Subject
Selfishness -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
George MacDonald
A Double Story
"A Double Story" by George MacDonald is a fairy tale novel first published in 1875. Two girls born on the same day—Princess Rosamond and shepherd's daughter Agnes—are ruined by their parents' poor parenting, growing into insufferable tyrants. A mysterious Wise Woman intervenes, stealing each girl away to teach them difficult lessons about their true selves through magical mirrors, trials, and discipline. But while one child learns humility and transformation, the other conceals her faults beneath obedience, leading to vastly different fates in this parable about wisdom and self-knowledge.
Ford Madox Ford
The Feather
"The Feather" by Ford Madox Ford is a fantasy novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in a mythical kingdom and follows the adventures of a young princess, Ernalie, who is kidnapped by an eagle and taken on a journey that leads her to encounter strange characters and extraordinary circumstances. Themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the contrast between royalty and common life weave through her experiences. The opening of the story introduces readers to a beautifully secluded kingdom ruled by a well-meaning but ineffectual king and his self-willed daughter, Princess Ernalie. After a playful scene where the princess pelts swans with rose leaves, her curiosity about what lies beyond the mountains leads to her abduction by an eagle. Ultimately, the king descends into despair over his daughter's disappearance, prompting him to seek guidance from a wise woman. The narrative quickly pivots to focus on Ernalie's initial bewilderment and escalating challenges as she attempts to navigate her new and dangerous surroundings, setting up her character’s extensive journey ahead.
Horatio Alger
Luck and Pluck; or, John Oakley's Inheritance
"Luck and Pluck; or, John Oakley's Inheritance" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. It centers around John Oakley, a young boy who grapples with the challenges posed by his stepmother and stepbrother after his father's death. The themes of perseverance, fairness, and the struggle for rightful inheritance play key roles in the story as John seeks to navigate his new reality where he finds himself unjustly treated. The opening of the narrative introduces a conflict between John Oakley and Ben Brayton, his stepbrother, over a horse that has been a gift from John's late father. John's sense of injustice becomes apparent as he struggles against Ben's assertion of ownership, bolstered by their mother’s favoritism towards Ben. Following a confrontation where John demonstrates both physical and moral courage, the drama unfolds, hinting at deeper familial tensions. The reader sees John's determination to stand up for his rights even as he navigates his precarious position within a new family dynamic, setting the stage for an exploration of justice, integrity, and ambition throughout the rest of the story.
Ruth Ogden
A Little Queen of Hearts: An International Story
"A Little Queen of Hearts: An International Story" by Ruth Ogden is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the adventures of a young girl named Marie-Celeste as she navigates new relationships and experiences during her summer in Windsor, England. The narrative explores themes of friendship, family, and the contrast of social statuses, primarily through the interactions of Marie-Celeste with her English cousin Harold and other characters she meets along the way. The opening of the novel introduces Harold, a boy grappling with feelings of loneliness and the desire for change in his life. After a heartfelt moment where he writes a letter inviting his relatives to visit, we learn about Ted, his brother, who is absorbed in his own college life. The scene shifts to Marie-Celeste, whose warmth and curiosity shine through as she eagerly awaits the arrival of new friends and experiences. The fabric of their lives begins to intertwine as they set the stage for a summer filled with discovery and personal growth. The contrasting perspectives of young Harold and the exuberant Marie-Celeste set up a rich narrative of familial bonds and youthful adventures in the chapters to follow.
Harriet Martineau
Five years of youth : $b or, sense and sentiment
"Five Years of Youth; or, Sense and Sentiment" by Harriet Martineau is a novel written in the early 19th century. The book centers on the lives of two young sisters, Mary and Anna Byerley, who navigate their upbringing without a mother, relying on their father and a nurturing community around them. The narrative explores themes of familial love, personal growth, and the impacts of societal expectations on women's lives. The opening of the novel introduces the sisters living in a farmhouse near a small town, detailing their playful interactions and memories of their deceased mother. Through vivid descriptions of their surroundings and relationships, Martineau sets the stage for the exploration of the girls' characters and the development of their virtues influenced by everyday circumstances. As they visit with nearby children and interact with their father, the foundation of their upbringing amidst emotional challenges and joys begins to unfold, establishing the emotional depth and societal context in which their story takes place.
