Subject
Mistaken identity -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Grace May North
Sisters
"Sisters" by Grace May North is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two young girls, Jenny and Gwynette, who are separated at a young age without knowledge of each other's existence. Jenny, raised in a humble setting with loving grandparents, embarks on a journey that intertwines with the more privileged life of her sister Gwynette, who is growing up with a wealthy family just a short distance away. The opening portion introduces the idyllic backdrop of Rocky Point, California, where Jenny lives with her grandparents, Si and Susan Warner, who have raised her since she was a baby. They have kept the secret of her sister Gwynette, who has been adopted by the affluent Mrs. Algernon Poindexter-Jones. As the narrative unfolds, we see the beginnings of Jenny's life as a spirited girl who dreams of owning the family farm and is already working to make that dream a reality through her business of selling eggs and honey. Key themes of the story include class differences, the bonds of sisterhood, and the innocence of youth in the contrast between Jenny's loving home and Gwynette's lavish but emotionally distant upbringing. The stage is set for their eventual intersection as Jenny’s kind-hearted nature propels her towards actions that will challenge the secrecy that shapes their lives.
Harriet Pyne Grove
The Strange Likeness
"The Strange Likeness" by Harriet Pyne Grove is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Shirley Harcourt, a young woman who embarks on new adventures as she navigates life at a girls' school while dealing with the surprise of having a doppelgänger named Sidney Thorne. The narrative explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complications that arise from their striking resemblance. The opening of the novel introduces the story's central theme: the peculiar situation of Shirley and her double. It begins with Shirley's initial moments at the school, where she unexpectedly realizes that she looks almost identical to another student, Sidney. The text highlights Shirley's first day and the immediate reactions of her peers as they are puzzled by the resemblance. Throughout this introductory section, we see glimpses of Shirley’s personality, her relationships with her family, and her aspirations, setting the stage for the story's exploration of how the two young women will navigate their lives in the context of their surprising likeness.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Mary Louise Adopts a Soldier
"Mary Louise Adopts a Soldier" by Edith Van Dyne is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Mary Louise, a spirited young girl, and her grandfather, Colonel Hathaway, as they navigate life after the Great War and welcome returning soldiers to their small town of Dorfield. Central to the plot is their interaction with Danny Dexter, a soldier who becomes a point of interest for Mary Louise, leading to themes of friendship, duty, and the complexities of human nature. The opening of the book introduces readers to Mary Louise and her grandfather as they discuss the return of the Dorfield Regiment. Mary Louise expresses her desire to welcome the soldiers and possibly help those who have no homes to return to. Their conversation reveals her warmth and patriotism, which set the tone for the story. As they prepare to greet the soldiers, a deeper narrative unfolds surrounding the enigmatic figure of Danny Dexter, whose motivations seem more complicated than initially apparent. The reader is drawn into a mix of community spirit and suspense as Mary Louise's interactions hint at a budding mystery involving Danny and the soldiers returning from war.
Dorothy Wayne
Dorothy Dixon and the Double Cousin
"Dorothy Dixon and the Double Cousin" by Dorothy Wayne is a mystery novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around young Dorothy Dixon, a spirited and resourceful girl who finds herself entangled in a dangerous situation involving her cousin Janet Jordan, who is in serious trouble. The plot unfolds as Dorothy is mistaken for Janet and must navigate a web of intrigue to save her. At the start of the story, Dorothy is approached by Howard Bright, Janet's fiancé, who is frantically concerned about Janet's safety, revealing that she is a prisoner in her own home. Their encounter occurs amidst the hustle of holiday shoppers, setting the stage for a suspenseful adventure. As the narrative develops, it becomes clear that Janet's predicament is linked to a secretive organization connected to her father's mysterious dealings. Dorothy's resolve to help her cousin intensifies as she decides to impersonate her in a risky plan crafted by the Secret Service to rescue her from her perilous situation. The opening sets up a thrilling premise, hinting at a blend of action, deception, and the fierce loyalty of family.
Nina Rhoades
Nora's twin sister
Nora''s twin sister by Nina Rhoades is a children''s novel written in the early 20th century. It follows Nora O’Neil, a bright, poor West Side girl, and Kathleen Crawford, her wealthy counterpart on Fifth Avenue—identical twins separated in infancy without knowing it. A chance encounter leads to recognition, secrecy, and a daring exchange that tests loyalty and identity. The story foregrounds class contrasts, a mother’s steadfast love, and a girl’s imagination and integrity. The opening of the novel shows Nora spinning stories for measles-stricken neighbor children and hinting at a “twin sister” who seems imaginary but isn’t. We learn Nora lives with her widowed mother, a hardworking reporter, who secretly watches a Fifth Avenue mansion because Kathleen, the adopted twin, lives there. On a Sunday, a deaf cook mistakes Nora for Kathleen and ushers her into the Crawford home; the girls meet, and Nora reveals the truth, binding them in an instant, tender allegiance. Kathleen—lonely despite her luxury—later visits Nora’s mother in the studio, and the three share a rapturous reunion; to prolong it, the twins swap places for a night, with Nora “playing” Kathleen at the mansion, navigating stern Sarah, kind Selma, and dinner service, while earlier school scenes spotlight Nora’s ethics as she refuses to cheat on a composition.
Recently surfaced classics