Subject
Sick -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Margaret Sidney
Five Little Peppers and How They Grew
"Five Little Peppers and How They Grew" by Margaret Sidney is a novel published in 1881. It follows the Pepper family—five children and their widowed mother—living in poverty in their little brown house. Though Mamsie works tirelessly to support them, the children's spirits remain unbroken. When young Phronsie is kidnapped, her rescue by wealthy Jasper King transforms their lives forever. The Kings welcome the Peppers into their grand home, surrounding them with luxury while Mamsie ensures her children never forget the values of hard work and humility.
James Otis
Jack the Hunchback: A Story of Adventure on the Coast of Maine
"Jack the Hunchback: A Story of Adventure on the Coast of Maine" by James Otis is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young hunchback named Jack Dudley, who becomes embroiled in a series of adventures after he and a baby, Louis, escape a catastrophic incident at sea. With themes of friendship, resilience, and loyalty, Jack’s journey emphasizes his determination to care for Louis while navigating the challenges that arise from his appearance and social status. The opening of the book presents an intriguing scenario where Jack and the baby are found adrift in a lifeboat off the coast of Maine after a ship explosion. Farmer Pratt and his son Tom discover them on the beach. While Farmer Pratt initially contemplates taking them to the poorhouse, Jack's quick thinking and bravery lead him to escape from that fate. The introduction sets the stage for Jack's adventures, highlighting his strong sense of responsibility for little Louis and establishing the conflict with Farmer Pratt, who is determined to return them to a life devoid of freedom. As Jack seeks shelter with Aunt Nancy, they develop a bond, but the ongoing threat from Farmer Pratt looms over them, creating tension and interest in their uncertain future.
I. T. (Ida Treadwell) Thurston
The Bishop's Shadow
"The Bishop's Shadow" by I. T. Thurston is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows the lives of Tode Bryan, a young street boy living in Boston, and his interactions with characters such as Nan Hastings and a kind, influential bishop who inspires Tode to seek a better life. The narrative explores themes of redemption, social class, and the impact of kindness on the lives of vulnerable individuals. The opening of the novel presents a vivid depiction of Boston's rainy streets and introduces Tode, a 13-year-old boy who finds a woman's lost pocketbook during a chaotic moment involving a near accident. Instead of returning it, he keeps the money, only to later encounter his struggles with guilt and the mundane challenges of life as a street child. This part of the story sets the stage for Tode's potential transformation, highlighting his desire for a better life, his growing relationship with Nan and her sick younger brother, who he learns to care for, and the moral dilemmas he faces as he confronts his past behaviors. Overall, the beginning establishes a mix of adventure, compassion, and the possibility of change in Tode’s life through relatable challenges and unexpected interactions.
Evelyn Raymond
The Mislaid Uncle
"The Mislaid Uncle" by Evelyn Raymond is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Josephine Smith, who is sent on an unexpected journey from her home in San Diego to seek her Uncle Joe in Baltimore after her mother departs for a distant place. Through her adventure, the narrative touches on themes of family, companionship, and the trials of childhood, as Josephine navigates her new world with innocence and curiosity. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a warm scene in a cottage where Josephine is preparing to leave her mother temporarily due to her father’s illness. Her mother, Mrs. Smith, is distressed about sending her daughter away and decides to send her via express delivery to her Uncle Joe, whom Josephine has not met before. The beginning depicts a series of emotional farewells and explains Josephine's thoughts about her journey as she travels alone for the first time. We also glimpse her personality as she interacts with her mother, the kind Doctor Mack, and her beloved doll, Rudanthy. Josephine's journey begins with uncertainty, but her resourcefulness and charm pave the way for memorable encounters and the forging of new relationships.
Susan Coolidge
Just Sixteen.
"Just Sixteen" by Susan Coolidge is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Georgie Talcott, a young woman facing the challenges of adulthood after the death of her mother. As she navigates financial struggles and societal expectations, Georgie grapples with the urgency of finding her own path and establishing her independence in a world that offers both obstacles and opportunities. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Georgie as she reflects on the impending sale of her childhood home. The narrative depicts her emotional struggles with leaving behind memories, particularly after her mother's death, and her pressing need to support herself. She contemplates various potential careers, feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of securing her future. Amid her worries, she resolves to reject a life of idleness despite her cousin's offer of support, signaling her determination to carve out her own identity. The opening sets the stage for Georgie's journey of self-discovery and resilience as she learns to embrace hard work and the unexpected twists of life.
Joanna H. (Joanna Hooe) Mathews
Bessie and Her Friends
"Bessie and Her Friends" by Joanna H. Mathews is a children's fiction work written in the late 19th century. The book introduces readers to the life of young Bessie and her interactions with her friends, exploring themes of kindness, family struggles, and community support. The initial focus is on the Richards family, particularly on little Jennie, who takes on significant responsibilities at home due to her mother's illness and her brother Willie's impending blindness. The opening of the story sets the stage with a poignant glimpse into the Richards household, capturing a moment where young Jennie eagerly awaits her father's return. The family dynamic is illustrated through Jennie's efforts to keep the home tidy, the mother's frail state, and Willie's quiet suffering. Meanwhile, Sergeant Richards, their father, is depicted as a caring and loving parent who brings joy to his children despite their hardships. The narrative emphasizes the importance of love, care, and friendship, setting a hopeful tone as the characters navigate their challenges together.