Oliver Optic
The picnic party : $b A story for little folks
"The Picnic Party: A Story for Little Folks" by Oliver Optic is a children's story written during the early 19th century. This book falls within the genre of children's literature and focuses on themes of politeness, friendship, and personal growth. The narrative centers around the experiences of young children as they navigate social interactions and learn important life lessons during a summer picnic. In the story, Josephine, a city girl visiting her country relatives, struggles with her selfish tendencies, often asking her friends to do things for her instead of taking the initiative herself. As she and her friends prepare for a picnic, her habit of relying on others for even the smallest tasks begins to alienate them. When left alone in the woods after her companions refuse to carry her back in a wagon, Josephine confronts her past behavior. Ultimately, she learns the importance of not overburdening others and initiates a sincere effort to change her ways, fostering better friendships in the process. The story emphasizes the value of self-sufficiency and genuine kindness in social relationships.
Anonymous
Village Annals, Containing Austerus and Humanus: A Sympathetic Tale
"Village Annals, Containing Austerus and Humanus: A Sympathetic Tale" by Anonymous is a reflective narrative likely written in the early 19th century. This book is a moral tale that contrasts two opposing characters, Austerus and Humanus, to explore themes of compassion, wealth, and the impact of one's actions on others. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a small village, illustrating how the conduct of individuals contributes to the welfare of the community. The narrative centers around Sir Filmer Hopewell, who seeks shelter in a village ale-house during a wintry evening. There, he meets a compassionate landlord who recounts the lives of two prominent figures in the village: Austerus, a wealthy but callous man, and Humanus, a kind-hearted individual of modest means. Austerus is portrayed as a tyrant whose indifference towards the suffering of the poor marks him as a figure of disdain, while Humanus exemplifies generosity, actively aiding those in distress and fostering goodwill in the community. Through anecdotes highlighting Humanus' benevolence, the tale serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and moral character, prompting readers to reflect on their own values and the broader implications of their actions.
Francis Edward Paget
The Hope of the Katzekopfs; or, The Sorrows of Selfishness. A Fairy Tale.
"The Hope of the Katzekopfs; or, The Sorrows of Selfishness. A Fairy Tale." by Paget is a fairy tale written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around King Katzekopf and his wife, Queen Ninnilinda, who joyously celebrate the birth of their son, Prince Eigenwillig. However, the tale also explores themes of selfishness and moral education, as the young prince is influenced by a capricious fairy godmother, Lady Abracadabra, who warns his parents that the prince's self-willed nature must be tempered to avoid catastrophic consequences. The opening of the story sets the stage for a whimsical and engaging narrative, filled with the delights and depredations of royal life. It introduces the jubilant atmosphere at King Katzekopf's court, where celebrations erupt after the long-awaited prince is born. However, the joy soon intersects with foreboding when Lady Abracadabra arrives to impart a cautionary message about the consequences of selfishness and the need for the prince to learn humility. The dynamic between the characters is rich, with the interplay of joy, anxiety, and humor promising readers an enjoyable exploration of fairy tale conventions and parental dilemmas as they follow the unfolding life of young Eigenwillig.
Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Cozy Lion: As Told by Queen Crosspatch
"The Cozy Lion: As Told by Queen Crosspatch" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a whimsical children's story written in the early 20th century. The book follows the enchanting adventures of a lion who desires to be part of society and befriend children, despite the fears that his presence instills in the villagers. Set in a fantastical universe where fairies interact with animals, the story explores themes of acceptance, behavior modification, and the importance of kindness. In this tale, the Cozy Lion finds himself lamenting his loneliness after moving to a cave near a village filled with children. His desire for companionship clashes with the inherent fear he instills in the townsfolk, who take measures to protect their children from him. Enter Queen Crosspatch, a fairy who confronts the lion and helps him realize that to gain friends, he must change his fierce behavior and appetites. Through whimsical dialogue and charming scenarios, the lion ultimately learns to embrace a kinder nature, becoming a beloved village companion rather than a feared predator. The story concludes with the lion's joyful transformation into a source of happiness for the children and a staple of village activities, illustrating that true friendship comes from understanding and kindness.
Mrs. Molesworth
Great Uncle Hoot-Toot
"Great Uncle Hoot-Toot" by Mrs. Molesworth is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the Tudor family, particularly the elder siblings Elsa and Frances, as they navigate family dynamics involving their younger brother, Geoffrey, amidst their mother's worries about financial troubles. The whimsical yet authoritative figure of Great-Uncle Hoot-Toot looms in the background, indicating that he will play a crucial role in their lives. At the start of the narrative, the family is in a state of turmoil as they face the potential loss of their financial stability. The opening chapter introduces Geoffrey as a boy plagued by selfishness and moodiness, causing strain in familial relationships. His sisters take on the responsibilities of managing the household and their mother’s emotions. The tension escalates with Geoffrey's perceived neglect and their mother's preoccupation with letters and unwelcome news. As tensions rise, the stage is set for the arrival of Great-Uncle Hoot-Toot, whose wisdom and unusual ways promise to shake things up in the Tudor household and potentially help guide Geoffrey towards better behavior.
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
The heiress of McGregor : $b or, Living for self
"The Heiress of McGregor; or, Living for Self" by Lucy Ellen Guernsey is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Marion McGregor, the titular heiress, as she navigates family dynamics, personal disappointments, and societal expectations in a rural setting. The narrative promises exploration of themes such as duty, ambition, and the struggles of a young woman yearning for a life beyond her immediate circumstances. At the start of the novel, we meet Marion, who is deeply absorbed in her thoughts as she returns home from school, reflecting on her recent punishment for failing to complete an arithmetic lesson. In her family home, readers are introduced to her grandfather, Hector, and her aunt, Barbara, who play significant roles in her upbringing. Throughout this opening portion, Marion grapples with feelings of vanity and discontent, particularly regarding her educational opportunities compared to those of her peers. The stage is set for her character journey, revealing early tensions and aspirations that will likely drive the story forward. Additionally, an undercurrent of social critique emerges through the interactions between different characters, hinting at broader themes of class and ambition that Guernsey may explore further in the narrative.
Theodore P. Wilson
Working in the Shade Lowly Sowing brings Glorious Reaping
"Working in the Shade; or, Lowly Sowing Brings Glorious Reaping" by the Reverend Theodore P Wilson is a moralistic tale woven into a fiction story likely written in the late 19th century. In it, Wilson explores themes of selfishness and unselfishness through the lives of various characters in a small country town, focusing particularly on Mary Stansfield, an orphan living with her harsh aunt, and Colonel Dawson, a new resident of Riverton Park who aims to improve the community. The narrative seems to be an examination of personal sacrifice and the impact of social class on morality. The opening of the tale sets up the anticipation surrounding the new occupant of Riverton Park and introduces Mary Stansfield, who faces the struggles of living with a bitter relative. As she walks home, she encounters Colonel Dawson, who has returned from the colonies and hopes to make a difference in the town through acts of genuine kindness. Their conversation reveals his interest in finding unselfish individuals within the community, emphasizing the moral struggle against selfishness. Meanwhile, the atmosphere of the neighborhood is defined by speculation about the new arrivals at Riverton Park, setting the stage for exploration of social dynamics, kindness, and the quest for selflessness in the characters’ actions.
Recently surfaced classics