Subject
San Francisco (Calif.) -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Alice B. (Alice Bradley) Haven
"All's not Gold that Glitters;" or, The Young Californian
"All's not Gold that Glitters;" or, The Young Californian by Alice B. Haven is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the themes of aspiration, wealth, and the trials of family life, particularly focusing on the Gilman family as they navigate the challenges brought on by the California Gold Rush. The narrative introduces us to Mr. Gilman, who decides to seek fortune in California, taking his son Sam along with him while leaving his wife, Mrs. Gilman, to manage their farm and family back home. The beginning of the novel sets the stage for the Gilman family's struggles against the backdrop of the gold rush excitement. Mr. Gilman is depicted as a man grappling with his desire for wealth, motivated by the allure of riches promised by California, while his wife experiences anxiety over the impending separation and the potential dangers that lie ahead. Their son, Sam, is portrayed as a willing companion, filled with youthful eagerness and naivety about the adventures that await them. As the story unfolds, we see the dynamics of their relationships shift, reflecting the impact of ambition and external desires on familial bonds and moral integrity. The introduction effectively captures the tension between hope and reality that will permeate the characters' journeys.
Wyn Roosevelt
Frontier Boys in Frisco
"Frontier Boys in Frisco" by Capt. Wyn Roosevelt is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the adventures of Jim Darlington and his friends, known as "The Frontier Boys," as they journey to San Francisco and encounter various challenges along the way, including a train heist. The narrative captures the spirit of youth and adventure while offering a glimpse into a pivotal time in American history as the characters navigate the Old West. The opening portion of the story introduces Jim Darlington, who is excited about riding a locomotive called "The General Denver" on his way to San Francisco. He enjoys a friendly camaraderie with the engineer, Bob Ketchel, and is prepared for what the journey might bring, including the peril of train bandits. As the train traverses through remote mountain terrain, Jim senses danger, and soon enough, a hold-up occurs, leading to a thrilling exchange of gunfire between the train crew and the bandits. The scene is set for high-stakes adventure as Jim demonstrates his bravery and determination to protect the passengers while also foreshadowing further challenges that await him in the city.
Bracebridge Hemyng
The Slave of the Mine; or, Jack Harkaway in 'Frisco
"The Slave of the Mine; Or, Jack Harkaway in 'Frisco" by Bracebridge Hemyng is a novel written in the late 19th century. This adventure-packed story revolves around the main character, Jack Harkaway, as he navigates the treacherous world of gambling, deceit, and villainy in San Francisco. Following a series of unfortunate events, Harkaway finds himself caught in a web of conspiracy involving dangerous bandits and a plot that could lead him to slavery in the diamond mines of Brazil. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to a gambling den filled with characters embroiled in high stakes and tension, including the enigmatic Mr. Smith and professional gambler Dan Markham. As the night unfolds, the focus shifts to Clarence Holt, a man ensnared by his gambling habits, who finds himself in dire straits due to forgery. Mr. Smith, later revealed to be Lord Maltravers, intervenes with his own ulterior motives. A startling conflict arises when Harkaway confronts Maltravers in a gambling house, leading to a series of betrayals that see Harkaway threatened with capture and an uncertain fate that could involve servitude in the mines. The opening portion effectively sets the stage for a tale filled with suspense, moral dilemmas, and the struggle for redemption.
Victor Appleton
The motion picture chums at the fair : $b or, The greatest film ever exhibited
"The Motion Picture Chums at the Fair: or, The Greatest Film Ever Exhibited" by Victor Appleton is a juvenile adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows a band of ambitious movie-house operators—led by steady, inventive Frank Durham, with quick-tempered Pep Smith, level-headed Randy Powell, loyal backer Hank Strapp, and cheerful organist Ben Jolly—as they chase a big opportunity to run a picture theatre at the Panama-Pacific Exposition. Their plans draw them into show-business logistics, fairground politics, and the schemes of a suspicious promoter trailed by a Secret Service man. The opening of the story shows the friends tallying record receipts at their New York theatre and debating a bold expansion to the San Francisco fair. Frank’s trip to the bank sparks a testy collision with a blustering stranger named Royston, and he later rescues a distraught, oddly dressed man from oncoming traffic. Despite rumors that all Zone concessions are taken, a telegram hints at openings, so the group rushes West; on the train they again cross paths with Royston, and a quiet fellow traveler, Richard Bullard, privately warns Frank that Royston is a dubious promoter under Secret Service watch. Reaching the fair, the boys marvel at its wonders but are told they’re too late to secure suitable space, and as they grapple with disappointment back at their hotel, Bullard arrives to ask their help in discreetly keeping Royston in sight.
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