Subject

Obedience -- Juvenile fiction Books

Best books

A. L. O. E.

The straight road is shortest and surest

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Agnes Giberne

Willie and Lucy at the sea-side : $b For very little children

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Ethel Turner

The family at Misrule

"The Family at Misrule" by Ethel Turner is a children's novel published in 1895. This sequel to "Seven Little Australians" follows the family five years later when Bunty disappears after being accused of theft. While his family believes he's fled to America, he remains hidden in Sydney until a sister recognizes him. Meanwhile, Nellie faces her own crisis after contracting scarlet fever following a dinner party. Turner's story combines humor, pathos, and descriptive power in this healthy tale of family troubles.

Unknown

The Captain's Story; or, The Disobedient Son

"The Captain's Story; or, The Disobedient Son" by William S. Martin is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Captain Francis Buchman, a once wayward son who, after years of disobedience and hardship, returns to his native village to confront his past and seek redemption. The narrative explores themes of repentance, the weight of a parent's curse, and the journey towards reconciliation with oneself and one’s history. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to a weary stranger, an old sea captain, making his way to a ruined castle, recalling his childhood memories after many years away. He encounters a pastor in a nearby village, where the captain is offered hospitality. The village buzzes with excitement upon learning of the captain's arrival, revealing his longstanding reputation as a "scapegrace" and the son of the former pastor. The captain's return stirs curiosity about his mysterious past, as he grapples with reflections on his disobedience to his father and his subsequent tumultuous life at sea. As he begins to share his story, the villagers and children eagerly await to hear tales of his adventures and the lessons learned along his journey, setting the stage for a profound exploration of his life choices and spiritual transformation.

Ethel Turner

The Family at Misrule

"The Family at Misrule" by Ethel Turner is a children's novel published in 1895. This sequel to "Seven Little Australians" returns to the beloved family five years later, when young Bunty flees after being accused of theft. While his family believes he's sailed to America, he remains hidden in Sydney. His sister Nellie faces her own trials after attending a dinner party with dangerous consequences. Turner's story combines humor, pathos, and descriptive power in this healthy adventure for young readers.

L. A. (Lydia Austin) Holdich

Little Alfred

"Little Alfred" by L. A. Holdich is a children's novel written in the mid-19th century. The story follows a young boy named Alfred Penrose as he experiences various seasonal joys and learns moral lessons through his interactions with family and nature. The narrative is designed to impart values while entertaining young readers, touching upon themes such as gratitude, obedience, and compassion. The opening portion of the book introduces Alfred, a little boy living in a beautiful town near the Connecticut River. It describes his delight in summer activities alongside his father and brothers, including fishing, exploring the brook, and gathering flowers. The narrative contrasts Alfred's happy life with that of less fortunate children, drawing attention to the blessings he enjoys, such as a loving family and a connection to nature. As readers are invited into Alfred's world, they also encounter deeper reflections on kindness and empathy, setting the tone for the moral explorations to come in subsequent chapters.

Walter Aimwell

Clinton : $b or, boy-life in the country

"Clinton: or, Boy-life in the Country" by Walter Aimwell is a fictional work written in the mid-19th century. This novel follows the life of a boy named Clinton Davenport, who lives in the picturesque village of Brookdale, as he navigates the complexities of growing up amidst the temptations and challenges of youth. The story promises to explore moral lessons surrounding the virtues of industry, obedience, and the importance of making sound decisions in the face of peer pressure. The opening of the story introduces us to Clinton's idyllic home life, highlighting his ingenuity and dedication to various projects, such as raising poultry and crafting items in his father's workshop. As the narrative unfolds, we see Clinton's interactions with friends, particularly two boys, Jerry and Oscar, who begin to influence him in potentially negative ways. Through these early chapters, themes of temptation, moral conflict, and the challenges of staying true to one's values are set up as Clinton grapples with the choices he faces and the consequences of his actions.

