Subject
Family -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Hildegard G. Frey
The Camp Fire Girls Solve a Mystery; Or, The Christmas Adventure at Carver House
"The Camp Fire Girls Solve a Mystery; Or, The Christmas Adventure at Carver House" by Hildegard G. Frey is a novel written in the early 20th century. It features Katherine Adams, a young girl who arrives in Oakwood excited to meet her friend Nyoda just before Christmas, only to find herself lost and bewildered. The story unfolds as Katherine attempts to navigate her way to Nyoda's house, which leads her to an unexpected encounter with a mysterious song emanating from an empty house, setting up the series of events that will challenge and intrigue her. The opening of the book introduces Katherine as she steps off a train, anticipating a warm holiday reunion with Nyoda. However, as the bustling station empties around her, Katherine's mounting concerns about Nyoda's absence prompt her to seek out the hilltop house where she believes Nyoda lives. This journey soon takes an unexpected turn when Katherine discovers an empty house that appears abandoned but is alive with the sound of singing. Despite her initial fear, her curiosity drives her to enter the house, leading her to an encounter with a strange girl, Sylvia, and a series of unfolding mysteries that hint at deeper connections between their lives. The stage is set for a Christmas adventure that intertwines friendships, secrets, and the spirit of compassion and discovery.
Frances Hodgson Burnett
Little Lord Fauntleroy
"Little Lord Fauntleroy" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a children's novel published in 1886. When young Cedric Errol learns he has inherited a British title from his estranged grandfather, an earl who despises Americans, he leaves New York for England. The boy's innocent belief in his grandfather's goodness begins to transform the bitter aristocrat. But when a pretender emerges claiming Cedric's inheritance, the truth must be uncovered. A story of compassion bridging class divides and reconciling family.
Agnes Giberne
Willie and Lucy at the sea-side : $b For very little children
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Susan Warner
Queechy
"Queechy" by Susan Warner is a novel likely written during the mid-19th century. It centers on the life of a young girl named Fleda Ringgan and her grandfather, Mr. Ringgan, as they navigate their modest life on a farm and contend with personal and financial challenges. The novel explores themes of hope, familial bonds, and the struggles of rural life. At the start of "Queechy," we are introduced to Fleda, a spirited girl living with her grandfather, who is facing various adversities, including financial troubles regarding their farm. The opening depicts a delightful day as Fleda eagerly prepares for a trip with her grandfather to the post office, showcasing her hopeful nature and innocent joy. However, hints of their struggles emerge as the grandfather anxiously discusses money issues with a neighbor, overshadowing their time together with feelings of foreboding. As they venture out, Fleda's cheerful demeanor juxtaposes with her grandfather’s hidden worries about losing their home, creating a poignant atmosphere that sets the stage for the unfolding narrative.
Emily Neville
It's like this, cat
"It's like this, cat" by Emily Neville is a novel published in 1964 that won the Newbery Medal. Fourteen-year-old Dave Mitchell navigates the challenges of growing up in New York City, constantly clashing with his father while his mother's asthma worsens. When Dave adopts a stray cat from his elderly neighbor Kate, the independent feline leads him into unexpected adventures and friendships—including a troubled college student and his first girlfriend. Through Cat's wanderings across the city, Dave discovers new neighborhoods and begins his journey toward maturity.
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls Under Canvas How they reached Pleasant Cove and what happened afterward
"The Corner House Girls Under Canvas" by Grace Brooks Hill is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. This charming story follows the adventures of the four Kenway sisters—Ruth, Agnes, Tess, and Dot—as they embark on a summer trip to Pleasant Cove. The narrative weaves themes of friendship, loyalty, and the joys of youth against the backdrop of their lively family home, known as the Corner House. The opening of the book introduces the Kenway sisters on a rainy day, where Dot finds a dripping wet dog outside, prompting them to care for him and ultimately decide to adopt him, naming him Tom Jonah. The girls' adventures quickly escalate with Tom Jonah's unexpected role as a protector when he catches a Gypsy attempting to steal from their henhouse, showcasing the blend of domestic life and the thrill of excitement. As they look forward to their summer plans, the relationship dynamics among the sisters are established, alongside their interactions with neighbors and friends, setting the stage for the adventures that await them in Pleasant Cove.
Ethel Turner
The family at Misrule
"The Family at Misrule" by Ethel Turner is a children's novel published in 1895. This sequel to "Seven Little Australians" follows the family five years later when Bunty disappears after being accused of theft. While his family believes he's fled to America, he remains hidden in Sydney until a sister recognizes him. Meanwhile, Nellie faces her own crisis after contracting scarlet fever following a dinner party. Turner's story combines humor, pathos, and descriptive power in this healthy tale of family troubles.