Horatio Alger
Tom Thatcher's Fortune
"Tom Thatcher's Fortune" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. This coming-of-age tale revolves around Tom Thatcher, a sixteen-year-old boy who works in a shoe factory to support his family after his father's mysterious death during a gold rush in California. The story explores themes of social class, ambition, and resilience as Tom navigates his challenges and seeks a better life for himself and his family. The opening of the novel introduces us to Tom Thatcher, a hardworking boy who has just come home from a long day at the shoe factory, where he earns a meager wage. He shares dinner with his mother and little sister Tillie, conveying the family's struggles after losing their father. Through a conversation about his father's last letter and his missed fortune, we learn about Tom's determination to uncover the truth about his father's disappearance. The narrative sets the stage for Tom's journey filled with rivalry, self-discovery, and a yearning for a brighter future, while hinting at the contrast between his humble life and that of the wealthy characters in his world.
Georgiana M. (Georgiana Marion) Craik
Bow-Wow and Mew-Mew
"Bow-Wow and Mew-Mew" by Georgiana M. Craik is a children's literary work written in the early 20th century. This book features simple language, primarily using one-syllable words, making it an accessible read for young children. The story revolves around the themes of companionship, personal growth, and the importance of appreciating one's home and relationships. The narrative follows the initial discord between Bow-Wow, a young dog, and Mew-Mew, a young cat, who are discontent with their lives and ungrateful towards their caretaker. After deciding to run away, they face numerous challenges, including hunger, harsh weather, and a close encounter with danger. Through these hardships, Bow-Wow and Mew-Mew begin to understand the value of friendship and the warmth of home. Their experiences catalyze a transformation in their characters, leading them to become friends and ultimately appreciate the kindness of their mistress. This engaging tale beautifully conveys lessons about love, loyalty, and character development in a way that resonates with young readers.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
Across Texas
"Across Texas" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is an adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Nick Ribsam and his friend Herbert Watrous as they embark on a journey through Texas and beyond, exploring themes of friendship, bravery, and the challenges of navigating the wilderness of the American Southwest. Their adventure begins with Herbert's precarious health, prompting a journey from Pennsylvania to seek recovery in the warmer climate of Texas. The opening of the book introduces Nick and Herbert, setting the stage for their travels. After receiving a letter from Herbert's father that expresses concern for his son's health, Nick is informed that Herbert is to join him on a journey to the Southwest that promises sun and fresh air. The narrative details their preparations and departure, highlighting their friendship and excitement as they board a train and begin their adventure towards San Antonio. As they travel, they encounter various characters, including cowboys and local residents, and face moments of danger and intrigue, suggesting a rich tapestry of encounters that will shape their journey across Texas.
Lily F. Wesselhoeft
Jack, the Fire Dog
"Jack, the Fire Dog" by Lily F. Wesselhoeft is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a courageous fire dog named Jack who faithfully accompanies the firemen of Engine 33. With a strong sense of duty and loyalty, Jack becomes a beloved character as he helps rescue a blind boy from a burning building. The opening of the novel introduces Engine 33, a well-kept fire station where Jack lives and works alongside the firemen and their horses. On a particularly cold winter night, the alarm sounds, prompting Jack and the team to spring into action. As they respond to a fire at a nearby theater, Jack demonstrates both his bravery and intelligence, ultimately rescuing a child trapped in the smoke-filled tenement. The chapter sets the tone for adventure and camaraderie, laying the groundwork for the bond between Jack, the firemen, and the blind boy he saves, who is later named William.
Mrs. Molesworth
Two Little Waifs
"Two Little Waifs" by Mrs. Molesworth is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows two young siblings, Gladys and Roger, who are on the brink of a significant transition as they prepare to reunite with their father after years of being cared for by others, including the kindly Mrs. Lacy. The narrative captures their imaginative play and the bittersweet emotions that arise from leaving behind their familiar lives for the unknown. At the start of the narrative, Gladys and Roger engage in a charming game where they pretend to journey "over the sea" to their father. This playful innocence is contrasted with the underlying sadness of their situation; their mother is a distant memory to them, and they're aware that Mrs. Lacy, who has cared for them, may soon not be in their lives. When they learn that their father has sent for them to join him, a mix of joy and anxiety unfolds as they prepare for the move, coupled with Mrs. Lacy’s tender worries about their departure. The opening chapters effectively introduce the themes of familial love, longing, and the challenges of change faced by children, setting the stage for their adventure to come.
Sarah Stuart Robbins
Miss Ashton's New Pupil: A School Girl's Story
"Miss Ashton's New Pupil: A School Girl's Story" by Sarah Stuart Robbins is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Marion Parke, a young girl from a Western missionary family, as she arrives at Montrose Academy for her education. The narrative explores her experiences, the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, and her interactions with fellow students and teachers. At the start of the book, we meet Miss Ashton, the principal of Montrose Academy, who has just received a letter from Marion's mother requesting that she be admitted to the school. Miss Ashton expresses concern about accommodating Marion, as the academy is at full capacity. Marion eventually arrives a week late and feels overwhelmed by her new surroundings but is welcomed by the friendly students and teachers. As she tries to navigate her studies and relationships, the story highlights the themes of friendship, personal growth, and the quest for identity amidst the backdrop of a boarding school. The opening chapters set the stage for Marion's journey, introducing key characters and the dynamics of school life that she must adapt to.
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