Subject
Prehistoric peoples -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Katharine Atherton Grimes
Bolo the cave boy
"Bolo the Cave Boy" by Katherine Atherton Grimes is a children's novel that was written during the early 20th century. This imaginative tale follows the adventures of a young cave boy named Bolo as he navigates the challenges of survival and the importance of bravery in a prehistoric setting. The story emphasizes themes of friendship, courage, and the transition from individual survival skills to community collaboration. In the narrative, Bolo, a young boy from a cave-dwelling clan, embarks on various adventures alongside his friend Fisher. Throughout the story, he learns essential life skills, including how to hunt and fish, and displays remarkable bravery when confronting threats such as a bear and later, a herd of mammoths. The plot unfolds as Bolo strives to prove his worth, not only to himself but also to his family and community. After a devastating flood challenges the clan's survival, Bolo’s courage is pivotal in teaching others the value of arrows for hunting, as well as helping to rekindle the Great Fire of their clan. Ultimately, his journey is one of growth, illustrating how individual bravery can contribute to the strength of the community.
Irving Crump
Og—Son of Fire
"Og—Son of Fire" by Irving Crump is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Og, a primitive boy living in a time of volcanic eruptions and wild creatures, who is driven by intense hunger and survival instincts. As the last survivor of his colony after the eruption of a volcano, he embarks on a quest that will ultimately lead to his discovery of fire, a transformative force in his life. At the start of the narrative, Og witnesses the awakening of a volcano, forcing him to seek shelter beneath a cliff alongside two wolf cubs. As fear and exhaustion take hold, he falls asleep in a protective posture. Awakening to a tantalizing smell of roasted meat, he ventures into the lava-filled valley, eventually discovering roasted horses which he savors for their delightful taste. This encounter signifies a pivotal moment as Og realizes the potential power of fire when he experiments with igniting a stick. As his journey unfolds, he faces various threats including a mammoth and a wolf pack, ultimately leading to the creation of the first campfire—a momentous achievement that marks the dawn of a new chapter in his existence.
Belle Wiley
Rago and Goni, the Tree-Dweller Children
"Rago and Goni, the Tree-Dweller Children" by Belle Wiley is a children's adventure book written in the early 20th century. This story follows Rago and Goni, two siblings living in a prehistoric setting among the trees, exploring their daily lives, the challenges they face from wild animals, and the importance of family and community in a time of survival. The narrative weaves together themes of bravery, resourcefulness, and the instinctual connection to nature that guides the children's every move. The book recounts the adventures of Rago, age twelve, and his younger sister Goni, age seven, as they navigate their existence in the treetops, constantly vigilant against predators such as panthers and wolves. As they gather food like berries and nuts, the siblings encounter various animals, showcasing their developing skills and knowledge of the forest environment. Throughout the story, they transition from a solitary existence to joining a group of Tree-dwellers, where they learn how to use fire for protection and sustenance, ultimately participating in community life, symbolizing growth, safety, and belonging. The narrative culminates with the children embracing their place within the clan, underscoring the themes of courage and kinship.
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