Subject
Prejudices -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Kirk Munroe
The Blue Dragon: A Tale of Recent Adventure in China
"The Blue Dragon: A Tale of Recent Adventure in China" by Kirk Munroe is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young Chinese boy named Joseph Lee, who has traveled to America for education, only to face prejudice and hostility from American youths shortly after his arrival. The narrative explores themes of cultural clash, identity, and the journey toward acceptance as Jo navigates the challenges of his new environment. At the start of the tale, Jo faces a hostile reception in the manufacturing village of Hatton, where he encounters a group of boys who mock and assault him due to his Chinese heritage. The narrative vividly depicts the events of his first morning as he is tormented by the local children, creating a sense of both sympathy for Jo and urgency for intervention. Amidst the chaos, Rob Hinckley, the son of the village's parson and one of Jo's initial supporters, enters the fray to defend him, ultimately leading to a clash between the boys. This conflict sets off a series of events that questions the nature of friendship, loyalty, and the challenges faced by immigrants in a new land, laying the groundwork for Jo's transformative experience in America.
Harriet T. (Harriet Theresa) Comstock
A Little Dusky Hero
"A Little Dusky Hero" by Harriet T. Comstock is a children's novel written during the early 20th century. The book tells the story of George Washington McKinley Jones, a small black boy who longs to be a hero in the midst of the Spanish-American War, showcasing themes of bravery, loyalty, and the quest for acceptance against the backdrop of military life. The narrative centers on G. W., who becomes a mascot and unofficial soldier for Colonel Austin's regiment. After losing his mother and becoming an orphan, G. W. boldly enlists in the army, determined to prove himself as a hero. Throughout the story, he faces various challenges, including the harsh realities of war and his own insecurities about race and acceptance. His deep bond with Colonel Austin and a mystical connection with a boy and his mother back home drive him to defy orders, ultimately leading him on a brave mission to rescue the Colonel during a battle. Through G. W.'s journey, Comstock explores the definition of heroism, illustrating that true courage comes from love and selflessness, regardless of one's background.
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