Ethel Turner
The Family at Misrule
"The Family at Misrule" by Ethel Turner is a children's novel published in 1895. This sequel to "Seven Little Australians" returns to the beloved family five years later, when young Bunty flees after being accused of theft. While his family believes he's sailed to America, he remains hidden in Sydney. His sister Nellie faces her own trials after attending a dinner party with dangerous consequences. Turner's story combines humor, pathos, and descriptive power in this healthy adventure for young readers.
Elizabeth Sandham
The Adopted Daughter: A Tale for Young Persons
"The Adopted Daughter: A Tale for Young Persons" by Elizabeth Sandham is a novel written in the early 19th century. The story follows Mrs. Meridith, the heiress of two estates, as she navigates personal losses, her early memories with the Campbells—her foster family—and her desire to contribute positively to her community after returning to her childhood home. The narrative explores themes of kindness, compassion, and the importance of social responsibility, particularly through the character of Mrs. Meridith as she looks to care for those around her. The opening of the tale introduces us to Mrs. Meridith's return to Rosewood after significant personal loss, including the death of her husband and the unfortunate demise of her mother during childbirth. As she reconnects with her past and the families who cared for her, especially the Campbells, she resolves to utilize her wealth to improve the lives of the villagers, emphasizing her commitment to kindness and support for those in need. The text highlights her affectionate relationship with the Campbells and her determination to adopt their orphaned child, Anna, to provide her with a better life while also enriching her own. This sets a poignant tone for the story, inviting young readers to consider the values of empathy, gratitude, and community.
Douglas Frazar
Perseverance Island; Or, The Robinson Crusoe of the Nineteenth Century
"Perseverance Island; Or, The Robinson Crusoe of the Nineteenth Century" by Douglas Frazar is a novel written in the late 19th century. This adventure story follows a character who, after a series of maritime disasters, finds himself shipwrecked on a deserted island in the South Pacific. Drawing on his ingenuity and skills, he attempts to survive and thrive in this unfamiliar environment, focusing on themes of resilience, resourcefulness, and the indomitable human spirit. The opening of the narrative introduces the protagonist and provides the backstory of his life as a sailor, detailing his aspirations for adventure that culminate in joining the ill-fated expedition aboard the schooner "Good Luck." After navigating treacherous seas and facing storms, the crew suffers devastating losses, leading to the shipwreck. The protagonist survives the chaos of the storm, finds himself washed ashore on an unknown island, and begins to contemplate his situation, setting the stage for his struggle for survival. Filled with emotional depth and survival challenges, the beginning wastes no time immersing the reader into the hardships faced by the protagonist, highlighting both his vulnerabilities and strengths.
Edith K. (Edith Kellogg) Dunton
Betty Wales decides : $b a story for girls
"Betty Wales Decides: A Story for Girls" by Edith K. Dunton is a young adult novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Betty Wales, a bright and resourceful young woman at Harding College, as she navigates the challenges of tutoring a newcomer, Montana Marie O'Toole, who is both an intriguing character and a bit of a handful. The book provides insights into college life, friendship, and personal growth, particularly in the context of female empowerment. At the start of the novel, we find Betty enjoying a quiet afternoon at her family's cottage when she receives some surprising news about a slump in her business involving quirky figurines called ploshkins. This unexpected turn of events compels her to reconsider her plans for the upcoming winter. Shortly thereafter, Betty meets Mrs. O'Toole and her daughter Marie, who arrive with a proposal for Betty to tutor Marie, a girl who clearly stands out due to her unique background and personality. As Betty agrees to mentor Marie, she reflects on her own responsibilities at Harding College and her aspirations, setting the stage for a story rich with humor, friendship, and the ups and downs of collegiate life.
Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston
The Little Colonel's Holidays
"The Little Colonel's Holidays" by Annie F. Johnston is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. This story is part of "The Little Colonel" series, which features the adventures of a young girl named Lloyd Sherman, affectionately known as the Little Colonel. The narrative revolves around her experiences during a summer holiday filled with friendships, adventures, and life lessons in the Southern United States. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to the magical concept of a "magic kettle" that promises to reveal what happened to the Little Colonel and her friends after previous tales from the series. As the story unfolds, the Little Colonel prepares for the end of her house party and her return home. The opening chapters detail her friendships with other children, the joys and challenges of summer activities, and social dynamics, exposing the themes of innocence, camaraderie, and the interactions among children of different backgrounds. The groundwork is laid for exploring deeper relationships as the characters navigate external challenges and their own emotions throughout their adventures.
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