Subject
South African War, 1899-1902 -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
With Roberts to Pretoria: A Tale of The South African War
"With Roberts to Pretoria: A Tale of The South African War" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Yorke Harberton, a young man caught in the turbulent backdrop of the South African War, as he navigates personal and societal changes following a disastrous banking failure that affects his family's fortune. The novel explores themes of courage, self-reliance, and the impacts of war on young lives, with Yorke's journey likely unfolding in a setting ripe with historical significance. The opening of the narrative introduces Yorke and his family grappling with the financial fallout from the collapse of a bank, which has significant implications for their lifestyle and expectations. As the family adjusts to their reduced circumstances, Yorke contemplates his future options, expressing a desire to escape the confines of a conventional life. When the conversation shifts to Yorke's potential emigration to South Africa, he is inspired by thoughts of adventure and opportunity. Following his arrival in South Africa, Yorke faces cultural tensions between Dutch farmers and English settlers, culminating in a confrontation that sets the stage for deeper conflicts and personal growth as the political climate becomes increasingly charged leading up to the war.
F. S. (Frederick Sadleir) Brereton
With Rifle and Bayonet: A Story of the Boer War
"With Rifle and Bayonet" by Captain F. S. Brereton is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins by portraying the familial struggles of young Jack Somerton, who navigates tensions with his stepbrother Frank and their contentious stepmother, Mrs. Somerton. Jack, a sensitive and spirited boy, longs for kindness and acceptance in a tumultuous household that has been disrupted since his father's remarriage. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to a scene of conflict, reflecting a microcosm of the larger struggles Jack will face. Jack is the subject of harsh treatment by his stepmother, which drives a wedge between him and his stepbrother, Frank. The opening chapters set up a tragic backstory as they lead into Jack's imminent departure to school, setting the stage for his adventures that will eventually take him to South Africa amidst the backdrop of the Boer War. The tone suggests themes of resilience, bravery, and the search for belonging, hinting at Jack’s journey towards finding his place in a world filled with strife and conflict.
George Manville Fenn
A Dash from Diamond City
"A Dash from Diamond City" by George Manville Fenn is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Boer War in South Africa, the narrative follows two young men, Oliver West and Ingleborough, who are tasked with delivering crucial despatches through dangerous Boer-occupied territory. Along their journey, they encounter various obstacles and tense moments, ultimately testing their courage and resolve in the face of adversity. At the start of the story, the reader meets West and Ingleborough busy in a mundane office life amidst the bustling diamond mining industry. As the whispers of impending conflict grow louder, the mundane transforms into urgency as they prepare for what lies ahead. Their camaraderie is evident in their banter, particularly around their fellow clerk Anson, who is hinted at to be less trustworthy. The opening chapters set the stage for a journey filled with conflict, not just with external enemies but also hints of internal strife within their own ranks, particularly as the threat of war looms overhead.
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