Subject
Poor families -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Evelyn Raymond
Among the Lindens
"Among the Lindens" by Evelyn Raymond is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds around Beatrice "Bonny" Beckwith, a spirited young girl who passionately seeks adventure and kindness in a bustling New York City. The primary conflict centers on a series of events triggered by Bonny’s brave act of rescuing an elderly gentleman, Philipse Chidly Brook, which sets off a chain of interactions that explore themes of poverty, familial responsibility, and the charm of unexpected friendships. The opening of the novel introduces Bonny as she impulsively saves Mr. Brook from being trampled by a passing cart on a busy street corner. Their encounter captures a snapshot of city life, filled with vibrant descriptions of the marketplace and the variety of characters that inhabit it. As Bonny navigates her concerns about her family’s struggles, the narrative sets the stage for the development of her relationship with Mr. Brook, hinting at deeper connections rooted in shared history with her family. The initial chapters weave together Bonny's optimistic spirit and Mr. Brook’s nostalgic reflections, promising a tale that combines adventure with poignant moments of human connection.
Emma Leslie
Elsie's scholarship : $b and why she surrendered it
"Elsie's Scholarship: And Why She Surrendered It" by Emma Leslie is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Elsie Winn, a determined young girl striving to win a scholarship for continued education, ideally to enroll in a grammar school. However, she faces obstacles concerning family obligations, friendships, and ultimately, personal sacrifice that may challenge her dreams. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to Elsie and her friends, Mary and Jane, as they enter a preliminary examination to compete for a scholarship. We see their hopes and aspirations, particularly Elsie's, who has a supportive family but knows that without a scholarship, her chances of furthering her education are slim. The chapter reveals the dynamics of their friendships, the importance of the exam, and the bittersweet nature of academic competition, setting the stage for the emotional challenges Elsie will face as her family experiences tragedy that impacts her opportunity for education.
Frances Margaret Fox
The country Christmas
"The Country Christmas" by Frances Margaret Fox is a children’s novel written in the early 20th century. This heartwarming tale revolves around the Mulvaney family, who are transitioning from a difficult life in the city to a new home in the countryside, exploring themes of hope, kindness, and community support during the Christmas season. The main character, Sally Brown, is instrumental in navigating the challenges and joys that unfold as the Mulvaneys settle into their new life. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Sally Brown, who has lived in the countryside for two months. She frequently reminisces about the Mulvaneys, hoping they can escape the hardships of their current urban environment. Her family quietly wishes she would stop mentioning them, but Sally can't shake her desire to help. When news arrives about a possible move to the country, she teams up with her friends to rally support and finds ways to assist the Mulvaneys and their many children. The opening chapters establish a vibrant community spirit, highlighting Sally's unwavering hope and determination to see the Mulvaneys thrive in their new life.
Agnes Giberne
Won at last : $b or, Mrs. Briscoe's nephews
"Won at Last: or, Mrs. Briscoe's Nephews" by Agnes Giberne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a struggling family of nine, primarily focusing on the dynamics between the parents, their children, and a new young relative named Maimie Browne, who unexpectedly arrives at their doorstep. The family navigates financial difficulties while tackling the challenges of raising children with different personalities and aspirations. At the start of the book, we meet Cherry, a diligent and responsible sixteen-year-old, and her twin brother Cresswell, who emits a sense of entitlement. Their mother is burdened with managing their household on a limited income. The narrative quickly introduces tension surrounding financial constraints and the arrival of Maimie, who asserts herself into the family's life, despite the lack of communication from her stepfather. As the family grapples with their situation, themes of obligation, sacrifice, and love unfold, setting the stage for their joint journey through adversity and adjustment in the face of new challenges.
Eleanora H. Stooke
The Little Gentleman
"The Little Gentleman" by Eleanora H. Stooke is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Melina Berryman, who faces neglect and cruelty at the hands of her alcoholic grandmother. Despite her difficult circumstances, Melina's life begins to change when she meets a kind man named Mr. Blackmore, who takes an interest in her well-being and offers her friendship and support. The opening of the book introduces Melina as a scrappy and defiant child, having a contentious relationship with her grandmother, Mrs. Berryman. Melina is teased by the neighborhood children and struggles with feelings of loneliness and unkindness. She encounters Mr. Blackmore, who offers her kindness and compassion, stirring hope and curiosity within her. This initial interaction sets the stage for Melina’s journey towards understanding friendship, love, and her own worth amidst the harshness of her environment. The early chapters lay a solid foundation for exploring themes of childhood innocence, resilience, and the impact of kindness in the face of adversity.
J. Macdonald (James Macdonald) Oxley
Terry's Trials and Triumphs
"Terry's Trials and Triumphs" by J. Macdonald Oxley is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Terry Ahearn who comes from harsh beginnings in Halifax, facing struggles within a rough neighborhood known as Blind Alley. As the plot unfolds, Terry saves the life of Miss Drummond, leading to unexpected opportunities that challenge him to rise above his circumstances. The opening of the novel introduces Terry as a scrappy youth involved in a street fight to help a friend, showcasing his brave but impulsive nature. The narrative quickly sets the stage for Terry's challenging environment, framed against the backdrop of the Civil War and the lively activities around Long Wharf. Following his daring rescue of Miss Drummond from drowning, Terry’s world begins to shift, presenting him with new possibilities and hopes for a better life. This part of the story lays the groundwork for an exploration of Terry’s character as he navigates his ambitions and confronts the trials that come with his newfound prospects.
Mary E. (Mary Emily) Ropes
Two little Finns
"Two Little Finns" by Mary E. Ropes is a children's novel written in the early 19th century. The story follows the life of two siblings, Tonie and Blonda, who live in a secluded forest cottage in Finland with their father, Grubert Reuss, a woodcutter. Faced with the challenges of poverty following the death of their mother to illness, the children are depicted as resourceful and brave, willing to maintain their home while their father travels for work. The novel explores themes of innocence, courage, and the tension between good and evil, especially as it introduces a mysterious bag of money entrusted to the children by their pastor for safekeeping. The opening of the story paints a vivid picture of the Reuss family's humble life and the strong bond between the siblings. Their father leaves for a three-day trip to the nearest town, during which the children promise to take care of their home. One evening, their pastor visits, urgently requesting their father's help in hiding a bag of money that contains funds meant for impoverished villagers affected by disease. The children, unaccustomed to danger, agree to protect the bag, but they soon find themselves besieged at home by two men with malicious intentions. Blonda and Tonie's bravery shines through as they work together to safeguard the money, illustrating their growth and the book's central theme of trusting in God amidst trials.
Florence Crannell Means
Across the Fruited Plain
"Across the Fruited Plain" by Florence Crannell Means is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores the lives of migrant families in America during a time when agricultural work dictated their movements and living conditions. It emphasizes the struggles and resilience of the Beecham family, particularly focusing on the experiences of children like Rose-Ellen and her brothers as they face displacement and hardship in search of work and stability. The opening of the story introduces the Beecham family, consisting of Grandpa, Grandma, and their children, who are struggling to maintain their home and livelihood amidst economic difficulties. As the narrative unfolds in a heat-soaked Philadelphia, we witness their daily challenges, including the impending loss of their home due to taxes. The family decides to migrate to harvest cranberries as a means to stay together and survive, highlighting themes of family unity, the harsh realities of migrant life, and the hope that drives their journey. This portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of their adventures and the various environments they encounter along the way.
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