Subject
Fathers and daughters -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Eglanton Thorne
Maud Marian, artist : $b or, The Studio Mariano
No description available.
Ford Madox Ford
The Brown Owl: A Fairy Story
"The Brown Owl: A Fairy Story" by Ford Madox Ford is a children's fairy tale written in the late 19th century. This whimsical narrative features Princess Ismara, the daughter of the powerful magician King Intafernes, who bequeaths to her a promise to cherish a mysterious Owl before his death. The story combines elements of magic, adventure, and character-driven drama, particularly revolving around the Princess's journey and her bond with the Owl, which plays a crucial role in the unfolding events of her kingdom. At the start of the tale, readers are introduced to the dying King Intafernes, who urges his daughter Ismara to respect and cherish the Owl, the significance of which remains ambiguous at this point. Following his death, the Princess grapples with her grief, encountering the Owl who behaves unusually in the chaotic aftermath of her father's passing. This includes a comical encounter with the court physician, who is mistakenly terrified of the Owl. The narrative sets the stage for further adventures and conflicts involving the Chancellor, Merrymineral, and establishes a magical realm filled with challenges and allegiances that the Princess must navigate as she comes of age and learns to embrace her newfound responsibilities. The opening portion cleverly blends humor, fantasy, and the tone of classic fairy tales, enticing readers into a world where magic and monarchy intertwine.
Eleanora H. Stooke
Salome's burden : $b or, the shadow on the homes
"Salome's Burden, or the Shadow on the Homes" by Eleanora H. Stooke is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a fourteen-year-old girl named Salome Petherick, who is crippled and lives in a small village in Cornwall with her father, Josiah. The narrative explores themes of familial struggle, as Salome endures her father's descent into alcoholism while striving to maintain her home and garden. The beginning of the novel introduces Salome as a kind and resilient character, who, despite her disability, endeavors to care for her father and manage their household. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque fishing village, the opening chapters outline Salome's internal conflicts fueled by her father's increasing dependence on drink and their societal struggles. As she navigates her painful reality, discussions with the local vicar and her budding interactions with a new wealthy family in town hint at the complex dynamics of social class, morality, and personal sacrifice that will likely unfold throughout the story.
Martha Finley
Elsie Dinsmore
"Elsie Dinsmore" by Martha Finley is a children's book series written between 1867 and 1905. Set on American plantations before the Civil War, the series follows eight-year-old Elsie as she navigates a difficult relationship with her strict father, Horace, who returns from Europe to claim her. Their bond is tested by constant conflict between his rigid discipline and her devout Christian principles. The books became nineteenth-century bestsellers, launching a 28-book series that sold millions of copies despite—or perhaps because of—their intensely pious heroine.
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.
Johanna Spyri
Little Miss Grasshopper
"Little Miss Grasshopper" by Johanna Spyri is a children's novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Rita, nicknamed "Grasshopper" for her energetic spirit, as she and her family embark on a journey to the picturesque Gemmi Pass in Switzerland. The book explores themes of adventure, curiosity, and the innocence of childhood while highlighting the beauty of nature. The narrative follows Rita's excitement as she prepares for the family's summer trip to the mountains, marked by her eagerness to explore the unknown. Upon arriving at the Gemmi Pass, Rita's adventurous spirit leads her into a series of events that culminate in a dramatic incident where she goes missing. The book shares the tension and worry of her family as they search for her, showcasing the bond between parents and their children. Ultimately, Rita's adventure teaches lessons about the importance of safety and the deep love parents have for their children, while also illustrating the joys of childhood exploration.
Helen Beecher Long
Janice Day, the Young Homemaker
"Janice Day, the Young Homemaker" by Helen Beecher Long is a coming-of-age novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Janice Day, a resourceful and caring young girl who is navigating the challenges of managing a household after the death of her mother. As she faces the trials of hiring a series of incompetent housemaids and the mischief caused by neighborhood boys, particularly Arlo Junior, Janice's determination to maintain her family's home life and her education shines through. The opening of the novel introduces Janice in her daily routine, marked by her early morning efforts to provide a proper breakfast for her father amidst the chaos caused by a neglectful housemaid. From her observations of Arlo Junior's antics with a group of cats to her own reflections on her late mother, we see Janice grappling with grief and responsibility. The narrative sets up her interactions with household challenges and community relationships, laying the groundwork for her character development. As the story unfolds, the weight of familial expectations and her ambitions to fill her mother's role create a rich tapestry of youthful resilience and the complexities of growing up.
