Subject
Ohio River -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander) Altsheler
The Riflemen of the Ohio: A Story of the Early Days along "The Beautiful River"
"The Riflemen of the Ohio: A Story of the Early Days along 'The Beautiful River'" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the experiences of Henry Ware and his companions as they navigate the dangers of the Ohio River while transporting supplies for settlers in the wake of conflicts with Native American tribes. The narrative captures the tension between the advancing settlers and the indigenous peoples, emphasizing the challenges faced by pioneers in a still wild and perilous landscape. At the start of the book, the fleet of boats carrying supplies enters the majestic Ohio River, prompting reflections among the main characters, including Henry Ware and Paul Cotter, who anticipate the threats posed by local tribes such as the Shawnees and Wyandots. While Henry takes on the heavy responsibility of keeping watch for dangers during their journey, Paul expresses a sense of hope about the expedition's success. The opening section escalates with the group's first encounter with the wilderness' ominous silence, signifying that unseen challenges lie ahead. After Henry and a small hunting party encounter hostile Indians, Henry is captured but remains resolute, displaying bravery and a keen awareness of his surroundings, which sets the tone for his character's development throughout the narrative.
St. George Rathborne
The Pioneer Boys of the Ohio; or, Clearing the Wilderness
"The Pioneer Boys of the Ohio; or, Clearing the Wilderness" by St. George Rathborne is a historical fiction work written in the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on the adventures of two young boys, Robert and Alexander Armstrong, who live in the Virginia wilderness during the tumultuous times leading up to the American Revolution. The story captures their struggles and courageous efforts as they hunt for food to support their family, navigate the challenges of pioneer life, and dream of a brighter future as settlers in the Ohio territory. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Robert and his impulsive younger brother, Sandy, as they embark on a hunting expedition to find fresh venison for their family. They face challenges such as harsh winter weather and the need to stay alert for potential dangers, including wolves and Indians. During their adventure, they successfully hunt a deer but soon find themselves caught in a snowstorm that forces them to adapt and camp in the woods. The opening sets a vivid scene of pioneer life, foreshadows the challenges they will face, and establishes the strong bond between the brothers as they rely on their respective strengths, with Robert's caution balancing Sandy's eagerness.
Harry Gordon
The River Motor Boat Boys on the Ohio; Or, The Three Blue Lights
"The River Motor Boat Boys on the Ohio; Or, The Three Blue Lights" by Harry Gordon is a fictional adventure tale likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of young boys, specifically Clayton, Alex, Jule, and Cornelius, as they navigate the Ohio River in their motorboat, the "Rambler". Throughout their journey, they encounter thrilling escapades, encounter the challenges of their broken motor, and interact with both friendly and dangerous characters along the way. The opening of the book introduces the boys as they find themselves in a predicament with their boat's motor, which has malfunctioned and left them stranded in an eddy on the Kentucky side of the river. As they ponder solutions, they decide some members of the group should venture into nearby towns to procure spark plugs for the motor. Meanwhile, the boys reminisce about the wild game they want to hunt, emphasizing their youth and adventurous spirit. Their plans are complicated by the presence of potential river pirates and shady characters on other boats, offering a hint of the dangers that lie ahead as they strive to continue their journey toward new adventures.
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