Subject
Outlaws -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
S. (Sabine) Baring-Gould
Grettir the Outlaw: A Story of Iceland
"Grettir the Outlaw: A Story of Iceland" by S. Baring-Gould is a historical narrative likely written in the late 19th century. The book recounts the tale of Grettir, a strong and complex character from Icelandic lore, whose life is marked by a struggle against fate, personal demons, and societal norms as he navigates through various trials, including outlawry, familial disputes, and dramatic encounters. The opening of the story sets the scene for Grettir's birth and early years, illustrating the stark yet beautiful Icelandic landscape that greatly influences his life. It begins with a nostalgic preface by the author recounting his own journey of learning and translating the saga, followed by rich descriptions of Grettir's childhood at the farm of Biarg. The narrative introduces Grettir as a boy who is troubled and rough around the edges, struggling with both a difficult temperament and a desire to find his purpose amidst the tales of his ancestors that captivate him during the long, dark winters. The groundwork is laid for his transformation into a legendary figure, as the opening chapters focus on his youth, his tumultuous relationships with his family, and the beginnings of his infamous reputation.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Motor Rangers Through the Sierras
"The Motor Rangers Through the Sierras" by Marvin West is an adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of young boys known as the Motor Rangers, who embark on a fun-filled trip into the Sierra mountains, equipped with an automobile filled with camping and fishing supplies. As the tale unfolds, their journey turns into a thrilling escapade filled with unexpected challenges, including encounters with dangerous wildlife and bandits. The opening of the story introduces readers to the Motor Rangers — Nat Trevor, Joe Hartley, and Ding-dong Bell. As they navigate an unpaved road, they experience the mundane trouble of a punctured tire, leading to light-hearted banter among the boys. However, things quickly take a darker turn when a violent storm forces them to seek shelter in a cave, where they come face-to-face with a mountain lion. With the odds against them, they must rely on quick thinking and teamwork to survive the night. This engaging start promises more adventure and peril as the boys continue their journey through the Sierras.
Joseph Cundall
Robin Hood and His Merry Foresters
"Robin Hood and His Merry Foresters" by Joseph Cundall is a compilation of tales about the legendary outlaw written in the early 19th century. The book presents a fictionalized account of Robin Hood's youth and adventures, as well as his band of followers known as the Merry Men, set during the time of King Henry II of England. The narrative seeks to capture the themes of adventure, camaraderie, and social justice through the exploits of Robin Hood and his companions. The opening of the book sets the stage for Robin Hood's character by introducing his early life, highlighting his skills in archery and his rebellious spirit against the king’s foresters. It begins with recollections of schoolboy fondness for Robin Hood tales, transitioning into a scene where young Robin first proves his remarkable archery skills. After an altercation with the foresters, he becomes an outlaw, living in Sherwood Forest and gathering a group of fellow outcasts. The narrative flows into his encounters with new characters like Little John, who joins the band after a friendly contest, presenting a mix of humor and bravery as Robin Hood navigates his newfound life as a leader of outlaws in a vibrant green-wood setting.
Josephine Chase
Grace Harlowe's Overland Riders on the Lost River Trail
"Grace Harlowe's Overland Riders on the Lost River Trail" by Josephine Chase is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of adventurous young women known as the Overland Riders, led by Grace Harlowe, who embark on a thrilling journey through the rugged wilderness. As they undertake their expedition, they encounter danger in the form of a looming forest fire and the ominous presence of bandits, testing their courage and resilience. At the start of the tale, the Overland Riders find themselves in a perilous situation when their guide, Hamilton White, senses danger nearby and urges an immediate departure from their campsite. As they ride through the dark forest, the tension rises with the threat of a forest fire that may engulf the nearby village of Silver Creek. Grace and her friends quickly realize that their adventure will require bravery and teamwork as they decide to assist White in warning the villagers and fighting the impending blaze, thereby setting the stage for the challenges and excitement that lie ahead in their journey.
