Subject
Pennsylvania -- Fiction Books
Best books
Bayard Taylor
The Story of Kennett
"The Story of Kennett" by Bayard Taylor is a novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in a rural community in Pennsylvania, capturing the everyday life and characters within this close-knit village. The plot centers on Gilbert Potter, a young man navigating the complexities of rural society, as well as his relationships with other residents, including the spirited Martha Deane and the enigmatic stranger named Fortune. At the start of the novel, the scene is set on a March day in 1796, where a gathering of local hunters is underway at the Barton farmhouse, signaling an upcoming fox hunt. Characters like Mr. Alfred Barton, the host with mixed intentions, and Gilbert Potter, eager for participation, introduce the social dynamics of the community. The atmosphere is lively, filled with camaraderie and competition as the potential for adventure amalgamates with local traditions. As the hunters prepare for the chase, the foundational tones of class, rivalry, and the nuances of personality emerge, establishing the complex interplay of relationships that will unfold as the story progresses.
Bayard Taylor
Joseph and His Friend: A Story of Pennsylvania
"Joseph and His Friend: A Story of Pennsylvania" by Bayard Taylor is a novel published in 1870. Young farmer Joseph Aston lives a sheltered life in rural Pennsylvania until he meets two people who will transform his world: Julia Blessing, a manipulative city woman he hastily marries, and Philip Held, a worldly man who offers him profound friendship. As Joseph's marriage unravels amid financial schemes and tragedy, he must navigate scandal, a criminal investigation, and questions about the nature of love itself.
Helen Reimensnyder Martin
Tillie, a Mennonite Maid; a Story of the Pennsylvania Dutch
"Tillie, a Mennonite Maid; a Story of the Pennsylvania Dutch" by Helen Reimensnyder Martin is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story focuses on the life of Tillie, a young Mennonite girl living in Pennsylvania Dutch country, who grapples with her love for reading and the constraints of her strict home life under her father, Jacob Getz. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Tillie as she admires her teacher, Miss Margaret, who represents a figure of kindness and dreams for the girl. Tillie's adoration leads her to an emotional struggle when her father discovers her possessing a novel, which he vehemently disapproves of, leading to a harsh punishment that intensifies her fear of losing Miss Margaret's affection. The opening chapters establish Tillie's longing for education and escape from her demanding household, presenting a poignant exploration of childhood, love, and the conflict between personal desires and familial obligations.
William Dean Howells
The Coast of Bohemia
"The Coast of Bohemia" by William Dean Howells is a novel written in the late 19th century. It explores the artistic and social aspirations of its characters, particularly centered around an aspiring artist named Ludlow, who is influenced by his encounters with the people and environments of rural America, as well as the complexities of life in the art world of New York City. The narrative delves into themes of aspiration, identity, and the artistic process against a backdrop of American society. At the start of the story, Ludlow is introduced during a county fair, where he observes both the lively atmosphere and the less appealing aspects of rural life. This environment sparks his artistic inspirations as he longs to capture the essence of the fair in his painting. The reader is given insight into Ludlow's struggles as an artist, his cynicism about art produced in a small town, and a sense of wonder toward the vibrant life surrounding him. The introduction also hints at his interaction with Cornelia, a young girl who aspires to be an artist, suggesting that their paths will intertwine as they embark on their creative journeys in the world of art.
Jerome Bixby
The Battle of the Bells
"The Battle of the Bells" by Jerome Bixby is a short story published in the mid-20th century, specifically in 1954. This humorous tale explores the themes of practical jokes and moral introspection against the backdrop of a small town in western Pennsylvania. It contrasts the innocence of small-town life with the complexities of human nature and the divine. The story centers on Charley Mason, a town resident known for his practical jokes aimed at unsuspecting travelers who stop at his outhouse. Charley’s antics take an unexpected turn when a fat woman from the city becomes his latest victim, launching into a tirade about morality and sin, which catches the attention of heavenly and hellish beings. A young man representing good and a dark figure representing evil engage in a cosmic struggle initiated by Charley's prank, debating the nature of good and evil and the impact of such seemingly innocent jokes on the human soul. Ultimately, the story culminates in a humorous and unexpected resolution that emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the inner battle against temptation, leaving readers to ponder the fine line between humor and insensitivity.
Nelson Lloyd
The Chronic Loafer
"The Chronic Loafer" by Nelson Lloyd is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a quaint Pennsylvania village and introduces a cast of characters, most notably the Chronic Loafer himself, a whimsical and humorous figure who is often involved in light-hearted banter among the local men. The book explores themes of community, nostalgia, and the everyday lives of these rural inhabitants, set against the backdrop of the simplicity and charm of small-town life. The opening of the novel presents the village, its store, and the characters who frequent it on a summer day when the G.A.R. Man returns from a reunion. The Loafer, with his ragged attire and quick wit, engages in playful jests about the returnee's appearance. As they reminisce and share stories, a sense of camaraderie and humor emerges, depicting the personalities and quirks of the village. Particularly notable is the G.A.R. Man’s storytelling, which weaves in memories from the Civil War, revealing deeper narratives beneath the light-hearted interactions. The atmosphere is filled with warmth, humor, and a nostalgic longing for the past, blending the mundane with the extraordinary in the lives of the characters.
