Subject
Grandparent and child -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles Dickens
The Old Curiosity Shop
"The Old Curiosity Shop" by Charles Dickens is a novel published serially from 1840 to 1841. The story follows young Nell Trent and her grandfather, who are driven from their London shop by an evil moneylender after the grandfather's gambling debts spiral out of control. The pair flee to the English Midlands as beggars, pursued by various parties with different motives. This tale of virtue, villainy, and sacrifice became so popular that New York readers reportedly stormed the docks awaiting its final installment.
Arthur Conan Doyle
Micah Clarke His Statement as made to his three grandchildren Joseph, Gervas and Reuben During the Hard Winter of 1734
"Micah Clarke" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a historical adventure novel published in 1889. Set during the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685, it follows young Micah Clarke as he transforms from a naive boy seeking adventure into a hardened soldier of fortune. Fighting for the Protestant cause against Catholic King James II, Micah experiences the Battle of Sedgemoor, witnesses brutal aftermath hangings, faces the infamous Judge Jeffreys in the Bloody Assizes, and narrowly escapes slavery. Through harrowing trials, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with religious extremism, ultimately embracing toleration over fanaticism.
George Allan England
Cursed
"Cursed" by George Allan England is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a stirring maritime environment and follows the turbulent events aboard the ship "Silver Fleece", captained by the ruthless Alpheus Briggs. The plot unfolds in the Malay Straits, exploring themes of colonialism, superstition, and conflict between cultures. The characters grapple with moral complexities and mutiny, particularly focusing on the tensions surrounding the abduction of a native girl, Kuala Pahang, and the ensuing consequences. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the setting at Batu Kawan, where the "Silver Fleece" is delayed for departure, and the mate, William Scurlock, expresses his frustrations regarding their captain’s reckless behavior. The opening portion establishes the mounting tensions aboard the ship as Scurlock confronts the captain, leading to a violent fallout. Briggs’s volatile nature and his interactions with the crew reveal a brewing conflict fueled by drunkenness and aggression. Simultaneously, the arrival of a witch-woman sets the stage for supernatural elements as she places a curse on the ship, hinting at the impending chaos. As the narrative progresses, the themes of survival and cultural clashes heighten, foreshadowing a dramatic confrontation with local forces intent on rescuing their kin.
Joseph Crosby Lincoln
The Portygee
"The Portygee" by Joseph Crosby Lincoln is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces readers to young Albert Speranza, who arrives at the desolate South Harniss railway station on a chilly December night, poised to start a new life with his grandparents, Captain Zelotes and Mrs. Olive Snow. As Albert grapples with feelings of homesickness and uncertainty about his future, the narrative hints at the cultural contrasts he will face while living in the Cape Cod community that his grandparents call home. The opening of the book paints a vivid picture of Albert's arrival in South Harniss, describing not only the bleakness and isolation of the railway station but also the boy's internal struggle as he reflects on his past life in school. As he meets his grandfather, there is a notable tension, underscored by the grandfather's scrutinizing gaze. Captain Zelotes and Mrs. Snow's warm yet quirky household, which includes a housekeeper who has a sympathetic reaction to her drunken fiancé, adds to Albert's perception of the locals as "Rubes." Throughout this beginning, there is a sense of anticipation as Albert is caught between his sophisticated upbringing and the rustic reality of his new life, setting the stage for potential conflicts and growth as he navigates familial relationships and cultural expectations.
Eden Phillpotts
A Deal with the Devil
"A Deal with the Devil" by Eden Phillpotts is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Daniel Dolphin, a man celebrating his hundredth birthday, who makes a fateful pact with the Devil for an additional ten years of life, promising to grow younger instead of older. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of his granddaughter, Martha, as they grapple with the implications of this peculiar deal. The opening of the novel introduces Daniel Dolphin as a flawed but lively character reaching a remarkable age. On his birthday, he shares a humorous and unsettling dream featuring the Devil, who offers him a chance to extend his life by ten years in exchange for his soul. As Daniel contemplates this offer, Martha expresses her concern about the sinister consequences that may arise. Following the dream, Daniel discovers a formal agreement that suggests the pact is indeed real, provoking a mix of disbelief and horror for both him and Martha. This initial setup sets the stage for the unfolding chaos of their lives, leading to a blend of dark humor and poignant moments as they navigate the turmoil birthed from the Devil's bargain.
