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Romanies -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls Under Canvas How they reached Pleasant Cove and what happened afterward
"The Corner House Girls Under Canvas" by Grace Brooks Hill is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. This charming story follows the adventures of the four Kenway sisters—Ruth, Agnes, Tess, and Dot—as they embark on a summer trip to Pleasant Cove. The narrative weaves themes of friendship, loyalty, and the joys of youth against the backdrop of their lively family home, known as the Corner House. The opening of the book introduces the Kenway sisters on a rainy day, where Dot finds a dripping wet dog outside, prompting them to care for him and ultimately decide to adopt him, naming him Tom Jonah. The girls' adventures quickly escalate with Tom Jonah's unexpected role as a protector when he catches a Gypsy attempting to steal from their henhouse, showcasing the blend of domestic life and the thrill of excitement. As they look forward to their summer plans, the relationship dynamics among the sisters are established, alongside their interactions with neighbors and friends, setting the stage for the adventures that await them in Pleasant Cove.
Ethel Calvert Phillips
Black-Eyed Susan
"Black-Eyed Susan" by Ethel Calvert Phillips is a charming children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a delightful and spirited little girl named Susan, who lives with her loving grandparents in a quaint rural setting. The book captures the innocence of childhood, exploring themes of friendship, family, and the joy of everyday adventures. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Susan, characterized by her black eyes, brown curls, and warm heart, as she enjoys the love and attention of her grandfather and grandmother. The narrative highlights her imaginative play with her toys and her eagerness to explore her surroundings. Susan's excitement reaches a peak when she learns about a new boy named Philip moving in next door, sparking the beginning of a friendship that promises to bring more joy and adventure to her life. The opening sets a vivid stage for the whimsical and heartfelt experiences to come in Susan's world.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
Green Eyes
"Green Eyes" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for girls written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the adventures of Florence Huyler and her French friend, Petite Jeanne, as they encounter thrilling and dangerous situations in a mysterious northern setting. The story develops themes of friendship, courage, and a deep connection to nature, while unfolding a captivating mystery that intertwines their lives with enigmatic characters. The opening of the story sets a vivid scene on Morton's Bay, where Florence and Petite Jeanne find themselves in a rowboat during a tranquil night, contemplating the mysterious island and its reclusive inhabitant. Their peace is abruptly shattered by a speeding boat that causes their own vessel to capsize, plunging them into the cold waters. As Florence swims to safety with Petit Jeanne in tow, they seek refuge at the mysterious island cottage and meet an intriguing young woman, whose connection to the unfolding mystery is hinted at through her actions and belongings. This series of events establishes an atmosphere of suspense and encourages exploration of both character dynamics and the secrets that lie hidden in the shadows of their surroundings.
Alice B. Emerson
Ruth Fielding and the Gypsies; Or, The Missing Pearl Necklace
"Ruth Fielding and the Gypsies; Or, The Missing Pearl Necklace" by Alice B. Emerson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Ruth Fielding, a plucky young girl who embarks on various adventures that often lead her into unexpected situations and encounters. This particular installment in the Ruth Fielding series promises a mix of mystery and adventure intertwined with themes of bravery and friendship. At the start of the story, Ruth Fielding is introduced at the Red Mill, where she resides with her uncle, Jabez Potter. The opening scenes depict her eagerness to help her uncle with errands despite his gruff demeanor. Ruth's attempt to row a boat across the Lumano River ultimately leads to a frightening accident when the boat capsizes, threatening both her and her uncle's safety. Just as the situation appears dire, Roberto, a wild-looking gypsy boy, comes to their rescue, setting the stage for further intrigue involving gypsies and the promise of an adventure that tests Ruth's courage and resourcefulness.
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls Among the Gypsies How They Met, What Happened, and How It Ended
"The Corner House Girls Among the Gypsies" by Grace Brooks Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the delightful escapades of the Corner House girls, particularly Tess and Dot, as they encounter Gypsies, stumble upon a mysterious silver bracelet, and navigate the joys and challenges of childhood adventures. As the narrative unfolds, themes of honesty, friendship, and youthful imagination are explored against the backdrop of a whimsical journey. At the start of the story, we are introduced to the lively dynamic among the Corner House girls and their interactions with Sammy Pinkney, a local boy. The excitement begins when Tess and Dot purchase a colorful basket from two Gypsy women, only to discover a silver bracelet inside it, sparking a moral dilemma about whether to keep it or return it to the rightful owners. The opening chapters set the tone for a narrative rich in playful banter, the innocence of childhood, and hints of intrigue regarding the Gypsies and the bracelet, prompting the characters to embark on a quest filled with unexpected encounters and decisions that will lead them into further adventures.
Sally Watson
Witch of the Glens
"Witch of the Glens" by Sally Watson is a historical novel written in the early 1960s. Set in the tumultuous backdrop of 17th century Scotland, the book follows the story of a young girl named Kelpie, who is part of a wandering gypsy family and is raised by an old witch and her brutish companion. The narrative explores themes of magic, danger, and the quest for identity against the societal turmoil of civil war, with Kelpie's desire to become a powerful witch guiding her journey. The opening of the novel introduces us to the tense atmosphere in the town of Inverness as the locals confront a gypsy family, accusing them of theft and witchcraft. The narrative quickly shifts focus to Kelpie, a young girl with a mischievous spirit, as she deftly escapes the angry mob after being implicated in the crimes. We see her cunning nature in action as she leaves chaos in her wake, and her longing to seize power through witchcraft unfolds. Through her relationship with the manipulative Mina and the brutish Bogle, the storyline sets the stage for Kelpie’s development as she navigates the challenges of loyalty, deception, and the desire for belonging.
