Subject
Laziness -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Walter Aimwell
Marcus; or, The Boy-Tamer
"Marcus; or, The Boy-Tamer" by Walter Aimwell is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows young Marcus Page, who takes on the responsibility of caring for a somewhat troubled cousin, Oscar, who comes from a challenging background and has been placed with Marcus's family in hopes of reformation. Through their interactions, the novel explores themes of self-governance, moral growth, and the influence older boys can have on younger ones. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Marcus, his family, and the arrival of Oscar from Boston. The setting is a rural farm in Vermont, where daily life revolves around farm chores and school. Ronald, a boy raised by Marcus's family, is particularly eager to learn about Oscar and make a new friend, though he has his own challenges to face. The initial chapters establish the dynamics of the household, Marcus's proactive role in mentoring Ronald, and set the stage for Oscar's struggle to adapt and prove himself in this new environment.
Harry Castlemon
The Young Game-Warden
"The Young Game-Warden" by Harry Castlemon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Silas Morgan, a lazy and impoverished ferryman who stumbles upon a mysterious letter hinting at a hidden fortune in the mountains. As the narrative unfolds, it introduces Silas's family, including his ambitious son Joe, who has just landed a job as a game warden, and his lazy brother Dan, who schemes to take advantage of the situation. The opening of the book sets a vivid scene, introducing Silas Morgan as he begrudgingly hauls wood while lamenting his poor fortune. His situation changes dramatically when he discovers an intriguing letter within a woodpile, suggesting the existence of treasure in a nearby cave. This discovery stirs his imagination and ambition, making him consider the risky endeavor of hunting for the hidden riches. Meanwhile, the dynamics between Silas and his sons unfold; Dan’s reckless nature and resentment towards Joe's good fortune create tension, hinting at the conflicts that will arise as their lives intertwine with those of the wealthy sportsmen in the area.
Oliver Optic
The picnic party : $b A story for little folks
"The Picnic Party: A Story for Little Folks" by Oliver Optic is a children's story written during the early 19th century. This book falls within the genre of children's literature and focuses on themes of politeness, friendship, and personal growth. The narrative centers around the experiences of young children as they navigate social interactions and learn important life lessons during a summer picnic. In the story, Josephine, a city girl visiting her country relatives, struggles with her selfish tendencies, often asking her friends to do things for her instead of taking the initiative herself. As she and her friends prepare for a picnic, her habit of relying on others for even the smallest tasks begins to alienate them. When left alone in the woods after her companions refuse to carry her back in a wagon, Josephine confronts her past behavior. Ultimately, she learns the importance of not overburdening others and initiates a sincere effort to change her ways, fostering better friendships in the process. The story emphasizes the value of self-sufficiency and genuine kindness in social relationships.
Elijah Kellogg
The Turning of the Tide; Or, Radcliffe Rich and His Patients
"The Turning of the Tide; Or, Radcliffe Rich and His Patients" by Elijah Kellogg is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Radcliffe Rich, a character faced with the trials and tribulations of life as a mechanic in a wilderness setting, highlighting themes of perseverance and personal growth. As he navigates the challenges of establishing himself as a blacksmith and supporting his family, the narrative explores his character development and the values of hard work and ingenuity. The opening of the novel introduces William Richardson, a skilled mechanic living in a rural, pioneering community. Faced with the struggles of early settlers, William yearns to develop his blacksmithing skills amid the challenges of obtaining tools and iron. The narrative details his trials as he attempts to create functional tools from limited resources, such as using kitchen implements and makeshift forges. Throughout these challenges, themes of determination and character building emerge, setting the stage for William's journey towards mastery and success. As he strives to fulfill the needs of his community, the emphasis on resilience and adaptability becomes increasingly apparent.
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
Abbey : $b or, Taking it easy
"Abbey : or, Taking it easy by Lucy Ellen Guernsey" is a didactic domestic fiction (a Sunday‑school tale) written in the late 19th century. It follows a heedless young servant whose motto of “taking it easy” clashes with households that expect diligence and Christian accountability, offering a moral contrast between careless indolence and conscientious work. The story tracks Abbey Jenkins as she blunders through Mrs. Ward’s home—burning a new green pail, staining a fresh ceiling, and ruining an heirloom cloth—then receives a pointed lesson on the sin of omission from Matthew 25. Hoping to reform her, Mrs. Powell swaps her own capable maid for Abbey and imposes strict, fair training, but Abbey resists discipline, oversleeps, and sulks. At home, industrious sister Elvira thrives in service, their disabled brother Harry earns by fine handwork, and little Totty declines after a fall traced to Abbey’s carelessness. Left alone one afternoon, Abbey hastens a reluctant fire by pouring kerosene on kindling; the can explodes, destroying the kitchen, birds, and garden. Dismissed, she remains self‑pitying while Elvira, Harry, and even Totty contribute; the narrator closes with a warning that “not meaning any harm” is no excuse, and that wasted talents and shirked duties burden others and dishonour God.
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