Subject
Runaway children -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Louisa May Alcott
Under the Lilacs
"Under the Lilacs" by Louisa May Alcott is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story centers around young characters Ben Brown and two little girls named Bab and Betty, exploring themes of friendship, adventure, and childhood innocence as they engage in imaginative play and navigate their lives in a quaint rural setting. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a mysterious old house with a high wall and blooming lilacs, where two little girls prepare for a festive tea party for their dolls. The children are momentarily distracted by an unexpected dog that steals the cake and creates chaos. They later discover a boy named Ben, who has been living in the old house, and his dog, Sancho. The opening lays the groundwork for adventures filled with whimsical encounters, highlighting the bonds formed among the characters as they navigate both their imaginative pursuits and the realities of their lives.
E. (Edith) Nesbit
The Wonderful Garden; or, The Three Cs
"The Wonderful Garden; or, The Three Cs" by E. Nesbit is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the adventures of three siblings—Caroline, Charles, and Charlotte—as they navigate life in a grey house while their parents are away in India. The children's collective longing for color and excitement leads them to explore a mysterious garden and engage with various whimsical and magical elements. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Caroline on her birthday, where she receives numerous gifts that spark her creativity and desire for adventure. Along with her siblings, the Stanmore children spend time decorating their muted space with vibrant items. Their journey begins with a surprise trip to visit their estranged Great-Uncle Charles in the country, where they hope to find excitement and perhaps magic. As the children settle into their new surroundings, they discover a secret passage to a beautiful garden which becomes a focal point of their adventures, leading to inquiries about magic and the mysteries that lie within their Uncle's home and its magical inheritance.
Horatio Alger
Bernard Brooks' Adventures: The Experience of a Plucky Boy
"Bernard Brooks' Adventures: The Experience of a Plucky Boy" by Jr. Horatio Alger is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows the life of a young boy named Bernard Brooks, who navigates challenges stemming from his relationships with both his guardian, Cornelius McCracken, and his schoolmaster, Ezekiel Snowdon. The narrative centers on themes of bravery, independence, and the quest for personal dignity as Bernard confronts various adversities. The opening of the book introduces readers to Bernard, a clever and strong-willed fifteen-year-old, who is in conflict with his schoolmaster, Mr. Snowdon. Bernard's quick wit and sarcastic remarks showcase his intelligence, which puts him at odds with Snowdon, who is portrayed as an insecure and overbearing figure. The story unfolds as Bernard's disdain for unjust authority compels him to rebel, ultimately leading him to run away from school after an altercation with Snowdon. This establishes the foundation for Bernard's adventures, which will likely explore his journey toward self-sufficiency and the challenges he will face along the way.
Alice B. Emerson
Ruth Fielding at Lighthouse Point; or, Nita, the Girl Castaway
"Ruth Fielding at Lighthouse Point; or, Nita, the Girl Castaway" by Alice B. Emerson is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Ruth Fielding, a resourceful and determined girl who becomes embroiled in adventures alongside her friends as they navigate school life, friendships, and unexpected challenges. The plot thickens when Ruth and her companions are invited to a seaside cottage, where they encounter a dramatic shipwreck and a mysterious castaway, Nita, who has her own secrets. At the start of the novel, the scene is set at Briarwood Hall, a girls' boarding school, during the initiation ceremony of a secret sisterhood known as the Sweetbriars. The main character, Ruth Fielding, is seen supporting her friend Helen Cameron as they both become initiated into the club. Following the initiation, the girls prepare for their upcoming trip to Lighthouse Point, showcasing the joys and complications of their relationships with each other, especially regarding the tension with another girl, Mary Cox, nicknamed The Fox. The opening establishes themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth while hinting at the excitement and potential dangers that await them at the shore.
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.
L. T. Meade
The Manor School
"The Manor School" by L. T. Meade is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a thirteen-year-old girl named Christian Mitford, who feels trapped by her parents' decision to send her away to a strict-school following their impending move to Persia. As she grapples with the news, the narrative explores her imaginative spirit, deep yearning for adventure, and plans to escape her predetermined path alongside her friend, Rose. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Christian, an imaginative and somewhat rebellious girl. She spends much of her time in the attics of her large home, conjuring up adventurous scenarios with her dolls and fairy tales. However, her life takes a sudden turn when she overhears her mother's plans to send her to a severe school, which she envisions as a prison. In response to this perceived threat to her freedom, Christian begins to plot a daring escape with Rose, laying the groundwork for what promises to be an adventurous journey filled with challenges and an exploration of her identity. This opening sets the stage for a larger narrative about childhood innocence, the desire for autonomy, and the clash between familial expectations and personal dreams.
