Subject
Family -- Fiction Books
Best books
Ernest Poole
His Family
"His Family" by Ernest Poole is a novel published in 1917. Roger Gale, a New York widower, struggles to stay connected to his three daughters as they navigate rapidly changing early twentieth-century society. Each daughter responds differently to modern life—one devoted to immigrant children, another to her own growing family, and a third pursuing personal desires. As family conflicts intensify and financial pressures mount, Roger must reconcile traditional values with a transforming world while honoring his late wife's wish to keep the family together.
L. Allen (Lizzie Allen) Harker
The Vagaries of Tod and Peter
"The Vagaries of Tod and Peter" by L. Allen Harker is a fictional narrative written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the mischievous escapades of twin brothers Tod and Peter, whose adventures often lead to comedic chaos, drawing from their vivid imaginations and youthful exuberance. Their antics at home and school showcase a blend of innocence and naughtiness, exploring themes of childhood and the dynamics of family life. The opening portion of the book introduces us to Tod and Peter, described as "those dreadful twins" by their neighbors and school staff. The narrative paints a vibrant picture of their personalities and behaviors, revealing their shared mischievous nature and the trouble they bring to their impoverished household and school environment. Their mother largely views their mischief with amusement, while the boys transform everyday situations into elaborate games, often mimicking characters from their favorite stories. The blend of humor and earnestness in their actions sets the tone for the adventures that are likely to unfold throughout the book.
Susan Glaspell
Fidelity: A Novel
"Fidelity: A Novel" by Susan Glaspell is a novel published in 1915. When Ruth Holland falls in love with a married man and flees her Midwestern town for Colorado, she defies every social expectation of her era. Eleven years later, she returns to face her fractured family and a community that refuses to forgive her choice. The novel explores complex questions of loyalty—to society, to family, and to oneself—through shifting perspectives that challenge romantic myths about love and marriage in early twentieth-century America.
Marjorie Benton Cooke
The Cricket
"The Cricket" by Marjorie Benton Cooke is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the life of a mischievous and unconventional young girl named Isabelle Bryce, who is grappling with her identity and navigating the complex dynamics of her detached family and the influences of her governess. The narrative delves into themes of childhood, neglect, and imagination, particularly focusing on Isabelle's antics and her quest for acceptance. The opening of the book introduces a tense situation where Isabelle adamantly refuses to participate in her own birthday party, illustrating her strong-willed and defiant personality. Miss Wilder, her governess, attempts to manage the situation, but ultimately, Isabelle demands to have her friend Patsy, the gardener's boy, invited to the party, highlighting her disdain for societal norms. The chaotic dynamics of Isabelle's family are also showcased, particularly in the interactions between her parents, who clearly struggle with their parenting responsibilities. This chaotic scene sets the stage for Isabelle’s character, revealing her complexities, her longing for friendship, and her unique perspective on life.
Margaret M. (Margaret Murray) Robertson
Janet's Love and Service
"Janet's Love and Service" by Margaret M. Robertson is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the village of Clayton, focusing primarily on the life of Janet, the minister's loyal maid, as she navigates her responsibilities in the household while dealing with the weight of personal sacrifice. The book explores themes of duty, love, and the struggles of a motherless family, particularly through the lens of the young Graeme and her siblings. At the start of the narrative, we see a peaceful evening in the village of Clayton, disrupted by the anxieties of Janet and the immense responsibilities resting on her shoulders regarding the well-being of the minister’s children. Janet's concerns about her sick mother complicate her sense of duty, especially with the impending move of the minister and his family to America. As the chapter progresses, we witness the minister's return home, the children’s innocent worries, and the overwhelming sense of sorrow enveloping the family as they face the loss of their mother. The opening sets the stage for Janet's deep emotional conflicts and introduces the challenges ahead as they prepare for a new life across the sea.
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
Don Orsino
"Don Orsino" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story centers on Don Orsino Saracinesca, a young man navigating the complexities of life in modern Rome, against a backdrop of social and political upheaval following Italy's unification. This semantic richness is complemented by themes of family, duty, and the clash between tradition and the emerging modernity of society. The opening of the novel introduces the Saracinesca family and the historical context in which they exist, touching on the legacy of the family's past and the significant changes that have affected Rome and its society. We learn about Orsino's upbringing under the watchful eyes of his parents, Giovanni and Corona, and the weight of expectations that come with being part of this noble lineage. As Orsino approaches adulthood, he grapples with the limitations of his privileged life, the lack of a defined path, and the intrigue introduced by a captivating woman, Madame d'Aragona, with whom he shares an initial connection. The portrayal of the relationships and shifting societal norms sets the stage for Orsino's journey, hinting at both personal growth and the exploration of love in a changing world.
