Subject
India -- History -- Sepoy Rebellion, 1857-1858 -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Frederick P. Gibbon
The Disputed V.C.: A Tale of the Indian Mutiny
"The Disputed V.C.: A Tale of the Indian Mutiny" by Frederick P. Gibbon is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the Indian Mutiny of 1857, focusing on the experiences of Ensign Ted Russell, a young officer in the British Indian Army, and his relationships with his brother Jim and the spirited Ethel Woodburn. The narrative delves into themes of camaraderie, loyalty, romance, and the chaotic events leading up to the uprising that shook British colonial rule in India. The opening of the book introduces us to the character of Ted Russell, who is initially discontented due to his brother's infatuation with Ethel Woodburn, the daughter of their commanding officer. Ted's jealousy transforms into a budding admiration for Ethel as they bond over shared activities, especially riding. However, the narrative quickly escalates from personal dynamics to the looming threat of the mutiny, highlighting the tensions and divisions within the British and native populations. The impact of this historical conflict is foreshadowed as Ted begins to understand the severity of the situation that surrounds him, hinting at the challenges his character will face throughout the remainder of the story.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
In Times of Peril: A Tale of India
"In Times of Peril: A Tale of India" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. It unfolds in the context of British India during a period of tumultuous strife, particularly focusing on the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The story centers around the Warrener family, particularly the siblings Ned and Dick, and their cousin, Rose, as they navigate the dangers and complexities of a society on the brink of revolution. The opening of the tale introduces readers to the peaceful yet insular life in the British cantonments of Sandynugghur, where the Anglo-Indian community engages in leisure activities while unaware of the rising tensions threatening their security. The narrative quickly escalates from a seemingly idyllic daily life to a foreboding atmosphere as Major Warrener, their father, shares troubling news about discontent among the Sepoy troops. As unrest ignites, the young Warreners and Rose are thrust into a nightmare as mutiny erupts and they must flee for their lives. With a well-crafted blend of adventure and historical detail, the beginning sets the stage for an engaging journey through peril and resilience in a time of crisis.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The Jungle Fugitives: A Tale of Life and Adventure in India Including also Many Stories of American Adventure, Enterprise and Daring
"The Jungle Fugitives: A Tale of Life and Adventure in India" by Edward S. Ellis is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the 1857 Indian Rebellion, focusing on American characters who find themselves in perilous circumstances as the mutiny unfurls. The primary characters introduced are Dr. Hugh Marlowe, his daughter Mary, and their friend Jack Everson, who are faced with treacherous situations involving hostile natives and the chaos of rebellion. The opening of the novel establishes a sense of impending danger with the unfolding of the Indian uprising, depicting the political climate of the time and the motivations behind it. We meet Dr. Marlowe and his daughter living in India, as they prepare for the arrival of Jack Everson. Their idyllic life is abruptly overshadowed by warnings of an imminent insurrection, leading to a hasty and perilous flight through the jungle. Tension escalates as Ghoojurs (a notorious band of brigands) approach their home, prompting the characters to defend themselves amidst dramatic confrontations, setting the stage for an intense adventure filled with danger and survival.
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