Subject
Empathy -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Cecilia Selby Lowndes
Lena Graham
"Lena Graham" by Cecilia Selby Lowndes is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around a young girl named Lena Graham, who is preparing for the arrival of her parents after several years of being raised by her Aunt Mary. As Lena navigates her emotions about meeting her family, the narrative explores themes of childhood, familial love, and the challenges of adjusting to new relationships. The beginning of the story introduces Lena as she expresses her excitement and curiosity about her long-absent parents, reflecting on her time with her aunt. Through conversations with Aunt Mary, readers glimpse Lena's affectionate and sometimes possessive nature, especially concerning her new sisters, Millicent and Lucy. As the day of her family’s arrival approaches, Lena's vibrant personality and the anticipation for their reunion set the stage for a journey of growth and understanding, which unfolds as the narrative continues.
Jane Pentzer Myers
Stories of Enchantment
"Stories of Enchantment" by Jane Pentzer Myers is a collection of children's stories written in the early 20th century. The book weaves a magical tapestry of narratives where children embark on whimsical adventures, often encountering fairies, ghosts, and other fantastical beings. The stories feature young protagonists, exploring themes of magic, identity, and the interplay between fantasy and reality. The opening of the collection sets the stage for enchanted tales, beginning with the story of "The Ghost Flower, or the White Blackbird." It follows a little girl named Snow-flower, who, after surviving a massacre of her family, is raised by a kind Indian couple. As Snow-flower grows, the spirit of her adoptive father guides her towards her true heritage, leading her on a journey that intertwines themes of loss, belonging, and the melding of the real and the supernatural. The rich imagery and emotional depth hint at the mystical experiences that await in the other stories of the collection.
Frank Samuel Child
The House With Sixty Closets: A Christmas Story for Young Folks and Old Children
"The House With Sixty Closets: A Christmas Story for Young Folks and Old" by Frank Samuel Child is a fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. This charming holiday tale centers around a unique house built by a Judge that features an extraordinary number of closets, which play a significant role in the unfolding story. The main characters include the kind Judge, his wife, and a lively band of children who inhabit the house and discover its many secrets during the festive season. At the start of the story, we learn about the illustrious Judge and his wife, who, influenced by their generous natures, designed a home filled with an impressive sixty closets to accommodate their charitable tendencies. When a minister's family moves into the Judge's old parsonage, the children of that household are enchanted by their new home’s history and the curious closets. On Christmas Eve, excitement mounts as the children prepare for festivities, sparking whimsical interactions with the ghosts of the Judge and his wife, who come to life from their portraits. This playful introduction sets the stage for a heartwarming exploration of generosity, family, and the magic of Christmas.
James Otis
Aunt Hannah and Seth
"Aunt Hannah and Seth" by James Otis is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young boy named Seth Barrows, also known as "Limpy Seth," who, despite his lameness, possesses a strong bond with his small white dog named Snip. As the novel begins, Seth finds himself in a precarious situation after an advertisement in a newspaper reveals that he is being sought after, which leads him to flee the city and embark on a journey filled with uncertainty and the search for safety and belonging. The opening portion of the story introduces Seth as he navigates the bustling streets of New York City, contemplating selling his beloved dog Snip to fend for himself. In the midst of this inner turmoil, his friends draw attention to a disturbing advertisement that suggests he is in trouble. Filled with panic and confusion, Seth is eventually encouraged by his friends to escape to the country. He takes the advice and embarks on an adventure that leads him to a farmhouse owned by Aunt Hannah, who, upon discovering Seth sleeping in her barn, offers him compassion and a chance for a new life. The narrative sets the stage for themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of community in a young boy's quest for a place to call home.
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