Subject
Jealousy -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Mayne Reid
Gwen Wynn: A Romance of the Wye
"Gwen Wynn: A Romance of the Wye" by Captain Mayne Reid is a fictional romance novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Wye River in England, and it introduces us to the vibrant character of Gwendoline Wynn, a spirited young woman who possesses a strong sense of independence and an adventurous spirit. The narrative promises both romantic intrigue and challenges as it unfolds, combining elements of beauty, danger, and emotional complexity. The opening of the novel introduces us to the enchanting Wye River and the character of Gwen Wynn, who is depicted both in her idyllic surroundings and her aspirations. As a well-regarded member of her community, she enjoys activities like boating and hunting, while also nurturing a close relationship with her companion, Eleanor Lees. However, her flattering moments in the sunlight are soon cast into shadow as she grapples with her feelings towards a mysterious angler named Vivian Ryecroft. The plot thickens when Gwen and Eleanor venture out for a rowing excursion, where their encounter with a group of rough men threatens to turn their pleasant day into a harrowing experience. Ultimately, the stage is set for a tale of romance layered with danger as Ryecroft becomes a key figure in their unforeseen conflict.
Lester Chadwick
Baseball Joe, Captain of the Team; or, Bitter Struggles on the Diamond
"Baseball Joe, Captain of the Team; or, Bitter Struggles on the Diamond" by Lester Chadwick is a sports novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Baseball Joe Matson, a talented pitcher for the Giants, who faces challenges both on the field and in his personal life. As the season progresses, Joe and his team find themselves struggling against a losing streak while dealing with the pressure of expectations, team dynamics, and personal relationships. The opening of the novel introduces Joe and his friend Jim Barclay as they grapple with their team's recent poor performance. Despite Joe's skills on the mound, the rest of the team seems to have fallen into a slump, with speculations arising about the team's chemistry and potential disruptions from new players. As the narrative unfolds, Joe remains determined to turn the team's fortunes around, but external pressures and personal concerns loom large, particularly the impact of his mother's health on his focus.
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.
Mayne Reid
Gwen Wynn: A Romance of the Wye
"Gwen Wynn: A Romance of the Wye" by Captain Mayne Reid is a romantic novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces us to Gwendoline Wynn, a spirited young heiress known for her beauty and independence, living in the scenic English countryside near the Wye River. The novel sets the stage for an unfolding romance and the complexities of her life, particularly involving her relationships with her companion Eleanor Lees and the dashing Captain Vivian Ryecroft, who becomes captivated by her. The opening portion of the narrative paints a picturesque river scene where Gwen Wynn enjoys her freedom while boating on the Wye. We learn about her character through her interactions with her companion, Eleanor, and her candid thoughts about romance and societal expectations. As they prepare for a row on the river, Gwen's playful yet reflective nature comes to light, foreshadowing deeper themes of longing and attraction. Amidst their idyllic excursion, tension arises when they encounter rough men on the river, leading to a thrilling moment as Captain Ryecroft appears to rescue them from potential danger. This sets up a compelling romantic tension between Gwen and Ryecroft, suggesting an adventurous blend of romance and peril that drives the story forward.
Mrs. Molesworth
Rosy
"Rosy" by Mrs. Molesworth is a children's novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story centers around a young girl named Rosy, who is dealing with feelings of jealousy and frustration as she navigates her relationships with her brothers and the arrival of a new little girl named Beata. The book explores themes of temper, familial love, and the challenges of growing up, particularly as Rosy struggles with her less than favorable disposition and her longing for her mother's affection. The opening of the book introduces us to Rosy, who is characterized as a lively but willful child. She is dealing with her emotions after the announcement of Beata's arrival to live with her family, fueling her temper and jealousy. The passage reveals Rosy's interactions with her brothers, Colin and Felix, demonstrating both her affection for them and her volatile nature, as she flips between anger and affection. Rosy's relationships with her family members, especially her little brother Felix, highlight her complex emotions and hint at her internal conflicts. This engaging beginning sets the stage for Rosy's journey towards understanding herself and her feelings towards others.
