Subject
Frontier and pioneer life -- Canada -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
E. E. (Edith Elise) Cowper
Two on the Trail: A Story of Canada Snows
"Two on the Trail: A Story of Canada Snows" by E. E. Cowper is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows siblings Nell and David Lindsay, who find themselves alone in a log house deep in the Canadian wilderness while their father is away checking traps. With worries about their father's safety looming over them, the two children must navigate both the icy wilderness and potential threats from nearby trappers who may know of their father's secret savings hidden in their home. At the start of the tale, Nell and David express concern over their father's absence, which has stretched beyond his expected return. As they ponder their situation in their isolated log house, tensions rise with the arrival of Jan Stenson, a rough trapper who brings news of their father’s injury. With the knowledge that their father may need assistance and the realization that they themselves might be in danger concerning the hidden money, Nell hatches an ambitious plan to leave the shack, gather the money, and make their way to safety while avoiding Stenson and others who may have ill intentions. The opening sets up a thrilling adventure of survival, sibling loyalty, and the stark beauty of the Canadian snowscape as they embark on their journey into the unknown.
W. D. Flatt
The making of a man
"The Making of a Man" by W. D. Flatt is a historical narrative written in the early 20th century. The work chronicles the life of a young man named Robert as he leaves his humble beginnings in the Orkney Islands to seek opportunity in Canada during a time when the West was largely uncharted and teeming with potential. The book highlights themes of personal growth, family dedication, and the transformative journey of a youth who strives to build character against the backdrop of nature's challenges and societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, we meet Robert and his brother William as they prepare to leave their family for a job with the Hudson's Bay Company in Canada. Their departure from home is filled with heartfelt farewells, particularly from their mother, who instills in them the importance of faith and character. Shortly after their arrival in Canada, Robert undergoes various trials, including navigating a perilous voyage and struggling to acclimate to the harsh wilderness. His bravery is soon put to the test when he jumps into the sea to rescue a friend, showcasing his inherent courage. This opening portion sets the stage for Robert’s ongoing adventures and his determination to uphold his values as he confronts the challenges of the new world.
R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
The Buffalo Runners: A Tale of the Red River Plains
"The Buffalo Runners: A Tale of the Red River Plains" by R. M. Ballantyne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book depicts the struggles of early settlers and pioneers in the Red River basin, focusing on the challenges posed by nature and human conflicts. The main heroes of the story are Daniel Davidson and Fergus McKay, two young men who exemplify bravery and goodness amid the hardships they face. At the start of the tale, a fierce blizzard ravages the prairies, and Daniel and Fergus are on a desperate mission to save their starving families back at the settlement, demonstrating their loyalty and courage. As they journey through the storm, the narrative establishes the grim conditions experienced by settlers, including the threat of starvation, and introduces various characters, such as the loyal but lazy couple Francois La Certe and Slowfoot. This opening sets the stage for a gripping exploration of survival, community, and the stark realities of pioneer life, evoking themes of friendship, duty, and the indomitable human spirit.
Elizabeth H. (Elizabeth Hely) Walshe
Cedar Creek: From the Shanty to the Settlement. A Tale of Canadian Life
"Cedar Creek: From the Shanty to the Settlement. A Tale of Canadian Life" by Walshe is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows Robert Wynn, a young man from an impoverished Irish family, who emigrates to Canada seeking opportunity and a fresh start. The narrative is expected to explore themes of emigration, the challenges of starting anew in a foreign land, and the flourishing of life in the Canadian wilderness. The opening of the novel introduces Robert Wynn, who is filled with hope as he arrives in London with the intention of securing a position in the Civil Service. He reflects on his noble Irish heritage, now in decline, and considers the burden this legacy has placed on his family. After a disappointing encounter regarding his potential employment, he becomes increasingly tempted by the notion of emigration to Canada and the possibility of a more liberating life. A chance meeting with Hiram Holt, a passionate Canadian settler, sparks Robert's interest and sets in motion his eventual decision to leave his home for a chance at a new life among the vast Canadian landscapes.
William Henry Giles Kingston
The Perils and Adventures of Harry Skipwith by Land and Sea
"The Perils and Adventures of Harry Skipwith by Land and Sea" by W.H.G. Kingston is a fictional novel written in the mid-19th century. The book narrates the thrilling escapades of Harry Skipwith, a young man driven by an insatiable desire for adventure and exploration. As he sets off to travel across the globe, the story promises to unveil encounters with diverse cultures and perilous situations. The opening of the novel introduces Harry's adventurous spirit influenced by a lineage of explorers and adventurers in his family. He makes an impulsive decision to leave home, driven by tales of distant lands and a longing for excitement. As he embarks on his journey aboard a ship, Harry encounters various challenges, including a harrowing accident on the Mississippi River that leads to his struggle for survival amidst drowning passengers and a fierce alligator. The beginning of the story sets the stage for an action-filled adventure, where Harry's bravery and quick thinking are put to the test as he rescues a fellow passenger, Peter, amidst chaos and danger.
R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
Wrecked but not Ruined
"Wrecked but not Ruined" by R. M. Ballantyne is a novel written in the late 19th century, set against the backdrop of the Canadian wilderness. The story follows Reginald Redding, a young fur trader, as he navigates challenges posed by competition from rival settlers, specifically the McLeod family who have begun establishing themselves near his trading post. With themes of survival, territorial disputes, and the exploration of friendships, the narrative sets the stage for encounters that intertwine the lives of the main characters. At the start of the book, we find ourselves at a remote outpost named the Cliff, operated by Reginald Redding and his clerk, Bob Smart. The narrative introduces Redding's concern over the arrival of the McLeods, who threaten to encroach upon his Company's trading rights with their sawmill. The story unfolds with Redding contemplating a journey to confirm the boundaries of his territory. Meanwhile, we meet the McLeods, who are struggling to establish their own identity in the harsh wilderness, all while weaving through interactions filled with tension and camaraderie among characters both familiar and new. The opening chapters set up a rich landscape of conflict, potential friendship, and the beauty and dangers of the untamed Canadian wilderness.
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