Subject
Middle West -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Horatio Alger
Mark Manning's Mission: The Story of a Shoe Factory Boy
"Mark Manning's Mission: The Story of a Shoe Factory Boy" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Mark Manning, a young boy employed in a shoe factory who embodies determination, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility, particularly towards his widowed mother. The story highlights the struggles and triumphs of working-class life, illustrating themes of social class, friendship, and moral character. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Mark and two boys, James Collins and Tom Wyman, as they embark on a hunting adventure. James, the son of a wealthy shoe manufacturer, displays a haughty demeanor towards Mark, who comes from a poorer background. The boys witness a hawk, leading to a competition where Mark surprisingly catches the bird, much to the irritation of James. The plot unfolds as Mark, upon hearing a groan from the hermit Anthony, enters his cabin to assist him, showcasing Mark's compassionate nature. This incident sets in motion a series of events that reveal Mark's character, the complexity of social relationships, and his eventual entanglement in a conflict that threatens his reputation and livelihood. Through his selfless actions, Mark becomes an integral part of the hermit's life as he navigates the challenges that arise from his socio-economic circumstances.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell's Own Company; Or, Barnstorming in the Middle West
"Frank Merriwell's Own Company; Or, Barnstorming in the Middle West" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Frank Merriwell, a talented young man who finds himself thrust into the role of a performer after a magician's unexpected death. As he navigates the challenges of taking the magician's place, Frank showcases his wit and skills, ultimately captivating an audience with his improvised magic show. The beginning of the novel introduces us to the frantic atmosphere of an opera house where Manager Thaddeus Burnham is anxious about the magician Zolverein, who is suffering a serious health crisis before a show. We learn that Frank Merriwell has previously saved Zolverein, and in a twist of fate, he inherits the magician's apparatus just before Zolverein passes away. As Frank takes the stage, his initial nervousness quickly dissipates as he engages the audience with his clever banter, ventriloquism, and magic tricks, notably the successful performance of the "Educated Fly." The opening sets the stage for a tale combining elements of humor, adventure, and the spirit of showmanship in the world of traveling entertainment.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Mary Louise and the Liberty Girls
"Mary Louise and the Liberty Girls" by Edith Van Dyne is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story focuses on a group of patriotic young girls, led by the spirited Mary Louise, as they rally together to support the war effort during World War I through the sale of Liberty Bonds. The narrative highlights their determination, resourcefulness, and the challenges they face from within their community. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Mary Louise and her grandfather, Colonel Hathaway, who is deeply invested in the Liberty Bond campaign. After a disappointing turnout at a mass meeting meant to encourage bond purchases, Mary Louise takes charge, rallying her friends to lead a more grassroots campaign among their townspeople. The opening also sets up a conflict with an opposing figure, Jake Kasker, who openly voices his anti-war sentiments, hinting at themes of loyalty, patriotism, and the internal strife faced during wartime. Mary Louise's resolve to combat disloyalty and support her country forms the backbone of the narrative, setting the stage for their adventures and struggles as they fight for their community's commitment to the war effort.
Horatio Alger
Bob Burton; or, The Young Ranchman of the Missouri
"Bob Burton; or, The Young Ranchman of the Missouri" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Bob Burton, a young ranchman navigating life on his family's ranch in Missouri. The opening chapters set the stage for a conflict involving Bob's father, Richard Burton, and Aaron Wolverton, the local moneylender, who harbors a hidden grudge against the family. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the Burton family as they prepare for Richard's trip to pay interest on a mortgage held by Wolverton. Tensions are hinted at in interactions between Richard and his wife, Mary, who expresses mistrust of Wolverton, recalling his past advances towards her. After Richard's tragic accident on the way home, where Wolverton is seen rifling through his pockets, a plot emerges involving accusations, deceit, and the desperate quest for justice. Bob, alongside his companion Clip, a young African American refugee, begins to confront the challenges threatening their livelihood while discovering the depths of Wolverton's malevolence.
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