Subject
India -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Helen Bannerman
The Story of Little Black Sambo, and The Story of Little Black Mingo
"The Story of Little Black Sambo, and The Story of Little Black Mingo" by Helen Bannerman is a children's book written and illustrated in 1899. When young Sambo encounters four hungry tigers during a walk, he must surrender his colorful new clothes and umbrella to save himself. But the vain tigers' argument leads to an unexpected transformation. Once celebrated as featuring one of the first Black heroes in children's literature, the book later became controversial due to racial stereotypes in its illustrations and character names, prompting numerous revised editions.
Helen Bannerman
Little Black Sambo
"Little Black Sambo" by Helen Bannerman is a children's storybook written during the early 20th century. The book centers around a little black boy named Sambo and his adventures in the jungle, where he encounters various tigers. Its narrative explores themes of cleverness, resourcefulness, and ultimately, the consequences of pride. The story follows Little Black Sambo, who, while adorned in his fine clothes crafted by his parents, meets several tigers in the jungle who intend to eat him. In a clever turn of events, Sambo offers each tiger his clothing in exchange for his freedom. Eventually, a commotion ensues among the tigers, who begin to fight over their newfound pride in their appearances. This chaos leads to their humorous demise, leaving behind a pool of melted butter, which Sambo's father collects to make pancakes. The story ends with the family enjoying a feast, underscoring themes of clever negotiation and familial love.
A. L. O. E.
The wondrous sickle, and other stories
No description available.
Eleanor Stredder
Alive in the jungle : $b A story for the young
"Alive in the Jungle: A Story for the Young" by Eleanor Stredder is a children's tale likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around a family living in Bengal, particularly focusing on the trials of the Desborough family after a wolf kidnaps their young son, Carl. The story intertwines themes of adventure, familial bonds, and the challenges of living in a wild environment. At the start of the story, the atmosphere is tense and foreboding as nighttime in Bengal is filled with the sounds of a tiger and a buffalo fighting nearby Mr. Desborough’s indigo factory. The youngest child, Racy, is ill, and the family is anxiously trying to keep the household calm amidst the chaos outside. When a wolf breaks into their home, it successfully absconds with Carl, prompting Mr. Desborough to undertake a desperate pursuit. As darkness envelops the landscape, the scene sets the stage for both adventure and fear, establishing a gripping conflict that drives the plot forward. The opening effectively introduces the characters and stakes, engaging the reader in the unfolding drama.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
The Lost Heir
"The Lost Heir" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores adventurous themes set against the backdrop of British India and its colonial military operations, focusing on the life and actions of various characters, particularly spotlighting a young man named John Simcoe, who bravely saves a General from a tiger attack. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a tense scene in a military cantonment where soldiers gather to learn of the fate of General Mathieson, gravely injured after a tiger attack. The narrative is shared through conversations among the soldiers, revealing the respect the General commands due to his selfless nature and rapport with the men. Another character, Mr. Simcoe, emerges as a gallant figure, having risked his life to save the General but suffering serious injuries in the process. As news of the incident spreads, hints of camaraderie and themes of bravery are established, setting a gripping tone for the rest of the story that will unfold around these characters’ lives and fates.
Horatio Alger
In Search of Treasure
"In Search of Treasure" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a bright and adventurous sixteen-year-old boy named Guy Fenwick, who wishes for a life beyond his father's ministerial duties in Bayport. Instead of pursuing glory through academia, Guy seeks excitement and the chance to explore the world when he discovers a hidden legacy tied to his late uncle—a pirate's treasure buried on a mysterious island. The opening of the novel introduces us to Guy and his father, Reverend Fenwick, discussing the boy's educational aspirations. Guy expresses disinterest in college, longing for adventure instead. After a poignant moment centered on family history, Guy explores an attic chest belonging to his deceased uncle George. Inside, he uncovers a letter containing details about a pirate's treasure hidden on an island. This catalyst sets Guy on a thrilling journey as he contemplates how to embark on the quest for this treasure to help improve his father's precarious financial situation, introducing themes of family loyalty, adventure, and the pursuit of one's dreams.
Andy Adams
Mystery of the Ambush in India
"Mystery of the Ambush in India" by Andy Adams is a mystery adventure novel written in the early 1960s. The story centers around a group of young boys led by Biff Brewster, who, along with his friends Kamuka and Li, arrive in India to reunite with Biff’s father. They find themselves embroiled in a series of mysterious events that revolve around a hidden danger, a tape message from Biff's father, and the intrigue of India itself. The opening of the book introduces Biff as he navigates the bustling Calcutta waterfront with his companions after arriving on a freighter. Their anticipation of adventure takes a dramatic turn when they receive a surprise recorded message from Biff's father instructing them to meet a trusted associate in the New India Bazaar. As they explore the city, the boys become further enmeshed in local mystique, engaging in lively banter about cultural landmarks, unaware of potential lurking dangers. Their journey is set against a backdrop of vibrant Indian life, heightened by the sense of mystery involving Biff's father and the enigmatic voice that communicates crucial instructions.
