Subject
Frontier and pioneer life -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander) Altsheler
The Border Watch: A Story of the Great Chief's Last Stand
"The Border Watch: A Story of the Great Chief's Last Stand" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book continues the adventures of young friends Henry Ware and Paul Cotter as they navigate the perils of the early American frontier during the conflicts between Native Americans and settlers. The narrative captures the struggles and excitement of frontier life, highlighting themes of bravery, friendship, and the dramatic tensions of this tumultuous period. The opening of the novel sets a vivid scene on a dark, primordial river, where Henry Ware and his companions are quietly observing an ominous fleet of canoes filled with Native American warriors led by the formidable chief Timmendiquas. As the group realizes that a significant movement is unfolding in the valley, they decide to investigate further, propelling themselves into a series of adventures that promise action and danger. The camaraderie among the young frontiersmen is evident, highlighting their skills as scouts and their readiness to face the threats posed by both the natural wilderness and the human conflicts that pervade their world.
Anne Bowman
The Kangaroo Hunters; Or, Adventures in the Bush
"The Kangaroo Hunters; Or, Adventures in the Bush" by Anne Bowman is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the Mayburn family, led by a grieving rector, Mr. Mayburn, after the death of his wife, and their journey to India as they take on a mission to minister to and educate the locals. The narrative explores the challenges they face, including their relationships with orphans, their encounters with diverse cultures, and the struggles of adapting to a new life in a foreign land. At the start of the story, the characters are introduced in the context of their domestic lives in Wendon, where Mr. Mayburn grapples with his sorrow and indecision after losing his wife while also considering his next steps as a rector. His conversation with Captain O'Brien highlights his emotional turmoil and the weight of responsibility towards his children and the orphans Ruth and Jack Martin, whom he’s promised to care for. As the Mayburn family prepares to embark on their voyage, the narrative emphasizes the bonds formed among them, their growth, and the uncertainty of their future in a distant land filled with both promise and peril. The vibrant relationships and dynamic characters set the stage for an adventurous tale full of misfortune, resilience, and discovery.
George Bird Grinnell
Jack the Young Trapper: An Eastern Boy's Fur Hunting in the Rocky Mountains
"Jack the Young Trapper: An Eastern Boy's Fur Hunting in the Rocky Mountains" by George Bird Grinnell is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of Jack Danvers, a young boy from the East who travels to the Rocky Mountains to learn about trapping and fur hunting during the transformative years of America’s westward expansion. With a mix of excitement and learning, Jack’s journey unfolds in a wilderness rich with wildlife, including antelope and beaver, aiming to capture the spirit of the old trappers and the rugged beauty of the western landscape. The opening of the novel introduces Jack Danvers as he returns to his uncle's ranch after a long winter away at school. Full of enthusiasm, he is eager to reconnect with old friends and the natural beauty of the prairie. As he settles in, a conversation between Jack, his uncle Mr. Sturgis, and his friend Hugh Johnson hints at plans for a summer expedition—potentially trapping beaver in North Park. This setting lays the groundwork for Jack's upcoming adventures, showcasing themes of friendship, the challenges of wilderness survival, and the excitement of discovery as they prepare to embark on their trapping journey into the Rocky Mountains.
Eleanor Stredder
Doing and daring : $b A New Zealand story
"Doing and Daring: A New Zealand Story" by Eleanor Stredder is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a family, particularly focusing on young Edwin Lee and his experiences in New Zealand, showcasing the challenges and adventures of colonial life, including encounters with the local Maori people. Themes of bravery, cultural interaction, and the beauty of the New Zealand landscape surface throughout the narrative. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a picturesque autumn day in New Zealand as the Lee family travels by mail coach through the bush, which is depicted as both enchanting and perilous. The coach encounters difficulties on a muddy road, resulting in a near accident. Mr. Lee, his children, and fellow passengers endure a tumultuous ride, showcasing their personalities and establishing a sense of camaraderie amidst the struggles. When the coach overturns, Edwin takes the initiative to seek help, highlighting his resourcefulness and bravery. The first chapter sets the stage for the family's journey, immersing readers in the vivid setting and the trials they face in their new life.
Roger William Conant
Hiking Westward Being the Story of Two Boys Whose Ambition Led Them to Face Privations and Hardships in Their Quest of a Home in the Great West
"Hiking Westward" by Roger William Conant is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This story chronicles the experiences of two boys, Phil and Ted Porter, who embark on a journey to the American West in search of a homestead to provide for their family, particularly to support their ailing mother. The narrative captures their brave confrontations with the challenges of frontier life, emphasizing themes of responsibility and perseverance. The opening portion of the book establishes a family dynamic where the Porter children discuss how they could support their mother, leading to Phil and Ted's ambitious plan to settle in the West. Shocked by the severity of their mother's health and the family's financial situation, they quickly dismiss their playful dreams of baseball and aviation and resolve to take up a homestead. Engaging in light-hearted banter with their sisters, they outline their intentions to their mother, displaying both determination and naivety regarding the realities of frontier living. Their transition from frivolous youth to responsible caretakers forms a central pillar of the story, setting the stage for the challenges they will encounter while pursuing their goal.
