Subject
Red Cross and Red Crescent -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Aline Havard
Captain Lucy in the Home Sector
"Captain Lucy in the Home Sector" by Aline Havard is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Lucy Gordon, a young nurse's aide, as she navigates the complexities of post-war life in Germany after the armistice. With the backdrop of a war-ravaged Europe, Lucy experiences the lingering struggles of peace and the emotional weight of separation from loved ones, particularly her brother Bob, who remains in a dangerous position overseas. At the start of the novel, we see Lucy grappling with her feelings about the war's aftermath. Despite the armistice, she finds herself stationed in Coblenz with the American Army of Occupation, facing homesickness and a longing for her family. As she connects with friends and fellow soldiers, including Larry Eaton, she resolves to contribute positively through her work at a nearby convalescent hospital. The opening portion sets the scene for her interactions with various characters, explores her memories of friendship, and hints at her future encounters with both new and familiar faces, including a surprising meeting with Captain de la Tour, a shadow from her past.
Carolyn Wells
Patty—Bride
"Patty—Bride" by Carolyn Wells is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on the life of Patricia "Patty" Fairfield and her romantic entanglements, primarily involving her engagement to Bill Farnsworth and the persistent affections of Philip Van Reypen. As Patty navigates her relationships against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal desires, her character's journey unfolds with a blend of humor and drama. The opening of the novel introduces Patty and Philip in a tense conversation, where Philip expresses his unwillingness to give up on his feelings for Patty, despite her engagement to another man, Bill. As they argue over Patrick's commitment and Philip's hope to win her affection, the reader gets a glimpse into Patty's character—strong-willed yet compassionate, struggling with the dynamics of loyalty and love. The dialogue sets the tone for the ensuing narrative, suggesting the complexities of relationships during a time when traditional roles and duties were merging into more modern interpretations. This chapter establishes the conflict and character dynamics that will likely drive the story forward.
Aline Havard
Captain Lucy in France
"Captain Lucy in France" by Aline Havard is a historical novel written in the early 20th century, specifically after World War I. The story centers around Lucy Gordon, a young American whose family is deeply involved in the war effort. The narrative captures her journey to France, where she strives to contribute to the Allied cause while coping with the absence and dangers faced by her loved ones, including her father and brother. The opening portion of the book introduces Lucy in May 1918, working on a farm in England with two friends while they labor to support the war effort. She reflects on her family’s recent upheavals: her father serving at the front and her brother's return from captivity. As she navigates her thoughts, she expresses her desire to be closer to her family, leading to her decision to travel to France alongside her mother, who is serving as a nurse. The chapter sets the tone for Lucy's resilience and determination amidst the backdrop of war, hinting at her adventures and challenges ahead as she strives to assist her loved ones and support the war effort.
Gertrude W. Morrison
The Girls of Central High Aiding the Red Cross Or, Amateur Theatricals for a Worthy Cause
"The Girls of Central High Aiding the Red Cross" by Gertrude W. Morrison is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of high school girls who are preparing for an Ice Carnival to raise funds for the Red Cross during challenging times. The main character, Laura Belding, finds herself caught in a mystery involving a misprinted banknote and the accident of a man who appears to be connected to her brother's troubles. The opening of the novel introduces Laura as she grapples with a puzzling $50 cash shortage in her father's jewelry store, which coincides with the arrival of her friends Jess, Bobby, and Lance. As they prepare for their evening outing, they learn about a mishap involving a stranger who has been knocked unconscious by a runaway vehicle. Amid this chaos, a mysterious girl in a Red Cross uniform, Janet Steele, provides aid to the victim, showcasing her resourcefulness and participation in the ongoing Red Cross fundraising efforts. The narrative sets the stage for a larger story filled with friendship, intrigue, and a drive to support a worthy cause, while leaving readers eager to discover how the plots of charitable endeavors and personal mysteries intertwine.
Aline Havard
Captain Lucy and Lieutenant Bob
"Captain Lucy and Lieutenant Bob" by Aline Havard is a young adult novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of Lucy Gordon, a spirited fourteen-year-old girl, and her cousin Marian as they navigate the dynamics of military life on Governor's Island during World War I. The narrative captures themes of courage, friendship, and the challenges faced by families connected to the army, against the backdrop of an evolving wartime environment. The opening portion introduces Lucy, who eagerly anticipates the arrival of her cousin Marian, setting the stage for their relationship as they adjust to life at the army post. We see Lucy's longing for adventure and her burgeoning awareness of the realities of war, particularly as she grapples with the changes wrought by the military's demands. Through interactions with family and friends, including the hint at impending deployments and the realities of army life, the reader gains insight into Lucy's character and her emerging sense of duty and loyalty amidst personal challenges. The narrative unfolds to establish both the intimate family dynamics and the broader implications of service, setting the tone for an engaging exploration of youth, sacrifice, and resilience.
Margaret Vandercook
The Red Cross Girls in the British Trenches
"The Red Cross Girls in the British Trenches" by Margaret Vandercook is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the lives of four young women who volunteer as nurses during World War I, exploring themes of courage, sacrifice, and social roles amid the backdrop of war. The main character, Mildred Thornton, grapples with her own feelings of inadequacy and the desire to contribute meaningfully in a world overshadowed by the conflict. At the start of the narrative, Mildred Thornton experiences deep disappointment following a social event where she feels like a failure. Despite her family's wealth and social standing, her attempts to engage with her peers at a dance fall flat. She discovers solace in her father’s generous donation to the Red Cross, igniting her yearning to help those affected by the war. Her subsequent decision to join her father in assisting the Red Cross serves as a catalyst for her character development, as she meets other determined young women like Barbara Meade, who also long for purpose beyond societal expectations. The opening sets the tone for their forthcoming adventures as they prepare to make a significant impact on the war front.
