Subject
Great Lakes Region (North America) -- Fiction Books
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William MacHarg
The Indian Drum
"The Indian Drum" by William MacHarg and Edwin Balmer is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set around the mysterious disappearance of Benjamin Corvet, a ship owner whose life is intertwined with various characters, including his business partner Lawrence Sherrill and his daughter Constance. The narrative delves into themes of identity, legacy, and the significance of the past, as it unfolds amidst the backdrop of the Great Lakes and is steeped in Indian folklore. The opening of the book introduces a sense of foreboding through a storm near Lake Michigan, harmonizing with local superstitions about an "Indian drum" that beats whenever a life is lost at sea. Benjamin Corvet is portrayed as a complex, isolated character who has experienced personal turmoil following the unexplained departure of his wife and a declining vitality tied, perhaps, to the memories of lives lost on the water. It hints at a deep connection between Corvet and a young man named Alan Conrad, who has recently received a summons from Corvet, leading to questions about their relationship. Alan's journey to Chicago sets a tone of intrigue, suggesting there are hidden truths regarding his lineage and the emotional weight that brings both him and Corvet to a pivotal juncture in their lives.
Samuel Merwin
The Whip Hand: A Tale of the Pine Country
"The Whip Hand: A Tale of the Pine Country" by Samuel Merwin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces themes of adventure and struggle against nature, as it begins with a dramatic sea rescue involving a group of young men from a surf-boat braving the stormy waters of Lake Michigan to save the crew of a distressed steamer. The narrative is anchored by the character Jack Halloran, who embodies youthful determination and camaraderie, as he leads his crew in what seems like a noble yet perilous endeavor. The opening of the novel sets an intense scene, characterized by a thick storm that creates an atmosphere of urgency and peril. As the young men rally around the surf-boat in a daring rescue mission, we see Halloran commanding the group's efforts, showing both his leadership and enthusiasm for the fight against the elements. Meanwhile, onshore, a festive gathering of students and townsfolk lends a contrasting sense of community and support as they wait for the boat's return. However, the backdrop of impending tragedy looms, hinted at by the storm and the shipwreck in progress, establishing the stakes for the characters as they engage in a struggle that mixes both physical challenge and the spirit of youth.
Constance Fenimore Woolson
Castle Nowhere
"Castle Nowhere" by Constance Fenimore Woolson is a work of fiction likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative introduces us to Jarvis Waring, a discontented young man who finds himself wandering alone in the wild wilderness bordering Lake Michigan, seeking solace and escape from civilization. The tale unfolds against a backdrop of untouched nature, where Waring encounters a mysterious old man named Fog, who holds secrets of his own that intertwine with a young girl named Silver, who lives in a hidden location known as Castle Nowhere. At the start of the novel, Waring's journey into the wilderness leads him into fleeting encounters with the conceptual "Spirit of Discontent," reflecting his inner turmoil. He sets up camp, only to meet Fog, who has come from the sea in a small skiff. Their dialogue hints at deep philosophical reflections on life, existence, and belonging. Waring’s thoughts are interrupted by the arrival of Silver, who represents innocence amidst the wilderness. As Waring becomes entwined in the life of Fog and Silver, themes of love, isolation, and the complexities of human nature begin to emerge, suggesting a rich exploration of personal redemption against the backdrop of the wild. The opening portion sets the stage for this exploration, inviting readers into a contemplative adventure filled with philosophical dialogues and evocative imagery of the natural world.
Stewart Edward White
The silent places
"The Silent Places" by Stewart Edward White is a novel written in the early 20th century. It explores the adventures of woodsmen and traders of the Hudson's Bay Company as they navigate the wilderness of Canada. The story is set in a richly described landscape filled with the challenges and beauty of the natural world, focusing on themes of survival, exploration, and the interactions between various cultures. At the start of the book, a group of men gathers by the riverbanks of Conjuror's House during a summer evening, sharing tales and laughter in a setting that emphasizes their camaraderie and connection to nature. The narrative introduces Sam Bolton and Dick Herron, two woodsmen tasked with locating a wayward Ojibway Indian named Jingoss, who owes a debt to the post. As they prepare for their journey, they are drawn into the complexities of their environment, struggling with both the wilderness and the human elements intertwined in their quest. Dick's impulsive nature and emerging affection for an Ojibway girl named May-may-gwán provide initial tension, hinting at future complications in their travels through the silent, vast landscapes of the North.
Stewart Edward White
Hiljaisten metsien tyttö
"The Silent Places" by Stewart Edward White is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the wilderness of North America, and it follows two main characters, Sam Bolton and Dick Herron, who are seasoned trappers and adventurers embarking on a journey through the harsh and untamed landscape. The narrative explores themes of survival, camaraderie, and the complexities of interaction between European settlers and Native American tribes. At the start of the novel, a group of men is gathered on the banks of a river, enjoying a tranquil spring evening. These men are presented as veterans of past hardships, embodying a sense of strength and resilience shaped by their experiences. The scene shifts to the introduction of a task that involves catching an Ojibwa Indian named Jingoss, who is in debt to the Hudson’s Bay Company. This opening portion establishes the context of their journey and introduces a sense of urgency and purpose as they prepare to traverse through formidable wilderness, setting the stage for adventures and challenges to come.
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