Gordon Stables
A little gipsy lass : $b A story of moorland and wild
"A Little Gipsy Lass: A Story of Moorland and Wild" by Gordon Stables is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Lotty Lee, a young gipsy girl, and her interactions with Frank Antony Blake, an English gentleman. As the narrative unfolds, it touches upon themes of adventure, nature, and the complexities of Lotty's upbringing within a gipsy camp. At the start of the tale, we meet Frank Antony Blake, who arrives at a small north-country station and is greeted by Lotty, his guide to the gipsy encampment where she lives. Lotty's character is lively yet marked with a sense of sorrow, hinted at by her relationship with her father and the absence of her mother. The two set off across the eerie Whinny Moor, where their dialogues reveal a budding friendship amid the mystical backdrop of the moorland. Lotty's whimsical nature and evocative descriptions of her surroundings set the tone for the enchanting, yet sometimes darker, adventures that are expected to unfold in the warming light of companionship and community.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
Gypsy Flight A Mystery Story for Girls
"Gypsy Flight" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for girls written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Rosemary Sample, a young stewardess, as she navigates her duties aboard an airplane while encountering mysterious characters and situations, including a dark woman with a suspicious bag and a young man named Danby Force who seems to be connected to her story. The opening of "Gypsy Flight" introduces Rosemary as a capable and optimistic stewardess who loves her job and seeks to help her passengers. Her journey begins when she meets Danby Force, who urgently requests a seat on her flight. As Rosemary interacts with him and other passengers, she finds herself drawn into a world of mystery that includes a fortune-telling gypsy girl, a sinister dark woman, and the possibilities of adventure in the skies. The tension builds as the story hints at deeper connections and secrets yet to be uncovered, setting the stage for an intriguing tale of discovery and danger.
Emma Leslie
A gypsy against her will : $b or, Worth her weight in gold
"A Gypsy Against Her Will: or, Worth Her Weight in Gold" by Emma Leslie is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Lizzie, a young girl who struggles against the confines of her domestic service and longs for a life away from servitude. The novel explores themes of freedom, identity, and the consequences of rash decisions as Lizzie's desire for independence leads her into the clutches of a dubious fortune-teller and a traveling show. At the start of the novel, we meet Lizzie, who expresses her frustration about working as a servant and her desire to return home to help her mother with laundry. After a tense argument with her mother about her dissatisfaction with her current life, Lizzie goes out to meet a friend but encounters Mrs. Stanley, a fortune-teller from a nearby fair. Intrigued by the prospect of a more exciting life, Lizzie is drawn into a world of deception that promises her freedom but instead leads her to a dark fate as she becomes ensnared in Mrs. Stanley's manipulations. As the narrative unfolds, Lizzie’s initial hope and excitement rapidly transform into regret, with her yearning for a different existence turning into a grim reality.
Grace May North
Nan of the Gypsies
"Nan of the Gypsies" by Grace May North is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Gypsy Nan, a young girl who navigates life in a Romany caravan while facing the challenges posed by both her vibrant gypsy heritage and the oppressive figures surrounding her. The opening suggests themes of belonging, identity, and the quest for freedom, setting up Nan’s journey both literally and metaphorically. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Nan, a spirited and defiant thirteen-year-old girl who resists the commands of the cruel Romany rye, Anselo Spico, and seeks to protect her friend Tirol, a physically deformed boy, from his cruelty. The gypsy caravan sets up camp near the village of San Seritos, where Nan exhibits bravery in defending those she cares about. Following her heartfelt interactions with Tirol and the oppressive nature of Spico, the initial chapters lay the groundwork for her subsequent escape and adventures. The opening paints a vivid picture of her colorful world and hints at the adventure and emotional struggles that await her.
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls on a Tour Where they went, what they saw, and what they found
"The Corner House Girls on a Tour" by Grace Brooks Hill is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows the four Kenway sisters—Ruth, Agnes, Tess, and Dot—who embark on a delightful adventure in their new automobile, exploring various destinations while navigating the challenges and excitement that arise along the way. The inclusion of their friend Neale O'Neil and their peculiar encounters, such as dealing with animals and quirky characters, adds a layer of humor to their journey. At the start of the novel, the atmosphere in the Corner House is buzzing with excitement as the sisters prepare for a picnic tour in their new car. Ruth meticulously prepares sandwiches, while the younger sisters engage in light-hearted banter. Neale O'Neil joins them, eagerly anticipating the ride. Their plan takes a humorous twist when they encounter a stubborn pony blocking their way and a venomous rattlesnake on the road. Through these amusing and unexpected events, the girls' personalities shine, showcasing their individuality and sisterly camaraderie as they set out on what promises to be a memorable adventure.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
The Crystal Ball A Mystery Story for Girls
"The Crystal Ball" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel targeted toward a young adult audience, likely written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds through the experiences of Florence Huyler, the protagonist, who finds herself drawn into the intriguing world of fortune telling and crystal gazing, while encountering a young girl named June Travis with a hidden past. The narrative combines elements of suspense and adventure as Florence navigates through a web of mysteries surrounding June's quest to uncover her father's identity. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Florence Huyler, who, fueled by curiosity, investigates a mysterious room filled with dark velvety drapes and a crystal ball. Her encounter quickly escalates when she witnesses a vision of a girl within the crystal, leading her to become embroiled in the girl’s life and the secrets surrounding her past. The opening hints at deeper themes of identity and the consequences of one's choices, as Florence grapples with her fear and fascination for the mystical powers of the crystal ball and the individuals involved in this shadowy world of fortune telling. As the plot unfolds, readers can expect a blend of mystery, personal exploration, and the dynamics of friendship among the characters.
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