Josephine Chase
Grace Harlowe's Overland Riders on the Old Apache Trail
"Grace Harlowe's Overland Riders on the Old Apache Trail" by Josephine Chase is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Grace Harlowe and her friends from the Overton Unit as they embark on an adventurous trip along the Old Apache Trail after returning from their service in World War I. The narrative hints at themes of camaraderie, exploration, and the thrill of adventure intermingled with the threat of danger. At the start of the story, Grace gathers her friends to discuss a proposed summer outing that promises excitement and adventure far from their routine lives. After some initial banter, the group enthusiastically decides to take a horseback trip westward to the intriguing and historically rich Old Apache Trail in Arizona. Along the way, they experience a series of challenges, including the discovery of an old stagecoach for a night ride, only to encounter unexpected dangers such as bandits. The opening sets the stage for a journey filled with friendship, thrills, and threats that will test the Overton girls' resolve and resourcefulness as they venture into the wild.
Capwell Wyckoff
The Mercer Boys' Cruise in the Lassie
"The Mercer Boys' Cruise in the Lassie" by Capwell Wyckoff is a thrilling adventure novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the Mercer brothers, Don and Jim, along with their friend Terry Mackson, as they set sail in their sloop, the Lassie, seeking excitement and adventure but soon find themselves embroiled in real danger from marine bandits. This novel is part of a series, indicating the ongoing adventures of these young protagonists. The opening of the book sets the stage for an adventurous summer for the Mercer boys and their companion, Terry, who eagerly prepares for their cruise. They successfully launch their sloop after fixing the engine and gather supplies for their journey along the Maine coast. However, their adventure quickly turns into a suspenseful experience when they encounter trouble, including a group of suspicious characters described as marine bandits. The narrative introduces the boys' camaraderie and bravery and hints at the challenges they will face as they sail toward the enigmatic Mystery Island, adding intrigue and excitement from the very beginning.
Albert Bigelow Paine
"Peanut": The Story of a Boy
"Peanut": The Story of a Boy by Albert Bigelow Paine is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book tells the poignant tale of a young boy named Peanut, or Philip Nutt, who comes to terms with loss and longing, as he navigates life following the death of his guardian, Blazer Sam, an outlaw of some renown. The story explores themes of innocence, memory, and the deep connections formed in the wilderness. The narrative unfolds in a remote mountainous setting, where Peanut lives a simple life with the "Rose of Texas," who had been Sam's companion. Peanut's world is disrupted when he meets Miss Cynthia Schofield, a teacher who aims to provide him with a formal education far removed from his wild upbringing. As he transitions to city life, Peanut struggles with homesickness and the stark differences between his two worlds. Despite being distanced from his beloved hills and bears, Peanut's journey ultimately leads him back home, where he is reunited with the Rose and, symbolically, with the memories of Sam. Through this heartfelt story, Paine captures the essence of childhood and the quest for belonging.
Amy Bell Marlowe
When Oriole traveled westward
"When Oriole Traveled Westward" by Amy Bell Marlowe is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows spirited Oriole Putnam from a New England harbor toward the wide-open West as she bonds with a rancher’s twins, meets a troubled boy from Montana, and pursues the mystery of her missing parents. Expect family bonds, courage in sudden danger, and a journey that promises ranch-country adventures. The opening of the novel finds Oriole skating across a frozen harbor with her twin charges when a racing iceboat forces them into the water; a stranger, Teddy Ford, dives in and saves them. Grateful yet wary, Teddy reveals he once worked for the twins’ father, rancher Harvey Langdon, who accused him of stealing family silver; at Oriole’s urging he resolves to return West and clear his name. Langdon retrieves the twins, appreciates the rescue, invites Oriole to visit the ranch, and prepares to head home with the children and their recovering nurse. Meanwhile, school-day tensions surface in a prank gone wrong when a neighbor boy’s ram smashes a sun-parlor window. Finally, sobering news arrives from a rescued sailor: Oriole’s father likely perished during the evacuation of the Helvetia, while her mother may have been picked up by a tramp ship, leaving hope—and questions—about her whereabouts.
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