Margaret Vandercook
The Red Cross Girls on the French Firing Line
"The Red Cross Girls on the French Firing Line" by Margaret Vandercook is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows four American girls—Eugenia, Mildred, Barbara, and Nona—who journey to France to support the Red Cross nursing efforts during World War I. Their diverse backgrounds and personalities shape their experiences as they care for wounded soldiers while navigating the challenges of war and the complexities of friendship. At the start of the novel, the four girls, already familiar with the harsh realities of wartime nursing at a hospital in northern France, face a new challenge as their hospital must relocate due to imminent danger from the German forces. They escape to a quieter town, where they continue their dedicated service with the Red Cross. The opening chapters set the stage for their adventures in Paris, highlighting the girls' different roles and personalities as they celebrate a recent victory of the French army, encounter unexpected dangers, and engage with the vibrant yet perilous world around them. The narrative captures their emotional growth and the camaraderie that develops amidst the backdrop of war.
Robert Shaler
The Boy Scouts with the Red Cross
"The Boy Scouts with the Red Cross" by Robert Shaler is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of Boy Scouts from Oakvale, led by Scout Master Hugh Hardin, who find themselves in the midst of a crisis when they attempt to assist injured strikers during a riot. As they face the challenges of providing aid amid turmoil, the tension escalates when the grandson of a factory owner goes missing, prompting a desperate search. At the start of the book, the story built around the boys begins with their enthusiastic response to the arrival of a Red Cross ambulance after they've set up a makeshift field hospital to care for injured men from a nearby cement plant. Among them are various characters including Billy Worth and Arthur Cameron, who contribute to the heroic efforts of the troop. In a twist, the plot thickens when the child of the factory owner disappears, leading to suspicion of kidnapping tied to the strikers. Amid growing unrest, the young Scouts, alongside a determined Red Cross nurse named Nurse Jones, take on the responsibility of finding the child, blending themes of bravery, compassion, and community service while underscoring the principles of scouting.
Margaret Vandercook
The Red Cross girls with the Stars and Stripes
"The Red Cross Girls with the Stars and Stripes" by Margaret Vandercook is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century, around the time of World War I. The story revolves around Barbara Thornton and her experiences as a Red Cross nurse alongside her friends Nona, Eugenia, and others, who are all dedicated to aiding soldiers in the war effort in France. The narrative explores themes of patriotism, friendship, and the personal struggles of women during wartime. The opening of the novel introduces Barbara Thornton, who is preparing for visitors in her New York City drawing-room yet is unexpectedly filled with melancholy. As her guests arrive, the mood reveals the undercurrents of their past adventures as Red Cross nurses in Europe and the emotional toll of the war on their lives. The characters discuss their intentions to return to France, underscoring a sense of duty as well as the complexities of their relationships, particularly between Barbara and her husband, Richard Thornton, who is also grappling with his feelings about the war. Overall, this initial chapter sets the stage for the unfolding stories of courage, sacrifice, and the impact of war on personal lives and connections.
Helen Hart
Mary Lee the Red Cross Girl
"Mary Lee the Red Cross Girl" by Helen Hart is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Mary Lee, a compassionate and spirited girl, who has grown from her challenging early life in an orphanage to become a beloved member of the Quinn family and a dedicated aspiring nurse and Red Cross Girl. The narrative explores her heartfelt relationships, particularly with friends and mentors, and her commitment to helping others during trying times. The opening of the story introduces Mary Lee as she eagerly anticipates the return of her friend Bobbie, who has been healed from his injuries. Paralleling Mary Lee’s joy are the memories of her past life in a tenement in New York City, highlighting her resilience and determination to uplift those around her. We see her enthusiasm for nature and nurturing, as she interacts with her friends and engages in simple yet meaningful activities. Through her playful optimism, Mary Lee exemplifies hope and kindness, setting the stage for her journey as a nurturing figure and future Red Cross nurse, all amidst the backdrop of the supportive community that surrounds her.
Alice B. Emerson
Ruth Fielding in the Red Cross; Or, Doing Her Best for Uncle Sam
"Ruth Fielding in the Red Cross; Or, Doing Her Best for Uncle Sam" by Alice B. Emerson is a fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows Ruth Fielding, a determined young woman whose life takes a patriotic turn as she volunteers for the Red Cross during World War I, preparing to support soldiers heading to the front lines. The narrative explores themes of female empowerment, the spirit of service, and the emotional toll of war on families and communities. The opening of the story introduces us to Ruth, who is packing a box for the local Red Cross chapter as she grapples with her friend Helen's distress over her brother Tom's decision to enlist. Ruth’s uncle, Jabez, displays unexpected enthusiasm for the war, sharing his own experience as a soldier from the Civil War, emphasizing a sense of duty. As Ruth and her friends become increasingly involved in war support efforts, the dialogue hints at the community's reluctance and skepticism toward the war, particularly represented by a character named Mrs. Mantel, who seems to undermine the Red Cross's importance. This sets the stage for a tale of activism, friendship, and the quest for meaningful contributions amid the turbulence of wartime.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Aunt Jane's Nieces in the Red Cross
"Aunt Jane's Nieces in the Red Cross" by L. Frank Baum is a young adult novel published in 1915. When war erupts in Europe, three American girls sacrifice comfort to serve as nurses on a converted hospital ship. Confronting military bureaucracies and battlefield horrors, they treat wounded soldiers while grappling with the brutal realities of World War I. Their idealistic mission faces mounting challenges, including a disfigured surgeon haunted by fear, tragedy on the front lines, and questions about their place in a foreign conflict.
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