Horatio Alger
Brave and Bold; Or, The Fortunes of Robert Rushton
"Brave and Bold; Or, The Fortunes of Robert Rushton" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a school setting where we are introduced to Robert Rushton, a young factory worker, and his rival, Halbert Davis, the arrogant son of a wealthy factory superintendent. The narrative addresses themes of social class disparity, perseverance, and moral integrity as Robert navigates tensions arising from class differences and his attempts to rise above his impoverished circumstances. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Millville Academy and its students under the tutelage of Professor Granville, who is praised by his students at the conclusion of their writing course. Amidst this, we witness a rivalry sparked between Robert Rushton and Halbert Davis. While Halbert is accustomed to privilege and self-importance, he is jealous of Robert, whose character, diligence, and kindness garner admiration, particularly from Hester Paine, a local belle. The conflict between the boys intensifies as Halbert feels insulted by Robert’s interaction with Hester, leading to a confrontation that not only tests their character but also sets the stage for further challenges, including Robert's struggle to maintain his job at the factory amidst Halbert’s social influence.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The Star of India
"The Star of India" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny in India, the story follows the journey of Baird Avery, an assistant surgeon with the Honorable East India Company, as tensions rise between the British and the local population. This thrilling narrative combines elements of adventure, romance, and historical drama, making it a compelling read for those interested in this tumultuous period in Indian history. The beginning of the story introduces Baird Avery as he travels through India, specifically en route to Delhi, where he hopes to visit a Rajah he is friendly with. The sweltering heat and cultural landscape paint a vivid picture of India during this time. Avery’s interactions hint at underlying tensions as he tries to determine the nature of growing discontent among the sepoys. Notably, his servant Luchman warns him of an impending revolt, indicating the imminent conflict that will soon engulf them. As Avery strives to reach his betrothed in Delhi, the narrative sets up a web of intrigue and danger that foreshadows the chaos of the mutiny ahead.
George Manville Fenn
Draw Swords! In the Horse Artillery
"Draw Swords! In the Horse Artillery" by George Manville Fenn is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Richard Darrell, a 17-year-old boy who has recently been commissioned as a subaltern in the Bengal Horse Artillery during the British Raj in India. As he navigates the challenges of military life, Darrell grapples with feelings of loneliness, self-doubt, and a longing to prove himself among his peers. At the start of the narrative, Richard struggles with the emotional upheaval of being separated from his familiar life in England. His first day in India brings a mix of excitement and disappointment as he faces the harsh realities of military life, including navigating troop dynamics and overcoming the thrill and trepidation of his first riding lesson. The opening chapters delve into his early experiences and interactions, particularly focusing on his ambitions to excel in the esteemed horse artillery unit. Despite his insecurities about his youthful appearance and the heavy responsibilities ahead, Richard’s character starts to emerge as he takes on the challenge of mastering a fierce Arabian horse named Burnouse, hinting at the growth and adventures that lie ahead.
Howard Roger Garis
Umboo, the Elephant
"Umboo, the Elephant" by Howard Roger Garis is a children's story that belongs to the genre of animal fiction, written during the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on the adventures of Umboo, a young elephant, who recounts his life in the jungle, the challenges he faces after being taken from his home, and his experiences in the circus. Through the lens of Umboo’s perspective, the book explores themes of friendship, growing up, and survival in the wild. The opening of the story introduces a hot circus setting where various animals, including Umboo and a group of monkeys, are trying to cope with their captivity. Infuriated by the heat, the monkeys express their longing for the jungle. Umboo demonstrates his playful nature by providing them some relief from the heat through his trunk by spraying water. He is soon prompted to share stories of his past in the jungle, particularly how he learned to navigate his environment and become strong. The initial chapters blend humor and adventure as Umboo engages with his fellow circus animals, leading to a narrative filled with camaraderie, reflections on his jungle upbringing, and foreshadowing his eventual adventures and challenges ahead as he recounts tales from his youth.
Helen Bannerman
The Story of Little Black Mingo
"The Story of Little Black Mingo" by Helen Bannerman is a children's story written in the early 20th century. This delightful tale revolves around the adventures of a little black girl named Little Black Mingo, who encounters various challenges while living with a harsh old woman. Set in a whimsical world, the story likely focuses on themes of friendship, bravery, and overcoming adversity. In the narrative, Little Black Mingo is tasked with fetching water by the cruel old woman, Black Noggy. During her journey, she encounters a vicious Mugger who intends to eat her. With cleverness and help from a Mongoose, she manages to escape certain doom while also thwarting the Mugger's plans to feast on his hatchling eggs. After a series of misadventures resulting in the Mugger’s and Black Noggy's downfall, Mingo and the Mongoose find a way to live happily together in a secure home, signifying triumph over hardship and the blossoming of camaraderie.
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