Elijah Kellogg
Lion Ben of Elm Island
"Lion Ben of Elm Island" by Elijah Kellogg is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character Ben Rhines, who is portrayed as a strong and noble individual facing the challenges of life on a remote island. The novel explores themes such as hard work, love, and the quintessential American spirit of perseverance and community. The opening of the book introduces readers to the beauty and ruggedness of Elm Island, where Captain Ben Rhines lives. It details the island's natural features, emphasizing its lush landscapes and the various wildlife inhabiting it. The narrative shifts to focus on the Rhines family, specifically on Ben as he prepares to take on responsibilities both at sea and at home. We learn of his love for Sally Hadlock and his desire to create a life for them together, leading him to consider purchasing Elm Island to build a home despite the challenges that come with it. The opening sets the stage for a rich tale of adventure, community, and the formation of a family amid the trials of frontier life.
James A. (James Andrew) Braden
The Trail of the Seneca
"The Trail of the Seneca" by James A. Braden is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the late 18th century and revolves around the interactions and tensions between Indigenous tribes and early settlers in North America. The narrative features a complex character named Lone-Elk, who is a Seneca outcast, and explores themes of witchcraft accusations and cultural conflicts during a time of societal upheaval. At the start of the book, we meet Lone-Elk, a Seneca who has assumed a leading role among the Delawares, conducting the Harvest Festival while secretly harboring ambition and treachery. The festivities are interrupted by the mysterious death of Big Buffalo, leading to accusations against Lone-Elk, who manipulates the situation to blame a white boy, John Jerome, claiming witchcraft for the death. With tensions brewing and accusations flying, John faces peril while his friend Ree Kingdom prepares to confront the challenges and defend their lives. The opening sets the stage for a gripping tale of survival, cultural clashes, and the quest for truth in a divided world.
Harold Bindloss
Sunshine and snow
"Sunshine and Snow" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Charley Gordon, a young boy at Firdene School, as he navigates the challenges brought on by financial hardship and the loss of family. The narrative highlights his growth as he transitions from school days filled with childish pursuits to a rugged life as a settler on the prairies of Canada, facing trials that test his resilience and emerging sense of responsibility. The opening of the story introduces Charley during a winter paper-chase at Firdene School, where he excels in both academics and athletic pursuits. However, a profound change occurs when he learns from his brother, Arthur, that they must abandon their hopes of military careers due to financial troubles that have resulted in the loss of their family’s savings. Faced with the challenge of relocating to Canada for a new start, Charley grapples with disappointment and uncertainty about the future. As he adjusts to the harsh realities of prairie life, enduring physical labor and the rigors of farming, the opening chapters set the stage for Charley’s transformation from a proud schoolboy to a capable young man, learning valuable lessons about hard work and adversity.
Elijah Kellogg
Forest Glen; or, The Mohawk's Friendship
"Forest Glen; or, The Mohawk's Friendship" by Elijah Kellogg is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores the intense and perilous life of frontier settlers during the brutal Indian wars, focusing on themes of survival, bravery, and inter-race relationships. The narrative likely features characters like the settlers and a Mohawk Indian, whose friendship serves as a central point of tension and conflict amid the backdrop of war and cultural exchange. At the start of the novel, the scene is set in the quiet yet ominous valley of Wolf Run, where the settlers are grappling with the threat of impending Indian attacks. As summer transitions to autumn, a sense of foreboding looms, with the settlers—and particularly the children—training for battles that they may soon have to fight. The opening introduces the realities of life on the frontier: the settlers' preparations for defense, the mixed sentiments of fear and determination, and the daily struggles of survival amid an environment filled with both natural beauty and danger. This sets the stage for the tale of war, friendship, and courage that unfolds as the settlers face both external and internal conflicts.
St. George Rathborne
The Pioneer Boys of the Columbia; or, In the Wilderness of the Great Northwest
"The Pioneer Boys of the Columbia; or, In the Wilderness of the Great Northwest" by Harrison Adams is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows young pioneers Dick and Roger Armstrong as they embark on a perilous journey through the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest in the early 1800s. Faced with the dangers of the untamed landscape and the evolving complexities of their expedition, the boys exemplify bravery and resourcefulness typical of their time. At the start of the story, the Armstrong cousins are preparing to run the treacherous rapids of the Yellowstone River. Their initial excitement takes a sharp turn when their canoe, sabotaged by an unknown enemy, capsizes, forcing them to swim for their lives. After gathering themselves, they realize that they have been targeted by a traitor within their expedition, possibly linked to the unscrupulous French trader François Lascelles, who seeks revenge for their previous confrontations. As the story unfolds, readers can expect to see how the boys navigate both the physical challenges of the wilderness and the threats posed by human malice, setting the stage for a gripping adventure filled with excitement and danger.
Edward Stratemeyer
Trail and Trading Post; or, The Young Hunters of the Ohio
"Trail and Trading Post; or, The Young Hunters of the Ohio" by Edward Stratemeyer is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the colonial era, focusing on the adventures of young hunters Dave and Henry Morris as they navigate the challenges posed by Native American tribes and their own pursuit of game in the wilderness. It is a part of the "Colonial Series," which recounts the historical conflicts surrounding the territorial struggles in North America. The opening of the book introduces Dave and Henry as they embark on a hunting expedition, eager to track down a buffalo. Their conversation reveals their awareness of the dangers that lurk in the wilderness, including the ever-present threat of unfriendly Indians, as they reflect on their past experiences in encounters with Native Americans. The narrative hints at the historical backdrop of colonial tensions, with references to the aftermath of conflict and the significance of trade and hunting. The brothers' camaraderie, mixed with excitement and concern, sets the stage for the adventure that is about to unfold, highlighting themes of bravery, survival, and the quest for sustenance in a treacherous frontier environment.
George Waldo Browne
The Woodranger : $b A story of the pioneers of the Debatable Grounds
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