Subject
Kindness -- Fiction Books
Best books
Maria S. (Maria Susanna) Cummins
The Lamplighter
"The Lamplighter" by Maria S. Cummins is a novel published in 1854. This female coming-of-age story follows Gertrude Flint, an abandoned orphan rescued at age eight by a kind lamplighter from her abusive guardian. Raised with love and religious faith, Gertrude transforms from a mistreated child into a moralistic woman. Her journey of suffering and virtue ultimately leads to unexpected rewards in adulthood. An immediate bestseller, the novel sold over 40,000 copies in eight weeks and became a cultural phenomenon of its era.
Maria S. (Maria Susanna) Cummins
Il lampionaio
"Il lampionaio" by Maria S. Cummins is a sentimental novel published in 1854. The story follows Gertrude Flint, an abandoned orphan rescued at age eight by Trueman Flint, a lamplighter, from her abusive guardian. Raised with love and taught virtues and religious faith, Gertrude grows into a moralistic woman whose long suffering is ultimately rewarded. An immediate bestseller, the novel sold over 40,000 copies in eight weeks and became one of the most popular works of its era.
Alice Caldwell Hegan Rice
Lovey Mary
"Lovey Mary" by Alice Caldwell Hegan Rice is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around the struggles and aspirations of a young girl named Lovey Mary, who grapples with feelings of inadequacy and yearns for love and acceptance while navigating her life in an orphanage. Lovey Mary's character is richly layered, depicted as both rebellious and compassionate, seeking to find her place in a world that often seems unkind. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Lovey Mary as she engages in a comedic yet poignant interaction with Miss Bell, the matron of the orphanage, illustrating her chaotic inner world. The opening chapter showcases her contradictions—her desire for beauty and acceptance against the harsh realities of her upbringing. Lovey’s longing for connection is further emphasized when she is tasked with caring for a baby, Tommy, which ignites a fierce protective instinct within her. As Lovey Mary faces various trials—her disdain for her appearance, her resentment toward the orphanage, and her fierce love for Tommy—the narrative sets a tone of both vulnerability and resilience, engaging readers in her quest for identity and belonging.
Rosa Nouchette Carey
Averil
"Averil" by Rosa Nouchette Carey is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on the life of Averil Willmot, a delicate young woman who struggles with her responsibilities towards her step-family while navigating her own needs and desires. The book explores themes of kindness, duty, and the challenges of personal happiness in the face of familial expectations. The opening portion introduces us to Mr. Harland, a cheerful lawyer, and Averil, his close friend. The scene unfolds on a rainy day in Lincoln's Inn as Averil expresses her concerns about her step-family and her desire to help a distant cousin named Annette Ramsay, who has recently lost her mother. The narrative highlights Averil's gentle nature and her commitment to helping those in need, as well as Mr. Harland’s concern for her well-being. As he reads a letter from Annette, the emotional weight surrounding both their lives and the theme of familial obligation begins to take shape, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and connections between the characters.
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