indian raids, weaving themes of bravery, friendship, and danger throughout. The opening of the book introduces us to young William Harland, who has recently deserted his ship and finds himself in San Diego. After a chance encounter in which he saves Juan Sarasta from a group of attackers, the two form an immediate friendship. Juan, although grateful, has his own troubles involving a rival suitor who seems intent on harming him. As they navigate their way through San Diego and beyond, they form plans for Juan's visit to his wealthy father’s ranch, while ominous hints of conflict and adventure loom ahead with Indian tribes known for their volatility. The initial chapters establish a rich historical context, character development, and set the stage for future conflicts involving both human antagonists and the wilderness itself.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
A Roving Commission; Or, Through the Black Insurrection at Hayti
"A Roving Commission; Or, Through the Black Insurrection at Hayti" by G. A. Henty is a historical adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Haitian Revolution, focusing on the impact of the insurrection on both the enslaved population and the colonists. The protagonist, Nat Glover, is a young midshipman whose journey leads him from the British naval vessel "Orpheus" to the heart of the conflict in Haiti. At the start of the novel, the preface sets a grim tone, detailing the atrocities committed during the insurrection and contrasting them with the relative conditions under French colonial rule. The chapter opens with Nat Glover's reluctance towards his given name and introduces his camaraderie aboard the ship. He goes ashore at Cape François, where he quickly finds himself in a dangerous situation, saving a young girl from a bloodhound. This act of bravery injures him, leading to a significant turn in his adventures, as he meets other characters and becomes entwined in the conflicts of the region. This opening establishes not only the setting and context but also hints at themes of bravery, conflict, and the personal struggles Nat will face as he navigates through the chaos of revolution.
Anonymous
The Popular Story of Blue Beard Embellished with neat Engravings
"The Popular Story of Blue Beard" by Anonymous and Charles Perrault is a French folktale first published in 1697. A wealthy nobleman with a dark secret proposes marriage to his neighbor's daughter. Despite her family's terror, she accepts and moves into his luxurious palace. When he departs on a journey, he grants her access to every room except one forbidden chamber. Overcome by curiosity, she enters—and discovers a horrifying truth about her husband's previous wives. Now she must escape his murderous wrath before becoming his next victim.
Horatio Alger
Mark Mason's Victory
"Mark Mason's Victory" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Mark Mason, a young telegraph boy who navigates the challenges of urban life in New York City. The narrative focuses on themes of perseverance and ambition as Mark interacts with characters from various social strata, including his wealthy relatives and his impoverished mother and sister. The opening of the story introduces Mark Mason, who has recently encountered his wealthy cousin Edgar Talbot and Edgar's father, Solon Talbot. In a City Hall park interaction, Mark meets a bootblack named Tom Trotter and discusses familial ties with Edgar, revealing a family dynamic that showcases the vast gap between wealth and poverty. Mark's humble life is contrasted with Edgar's snobbish demeanor, and foreshadowing hints at Mark's aspirations to rise above his circumstances. Additionally, the financial struggles of Mark’s family are depicted, with his mother lamenting the meager inheritance from her father’s estate, hinting at potential conflict regarding the handling of his grandfather's estate. This initial chapter sets the stage for Mark's journey towards success and the challenges he will likely face.
Oliver Optic
Down the River; Or, Buck Bradford and His Tyrants
"Down the River; Or, Buck Bradford and His Tyrants" by Oliver Optic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Buck Bradford, a young boy who faces ongoing cruelty and tyrannical treatment from those around him, particularly the Fishley family, as he struggles to protect his deformed sister Flora and assert his own dignity. The book explores themes of self-reliance, morality, and the quest for freedom from oppression. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Buck and his harsh circumstances living with the Fishley family, where he endures mistreatment from Ham Fishley, the son, and his parents. The opening chapter showcases Buck’s decision to stand up against Ham when ordered to perform menial tasks, flipping the dynamic of their oppressive relationship. Buck's internal conflict is highlighted as he tries to reconcile his desire for respect with his duty to care for Flora. A pivotal moment occurs when he defends her from the harsh treatment of Mrs. Fishley, escalating tensions that hint at further confrontations and challenges ahead for Buck as he navigates his precarious position in a world filled with tyrants.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Mountain Moggy: The Stoning of the Witch
"Mountain Moggy: The Stoning of the Witch" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a novel written in the late 19th century. This narrative explores themes of forgiveness and the consequences of cruelty, centered around an old woman, referred to as Mountain Moggy, who is unjustly believed to be a witch by the local children. The story follows the young midshipman who stumbles upon her in a moment of need and ultimately connects with the villagers to address the injustices she faces. At the start of the book, readers meet the picturesque and rugged Welsh landscape, setting the scene for the bleak existence of Old Moggy as she endures the torment of local children who throw stones at her, believing her to be a witch. One evening, a boy’s mischief leads to a disastrous fire, and a young midshipman comes to her rescue, risking his own safety to save her life. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into the old woman’s backstory and the impact of the community’s ignorance on her life, ultimately illustrating the transformative power of compassion and understanding. The opening segments foreshadow a deeper exploration of the characters’ moral dilemmas and the potential for redemption through empathy.
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