Subject
Mills and mill-work -- Fiction Books
Best books
Homer Greene
The unhallowed harvest
"The Unhallowed Harvest" by Homer Greene is a social commentary novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Reverend Robert Bruce Farrar, who finds himself embroiled in a court case involving a working-class family, the Bradleys, after the husband suffers a life-altering injury at work. Through the lens of this legal struggle, the narrative explores themes of social justice, inequality, and the human condition. At the start of the novel, the Reverend Farrar attends a courtroom trial where a negligence case is being decided against the Malleson Manufacturing Company. He is particularly interested in the case due to the human elements involved, namely the struggles of the injured worker, John Bradley, and the emotional turmoil faced by his wife, Mary. As the court proceedings unfold, it becomes clear that while the law is being upheld, a greater moral injustice may be at play, as the ruling favors the corporation despite its negligence. Mary Bradley’s fierce determination to fight for her husband’s dignity and their family's rights highlights the stark divide between the wealthy and the working class, setting the stage for further developments in their lives and in the socio-economic landscape of the time.
Grace MacGowan Cooke
The Power and the Glory
"The Power and the Glory" by Grace MacGowan Cooke is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows Johnnie Consadine, a young woman born in the mountains who embarks on a journey to the factory town of Cottonville in search of work and a better life for her family. Set against a backdrop of social challenges, Johnnie's character embodies aspiration and determination as she navigates her new environment filled with industry and opportunity. The beginning of the novel introduces readers to Johnnie's humble origins in a small mountain cabin, where her sick mother and Uncle Pros struggle to provide for the family. Johnnie's youthful ambition compels her to leave her familiar surroundings in search of employment at the local cotton mill. The narrative vividly portrays her determination as she walks towards her future, reflecting on her family's history and the hardships they faced. Throughout this opening, the reader gains insight into Johnnie's strong will and her desire to create a better life for herself and her siblings, setting the stage for her challenges and aspirations in the industrial world.
Ruth Comfort Mitchell
The Wishing Carpet
"The Wishing Carpet" by Ruth Comfort Mitchell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Glenwood Darrow, a young girl with a striking appearance and a complex relationship with her parents, particularly with her ailing mother, Effie. The novel explores themes of social class, identity, and the transformative power of dreams represented by a beautiful Persian rug that inspires wishes and aspirations. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Glen Darrow, who, at six years old, questions whether a lovely Oriental rug in her home is indeed a "Wishing Carpet." This moment serves as a poignant metaphor for her family's struggles and aspirations. Glen's mother views the rug as a symbol of her longings unfulfilled by life, while Glen's innocence prompts her to believe in the possibility of wishing for a better future. The opening chapters delve into Glen's experiences growing up amidst the complexities of her family's dynamics, her father's expectations, and her mother's invalidism, setting the stage for an unfolding tale of love, ambition, and the clashing of social classes. As Glen matures, her distinctive traits and her father's unwavering love set the tone for an evolving narrative around identity and belonging.
Charles Sheldon French
The worship of the golden calf: A story of wage-slavery in Massachusetts
"The Worship of the Golden Calf: A Story of Wage-Slavery in Massachusetts" by Charles Sheldon French is a fictional narrative written in the early 20th century. The story explores the grim realities of wage slavery through the experiences of John Wycliff, a farm laborer struggling against the injustices perpetrated by powerful employers in New England. Central themes include the exploitation of workers, the moral corruption within the church, and societal inequality. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to John Wycliff, who faces not only financial hardship but personal turmoil as his sick child relies on him to provide for the family amidst severe wage cuts imposed by his employer, Jacob Sharp. The story paints a vivid picture of Wycliff's frustrations as he struggles against the deceit of Sharp, who withholds his wages and pressures him into subservience. Through Wycliff's interactions with Sharp and others in the community, the opening lays the groundwork for a larger commentary on social justice and the stark divide between the wealthy elite and the working class, setting the stage for the unfolding conflicts that will arise in their quest for dignity and fair treatment.
Evelyn Raymond
Reels and Spindles: A Story of Mill Life
"Reels and Spindles: A Story of Mill Life" by Evelyn Raymond is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around Amy Kaye, a spirited and determined young girl, who embarks on various adventures that intertwine with her experiences in the industrial world of the mill. The novel portrays themes of friendship, resilience, and the social dynamics around mill life, as well as the impact of personal choices on the lives of those around her. At the start of the story, Amy is introduced while riding her stubborn burro, Pepita, through the picturesque landscape surrounding her home. She becomes disoriented while exploring and eventually encounters Bonaparte Lafayette Jimpson, a playful and quirky boy who captivates her attention. The opening chapters set the tone for her adventures, emphasizing Amy's curiosity and the courage that drives her to explore unknown territories, ultimately leading to a chance meeting that foreshadows the social challenges she will face within the mill community. Her encounters also touch upon the themes of innocence and the complexities of human dynamics, setting the stage for her growth and the relationships that will develop throughout the narrative.
Helen M. (Helen Maria) Winslow
Salome Shepard, reformer
"Salome Shepard, Reformer" by Helen M. Winslow is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Salome Shepard, a wealthy young woman who inherits the management of the Shawsheen Mills after her father's passing. As labor unrest brews due to workers demanding better wages and working conditions, Salome grapples with her responsibilities both as a capitalist and as a potential reformer, torn between the privileges of her station and the plight of the workers who depend on her father's legacy. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Salome Shepard as she observes the bustling yet tense factory precincts, hinting at the looming strike among the workers of the Shawsheen Mills. Salome's initial reaction is that of discomfort and a desire to avoid involvement in the labor issues at hand. However, as salience grows surrounding the workers' demands, Salome begins to reflect on her own privilege and the responsibilities that come with her wealth and position. The stage is set for her eventual transformation from a sheltered daughter of affluence into an active participant in the social issues that affect those around her, suggesting a deep exploration of class dynamics and the moral implications of capitalistic society.
Agnes Maule Machar
Roland Graeme: Knight. A Novel of Our Time
"Roland Graeme: Knight. A Novel of Our Time" by Agnes Maule Machar is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character Roland Graeme, a young man driven by an earnest desire to address social injustices, particularly those affecting the working class. As he navigates the challenges of life, he encounters various characters, including ministers and those living in poverty, which shape his understanding of humanity and his mission. The opening portion of the novel introduces the Reverend Cecil Chillingworth, deeply engrossed in preparing a sermon about self-sacrifice within the context of Christianity. His focus is disrupted by visits from Roland Graeme, who seeks to share his vision of promoting human brotherhood through a publication addressing social issues. This interaction highlights the tension between Chillingworth’s conventional views and Graeme's progressive ideas. Additionally, the narrative presents a poignant scene with a sick mother and her young daughter, illustrating the harsh realities of poverty. This sets the stage for Graeme's moral journey as he commits himself to fighting for the betterment of society, reflecting themes of empathy, social reform, and the quest for justice.
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