Harriet S. (Harriet Sophia) Caswell
The Path of Duty, and Other Stories
"The Path of Duty, and Other Stories" by Harriet S. Caswell is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book centers on the life of Clara Roscom, a young girl facing the profound loss of her father, followed by the challenges of growing up as she navigates education and the responsibilities that come with her family's changing circumstances. The narrative explores themes of duty, perseverance, and the emotional landscapes that accompany grief and personal growth. The opening of the story introduces Clara in the immediate aftermath of her father's sudden death, capturing her shock and sorrow as she processes the loss. Her mother, struggling to maintain composure for Clara's sake, becomes Clara's sole anchor as they navigate their shared grief and adjust to their new lives. As time passes, Clara begins attending school, finding success in her studies, but is always grounded by the memory of her father and the responsibility she feels to care for her mother. The narrative poignantly details her journey through loss, education, and the development of her character, setting a tone of resilience and duty that likely carries through into the subsequent stories in the collection.
George Looms
Stubble
"Stubble" by George Looms is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens with Mary Louise, who observes her surroundings while reflecting on her life and the people around her. As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to various characters, including Zenie, the mother of a newly born child named Nausea, and Joe Hooper, who seems to have a deeper connection with Mary Louise. The beginning of "Stubble" sets the stage for a complex exploration of social dynamics and personal relationships in a small town environment. In the opening chapter, Mary Louise encounters Zenie, revealing a historical tension between the races as well as Zenie's newfound independence. This initial interaction establishes themes of change and identity, which are likely to permeate through the narrative as Mary Louise's own relationships with Joe and her ailing Aunt Susie come into focus. The prose beautifully captures the subtle interplay of emotion and social commentary, hinting at a deeper exploration of self-worth and societal expectation as the story progresses.
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards
Margaret Montfort
"Margaret Montfort" by Laura E. Howe Richards is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the titular character, Margaret, who navigates her life after the loss of her beloved Aunt Faith, learning to take charge of the family home, Fernley, while dealing with the arrival of her cousin Sophronia Montfort, whose meddling threatens to upend Margaret's tranquil existence. At the start of the novel, Margaret is introduced in a heartfelt exchange with her uncle, Mr. Montfort, as they reminisce about Aunt Faith and their memories in the house. Margaret grapples with grief yet tries to maintain a cheerful atmosphere for her uncle. The narrative illustrates her day-to-day activities, including caring for the household and tending to their garden roses. However, things begin to change when Cousin Sophronia arrives, bringing her own expectations and commands, prompting Margaret to confront her new responsibilities and challenges in preserving her family's legacy and managing her relationships with the house staff while trying to keep her own sense of identity intact.
Joseph Hergesheimer
The Three Black Pennys: A Novel
"The Three Black Pennys: A Novel" by Joseph Hergesheimer is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Howat Penny, a young man grappling with his identity and place within his family and society, amid a backdrop of ironmaking and the rich landscapes of early America. The novel delves into themes of individuality versus social expectations, personal freedom, and the relationships that complicate one's sense of self. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Howat Penny as he navigates his surroundings in a restless state of mind, contemplating his life at Myrtle Forge and the various social dynamics present there. He feels discontent with the formalities of his family’s world and is drawn more to the wild and untamed aspects of nature. His encounter with Fanny Gilkan, the daughter of a founderman, introduces romantic tension and offers a glimpse into Howat's complex feelings about relationships and commitment. As he struggles with his emotions and societal expectations, his interactions with characters like Fanny and Mrs. Winscombe highlight his inner turmoil, further setting the stage for the exploration of deeper themes throughout the novel.
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
Saracinesca
"Saracinesca" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel published in 1887. Set in Rome during the 1860s, it follows Giovanni Saracinesca's courtship of Corona d'Astradente against a backdrop of aristocratic decline. As Italy's nobility faces threats from emerging modern forces, their romance unfolds amid intrigue and sword fights. Crawford meticulously recreates this historical period, drawing on firsthand accounts of revolutionary events witnessed by his family. The novel became his greatest critical and commercial success, launching a celebrated trilogy.
Margaret Vandercook
The Ranch Girls and Their Great Adventure
"The Ranch Girls and Their Great Adventure" by Margaret Vandercook is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of the Ranch Girls, particularly focusing on characters like Lady Jacqueline Ralston and her friend Olive Van Mater as they navigate personal challenges and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of both the serene English countryside and the complexities of their relationships, the narrative is likely to explore themes of friendship, love, and the struggle for independence. At the start of the book, we meet Jacqueline and Olive, two American women residing in England, as they reminisce about home and the changes life has brought them. The opening chapters hint at an impending crisis involving their friend Frieda, who has recently decided to leave her husband, Professor Russell. Jacqueline's newfound role as Lady Kent adds layers of responsibility and expectation to her character, while Olive’s visit prompts discussions about Frieda's discontent and the difficulties of marriage. The dynamics of their conversations reveal the theme of the intrinsic bond among the Ranch Girls as they support each other through turbulent times, setting the stage for the adventure that lies ahead.
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