Alice Corkran

Down the Snow Stairs; Or, From Good-Night to Good-Morning

"Down the Snow Stairs; Or, From Good-Night to Good-Morning" by Alice Corkran is a children's fantasy book written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Kitty, who is deeply worried about her sick brother Johnnie. Set during Christmas, Kitty is torn by guilt over a decision that led to his illness, setting the stage for a magical journey that explores themes of innocence, mischief, and the ramifications of one's actions. At the start of the narrative, Kitty lies awake on Christmas Eve, haunted by her brother's illness and the pain she feels for having taken him outside to play in the snow. The sorrow of not being able to see him weighs heavily on her heart, compelling her to sneak into Johnnie’s room while he sleeps. Their tender, albeit bittersweet conversation touches on Kitty's feelings of guilt and desire for reconciliation. As she reminisces about their bond, a magical snowman beckons her on a whimsical adventure, framing her journey into a fantastical world meant to uncover deeper truths about herself and the nature of childhood. This opening sets the tone for a blend of both real and surreal experiences that await Kitty, ultimately leading her to confront her fears and desires in a world filled with enchanting possibilities.

A. L. O. E.

The triumph over Midian

"The Triumph over Midian" by A. L. O. E. is a historical fiction written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around biblical themes, specifically focusing on the character Gideon and his triumph over the Midianites. The story intertwines biblical history with the lives of two cousins, Edith Lestrange and Isa Gritton, as they navigate their personal trials and the spiritual lessons derived from Gideon's experiences. At the start of the narrative, we meet Edith, who joyfully returns to her ancestral home, Castle Lestrange, after five years. Her excitement is tempered by the contrasting experiences of her cousin Isa, who is living with a somewhat negative and avaricious brother, Gaspar. As they reminisce and plan their lives ahead, themes of friendship, longing for home, and the burden of familial responsibilities emerge. The chapter establishes a backdrop of Christian faith, drawn from the biblical account of Gideon, which will serve to inform and guide the characters and their struggles throughout the story. The allegorical references to Gideon and the Midianites hint at personal and spiritual battles that reflect the trials faced by the protagonists in their everyday lives.

L. T. Meade

The Little Princess of Tower Hill

"The Little Princess of Tower Hill" by L. T. Meade is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Maggie Ascot, who is affectionately called the "Little Princess of Tower Hill." The book explores themes of privilege, childhood innocence, and the challenges of growing up as Maggie interacts with her family and other children, particularly in the context of her relationships with her new cousin Ralph and her longing to be liked by others. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Maggie, a precocious almost eight-year-old girl who enjoys a life of luxury and attention as the only child of her affluent parents, Sir John and Lady Ascot. Her spoiled nature becomes apparent as she grapples with the arrival of her cousin Ralph, who challenges her perceptions of happiness and worth. Maggie's experiences shift from being carefree to learning lessons about responsibility, friendship, and the consequences of her actions, especially after losing her father's prized rabbits. This opening sets the stage for Maggie's growth as she navigates her relationships and begins to understand the broader implications of her privileged lifestyle within her social circle.

Laura Rountree Smith

The Tale of Bunny Cotton-Tail

"The Tale of Bunny Cotton-Tail" by Laura Rountree Smith is a whimsical children's story written in the early 20th century. This charming narrative follows the adventures of a young rabbit named Bunny Cotton-Tail, capturing the innocent curiosity and mischief of childhood. The book is likely designed for young readers and explores themes of adventure, familial love, and moral lessons. In the story, Bunny Cotton-Tail's curiosity leads him on numerous escapades, beginning with his late-night reading that results in a burned paw and a nighttime journey outside. He faces various challenges, such as getting caught by a hunter and navigating the world outside his home, often with his friend Susan Cotton-Tail by his side. The narrative emphasizes the importance of staying safe and listening to parental guidance. Ultimately, through a series of misadventures, including running away and learning from the consequences of his actions, Bunny Cotton-Tail realizes the value of home and friendship, promising to behave better in the future.

Evelyn Everett-Green

Esther's Charge: A Story for Girls

"Esther's Charge: A Story for Girls" by Evelyn Everett-Green is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows ten-year-old Esther, who is thrust into a position of responsibility in managing her home and family after her father's death. As she navigates her duties, she learns of her two cousins, Philip and Percy, who are to come and live with her family, introducing new dynamics and adventures into her otherwise structured life. At the start of the novel, Esther's mother expresses her anxiety about the sudden arrival of the boys, while Esther reveals her maturity and eagerness to help by taking charge of their education. We are introduced to the contrast between Esther's dependence on her mother and the boisterous nature of the incoming boys, which adds excitement and unpredictability to her life. The opening chapters establish the setting in Cornwall, where Esther grapples with her nervousness about Mr. Trelawny, a kind yet intimidating family relation. As she prepares for the boys' arrival, Esther's thoughts reflect her worries and desires, foreshadowing a mix of challenges and growth as she adjusts to the new, boisterous environment the boys will bring.

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