Frances Hodgson Burnett
Two Little Pilgrims' Progress: A Story of the City Beautiful
"Two Little Pilgrims' Progress: A Story of the City Beautiful" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the experiences of two orphaned twins, Meg and Robin, who find solace and hope in their secret hideaway, the Straw Parlor, as they dream of a brighter life away from their oppressive home under their neglectful Aunt Matilda. Their yearning for adventure and learning intensifies when they hear about the upcoming World's Fair, sparking a determination to independently journey to the City Beautiful. The opening of the story introduces us to Meg and Robin, who feel isolated and unloved in their aunt's home. They find a secret refuge atop a straw stack in the barn, where they can escape their dreary existence and enjoy each other's company. As they read stories and discuss their dreams, the mention of the Chicago World's Fair ignites a passion within them to seek out this promised "City Beautiful." They become determined to earn their own money and plan a daring adventure to see the Fair, reflecting their resilience and desire for a life filled with wonder and possibility, despite their difficult circumstances.
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards
Snow-White; or, The House in the Wood
"Snow-White; or, The House in the Wood" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. This delightful tale centers around a young girl, nicknamed Snow-White, who discovers a mysterious house hidden deep within the woods. The narrative captures her whimsical adventures as she encounters a solitary dwarf and interacts with the enchanting flora and fauna that surround them, revealing the childhood themes of imagination and the quest for belonging. The opening of the story introduces us to the serene woodland setting, characterized by a hidden stone house that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The young child, Snow-White, embarks on a curious journey, initially delighting in the wonders of the environment. As she explores, she becomes playful and imaginative, pondering adventures she might have within the house. Eventually, she meets the dwarf, who initially seems gruff but turns out to be a kind companion. Their interactions explore themes of innocence, curiosity, and the bond between human and nature, setting the stage for a magical adventure full of possibilities and life lessons.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The Campers Out; Or, The Right Path and the Wrong
"The Campers Out; Or, The Right Path and the Wrong" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a group of boys—Jim McGovern, Tom Wagstaff, and Billy Waylett—who concoct a mischievous scheme to run away for adventure in the West, driven by wild dreams of hunting Native Americans and grizzly bears. As they get caught up in their plans, their actions lead to unintended consequences that put them in precarious situations. The opening portion of the book introduces us to the boys' instigating plot while they are still in school. Jim receives a secret note from Tom, urging him to meet at the crossroads for a serious matter regarding their dissatisfaction with school and a bold plan to become "Indian slayers." As the story progresses, the boys share their questionable methods of gathering funds for this adventure, revealing their mischievous nature and the naivete that comes with youth. This sets the stage for their antics, which ultimately lead to a personal crisis, involving petty theft and the complexities of their moral decisions. The brief opening serves to capture the enthusiasm and recklessness of childhood while foreshadowing the trouble that lies ahead.
Harry Castlemon
The Rod and Gun Club
"The Rod and Gun Club" by Harry Castlemon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a group of boys, particularly Lester Brigham, who is sent to a military academy as a consequence of his misbehavior at home, including involvement in trouble with other boys and serious incidents in his community. The novel explores themes of youth, adventure, and the challenges of growing up in a structured environment. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Lester and his father, Mr. Brigham, who is frustrated with Lester's rebellious and irresponsible behavior. Following a heated discussion about Lester's future, Mr. Brigham decides to send him to a military academy, hoping it will instill discipline in him. The early chapters also introduce Don and Bert Gordon, who have their own opinions about Lester, reflecting a mix of disdain and obligation as they prepare to return to the same academy. This opening portion establishes the groundwork for character development and the plot's central conflict, setting up a mix of rivalry, camaraderie, and the transition from boyhood to maturity amidst adventures and disciplinary challenges.
Evelyn Raymond
Carlota of the rancho
"Carlota of the Rancho" by Evelyn Raymond is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around twin children, Carlos and Carlota Manuel, living on their father's ranch, Refugio, which straddles the borders of the United States and Mexico. The narrative likely explores themes of family, adventure, and the cultural nuances of border life through the eyes of the innocent twins as they navigate their reality, especially in relation to their absent father. At the start of the tale, Carlos and Carlota engage in lighthearted banter while expressing their longing for their father, who is away. Their playful interactions reveal their deep bond and the weight of their father's absence on their emotions. Soon, their playful day turns serious as they encounter a group of unfamiliar travelers, which raises concerns about their safety. The opening segments set up a narrative rich in sibling dynamics, innocence, and the theme of protection—both from external threats and the emotional turmoil prompted by their father's absence. The twins' adventure unfolds in the vast landscape of their ranch, hinting at the challenges and discoveries that lie ahead.
Louisa May Alcott
The Candy Country
"The Candy Country" by Louisa May Alcott is a whimsical children's fantasy story written in the late 19th century. The book follows the adventures of a young girl named Lily who finds herself in a magical land made entirely of sweets, exploring its sugary wonders, playful candy-people, and delightful experiences. The narrative captures the essence of childhood wonder while subtly addressing themes of moderation and the consequences of indulgence. In this enchanting tale, Lily embarks on a journey after being whisked away by the wind, landing in a fantastical realm where trees are made of candy and rivers flow with syrup. There, she befriends a variety of candy citizens and indulges in their sugary lifestyle, enjoying games and adventures amidst the sweetness. However, as Lily's excesses begin to take a toll on her, she learns valuable lessons regarding the importance of balance and returning to wholesome foods. Ultimately, Lily decides to leave Candy Country for good, bringing back with her newfound wisdom about nourishment.
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