Subject
Quakers -- Fiction Books
Best books
S. Weir (Silas Weir) Mitchell
Hugh Wynne, Free Quaker Sometime Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel on the Staff of his Excellency General Washington
"Hugh Wynne, Free Quaker" by S. Weir Mitchell is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The book follows the life of Hugh Wynne, a young man navigating his identity and beliefs in a turbulent period of American history, against the backdrop of the American Revolution. As a member of the Quaker community, Wynne's journey explores the conflicts between personal conviction and societal expectations during a time of great upheaval. The opening of the novel delves into Hugh's childhood and early life in Pennsylvania, detailing his familial background, his experiences with school, and his relationships with his parents, particularly the sternness of his father and the warmth of his mother. It sets the tone by reflecting on the themes of identity and loyalty while hinting at the larger conflicts brewing in the country. The narrative presents vivid memories, such as early schooling, interactions with his mother, and a glimpse into his family's history, providing a rich context that shapes Hugh’s character and the challenges he will face as he grows into adulthood amid the revolutionary spirit of the time.
Mary K. (Mary Katherine) Maule
A Prairie-Schooner Princess
"A Prairie-Schooner Princess" by Mary K. Maule is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the Peniman family, who embark on an arduous journey across the plains to the Nebraska Territory, navigating challenges both environmental and human as they seek a new home. Their tale intertwines with a fateful encounter when they assist a beleaguered woman and her family, setting the stage for themes of survival, family, and the historical conflicts of the time. The opening of the book introduces the Peniman family during their pioneer journey in 1856, highlighting the young boy Joe's anxious observation of an approaching dust cloud. As the family prepares for potential danger, they encounter a woman driving a runaway wagon, who urgently cries for help. Upon reaching them, they discover the woman's husband has been grievously wounded by an arrow, possibly in an Indian attack. The narrative establishes a tone of impending peril from both the wilderness and human threats, foreshadowing the trials the family will face as they proceed along their westward journey.
Anthony Trollope
Marion Fay: A Novel
"Marion Fay: A Novel" by Anthony Trollope is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the tensions in the aristocratic Trafford family, specifically focusing on the relationships and social norms challenged by love that crosses social class boundaries, particularly the potential romance between Lady Frances, the daughter of the Marquis of Kingsbury, and George Roden, a Post Office clerk. The story delves into the political and personal implications of such a union against the backdrop of class distinctions during this period. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Marquis of Kingsbury, who is disheartened by his nephew Lionel Trafford's radical political stance, marking a departure from the family's traditional Tory values. The narrative establishes a broader conflict within the family dynamic, particularly concerning Lord Hampstead, the Marquis's heir, who is friends with George Roden. When Lady Frances reveals that she has pledged herself to Roden, it sets off a chain reaction of familial disapproval, especially from the Marchioness, creating an atmosphere of tension and conflict. The opening presents strong themes surrounding societal expectations, class, and the complexity of love as the family grapples with the impending changes their daughter’s choices will bring.
Sarah M. H. Gardner
Quaker idyls
"Quaker Idyls" by Sarah M. H. Gardner is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. This work explores Quaker life and values through various narratives, potentially centering on themes of community, morality, and personal relationships. The characters depicted, such as Cassy Wilson and George Evans, are likely to represent the complexity of human emotions and dilemmas within the framework of Quaker tradition. The opening of the collection introduces readers to Cassy and her family as they attend a meeting in Philadelphia. The serene atmosphere of the Quaker community is vividly portrayed, emphasizing principles of peace and reflection. Cassy’s internal struggle during the sermon illustrates a tension between her spiritual aspirations and her feelings for George, highlighting the dichotomy between personal desire and communal expectations. The narrative captures Cassy's desire for purity in her faith amidst her blossoming affection, inviting readers into an introspective examination of love and piety in a Quaker context.
Emma Leslie
Brave Bessie Westland : $b A story of Quaker persecution
"Brave Bessie Westland: A Story of Quaker Persecution" by Emma Leslie is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds during the era of Quaker persecution in England, focusing on the trials faced by the Westland family, where the main character, Bessie Westland, is left to care for her younger sisters after their parents are taken away due to their beliefs. The book delves into themes of faith, resilience, and the moral duties of individuals in the face of societal injustice. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a harrowing scene where Bessie and her sisters, hiding in a cellar, hear the chaos as a mob destroys their home in search of their Quaker parents. Bessie strives to keep her sisters calm, reassuring them that help will come. Following their mother’s arrest, Bessie learns about the support network of their Quaker community, and plans are put in place to care for the children. The narrative highlights Bessie’s bravery and determination, setting the tone for a poignant tale of struggle and kinship amidst oppression.
J. T. (John Townsend) Trowbridge
Cudjo's Cave
"Cudjo's Cave" by J. T. Trowbridge is a historical fiction novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the character Penn Hapgood, a young schoolmaster in Tennessee, who faces violent opposition from secessionists due to his abolitionist beliefs during the Civil War. Throughout the narrative, themes of courage, moral conviction, and the harsh realities of societal conflict emerge as Penn navigates dangerous circumstances in his fight for justice. The opening of the book sets a tense and foreboding atmosphere as Penn is threatened by a mob seeking to punish him for his anti-slavery stance. After being warned by Carl, a German boy who admires him, Penn decides to face the aggressors rather than flee, showcasing his commitment to non-resistance and moral integrity. Meanwhile, Carl’s own struggle to escape the mob emphasizes the perilous environment in which they live. As the scene unfolds, the tension escalates with the mob's intentions becoming clear, illustrating a pivotal moment for Penn that threatens his life and beliefs, and establishing the urgent narrative that will follow.
William Henry Giles Kingston
A True Hero: A Story of the Days of William Penn
"A True Hero: A Story of the Days of William Penn" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around a Quaker family that leaves England in search of a new life in America during the late 1600s, amidst the political and religious turmoil of the time, particularly under the reign of James II. The narrative focuses on the challenges faced by dissenters like the Quakers, capturing their struggle for freedom of worship and the pursuit of liberty. The opening of the book introduces the oppressive atmosphere in England, where dissenting sects are persecuted under restrictive laws, such as the Conventicle Act. Characters are drawn from a gathering outside a Quaker meeting house, highlighting their determination to assert their right to worship freely despite the looming threat of authority. Young William Penn makes a striking entrance as a central figure advocating for peaceful resistance to injustice. As the narrative unfolds, we learn more about the interpersonal dynamics among key characters, including Captain Mead and others, who are caught up in their fight for freedom against a backdrop of societal decay and conflict. This sets the stage for both personal and collective struggles that will be explored throughout the story.
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