Subject
Netherlands -- History -- Eighty Years' War, 1568-1648 -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
By Pike and Dyke: a Tale of the Rise of the Dutch Republic
"By Pike and Dyke: A Tale of the Rise of the Dutch Republic" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The book is set against the backdrop of the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule, specifically focusing on the dramatic events leading to the rise of the Dutch Republic. The story centers around Captain William Martin, his family, and his son Ned, as they navigate the complexities of faith, loyalty, and conflict amid a turbulent period in European history. The opening of the story introduces readers to the harrowing circumstances of the people in the Netherlands, highlighting the severe persecution they face under the Spanish Inquisition. It does so through the perspective of Captain Martin and his son, as they ponder the plight of their kinfolk in the Low Countries. When the Good Venture returns to its port, conversations among the sailors reveal their disdain for the cruel treatment of the Dutch people, setting the stage for the forthcoming conflict. The narrative skillfully combines heart-wrenching family ties with broader themes of resistance and national identity, leading to Martin's decision to support the cause of freedom despite the personal risks involved.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
By England's Aid; or, the Freeing of the Netherlands (1585-1604)
"By England's Aid; or, the Freeing of the Netherlands (1585-1604)" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores the significant events of the Dutch War of Independence against Spanish rule, particularly focusing on England's role in aiding the Netherlands. Central characters include young Franics Vere and the Vickars brothers, Geoffrey and Lionel, who aspire to become soldiers and ultimately join the fight in the Low Countries. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the tensions surrounding England's involvement in the Netherlands, as Reverend John Vickars prays for the Dutch people enduring oppression. The narrative transitions to the excitement in the village of Hedingham, where the local boys, inspired by their surroundings and the impending war, eagerly anticipate joining the Earl of Leicester's expedition to assist the Dutch. Young Mr. Francis Vere, along with the boys, is enthusiastic about enlisting as a volunteer, leading to their adventures in London where they eventually secure consent to accompany Captain Vere as pages. This opening section sets the stage for a tale of heroism, military engagement, and the pursuit of honor and freedom against overwhelming odds.
Augusta Huiell Seaman
Jacqueline of the Carrier Pigeons
"Jacqueline of the Carrier Pigeons" by Augusta Huiell Seaman is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the city of Leyden during the late 16th century, amidst the backdrop of the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule. The plot follows siblings Jacqueline and Gysbert as they navigate the challenges posed by war, their dedication to their city, and the role of carrier pigeons in conveying messages during this tumultuous time. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the two protagonists as they release their trained carrier pigeons from Hengist Hill, expressing hopes of trading these birds for messages during the ongoing siege. The siblings share a deep bond, with Jacqueline taking on a protective role over her younger brother Gysbert, who longs to contribute to their community's battle for liberty. As the Spanish army encircles Leyden, they reflect on the ongoing war and its toll on their lives. They are determined to offer support and find ways to resist the enemy, indicating the themes of bravery, personal sacrifice, and the importance of hope in desperation that will undoubtedly play a crucial role throughout the narrative.
Cornelis Johannes Kieviet
De Kennemer Vrijbuiter
"De Kennemer Vrijbuiter" by Cornelis Johannes Kieviet is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the tumultuous times of the Eighty Years' War in the late 16th century, the book revolves around the lives of the Kennemer Freebooters, a group of Dutch patriots who fought against Spanish oppression. The narrative highlights themes of courage, national pride, and the hardships faced by those living under oppressive rule. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the humble farmhouse of Floris Geurtsz, a farmer alive during a period of intense conflict in the Netherlands. Floris is depicted as a devout man who cherishes his family's safety and religious beliefs amid the rising tensions against the Spanish authority. The story sets a tense atmosphere as Floris reads from the Bible to his family, illustrating their fears and hopes. The narrative further develops as characters like the Watergeus, soldiers guarding the area, intrude upon their lives, bringing both danger and courage into the domestic space, while hinting at ongoing struggles and the dichotomy of loyalty and treachery among neighbors.
William Henry Giles Kingston
The Golden Grasshopper: A story of the days of Sir Thomas Gresham
"The Golden Grasshopper: A story of the days of Sir Thomas Gresham" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Ernst Verner, a Dutch boy who becomes an orphan due to the brutal religious persecutions faced by Protestants in his homeland. As he moves to England, we see his struggles and adventures during a period marked by political and religious strife, particularly concerning his connection to the influential merchant Sir Thomas Gresham. At the start of the narrative, the atmosphere is rife with tension as it delves into the persecution of Protestants in the Netherlands, leading to the tragic fate of Ernst's parents. The opening sets the scene in Antwerp, where Gresham is a prominent figure in both commerce and politics. Through his lens, readers experience the difficulties and dangers surrounding the Protestant Reformation, the impact of the Inquisition, and the tenuous lives of those shaped by these events, including Ernst’s emotional turmoil upon witnessing the cruelty inflicted on his family and others. As he starts his new life under Gresham's protection in England, the narrative hints at struggles ahead, both personal and societal, as England grapples with the tension between Protestant beliefs and the returning influence of Catholicism under Mary I.
H. Bertrand
Een strijd om de schatten van Alva: of De watergeuzen in 1572
"EEN STRIJD OM DE SCHATTEN VAN ALVA: OF DE WATERGEUZEN IN 1572" door H. Bertrand et al. is een historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set during the tumultuous period of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, focusing on the adventures of the character Guy Stanhope Chester. The book likely explores themes of heroism and resistance against tyranny. The opening of the novel introduces us to a violent storm at sea, where we meet the young English captain, Guy Stanhope Chester, as he commands his ship, the Dover Lass. In the chaos of the storm, Chester and his crew are navigating treacherous waters and gearing up for a potential confrontation with the dreaded Spanish fleets led by the Duke of Alva. As the chapter progresses, Chester encounters a captured Spanish galley, leading to a tense exchange with a fellow seafarer, Dirk Duyvel, a Dutch corsair. It becomes clear that Chester’s journey is not solely about survival, but is also intertwined with the broader struggle for Dutch independence, as he plans a daring venture into enemy territory in order to aid the cause. The excitement is built with vivid descriptions of the storm and the ship's challenges, setting the stage for an epic tale of bravery and adventure.
William Henry Giles Kingston
The Lily of Leyden
"The Lily of Leyden" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book is set in the tumultuous period of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule during the late 16th century, focusing on the city of Leyden. The central characters include the brave burgomaster Adrian Van der Werf and his daughter Jaqueline, who is affectionately referred to as the 'Lily of Leyden,' as well as the gallant Captain Van der Elst. The narrative explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom amidst a backdrop of war. The opening of the novel introduces the vibrant city of Leyden and reflects on its recent liberation from a prolonged siege by Spanish forces. As the story unfolds, we meet Jaqueline and her father atop the tower of Hengist, where they discuss the need for fortification and preparation against a potential resurgence of the enemy. The somber mood is contrasted by Jaqueline's youthful spirit, particularly when she interacts with young Albert and Captain Van der Elst, who share a determination to join the fight for their city's safety and freedom. This initial chapter sets the stage for the unfolding drama of loyalty and bravery as the characters navigate the impending threats posed by the Spanish forces.
Recently surfaced classics