Magdalene Horsfall
The Fairy Latchkey
"The Fairy Latchkey" by Magdalene Horsfall is a children’s novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the protagonist, Philomène Isolde, an imaginative young girl who yearns for adventure and magic in her otherwise ordinary life. Throughout the opening chapters, readers are introduced to her family, friends, and the fantasy elements that are woven into her daily experiences. At the start of the novel, we meet Philomène, who feels rather mundane in her suburban life as she longs for the extraordinary. Her relationship with her father and her godmother, Isolde, plays a significant role in her development. As she navigates her daily life filled with fairy tales and folklore, she finds companionship in her pets and a burgeoning connection to the fairy world. Notably, she comes into contact with Sweet William, a fairy who reveals the enchanting realm she might access through her newfound latchkey. This beginning sets the stage for her exploration into a whimsical world, where stories and imagination intertwine with her everyday life.
Johanna Spyri
Dora
"Dora" by Johanna Spyri is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Dora, a young girl deeply attached to her father, Major Falk, who is gravely ill, and explores themes of love, loss, and the innocence of childhood as they navigate their difficult circumstances. As the novel unfolds, it follows Dora's journey as she copes with her father's illness and their subsequent move to live with relatives. At the start of the story, Major Falk and his daughter Dora are introduced as they take daily walks together in a park, where they share tender moments despite his deteriorating health. Dora, having lost her mother at a young age, is devoted to her father, and their bond is depicted through their conversations and shared memories of happier times. The opening chapters also hint at the impending changes in their lives, as Major Falk moves to Karlsruhe to seek support from his step-sister and prepares Dora for life after his death, leaving her to confront her shifting reality as she later comes to live with her aunt and uncle. Throughout, the narrative captures Dora’s resilience and longing for connection, setting the stage for a heartfelt exploration of her expectations and challenges ahead.
Augusta Huiell Seaman
The Crimson Patch
"The Crimson Patch" by Augusta Huiell Seaman is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around young Patricia Meade, who finds herself in a hotel while her father, Captain Meade, embarks on a clandestine government mission during a time of war. Patricia's life takes a thrilling turn as she navigates friendships and potential dangers, especially regarding her budding connection with a foreign girl named Virginie de Vos and the mysterious presence of their neighbor, Madame Vanderpoel. The opening of the novel sets the stage as Patricia and her father arrive at their hotel. Despite the excitement of being in a new place, Patricia grapples with the absence of her mother, who is in a sanatorium. As they settle into their suite, her father’s secretive work and the sudden arrival of a telegram about a family member add tension to their stay. The narrative introduces several key characters, including the suspicious waiter Peter Stoger and the enigmatic Madame Vanderpoel, creating an atmosphere charged with intrigue. Patricia's keen observations of her surroundings hint at the unfolding mystery, particularly about the relationships and motivations of those around her, setting the tone for the adventures and revelations to come.
Sarah S. (Sarah Schoonmaker) Baker
Timid Lucy
"Timid Lucy" by Sarah S. Baker is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story focuses on a sensitive and timid little girl named Lucy Vale, who navigates her fears and insecurities following the death of her mother. Set in a rural English village, the narrative explores Lucy's personal growth as she confronts her anxieties, particularly through her interactions with her brother Hartwell and her newly returned sister Rosa. The opening of the novel introduces Lucy as a delicate child who experiences fear in everyday situations, whether it’s her apprehension about sitting in her tidy bedroom or her trepidation during a thunderstorm. Despite the warmth of her surroundings and the love of her father and new sister, Lucy often feels alone, misunderstood, and bullied by her brother. The early chapters delve into Lucy's reflections as she struggles with her own self-worth, the pressures of morality instilled by her housekeeper, and her deep-seated fear of death and the unknown. As she navigates her tender feelings and the challenges of her young life, the stage is set for her eventual journey towards self-acceptance and healing with the support of her family.
Helen Beecher Long
The testing of Janice Day
"The Testing of Janice Day" by Helen Beecher Long is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Janice Day, a spirited young girl living in the quaint town of Polktown, as she navigates life after her father sends her an unexpected surprise from Mexico, an automobile, which symbolizes change and new opportunities. At the start of the book, Janice is eagerly anticipating a surprise from her father; her cousin Marty and she engage in playful speculation about the possible gift. Janice, a lively and responsible character, displays a deep longing for her father, who has been away working at a mine for two years. When she learns that the surprise is a new car, her excitement captures the attention of her relatives and the townsfolk, and this event marks the beginning of her adventures. As Janice navigates her new car, learns to drive, and interacts with new acquaintances such as Frank Bowman, a civil engineer, the narrative unfolds various themes of family, friendship, and personal growth amid a changing society.
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