Subject
Neighbors -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Harriet L. (Harriet Lummis) Smith
The Girls of Friendly Terrace; or, Peggy Raymond's Success
"The Girls of Friendly Terrace; or, Peggy Raymond's Success" by Harriet L. Smith is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Peggy Raymond, a vivacious and cheerful girl who has just returned to her charming neighborhood known as Friendly Terrace after being away. The narrative explores her relationships with her friends, their interactions, and the warmth of neighborly bonds within the community. The opening of the novel sets a lively tone as Peggy arrives home, greeted with excitement by her friends. The girls, including Priscilla, Amy, and Ruth, are animatedly discussing her return when a mix-up occurs with a stranger, adding a humorous touch to the scene. Peggy's contagious enthusiasm shines throughout the introduction, establishing her as a beloved figure in the community, capable of fostering relationships and bringing people together. As she reconnects with her friends and adjusts to new neighbors, the stage is set for future adventures and deeper friendships, particularly with a new girl named Elaine, who appears somewhat aloof and carries the weight of her family's recent struggles. The beginning hints at Peggy's positive influence and the potential for growth and understanding among the girls of Friendly Terrace.
Agnes Giberne
Ready, aye ready!
"Ready, Aye Ready!" by Agnes Giberne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins with Richard and Susan Dunn, a family who has recently moved from their beloved cottage to a much less idyllic setting in the manufacturing town of Littleburgh. The narrative explores their adjustment to this new environment, highlighting themes of family, social challenges, and the striving for a better life, as they settle into their modest new home and encounter their neighbors. At the start of the novel, we meet Susan Dunn, who expresses her discontent over their new home, "Woodbine Cottage," which lacks the beauty of their previous surroundings. The storyline introduces us to the struggles of the family as they adapt to their new circumstances, with Richard quickly finding work after losing his previous job due to economic hardships. We are also introduced to their children, particularly their daughter Nancy, who navigates her own social interactions, including a budding friendship with a boy named Archie Stuart. The opening sets up a rich tapestry of community dynamics and personal challenges that promise to unfold as the story progresses.
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards
"Some Say"; Neighbours in Cyrus
"Some Say"; Neighbours in Cyrus" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a fictional work set in a small New England village during the late 19th century. This book explores the intricacies of human relationships and social dynamics within a tightly-knit community, where rumors and personal lives intertwine. The narrative particularly focuses on the lives of the inhabitants, their interactions, and the subtle nuances embedded within their conversations and actions. The story centers around the life of Elder Charles Lindsay, a young minister who finds himself caught in the middle of local gossip concerning his relationship with the Mellen family—specifically with the daughter, Rose Ellen. As rumors swirl about his intentions, Lindsay grapples with his feelings for Rose Ellen while dealing with the overbearing influence of her mother, Mrs. Mellen. The narrative unfolds with a blend of humor and pathos, depicting various neighbors and their musings, which contribute to the fabric of village life. The plot delves into the themes of love, longing, and societal expectations, culminating in a heartfelt resolution that enhances the personal growth of the characters involved.
Anonymous
Hyvä naapuri
"Hyvä naapuri" by Anonymous is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the lives of two neighboring families, the Liscomes and the Wisp family, focusing on themes of kindness, forgiveness, and community dynamics. Through interactions between the two families, the story explores how familial love and moral values can ultimately foster goodwill, even in the face of adversity and past grievances. At the start of the novel, as the Liscome family relocates to a new home in Connecticut, they arrive at a local inn where the hostess misjudges their status by hesitating to provide them the best accommodations. The Liscomes have a large family, including the youngest, nicknamed Poju, who voices his distress when their mother steps away. The opening sections also introduce the antagonistic Wisp family, known for their contentious relationships with previous neighbors. As the Liscomes establish themselves in their new environment, they face ongoing challenges from the Wisps, highlighting themes of neighborly conflict. The characters exhibit resilience and a deep-rooted belief in the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, setting the stage for the unfolding drama of their lives.
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