Subject
High school students -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Gertrude W. Morrison
The Girls of Central High on the Stage; Or, The Play That Took The Prize
"The Girls of Central High on the Stage; Or, The Play That Took The Prize" by Gertrude W. Morrison is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story revolves around a group of high school girls involved in a secret society, the M. O. R., as they confront challenges related to their building's financial stability and the thrill of competition for a playwriting prize. The main character, Jess Morse, faces personal struggles and aspirations that intertwine with her desire to win the prize to improve her family's financial situation. The opening of the story introduces readers to the lively world of Central High, establishing a backdrop of camaraderie and ambition among the girls. During a reception at their society's house, the girls brainstorm ways to secure funds for their organization amidst rising rents. This leads to the exciting suggestion of a playwriting contest to engage the broader school community. At the same time, Jess's personal circumstances are explored, highlighting her economic struggles and dreams that motivate her to participate in the contest. The narrative sets the stage for Jess's journey as she navigates the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and financial desperation, with the prize serving as both a tangible goal and a beacon of hope.
Josephine Chase
Grace Harlowe's Senior Year at High School
"Grace Harlowe's Senior Year at High School" by Josephine Chase is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. This installment follows the titular character, Grace Harlowe, as she navigates the challenges and excitement of her senior year in high school alongside her friends Anne, Nora, Jessica, and Mabel. As they prepare for the future and grapple with the changing dynamics of their friendships, issues of identity, family, and the coming transitions to college loom large. The opening of the book introduces a poignant moment as Grace and her friends bid farewell to their male companions heading off to college, foreshadowing their longing for the bonds they've built during high school. Amid their emotional goodbyes, an unexpected and dramatic car accident occurs, compelling the girls to assist an injured woman who bears a striking resemblance to their friend Mabel, who is an orphan taken in by the group. This powerful opening sets the stage for revelations about identity and family, particularly revolving around Mabel's mysterious origins, and hints at the complexities of new beginnings and the bittersweet nature of goodbyes as they transition into adulthood.
Gertrude W. Morrison
The Girls of Central High Aiding the Red Cross Or, Amateur Theatricals for a Worthy Cause
"The Girls of Central High Aiding the Red Cross" by Gertrude W. Morrison is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of high school girls who are preparing for an Ice Carnival to raise funds for the Red Cross during challenging times. The main character, Laura Belding, finds herself caught in a mystery involving a misprinted banknote and the accident of a man who appears to be connected to her brother's troubles. The opening of the novel introduces Laura as she grapples with a puzzling $50 cash shortage in her father's jewelry store, which coincides with the arrival of her friends Jess, Bobby, and Lance. As they prepare for their evening outing, they learn about a mishap involving a stranger who has been knocked unconscious by a runaway vehicle. Amid this chaos, a mysterious girl in a Red Cross uniform, Janet Steele, provides aid to the victim, showcasing her resourcefulness and participation in the ongoing Red Cross fundraising efforts. The narrative sets the stage for a larger story filled with friendship, intrigue, and a drive to support a worthy cause, while leaving readers eager to discover how the plots of charitable endeavors and personal mysteries intertwine.
Carolyn Wells
Two Little Women and Treasure House
"Two Little Women and Treasure House" by Carolyn Wells is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two girls, Dotty Rose and Dolly Fayre, who are excited about their new shared space, charmingly dubbed "Treasure House," which is designed to be their own little retreat for study and fun. The novel focuses on their adventures and interactions, highlighting themes of friendship, creativity, and growing up. At the start of the narrative, the two girls express their delight over the plans for their new house, which will provide them with a peaceful place to study away from the distractions of their bustling homes. Mr. Rose, Dotty's father, is involved in the project and shares in the enthusiasm for this exciting venture. The girls' excitement grows as they imagine the possibilities of decorating and enjoying their new space, setting the stage for their future adventures within its walls. The opening establishes a warm, whimsical atmosphere, inviting readers into the charming world of the Two D's as they embark on this new chapter of their lives.
Gertrude W. Morrison
The Girls of Central High; Or, Rivals for All Honors
"The Girls of Central High; Or, Rivals for All Honors" by Gertrude W. Morrison is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around Laura Belding and her friends as they navigate school life and the challenges of forming a girls' athletic association in Central High, amidst the prejudice and restrictions often placed on young women in sports. The tale emphasizes themes of friendship, resilience, and the importance of physical activity, while also showcasing the rivalry between different schools. The opening of the story introduces Laura Belding, a diligent and sensible girl who works in her father's jewelry store. She has a close friendship with the spirited and mischievous Bobby Hargrew, who often finds herself in trouble due to her antics. As they discuss the need for more athletic opportunities for girls, the plot takes a serious turn when a prank involving a magnifying glass leads to a fire in Bobby's father's grocery store. The narrative quickly escalates as a misunderstanding and accusations arise, particularly against Bobby, creating a dramatic backdrop for the girls’ attempt to assert their place in sports and school life. The excitement and challenges of their world are vividly brought to life, setting the stage for further events.
Graham B. Forbes
The boys of Columbia High on the gridiron : $b or, The struggle for the silver cup
"The Boys of Columbia High on the Gridiron; or, The Struggle for the Silver Cup" by Graham B. Forbes is a fictional sports novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the spirited students of Columbia High School as they engage in football practice and prepare for a fierce competition against rival schools, specifically focusing on the challenges and rivalries they face along the way. The opening of the story introduces us to several characters, including Ralph West, who shows great promise on the field, and Tony Gilpin, a player threatened by Ralph's talent. Tensions build as Tony and his companion, Asa Barnes, plot against Ralph, motivated by jealousy and a sense of rivalry intensified by the prestigious Wallace Cup, a trophy to be awarded to the winning football team. The plot unfolds with Ralph being warned of imminent danger by a young girl, leading to a dramatic conflict between Ralph's supporters and the scheming rivals. The beginning sets the tone for a thrilling narrative filled with sportsmanship, friendship, and the overarching theme of overcoming adversities.
