Subject
Richmond (Va.) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Virginius Dabney
The story of Don Miff : $b as told by his friend John Bouche Whacker: a symphony of life
"The Story of Don Miff: As Told by His Friend John Bouche Whacker: A Symphony of Life" is a satirical work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The narrative is presented as a comedic and reflective account, with the main character, Don Miff, being depicted through the eyes of his friend John Bouche Whacker as he shares his thoughts and experiences. The preface sets the stage for a humorous exploration of life, society, and the author's own whimsical philosophical musings. At the start of the novel, the narrator introduces himself as John Bouche Whacker, addressing his future great-great-great-grandson, Ah Yung Whack. Whacker discusses the overwhelming flood of literature prevalent in his time and humorously contemplates whether to contribute to it or instead to preserve his thoughts for posterity. He decides to write a personal letter to his descendant, with aspirations to recount the life of Old Virginia and illustrate the seemingly tranquil life before the turmoil of the Civil War disrupted it. He hints at a grand story unfolding through sketches of characters and events from his past, setting the stage for a blend of nostalgic reflection and social commentary interspersed with humor and character-driven stories.
Ellen Anderson Gholson Glasgow
The Romance of a Plain Man
"The Romance of a Plain Man" by Ellen Glasgow is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story launches the reader into the life of Ben Starr, a young boy from a struggling family in Richmond, as he navigates the challenges of his humble environment and the complexities of childhood, family, and societal class. Through Ben's perspective, the book explores themes of innocence, aspiration, and the longing for beauty and belonging in a world marked by poverty and hardship. The opening portion ushers us into Ben's world during a stormy October evening, where he engages in playful conversation with his father, showcasing their simple family life. As rain lashes against their home, the family dynamics are revealed, highlighting Ben's youthful curiosity and innocence. Soon, a mysterious woman and her daughter, Sally, interrupt their evening, introducing the complexities of social class distinctions that will shape Ben's experiences as he grows. Sally's disdainful use of the term "common" to describe Ben plants the seeds of his yearning to rise above his circumstances, setting the stage for his struggles with identity and aspiration. As the story unfolds, we glimpse the early indicators of how Ben's environment will impact his journey throughout the narrative.
Ellen Anderson Gholson Glasgow
The Builders
"The Builders" by Ellen Anderson Gholson Glasgow is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins in Virginia during a time of social change and personal struggle, focusing on the life of Caroline Meade, who is a skilled nurse returning home to care for a delicate child in a household marked by tension and discontent. The opening portion of the book introduces us to Caroline and her family at their modest home called The Cedars. As the train delays their mail, Caroline's mother receives a letter that sets off the sequence of events leading to Caroline's employment with the Blackburn family. We learn about Caroline's past heartbreak, her determination to rebuild her life through nursing, and her introspective nature as she prepares to face the complexities of her new role. The stage is set for Caroline’s interactions with the glamorous yet troubled figures of the Blackburn household, particularly Angelica, the beautiful but frail wife of David Blackburn, whose own struggles and marriage uncertainty foreshadow deeper conflicts ahead.
Cyrus Townsend Brady
Secret Service Being the Happenings of a Night in Richmond in the Spring of 1865
"Secret Service" by Cyrus Townsend Brady and William Gillette is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the tumultuous spring of 1865 during the American Civil War, the narrative revolves around themes of loyalty, bravery, and treachery amidst the chaos of battle. The story primarily follows young Wilfred Varney, who is eager to enlist and fight for the Confederacy, dealing with the emotional turmoil of his family as they face significant challenges related to the war. At the start of the narrative, the scene is vividly set in a house in Richmond, where the sounds of distant cannon fire echo, creating a backdrop of tension and foreboding. Wounded soldiers are being cared for amidst the mourning of families who have lost loved ones in battle. Young Wilfred, frustrated by the war's impact on his family, resolves to join the army regardless of the risks involved. Confrontations between him and his mother reveal the emotional weight of their decisions, while the introduction of several key characters, such as the ailing Howard and Captain Thorne, establish a complex network of relationships that will evolve as the storyline unfolds. As the opening progresses, there are hints of espionage and betrayal, suggesting an intricate plot that intertwines personal and larger military conflicts.
Ellen Anderson Gholson Glasgow
One Man in His Time
"One Man in His Time" by Ellen Anderson Gholson Glasgow is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Stephen Culpeper, a young man grappling with the changing social and political landscape of Virginia, particularly in the context of the rise of Gideon Vetch, a controversial new governor with humble origins. It explores themes of tradition, democracy, and personal identity against a backdrop of social upheaval. At the start of the novel, Stephen is portrayed as a contemplative figure, reflecting on the decay of the old world he cherishes as modernity reshapes his surroundings. He feels a deep-seated resentment towards Gideon Vetch, who symbolizes the new order that threatens to diminish the values of the past. The opening scene establishes a sense of nostalgia and conflict as Stephen encounters Vetch's daughter, Patty, whose boldness challenges his conventional views. Their interactions hint at the tension between old and new social mores and set the stage for Stephen's internal struggle as he navigates a world in transition.
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