Subject
Illinois -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edward Eggleston
The Graysons: A Story of Illinois
"The Graysons: A Story of Illinois" by Edward Eggleston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set in a rural Illinois community, centering on the lives of the Albaugh and Grayson families as they navigate social interactions, romantic entanglements, and personal struggles amidst the backdrop of the burgeoning American Midwest. The protagonist, Tom Grayson, grapples with his impulsive nature and the consequences of his choices, particularly as they affect his relationships with family and potential romantic interests. The opening of the novel introduces Rachel Albaugh, a beautiful young woman accustomed to the attention of many suitors but struggling with her own expectations and choices in love. As she prepares her home for evening guests, the scene is established with details of the natural beauty surrounding John Albaugh's farm. Various characters, including Tom Grayson and his sister Barbara, are introduced, each reflecting different aspects of youth and social dynamics in their community. The beginning delves into Rachel's interactions with her admirers and foreshadows Tom's emerging role as someone captivated by her, hinting at the intertwined relationships and conflicts that will unfold as the story progresses.
Randall Parrish
When Wilderness was King: A Tale of the Illinois Country
"When Wilderness Was King: A Tale of the Illinois Country" by Randall Parrish is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the wilderness of early America, focusing on the adventures and challenges faced by its young protagonist, John Wayland. The plot is set against the backdrop of the Illinois frontier during a time of conflict with Native American tribes, highlighting themes of duty, bravery, and the bond between family and friendship. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to John Wayland, who lives a quiet life with his parents on the edge of the wilderness. One day, a stranger named Ol' Tom Burns arrives with a letter that reveals the death of John’s father’s old comrade, Roger Matherson, and requests John’s family to take in Matherson's orphaned daughter, Elsa. John’s father decides that John must embark on a dangerous journey to bring Elsa back. As the story progresses, John departs for the Illinois Country, experiencing moments of introspection and anticipation about his upcoming adventure, as well as the stirring presence of a mysterious girl named Mademoiselle Antoinette, whom he discovers at the shore and who may well hold a significant place in his quest. The opening chapters set the stage for a gripping tale of resilience amid the wilderness and the impending upheaval caused by the war.
Opie Percival Read
A Yankee from the West: A Novel
"A Yankee from the West" by Opie Percival Read is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a man named Milford, who arrives in a rural Illinois community, seeking work and a new start. With rich descriptions of the landscape and keen observations about the local life, Read explores themes of identity, belonging, and the contrasts between urban and rural experiences. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Milford, a rugged traveler disillusioned by his past and eager to find a new purpose in the pastoral charm of southern Illinois. The opening chapter paints a vivid picture of the local environment and the characters that inhabit it, particularly focusing on Mrs. Stuvic, a strong-willed widow who runs a boarding house. As Milford interacts with local farmers and other residents, including the eccentric Lewson and the vibrant hired help, he begins to carve out a niche in this new world. The dynamic relationships and humorous dialogues set the stage for a story rich in character development and social commentary.
Katharine Holland Brown
The Hallowell Partnership
"The Hallowell Partnership" by Katharine Holland Brown is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around siblings Marian and Roderick Hallowell, who navigate the challenges of illness, career opportunities, and the complex dynamics of rural life as they embark on a significant journey together. The novel appears to explore themes of family loyalty and resilience in the face of change and adversity. The opening of "The Hallowell Partnership" introduces the Hallowell siblings as they deal with Marian's recovery from a serious illness and Roderick’s potential new job as an engineer. Roderick receives an offer from the Breckenridge Engineering and Construction Company that could help advance his career, though it requires him to move westward, which concerns Marian. As the two navigate Roderick's job prospects and Marian's apprehensions about the move, the story unfolds with a mixture of sibling affection, aspirations, and the emotional challenges they face in their relationship. Marian's initial reluctance to leave behind the familiarity of Boston sets the tone for their journey, revealing both her vulnerabilities and the deep bond she shares with her brother.
Richard Bolton
Shock Troop
"Shock Troop" by Richard Bolton is a comedic science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the misadventures of alien invaders approaching a planet inhabited by intelligent mammals, specifically highlighting the humorous breakdown of their invasion plan. The book deftly intertwines themes of miscommunication and the unexpected reactions of both the invaders and the inhabitants. The story follows Zurg, the commander of an alien troop, as he leads his soldiers to invade a verdant third planet inhabited by mammals. The plan hinges on instilling shock in the natives through a carefully timed mental assault. However, as Zurg and his troop make their entrance, they encounter a crowd of excited locals who do not respond with fear but rather curiosity and celebration. The situation escalates when the commander realizes that the intended shock tactic has backfired, leading to a comically disastrous performance of their traditional repulsive dance, the Dra, as they attempt to regain control of a scenario spiraling into chaotic misunderstanding. Ultimately, the mishap becomes a bizarre but entertaining spectacle that the locals embrace rather than fear.
Brand Whitlock
Her Infinite Variety
"Her Infinite Variety" by Brand Whitlock is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces readers to Amelia and Vernon, a couple navigating the complexities of love and political ambition in a society where women are fighting for their rights, particularly the right to vote. The story appears to explore themes of societal expectations, personal conflict, and the evolving role of women in politics, providing a glimpse into their emotional struggles and aspirations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a tense interaction between Vernon and Amelia as they confront the implications of his commitments in the Senate and her disappointment over his unexpected departure. Amelia is excited about a planned dinner but feels sidelined when Vernon reveals he must return to Springfield for a conference. The reader begins to sense the budding complexities in their relationship, including Amelia's skepticism toward politics, Vernon’s political ambitions, and the arrival of Maria Burley Greene, a lawyer championing women's suffrage. This initial chapter hints at the conflict that will arise from Vernon’s political aspirations and the dynamics of his relationship with both Amelia and Maria as they contend with societal change.
Randall Parrish
When Wilderness Was King A Tale of the Illinois Country
"When Wilderness Was King" by Randall Parrish is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative takes place in the American frontier, specifically along the upper Maumee River, during a time of tension between settlers and Native American tribes. The story revolves around John Wayland, a young man who must navigate the dangers of this rugged wilderness, compelled by a duty to bring back an orphaned girl after the death of her father, a friend of his family. The opening of the novel introduces us to John Wayland's peaceful life at home in the backwoods, and it foreshadows a drastic change as he receives a letter urging his father to take in the surviving daughter of an old comrade. As John contemplates this new duty, we meet Ol' Tom Burns, a grizzled traveler who delivers the fateful message, marking the beginning of John's journey into the unknown. The narrative blends themes of adventure, duty, and the elements of wilderness survival as John prepares to face the perils that lie ahead, all while wrestling with his own youthful ambitions and fears.
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