Subject
Debt -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Emma Leslie
Arthur's inheritance : $b or, How he conquered
"Arthur's Inheritance: or, How He Conquered" by Emma Leslie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around young Arthur Murray, who, after the death of his father, struggles with the family's financial decline and seeks to contribute to their household through work, thus confronting the challenges of growing up and responsibility. The initial chapters introduce Arthur and his sisters as they navigate their new reality while trying to maintain their family dignity amidst financial hardship. At the start of the novel, readers find Arthur discussing his ambitions with his sisters, revealing their family's recent struggles following the death of their father. Arthur takes it upon himself to secure a job at a local shop, much to the concern of his sisters, who worry about societal perceptions. As they navigate their domestic challenges, including their mother's fixation on her cherished cats, the siblings' lively discussions illustrate their resilience and camaraderie. The opening portion sets the stage for Arthur's journey of self-discovery as he grapples with the ideals of family honour, the dignity associated with work, and the harsh realities of their circumstances.
L. T. Meade
The Girls of St. Wode's
"The Girls of St. Wode's" by L. T. Meade is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around three young women—twins Eileen and Marjorie Chetwynd, and their cousin Letitia—as they navigate the transition from school to society. The narrative explores themes of modernity, individual choice, and the expectations placed upon young women regarding their roles in society. At the start of the book, Eileen, Marjorie, and Letitia are coming home from school, signaling a pivotal moment in their lives as they prepare for their debut in fashionable society. Conversations between their mother, Mrs. Chetwynd, and her friend Mrs. Acheson highlight differing views on education and societal roles for women. Meanwhile, Eileen and Marjorie express their reluctance to conform to conventional societal expectations, eagerly discussing their plans to lead independent lives and consider attending St. Wode's College for further education. This sets the stage for their ongoing conflict with their mother, who has specific ambitions for their debut in high society.
Oliver Optic
Living Too Fast; Or, The Confessions of a Bank Officer
"Living Too Fast; Or, The Confessions of a Bank Officer" by William T. Adams, also known as Oliver Optic, is a fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. The book explores the moral dilemmas and experiences of a bank officer who becomes entangled in a life of deceit, driven by ambition and the desire to uphold appearances. The protagonist, Paley Glasswood, grapples with competition, rivalry, and the consequences of his choices, painting a picture of the struggles young businessmen encountered during this period. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Paley Glasswood as he and his friend Tom Flynn vie for a coveted bank position. The competition heightens as Paley confronts his feelings of superiority, stemming from his belief in his own integrity compared to Tom’s dubious past. Through their interactions, it is clear that Paley’s ambitions are overshadowed by a nagging conscience when Tom is unfairly disqualified from the running due to past suspicions of theft, which Paley’s uncle manipulates for his advantage. As Paley begins his new position and becomes infatuated with the charming Miss Lilian Oliphant, his confidence begins to spiral into a web of deceitfulness regarding their increasing financial burdens and living arrangements, setting the stage for the moral decay that will ensue.
Harry Castlemon
Guy Harris, the Runaway
"Guy Harris, the Runaway" by Harry Castlemon is a fiction novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Guy Harris, a spirited young boy who feels trapped by his family circumstances and dreams of adventure as a hunter and trapper in the prairies. The narrative unfolds with Guy's struggles against the oppressive atmosphere at home and sets the stage for his plans to run away from his restrictive life. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a conflict between Guy and his peers that leads to a quarrel over a match-box and a moment of camaraderie when a friend intervenes. This incident highlights Guy's longing for autonomy and his desire to escape his mundane life, particularly under the watchful eye of his father and stepmother. As Guy schemes to accumulate the means for his getaway, he reflects on his frustrations at home, revealing the tension between his adventurous spirit and the limitations placed on him by his family. The opening portion sets the tone for a story of youthful rebellion, dreams of freedom, and the challenges of growing up in a restrictive environment.
James Otis
The Adventures of a Country Boy at a Country Fair
"The Adventures of a Country Boy at a Country Fair" by James Otis is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Teddy Hargreaves who dreams of running his own booth at the local fair to help pay off his family’s debts. Throughout the narrative, Teddy navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship, friendships, and encounters with dubious characters. At the start of the story, Teddy expresses excitement about running a cane and knife board at the Peach Bottom fair, eagerly seeking financial help from his Uncle Nathan. Despite initial skepticism from his family, Teddy is determined to succeed. However, his plans quickly unravel when he becomes embroiled in a more complex situation involving a thief and a con artist who steals his money. As the story unfolds, Teddy illustrates his bravery and resourcefulness, ultimately striving to clear his name while helping others, setting the stage for a series of adventures that blend both humor and wit.
Recently surfaced classics