Eleanor Stuart
Stonepastures
"Stonepastures" by Eleanor Stuart is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in an industrial town called Soot City, focusing on characters like Emma Butte and August Jarlsen as they navigate the complexities of love, labor, and hardship in a community marked by poverty and labor unrest. The novel delves into themes of resilience, the social dynamics of working-class life, and the struggles of women in a male-dominated environment. The opening of "Stonepastures" introduces us to the grim setting of Soot City, characterized by its lack of streets and the harsh conditions faced by its inhabitants, particularly the workers involved in dangerous professions. Emma, a barber, is engaged to Jarlsen, a good-hearted Swede employed at the local plant. Their lives take a tragic turn when a mining accident leaves Jarlsen gravely injured, prompting the townsfolk to conduct a mock funeral in a bizarre blend of superstition and tradition. Through detailed descriptions, the opening establishes a palpable atmosphere of hardship, the bonds of community, and the underground currents of social tension, hinting at the challenges that lie ahead for Emma as she confronts both the loss of her fiancé and the manipulative Quarry, who covets her attention.
Margaret Wade Campbell Deland
Dr. Lavendar's People
"Dr. Lavendar's People" by Margaret Wade Campbell Deland is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the quaint town of Old Chester, the book revolves around the lives of its residents, particularly focusing on the intertwined relationships and societal expectations. The narrative primarily follows the lives of Miss Ellen Baily, her delicate brother David, and their interactions with Dr. Lavendar and the Reverend Mr. Spangler, hinting at themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Miss Ellen Baily, who runs a small school from her home while supporting her melancholic brother, David. David, haunted by a past love, struggles with finding purpose in life, having failed in various careers. The arrival of Mr. Spangler, the new clergyman, disrupts the delicate balance of their lives, leading to unexpected developments. As the characters navigate their emotions and societal roles, Miss Ellen must confront her responsibilities towards her brother and her budding feelings towards Mr. Spangler, all while the town observes with a curious eye. The opening sets up a rich, character-driven narrative that promises deeper explorations of human relationships and moral dilemmas as the story unfolds.
Harper Williams
The thing in the woods
"The Thing in the Woods" by Harper Williams is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Dr. Haverill, a young physician from the city who takes up a temporary medical practice in a secluded Pennsylvanian community. The book explores themes of rural superstition, isolation, and hidden dangers through Haverill’s encounters with the local residents, especially the enigmatic Lessing family living at "the Bend." The narrative unfolds as Dr. Haverill is increasingly drawn into the mysteries and inexplicable events surrounding the woods and its inhabitants. The opening of the novel introduces Dr. Haverill as he leaves city life behind for the countryside, stepping into the shoes of Dr. Lennox, who departs suddenly and with obvious relief. Upon arrival, Haverill observes a tight-knit, tradition-bound village and quickly encounters Pete, a superstitious hired man, and the nervous atmosphere that clings to the place. Early chapters detail Haverill’s adjustment to rural life, his interactions with reserved locals, and his first professional challenge: tending to the troubled Mr. Lessing, whose mysterious wounds and strange family dynamics suggest deeper secrets. The story gradually builds a sense of unease through unexplained noises, local gossip, and eerie incidents in the woods, setting the stage for a suspenseful exploration of the “thing” that lurks beyond the ordinary.
Margaret Wade Campbell Deland
The Wisdom of Fools
"The Wisdom of Fools" by Margaret Wade Campbell Deland is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the engaged couple, Amy Townsend and Reverend William West, as they navigate societal expectations and personal dilemmas intertwined with their relationship, addressing themes of love, honesty, and moral integrity. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Amy and William in a moment of relaxed intimacy under an oak tree, where their engagement is the topic of conversation. The light-hearted moment soon reveals deeper complexities as they discuss societal judgments regarding their union, particularly William's role as a clergyman and Amy's past. The dialogue shifts between playful banter and serious topics, highlighting William's internal struggles with his past mistakes and the weight of secrets that might affect their future together. As they prepare for their upcoming marriage, contrasting perspectives on honesty emerge, foreshadowing potential conflict as William wrestles with whether to disclose his youthful transgression of forgery, which may impact their relationship profoundly.
Joseph Hergesheimer
The Three Black Pennys: A Novel
"The Three Black Pennys: A Novel" by Joseph Hergesheimer is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Howat Penny, a young man grappling with his identity and place within his family and society, amid a backdrop of ironmaking and the rich landscapes of early America. The novel delves into themes of individuality versus social expectations, personal freedom, and the relationships that complicate one's sense of self. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Howat Penny as he navigates his surroundings in a restless state of mind, contemplating his life at Myrtle Forge and the various social dynamics present there. He feels discontent with the formalities of his family’s world and is drawn more to the wild and untamed aspects of nature. His encounter with Fanny Gilkan, the daughter of a founderman, introduces romantic tension and offers a glimpse into Howat's complex feelings about relationships and commitment. As he struggles with his emotions and societal expectations, his interactions with characters like Fanny and Mrs. Winscombe highlight his inner turmoil, further setting the stage for the exploration of deeper themes throughout the novel.
Margaret Wade Campbell Deland
An Old Chester Secret
"An Old Chester Secret" by Margaret Wade Campbell Deland is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a small town called Old Chester and revolves around the life of Miss Lydia Sampson, an open-hearted and somewhat eccentric woman known for her inability to keep secrets. The narrative explores themes of love, societal expectations, and the impact of unspoken truths as it delves into the unexpected appearance of a secret in her life. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Miss Lydia Sampson, a woman who is characterized by her lack of reticence in both her own affairs and those of others. However, her life takes a turn when she unexpectedly departs for Mercer, leaving behind a mystery that intrigues her neighbors. The opening portion suggests that Miss Lydia's life is about to become entwined with deeper secrets and the struggles of a young woman named Mary Smith, who confides in her about an unplanned pregnancy and seeks her assistance. Their conversation hints at the profound challenges they will face as they navigate societal pressures and personal dilemmas, setting the stage for the unfolding drama in Old Chester.
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