Subject
Reformers -- Fiction Books
Best books
Roy Norton
"A Cathcart or a Riggs?"
“A Cathcart or a Riggs?” by Roy Norton is a short story written in the early 20th century, likely in the 1920s. This narrative unfolds in a rough mining town in the American West, showcasing themes of personal identity, social reform, and interpersonal relationships. The story revolves around the enigmatic character Pearl Brown, her associations with the townsfolk, and the contrast between her and Horace Ring, who aspires to reform the community through journalism. The plot centers on Pearl Brown, a strong-willed woman who owns and operates the Alamo, an entertainment venue in the frontier town of Murdock. After a series of confrontations and misunderstandings with Horace Ring, the town’s reform-minded editor, the two eventually navigate their enmity into unexpected territory, revealing their deeper motivations and histories. As Pearl’s past intertwines with Ring’s aspirations, the story unfolds through a mix of brawls, social commentary, and relational dynamics, ultimately culminating in Pearl’s transformation and reconciliation with her identity. Ring's journey also reflects the challenges of standing up for one's beliefs, leading to a dramatic confrontation that changes the course of their lives. The resolution highlights themes of redemption and understanding, as both characters move towards a new chapter in their lives together, symbolizing change within themselves and their community.
Irving Bacheller
The Turning of Griggsby: Being a Story of Keeping up with Dan'l Webster
"The Turning of Griggsby: Being a Story of Keeping up with Dan'l Webster" by Irving Bacheller is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative captures the life and social dynamics of the fictional village of Griggsby, focusing on the influence of the celebrated orator Daniel Webster on its citizens and their aspirations. The main character, Uriel Havelock, narrates his experiences while attending school and navigating the complexities of youth, love, and ambition in this increasingly competitive society. At the start of the story, the old schoolmaster Appleton Hall recounts a significant speech by Daniel Webster, setting the tone for the reverence the townspeople hold for him. The protagonist, Uriel Havelock, introduces himself as someone from a humble background who has come to Griggsby to pursue his education. Through his observations, Uriel reveals a village caught in the throes of emulating Webster's grand oratory, often leading to excessive drinking and superficial bravado. He finds himself enamored with Florence Dunbar, a wealthy and beautiful girl, which complicates his feelings of social inferiority. The opening chapters lay the foundation for a comedic exploration of human aspirations, misadventures, and the stark realities of life in a small town during a time of shifting values.
Ben Hecht
Cutie: A Warm Mamma
"Cutie: A Warm Mamma" by Ben Hecht and Maxwell Bodenheim is a satirical novel written in the early 20th century. The book critiques the prudishness and hypocrisy of societal censors regarding sexual expression in art and literature. It follows the eccentric and comical escapades surrounding the titular character, Cutie, a beguiling young woman, and Herman Pupick, a one-eyed, overly pious censor. The story revolves around Herman Pupick, who, as a devoted censor, sees sin and immorality in every corner of society. Cutie, with her enchanting charm and bold attitudes, represents a stark contrast to Herman's rigid moral beliefs. Their comedic encounters unfold as Herman becomes irresistibly drawn to Cutie's vivacity, challenging his repressive worldview. As Cutiedances through life unabashedly, Herman's internal struggles with purity and sin intensify, leading to a series of humorous misadventures. The plot culminates in a chaotic confrontation that highlights the absurdities of censorship and societal expectations around sexuality, ultimately painting a vivid picture of 1920s American culture.
George Barr McCutcheon
Yollop
"Yollop" by George Barr McCutcheon is a comedic novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the unlikely encounter between Crittenden Yollop, an earnest and somewhat naive man, and Cassius Smilk, an inept but self-aware burglar. Their interaction begins under peculiar circumstances, leading to a humorous exploration of crime, identity, and moral dilemmas in a whimsical narrative. At the start of the novel, Mr. Yollop accidentally overpowers a burglar, Cassius Smilk, who is disarmed and bewildered by Yollop's actions. The opening chapter sets a comedic tone, showcasing Yollop's deafness and his strange, bumbling attempts to communicate while holding Smilk at bay with a revolver. As they engage in a banter of misunderstandings and absurd exchanges, readers are introduced to the contrasting personalities of Yollop's innocence and Smilk's roguish charm. This unique introductory scenario hints at the larger exploration of societal norms, the absurdities of life, and the unexpected friendships that can form in the most unlikely situations.
Marianne Farningham
Nineteen hundred? A forecast and a story
"Nineteen Hundred? A Forecast and a Story" by Marianne Farningham is a narrative work written in the late 19th century. The book intertwines elements of speculative fiction and social commentary, considering the prospects of the future and the influence of religion and society on the youth of England. The story follows characters like Arthur Knight and John Dallington, who are returning to England after several years abroad, and explores their personal growth and interactions with influential figures such as Miss Wentworth. The opening of the book sets the stage as the characters return home aboard the ship "Kenwick Castle", their thoughts filled with nostalgia and anticipation for their new beginnings. Arthur Knight reflects on his past, conversations about faith, and the purpose he feels destined to fulfill in England. Meanwhile, John Dallington revisits his family's manor house, contemplating his responsibilities as the new squire and the changes he has encountered. The narrative captures the dynamic relationships between the characters, emphasizing themes of social duty, personal belief, and the broader implications of the changing societal landscape in England. As the characters engage in discussions about morality and the state of the nation, the groundwork is laid for future challenges and implications of their actions.
John Habberton
The Barton Experiment
"The Barton Experiment" by John Habberton is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book primarily explores themes related to temperance and social reform in a small American town called Barton, focusing on various characters who struggle with issues of alcohol addiction, community dynamics, and personal morality. Through the lens of reformers and everyday individuals, it delves into the complexities of human behavior and societal expectations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a significant temperance meeting in Barton, organized to address the rampant alcohol consumption in the community. As the townspeople gather at the Methodist Church, they are introduced to a rich cast of characters, including the influential Major Ben Bailey who is poised to speak against alcohol, as well as Squire Tomple, who embodies the tension between business interests and moral activism. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and hope, but underlying currents of doubt about the efficacy of these reform efforts also begin to surface—particularly through the perspectives of individuals like George Doughty and the former rum-seller, Mr. Crupp. This juxtaposition highlights the struggle between idealism and realism within the movement, setting the foundation for the characters’ journeys throughout the novel.
Helen M. (Helen Maria) Winslow
Salome Shepard, reformer
"Salome Shepard, Reformer" by Helen M. Winslow is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Salome Shepard, a wealthy young woman who inherits the management of the Shawsheen Mills after her father's passing. As labor unrest brews due to workers demanding better wages and working conditions, Salome grapples with her responsibilities both as a capitalist and as a potential reformer, torn between the privileges of her station and the plight of the workers who depend on her father's legacy. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Salome Shepard as she observes the bustling yet tense factory precincts, hinting at the looming strike among the workers of the Shawsheen Mills. Salome's initial reaction is that of discomfort and a desire to avoid involvement in the labor issues at hand. However, as salience grows surrounding the workers' demands, Salome begins to reflect on her own privilege and the responsibilities that come with her wealth and position. The stage is set for her eventual transformation from a sheltered daughter of affluence into an active participant in the social issues that affect those around her, suggesting a deep exploration of class dynamics and the moral implications of capitalistic society.
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