Subject
Railroads -- Design and construction -- Fiction Books
Best books
Zane Grey
The U. P. Trail
"The U. P. Trail" by Zane Grey is a novel set in the mid-19th century that intertwines themes of adventure, survival, and the struggles of human spirit against the backdrop of the American frontier. The story revolves around Bill Horn, a rugged caravan leader carrying a substantial fortune back East, and young Allie, the daughter of a woman fleeing from a dark past. Alongside these central figures, the book presents a diverse cast of characters grappling with the harsh realities of their time, including threats from hostile Sioux Indians and the challenges of traversing uncharted wilderness. At the start of the narrative, a breathtaking description of the trail from Missouri to the rugged lands of Wyoming sets the tone for this epic journey. As the characters embark on their treacherous trek, they encounter unexpected danger, notably in the form of Sioux warriors who pose a considerable threat to their caravan. The tension escalates when the caravan members, including the strong yet weary leader Horn and the frightened yet resilient young girl Allie, realize they are being tracked. In a burst of action, Slingerland, a trapper, warns them of the impending danger. The opening hints at intense conflict while exploring deeper themes of identity and survival, particularly as Allie learns shocking truths about her heritage. Overall, the beginning of "The U. P. Trail" captivates readers with its compelling characters and vivid landscapes, inviting them into a world rife with challenges and heart-wrenching dilemmas.
Arthur Preston Hankins
Falcon, of Squawtooth : $b A western story
"Falcon of Squawtooth: A Western Story" by Arthur Preston Hankins is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces readers to a young man known as "The Falcon," a vagabond traveling west, and his interactions with a colorful cast of tramp characters as they navigate a burgeoning construction scene in California. The narrative explores themes of friendship, struggle for identity, and the allure of the wild west. The opening of the narrative sets the stage as a freight train halts in a small California mountain town, where The Falcon emerges from a boxcar, revealing his resilient spirit despite his impoverished situation. He encounters other tramps, particularly a kind-hearted young man named Halfaman, who invites him to share a meal. Their conversation reveals The Falcon’s quest for work, particularly in railroad construction, and hints at his complex past. The interactions establish a camaraderie between the two, suggesting that their journey may provide both hardship and adventure as they make their way toward new opportunities amid the changing landscape of the West. Overall, this initial portion effectively captures the essence of life on the road and sets the tone for the camaraderie and challenges that lie ahead.
William Oliver Turner
The High Hander
"The High Hander" by William Oliver Turner is a novel written in the early 1960s. Set against the backdrop of railroad construction in a lawless frontier town, the story centers around Jack Tesno, a troubleshooter hired to resolve escalating conflicts and restore some order amid rampant violence and corruption. The narrative hints at themes of lawlessness, personal integrity, and the complexities of human relationships, notably involving a beautiful woman named Persia Parker, whose past and influence in the town complicate matters further. The opening portion reveals Jack Tesno as an experienced and rugged individual, reflecting on his life and assignments as he rides toward Tunneltown. He meets Whisky Willie Silverknife, a half-breed youth appointed as a deputy marshal, who struggles with his stutter and the challenges of his new role. This introductory context builds tension as Tesno is set to face not only the disruptive forces in Tunneltown but also his own conflicting feelings as he learns more about its enigmatic leader, Persia Parker. As Tesno contemplates the rough nature of his job, he is also drawn into potential romance and intrigue, highlighting the book’s blend of western adventure and character-driven drama.
Arthur Preston Hankins
Cole of Spyglass Mountain
"Cole of Spyglass Mountain" by Arthur Preston Hankins is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Joshua Cole, who finds himself at odds with authority figures such as his schoolteacher and father. As he navigates the challenges of childhood, including his own curiosity and rebellious spirit, Joshua's adventures lead him to contemplate running away to the West, seeking freedom and adventure in a new life. At the start of the book, the plot establishes a snapshot of Joshua's world as he participates in a bet with his friends while observing a slug's unique descending ability. However, the narrative quickly intensifies as Joshua faces harsh realities at home and school, indicative of a troubled family life. The opening chapters illustrate his bond with his younger brother, Lester, and spotlight his defiance against their oppressive father and school authority. Through a mix of boyish experimentation, rebellion, and an aspiration for independence, Joshua's journey introduces themes of courage, brotherhood, and the quest for personal identity, setting the stage for his future adventures.
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