Subject
Prayer -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Mary E. (Mary Emily) Ropes
The story of Mary Jones and her Bible
No description available.
Hesba Stretton
Jessica's First Prayer; and, Jessica's Mother
"Jessica's First Prayer" and "Jessica's Mother" by Hesba Stretton is a Victorian children's novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative focuses on a young girl named Jessica, who lives in poverty and faces the harsh realities of life, including neglect from her mother. The story explores themes of compassion, faith, and redemption as Jessica finds kindness from a coffee-stall keeper named Daniel and navigates her tumultuous home life. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to Jessica, a destitute child who, on a rainy day, watches the coffee-stall keeper from a distance with hungry eyes. Daniel, noticing her plight, offers her a warm cup of coffee and some bread, initiating a bond between them. Jessica shares that her mother has been absent and expresses a yearning for food and safety. The reader learns about her difficult home circumstances, characterized by neglect and the threat of danger from her mother. The stage is set for a tale that will delve into Jessica's struggles and her hopeful desire for a better life amidst adversity.
Susan Coolidge
Just Sixteen.
"Just Sixteen" by Susan Coolidge is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Georgie Talcott, a young woman facing the challenges of adulthood after the death of her mother. As she navigates financial struggles and societal expectations, Georgie grapples with the urgency of finding her own path and establishing her independence in a world that offers both obstacles and opportunities. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Georgie as she reflects on the impending sale of her childhood home. The narrative depicts her emotional struggles with leaving behind memories, particularly after her mother's death, and her pressing need to support herself. She contemplates various potential careers, feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of securing her future. Amid her worries, she resolves to reject a life of idleness despite her cousin's offer of support, signaling her determination to carve out her own identity. The opening sets the stage for Georgie's journey of self-discovery and resilience as she learns to embrace hard work and the unexpected twists of life.
Jane Pentzer Myers
Stories of Enchantment
"Stories of Enchantment" by Jane Pentzer Myers is a collection of children's stories written in the early 20th century. The book weaves a magical tapestry of narratives where children embark on whimsical adventures, often encountering fairies, ghosts, and other fantastical beings. The stories feature young protagonists, exploring themes of magic, identity, and the interplay between fantasy and reality. The opening of the collection sets the stage for enchanted tales, beginning with the story of "The Ghost Flower, or the White Blackbird." It follows a little girl named Snow-flower, who, after surviving a massacre of her family, is raised by a kind Indian couple. As Snow-flower grows, the spirit of her adoptive father guides her towards her true heritage, leading her on a journey that intertwines themes of loss, belonging, and the melding of the real and the supernatural. The rich imagery and emotional depth hint at the mystical experiences that await in the other stories of the collection.
Oliver Optic
Plane and Plank; or, The Mishaps of a Mechanic
"Plane and Plank; or, The Mishaps of a Mechanic" by Oliver Optic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Phil Farringford, a young mechanic navigating the challenges of his trade and the society around him while exploring themes such as personal growth, morality, and the impact of intemperance. Set against the backdrop of the Missouri River and St. Louis, the book delves into Phil's aspirations to master carpentry while facing obstacles that reflect broader social issues. The opening of the narrative introduces Phil Farringford as he travels on a steamboat along the Missouri River, filled with curiosity and determination to learn a trade. Engaging in conversation with Mr. Gracewood, Phil expresses his desire to become a mechanic, showing both excitement and trepidation about his future. Upon arriving in St. Louis, he encounters Mr. Leonidas Lynchpinne, who initially appears friendly but ultimately tricks him into losing his money during a gambling incident. This initial mishap sets the stage for Phil’s journey as he navigates the complexities of life as a mechanic, setting a tone for the challenges and moral lessons that will unfold throughout the story.
Elijah Kellogg
The Young Ship-Builders of Elm Island
"The Young Ship-Builders of Elm Island" by Elijah Kellogg is a novel written in the late 19th century. This story centers around young boys who are exploring the challenges of learning trades, specifically shipbuilding, in a vibrant seaside community. The book reflects themes of ambition, responsibility, and craftsmanship as the characters venture into undertaking building their own boat. At the start of the novel, we meet John Rhines, who is contemplating his future and the various trades he might pursue after a summer of hard work. His desire to learn a trade leads him to help a blacksmith, where he discovers a talent for making items. Alongside Charlie, his companion, they dream about crafting a significant project: a boat that could surpass canoes in design and performance. The opening portion sets the stage for their creative ideas and ambitions while introducing the supportive and industrious community around them, hinting at the trials and successes that lie ahead in their shipbuilding adventure.
Unknown
False Friends, and The Sailor's Resolve
"False Friends, and The Sailor's Resolve" by Unknown is a literary work likely consisting of a moral tale or short story, written in the late 19th century. This dual-narrative book addresses themes of morality, temptation, and personal resolve, illustrating how one’s choices can lead to ruin or redemption. The stories explore the consequences of disobedience and the struggle against negative influences, all set against the backdrop of both societal expectations and personal introspection. The first part, "False Friends," tells the story of Philip, a young man whose reckless behavior and poor choices, influenced by unsavory companions, lead him to a life-threatening accident. His mother, Lady Grange, worries for his soul and the influence of those around him. As his father faces financial ruin, the family's dynamics shift, leading Philip to recognize the mistakes he has made, ultimately resulting in personal growth. In the second part, "The Sailor's Resolve," Jonas, an old sailor, reflects on his temper and its negative impact on his family. He resolves to change and tackles his anger through self-awareness and humility, ultimately teaching his nephew the importance of kindness over harshness. Together, these narratives deliver essential life lessons about the importance of character, the consequences of one's choices, and the redemptive power of love and faith.
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