Harriet Pyne Grove
Betty Lee, Senior
"Betty Lee, Senior" by Harriet Pyne Grove is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Betty Lee, a high school senior, and her experiences, friendships, and adventures during her senior year, encapsulating themes of youth, exploration, and the transition into adulthood. The opening of the book introduces Betty and her close friends, Kathryn and Carolyn, as they excitedly anticipate their summer vacation before embarking on their senior year. The trio shares dreams of the adventures awaiting them at the seashore, highlighting their carefree spirit and youthful exuberance. As they prepare for their trip, discussions about potential surprises, beach parties, and the thrill of new experiences abound, setting the tone for an engaging exploration of friendship and the joys of adolescence. This introduces readers to a vibrant social landscape, filled with personal growth and the challenges that come with navigating both friendships and budding romances.
Jean Webster
Just Patty
"Just Patty" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work centers around a spirited schoolgirl named Patty Wyatt, focusing on her lively interactions with friends and teachers as they navigate their boarding school life. Themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the humorous challenges of adolescence permeate the story, engaging readers with its lighthearted and whimsical tone. The opening of "Just Patty" introduces us to Patty and her friends as they express their dismay over being separated from their long-time roommates at St. Ursula’s School. Their colorful personalities shine through as Patty, Conny, and Priscilla discuss their new roommates, whom they view with a mix of skepticism and comical intrigue. Patty specifically tells tales about her new roommate, Mae Mertelle, revealing Patty's irreverent humor and her determination to bring about a "reformation" within the school. As the girls plot to influence their new companions, the stage is set for a series of humorous adventures that promise to explore the complex dynamics of friendship and the challenges of adolescent societal norms.
Sarah Pratt Carr
Billy To-morrow Stands the Test
"Billy To-morrow Stands the Test" by Sarah Pratt Carr is a novel written in the early 20th century. This book continues the story of Billy To-morrow, exploring themes of youth, ambition, and the challenges of school politics. The narrative follows Billy Bennett and his struggles against the school bully, Jim Barney, as well as his desire to support his peers, including the intriguing young woman Erminie Fisher. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to the intense atmosphere at Fifth Avenue High School, where a conflict arises over the election of the student body president. As Billy becomes embroiled in a heated debate against Jim Barney, he passionately argues for decent leadership that represents the entire student body rather than allowing the bullying faction to control school affairs. The opening portion not only sets up the main characters and their motivations but also hints at a broader exploration of personal integrity, friendship, and the complexities of teenage relationships, particularly between Billy and Erminie, who finds herself caught in the crossfire of school politics and societal expectations.
Josephine Chase
Marjorie Dean, High School Junior
"Marjorie Dean, High School Junior" by Josephine Chase is a young adult novel written in the early 20th century. Following the titular character, Marjorie Dean, the story unfolds during her junior year of high school as she navigates the emotional landscape of friendships, separation, and the challenges of adolescent life. The narrative provides a glimpse into Marjorie's relationships with her friends, particularly the impending departure of her close companion, Mary Raymond, as well as the tensions introduced by new peer dynamics. The opening of the novel introduces us to a poignant farewell scene between Marjorie and Mary, with both girls reflecting on the bittersweet memories of their last summer together. As they grapple with their feelings about parting, another key character, Geraldine Macy, is also brought into the story, hinting at the various social challenges Marjorie is about to face. The setting shifts to school where Marjorie becomes entangled in a troubling incident involving a new student, Rowena Farnham, and a suspected cheating act. This sets the stage for conflict and moral dilemmas that Marjorie must navigate in her junior year, establishing a rich foundation for the evolving themes of honor, friendship, and integrity that are likely to develop throughout the book.
Allen Chapman
Ned Wilding's Disappearance; or, The Darewell Chums in the City
"Ned Wilding's Disappearance; or, The Darewell Chums in the City" by Allen Chapman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of boys known as the Darewell Chums, focusing on their adventures and escapades in both their hometown and the city. As they navigate various challenges, friendship, loyalty, and youthful mischief are central themes, particularly highlighting the character of Ned Wilding. The opening of the novel sets the stage with the Keene household dealing with a sudden commotion caused by Bart, who accidentally injures himself while handling a new shotgun. As his sister, Alice, rushes to provide assistance, their banter provides a glimpse into their sibling relationship. The introduction of Ned Wilding and the other Darewell Chums follows, showcasing the boys' camaraderie and shared history, including previous adventures they've undertaken. As they plan a camping and hunting trip during the Thanksgiving holiday, the stage is set for their next set of adventures, filled with the anticipation of excitement and the potential for misadventure that lies ahead.
Grace Ethelwyn Cody
Jacquette, a Sorority Girl
"Jacquette, a Sorority Girl" by Grace Ethelwyn Cody is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Jacquette Willard, a fair-haired girl from Brookdale who arrives in a bustling western city to stay with her relatives and begin high school. As she navigates her new life, the narrative unfolds her experiences with friendship, competition, and the dynamics of sorority life in her high school. The opening portion introduces Jacquette as she arrives in the city, where she is met by her cousin, Marquis, who reveals the exciting social environment at Marston High. As she acclimates to this new world, Jacquette learns about the significance of sororities—a central aspect of her school experience—and is soon adamant about joining the Sigma Pi Epsilon sorority, which leads to a series of interactions with friends and rivals alike. Through her captivating relationships and experiences, the beginning establishes a setting ripe with youthful exuberance and the challenges of fitting in, setting the stage for Jacquette's journey of self-discovery within the layered social structures of high school life.
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