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Husband and wife -- Juvenile fiction Books
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Harry Castlemon
The First Capture; or, Hauling Down the Flag of England
"The First Capture; or, Hauling Down the Flag of England" by Harry Castlemon is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the early days of the American Revolution, specifically focusing on a group of patriots in the colony of Maine who are stirred to action by the news of the Battle of Lexington. The main characters include Enoch Crosby, a loyal subject of Great Britain wrestling with his allegiance, and Zeke Lewis, who plans a bold scheme to capture a British schooner, showing the fervor and conflict that characterized this pivotal time. At the start of the story, the people of Machias react to the news of the battle between the patriots and British troops with astonishment and anger, prompting citizens like Zeke Lewis to rally for a local resistance. Enoch Crosby, while feeling loyalty to the King, grapples with the growing tyranny and the need to defend his community. The narrative unfolds with discussions of rebellion, the prospect of a ship capture, and the tension between Tories and patriots as they prepare to join the fight for their rights. The opening establishes a rich historical backdrop, setting the stage for the upcoming conflicts and personal struggles that the characters will face.
Molly Elliot Seawell
The lively adventures of Gavin Hamilton
"The Lively Adventures of Gavin Hamilton" by Molly Elliot Seawell is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set during the tumultuous backdrop of the Seven Years' War, specifically focusing on the experiences of young Gavin Hamilton, a soldier navigating the complexities of his lineage and the brutal realities of conflict. Through his vivid encounters with various characters, including his fellow soldier Captain St. Arnaud and the notable King Frederick of Prussia, the novel explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the pursuit of identity. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Gavin Hamilton during a bitterly cold autumn in 1757, as he finds himself separated from his regiment amid the chaos of war. He encounters Captain St. Arnaud, who has also lost his regiment. Together, they endure the harsh winter conditions while sharing personal stories, revealing Gavin's turbulent relationship with his estranged father. The narrative quickly shifts from their immediate survival to their camaraderie and aspirations for greater honor, culminating in their daring escape from captivity at the fortress of Glatz. This opening establishes a mix of adventure, personal conflict, and historical intrigue that promises to engage readers in Gavin's lively journey.
M. (Mary) Lee
The oak staircase : $b A narrative of the times of James II
"The Oak Staircase: A Narrative of the Times of James II" by M. and C. Lee is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the times of James II, the narrative intertwines two distinct anecdotes: the well-recognized story of the 'Maids of Taunton' and the romance between Lord Sunderland's daughter and the Earl of Clancarty. The primary characters include Frances Dalrymple, the daughter of Sir Bernard Dalrymple, and Lord Desmond, with their lives shaped by the tumultuous political landscape of their time. At the start of the story, lessons are ending in the bustling schoolroom at Horsemandown, where Frances and her siblings display their youthful exuberance and disdain for their studies. Frances is particularly drawn to the portraits on the grand oak staircase in their home, piquing her curiosity about her ancestors. As the children engage in lively banter and imaginative play, they are joined by their Uncle Algernon, who teases that a special historical story is to be revealed. This hints at the blending of the past with their present lives, setting the stage for Frances' tale as she prepares to navigate both family expectations and her own desires against the backdrop of historical events.
Anonymous
The Popular Story of Blue Beard Embellished with neat Engravings
"The Popular Story of Blue Beard" by Anonymous and Charles Perrault is a French folktale first published in 1697. A wealthy nobleman with a dark secret proposes marriage to his neighbor's daughter. Despite her family's terror, she accepts and moves into his luxurious palace. When he departs on a journey, he grants her access to every room except one forbidden chamber. Overcome by curiosity, she enters—and discovers a horrifying truth about her husband's previous wives. Now she must escape his murderous wrath before becoming his next victim.
James Otis
Sarah Dillard's Ride: A Story of the Carolinas in 1780
"Sarah Dillard's Ride: A Story of the Carolinas in 1780" by James Otis is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set during the tumultuous period of the American Revolutionary War, focusing on Sarah Dillard, a courageous woman, and two young boys, Nathan Shelby and Evan McDowells, as they navigate the dangers posed by British troops and the internal conflict of loyalty within their community. The plot centers around the impending threat to a group of American patriots and the desperate attempts of the characters to warn them and secure their safety. At the start of the novel, Nathan and Evan are introduced as they embark on a hunting trip in North Carolina but soon find themselves captured by British soldiers led by the menacing Major Ferguson. They overhear plans that would endanger their friends who are encamped at Greene's Spring. As they plot their escape from captivity, they learn of Sarah Dillard’s perilous ride to warn her husband and his men of the approaching British forces. The opening sets a tone of urgency and bravery, showcasing the young characters' determination to fight against the odds and protect their community, even as they face personal risks and unforeseen betrayals.
Frank Samuel Child
The House With Sixty Closets: A Christmas Story for Young Folks and Old Children
"The House With Sixty Closets: A Christmas Story for Young Folks and Old" by Frank Samuel Child is a fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. This charming holiday tale centers around a unique house built by a Judge that features an extraordinary number of closets, which play a significant role in the unfolding story. The main characters include the kind Judge, his wife, and a lively band of children who inhabit the house and discover its many secrets during the festive season. At the start of the story, we learn about the illustrious Judge and his wife, who, influenced by their generous natures, designed a home filled with an impressive sixty closets to accommodate their charitable tendencies. When a minister's family moves into the Judge's old parsonage, the children of that household are enchanted by their new home’s history and the curious closets. On Christmas Eve, excitement mounts as the children prepare for festivities, sparking whimsical interactions with the ghosts of the Judge and his wife, who come to life from their portraits. This playful introduction sets the stage for a heartwarming exploration of generosity, family, and the magic of Christmas.
Martha Finley
Elsie's Winter Trip
"Elsie's Winter Trip" by Martha Finley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the life of Lucilla, who has recently married Chester Dinsmore. With a focus on family, love, and the joys of new beginnings, the story illustrates the couple's experiences in their new home and their interactions with their loved ones as they prepare for exciting new events during the winter. The opening of the book introduces the newlyweds, Chester and Lucilla, as they settle into their new home together. Their affectionate exchanges reveal their deep bond and mutual understanding. Lucilla's cheerful demeanor is complemented by her warm feelings towards her family, particularly her kind father. As the couple discusses their plans for the day, we see glimpses of their larger family network who intend to gather for festivities, heightening anticipation for the events to unfold. The initial chapters set a tone of happiness, connection, and the bittersweet nature of separating from family, foreshadowing Lucilla’s close ties with her parents and siblings throughout their journey.
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