Joanna H. (Joanna Hooe) Mathews
Belle Powers' Locket
"Belle Powers' Locket" by Joanna H. Mathews is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Belle Powers, who aspires to be a "sunbeam"—a source of joy and kindness to others. Through Belle's interactions with her father and her friends, including the spoiled and willful Mabel, the narrative explores themes of compassion, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating friendships. The opening of the tale introduces Belle as a bright and cheerful child who is engaged in a conversation with her father about the nature of being a sunbeam by spreading happiness. As they discuss her friends Maggie and Bessie, we see Belle's natural inclination toward kindness and her desire to emulate their positive attributes. However, the narrative quickly shifts to the arrival of her cousin, Mabel, who embodies the opposite traits—selfishness and misbehavior—which causes tension between the two girls. This initial clash sets the stage for Belle's struggle with her feelings of jealousy and her efforts to embrace love and charity despite Mabel's challenging behavior.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell on the Road; Or, The All-Star Combination
"Frank Merriwell on the Road; Or, The All-Star Combination" by Burt L. Standish is a juvenile adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Frank Merriwell, a heroic figure known to young readers, who gets entangled with a traveling theater troupe called "Haley’s All-Star Combination." Through humorous encounters and dramatic turns, it captures the themes of friendship, determination, and adventure. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to a chaotic scene involving a runaway donkey causing havoc during a parade. The protagonist, Frank Merriwell, intervenes, showcasing his bravery and quick thinking. As he reunites with his old friends, Ephraim and Hans, the trio embarks on an adventure filled with comedic mishaps and theatrical performances. Throughout these initial chapters, we see Merriwell demonstrate his leadership and resourcefulness while reflecting on the economic struggles that lead him to seek work within the theater, setting the stage for the challenges and experiences he will face on the road.
Emma C. Dowd
When Polly Was Eighteen
"When Polly Was Eighteen" by Emma C. Dowd is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Polly Dudley, a young woman navigating her relationships and personal growth amidst the complexities of love, friendship, and societal expectations. In the opening chapters, we are introduced to Polly, her love interest David, and the unfolding dynamics of their connection as they struggle with jealousy, misunderstandings, and the challenges of young adulthood. The opening of the book sets the stage with a significant walk between Polly and David, highlighting the tension in their relationship as David grapples with jealousy over Polly's interactions with other boys. This emotional backdrop creates an atmosphere of uncertainty for Polly, who is equally perplexed by David’s mood swings. As the narrative progresses, we see Polly's character evolve; she is caught between her desire for independence and the constraints imposed by her feelings for David. The initial chapters delve into themes of trust, freedom, and self-discovery, as Polly begins to articulate her need for autonomy even while being deeply entwined in her romantic feelings.
George Manville Fenn
A Life's Eclipse
"A Life's Eclipse" by George Manville Fenn is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows John Grange, a determined under-gardener who aspires to win the love of Mary Ellis, the daughter of the bailiff. However, John's life takes a dramatic turn when a work-related accident leaves him blind, setting the stage for a gripping tale of challenges, rivalry, and unexpected revelations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to John Grange and his love for Mary Ellis, which is met with fierce opposition from her father, James Ellis. The narrative quickly shifts when John suffers a serious fall while working on a cedar tree, resulting in his blindness. As he navigates his new reality, he faces not only the challenges of his condition but the underhanded attempts of Daniel Barnett, his rival, who seeks to usurp his position and win Mary's affection. This initial setup immerses the reader in themes of love, ambition, and resilience, establishing a foundation for what promises to be an engaging story as it unfolds.
Amy Walton
White Lilac; or the Queen of the May
"White Lilac; or the Queen of the May" by Amy Walton is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Lilac White, a girl raised by her widowed mother, who is trying to give her daughter a good life amidst the struggles that come with their circumstances. As Lilac grows, themes of social standing, childhood beauty, and self-acceptance emerge, particularly in her interactions with her fashionable cousin Agnetta Greenways. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to the life of Mrs. White, who is determined to bring up her daughter while grappling with the loss of her husband shortly after Lilac's birth. As the narrative unfolds, we learn of a significant event: the May Day competition in which Lilac is named Queen but faces the immediate tragedy of her mother's illness and death. This sets the stage for her upbringing alone in a rural village marked by social comparisons and the struggle to find her place among peers, including the superficial expectations set by her cousins. The opening chapters establish a vivid pastoral England and a poignant coming-of-age tale that raises questions about identity and societal values.
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