Subject
Misers -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Horatio Alger
Tom Temple's Career
"Tom Temple's Career" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. This story revolves around Tom Temple, a sixteen-year-old boy who finds himself suddenly adopted by Nathan Middleton, an insurance agent, after the death of his father. The narrative explores themes of wealth, social class, and personal development as Tom navigates his new life with his eccentric guardians in a small town. The opening of the novel introduces Nathan Middleton, a miserly and calculating man, who learns he must take Tom Temple, the son of a deceased childhood friend, into his home. Initially resistant, Nathan's perspective shifts upon learning that he will receive an annual allowance for caring for Tom. As Tom arrives, he immediately challenges the Middletons' frugal lifestyle, revealing his bold personality and appetite for both food and life. The story establishes the dynamics between Tom, his new guardians, and the children of the local elite, hinting at future conflicts and adventures that will arise from his assertive character and changing fortunes.
Alice B. Emerson
Betty Gordon at Bramble Farm; Or, The Mystery of a Nobody
"Betty Gordon at Bramble Farm; Or, The Mystery of a Nobody" by Alice B. Emerson is a novel for children written in the early 20th century. This story follows the life of twelve-year-old Betty Gordon, an orphan who has just lost her mother and is waiting for her uncle to arrive and take her to live with him. As she navigates her feelings of loss, she is full of dreams and expectations about her future adventures but is soon confronted with the stark realities of her new living situation at Bramble Farm with the Peabodys, who appear to be anything but welcoming. The opening of the book introduces us to Betty's current circumstances living with Mrs. Arnold and her two sons, Ted and George, as they wait for Uncle Dick's arrival. Betty's fondness for gardening and her longing for her uncle’s companionship quickly become evident. When Uncle Dick finally arrives, he suggests that Betty stay with Mrs. Peabody for the summer, a plan that Betty initially embraces, imagining a world of adventure awaiting her. However, upon her arrival at Bramble Farm, she meets a less than delightful reality. The Peabodys are unyielding and strict, particularly Mr. Peabody, who enforces an austere household. Betty's fiery temperament surfaces when confronted with the injustices of her new life, setting the stage for her quest for independence and belonging in a world that seems unkind.
Old Sleuth
The Twin Ventriloquists; or, Nimble Ike and Jack the Juggler A Tale of Strategy and Jugglery
"The Twin Ventriloquists; or, Nimble Ike and Jack the Juggler" by Old Sleuth is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The book centers on two talented ventriloquists, Nimble Ike and Jack the Juggler, who find themselves engaging in various adventures as they use their remarkable vocal skills to outsmart others and uncover mysteries. With a mix of humor and strategy, the story is set against a backdrop of deception and intrigue, promising an entertaining read for fans of clever escapades. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Nimble Ike, a skilled ventriloquist known for his pranks and ability to mimic voices with impressive accuracy. During a visit to the Metropolitan Museum, an unexpected occurrence leads him to suspect that another ventriloquist is in his presence, igniting a competitive spirit in him. Through a series of amusing interactions, including a mock duel of ventriloquism with a mysterious youth nearby, the stage is set for adventures that intertwine the lives of Ike and Jack as they encounter strange characters and comedic situations steeped in the art of ventriloquism. The opening chapter establishes not only the protagonists but also hints at the playful and unpredictable nature of their journey ahead.
Horatio Alger
Charlie Codman's Cruise: A Story for Boys
"Charlie Codman's Cruise: A Story for Boys" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. This book tells the story of Charlie Codman, a fourteen-year-old boy who struggles with poverty yet possesses a strong sense of duty toward his mother. As the narrative unfolds, Charlie's life takes a drastic turn when he is unwittingly entangled in nefarious schemes that threaten to separate him from everything he holds dear. The opening of the story introduces Charlie as he navigates the challenges of his daily life, selling newspapers to help support his mother. We are introduced to various characters, including old Peter Manson, a miserly figure whose obsession with money impacts Charlie’s fate. Charlie’s chance encounter with Manson leads to an unexpected chain of events that sees him caught up in a plot crafted by the unscrupulous mate, John Randall, who wishes to exploit Charlie for his own gain. As the narrative develops, we witness Charlie’s resilience in facing the perilous situations ahead of him, underscoring the broader themes of adventure, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life for boys from impoverished backgrounds.
Eleanora H. Stooke
Mousey : $b or, Cousin Robert's treasure
"Mousey: or, Cousin Robert's Treasure" by Eleanora H. Stooke is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Mousey, whose real name is Arabella, as she navigates her new life after the death of her mother. Following this tragedy, she faces uncertainty about her future and is taken in by her eccentric cousin Robert Harding, who is perceived as miserly and eccentric. The opening portion of the book introduces Mousey shortly after her mother's funeral, where family members discuss her future care. Mousey is depicted as a sensitive and shy girl who struggles with her loss but is comforted by her faith. Amidst the family dynamics, Mr. Harding offers her a surprising proposition: to come live with him, thus placing her in a situation filled with tension and the potential for growth. The chapter cleverly captures Mousey's emotions and the perceptions others have about her new home. As she contemplates her future, themes of poverty, kindness, and the complexities of familial relationships are set to unfold throughout the narrative.
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