Ian Hay
"The Liberry"
"The Liberry" by Ian Hay is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an old man named Mr. Baxter, who becomes known as "The Oracle" in his small town due to his extensive collection of books and his passion for sharing knowledge. Set in a quaint English town, the narrative explores themes of literacy, respect, and the pursuit of knowledge amidst social challenges. The central plot follows Mr. Baxter, who is illiterate but has amassed a wealth of knowledge through memorization and listening to the readings of a deceased archdeacon. Throughout the novel, Mr. Baxter engages with his community members, providing them with literary insights and guidance, which earns him their respect. However, he faces the challenge of revealing his secret: he cannot read or write. The story takes a poignant turn when he is invited to deliver a welcoming address at the opening of a new community library. Encouraged by his doctor and his granddaughter, he strives to learn the address by heart. Ultimately, the novel encapsulates the importance of knowledge, friendship, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.
Charles V. De Vet
Gramp
"Gramp" by Charles V. De Vet is a short story that falls within the science fiction genre, crafted during the early 1960s. The narrative explores themes of perception and understanding through the unique abilities of a young boy who perceives the thoughts and emotions of those around him as vivid mental pictures. The story dives into the complex relationship between the boy and his grandfather, affectionately referred to as Gramp, highlighting the challenges of being different in a society that often rejects those who stand out. The story unfolds through the eyes of the young protagonist, Little Joe, who possesses the extraordinary ability to see the thoughts and feelings of others as colorful images in his mind. This gift, however, becomes a double-edged sword as it leads to tension and misunderstandings, particularly when Gramp engages in dubious actions that trouble the boy. As they navigate the complexities of their secretive bond, Joe grapples with the moral dilemmas posed by his grandfather's questionable decisions. The climax reveals a poignant moment of realization and loss as Joe's innocent instinct to protect Gramp ultimately leads to a heartbreaking conclusion, leaving a lasting impression about the innocence of childhood and the weight of adult actions.
Charles Dickens
Le magasin d'antiquités, Tome I
"Le magasin d'antiquités, Tome I" by Charles Dickens is a novel published between 1840-1841. Young Nell Trent lives with her grandfather in a London curiosity shop filled with grotesque objects. Mystery surrounds their situation and the old man's nightly disappearances. The sinister dwarf Daniel Quilp intrudes into their lives with increasing menace. The story shifts dramatically when the pair flees into the world, encountering adventures on the road. Their journey becomes a tale of vulnerability and pathos, culminating in one of English fiction's most famous moments.
Charles Dickens
Le magasin d'antiquités, Tome II
"Le magasin d'antiquités, Tome II" by Charles Dickens is a novel published in 1841. Young Nell Trent lives with her grandfather in a London curiosity shop filled with grotesque and sinister objects. Their mysterious circumstances become clear when the deformed and cruel dwarf Daniel Quilp enters their lives. The story shifts from mystery to adventure as the pair embark on a picaresque journey across the countryside. Their tale of misfortune and persecution moved thousands of readers to plead for Nell's survival, making her fate one of the most famous moments in English fiction.
Edith King Hall
That Little Beggar
"That Little Beggar" by Edith King Hall is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a lively and inquisitive little boy named Chris, who often finds himself in humorous and mischievous situations, bringing both joy and challenges to those around him, especially his Granny and his nurse, Briggs. The narrative appears to focus on themes of childhood innocence, the dynamics between adults and children, and the lessons learned through playful interactions and misadventures. At the start of the book, we find Chris at the railway station awaiting a carriage that never arrives, leaving him to walk home. During his journey, he encounters a distressed little boy mourning his lost dog, Jack. Chris quickly sympathizes with the boy, takes the errant dog under his wing, and leads both Jack and the boy back to their home at Skeffington. The early chapters introduce Chris's character—his playful dialogue with adults, his propensity for mischief, and his tender relationship with his Granny. The tone is light-hearted and charming, setting a warm, whimsical atmosphere that promises delightful escapades as the story unfolds.
Recently surfaced classics