Subject
Spanish-American War, 1898 -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Martha Finley
Elsie's Young Folks in Peace and War
"Elsie's Young Folks in Peace and War" by Martha Finley is a children's historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Elsie Raymond and her companions during a sailing trip along the Maine coast, where they engage in discussions about historical events related to the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. As they navigate their journey, they express excitement about exploring places tied to these significant events in American history, showcasing a blend of adventure and education. At the start of the book, a charming summer day sets the scene as Elsie and her brother Ned board their yacht, the "Dolphin", after enjoying a stay at Bar Harbor. They eagerly seek out their grandmother to learn more about the historical significance of the coastal areas they're visiting, particularly the battles fought during the wars mentioned. With vibrant dialogue and a tone that reflects both adventure and curiosity, the opening introduces the young characters and hints at their quest for knowledge, respecting themes of bravery, history, and family bonding as they learn about their nation's past.
Grace MacGowan Cooke
The Girls of Silver Spur Ranch
"The Girls of Silver Spur Ranch" by Grace MacGowan Cooke and Anne McQueen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Spooner sisters—Mary, Elizabeth, Ruth, and little Harvie—who live on a modest Texas cattle ranch, Silver Spur. With themes of self-discovery, familial love, and the pursuit of dreams, the narrative predominantly follows Elizabeth, who grapples with feelings of being different, ultimately uncovering familial secrets and her aspirations in the backdrop of ranching life. The beginning of the book introduces the quotidian life on the Spooner ranch as the sisters prepare for Mary’s wedding. As they engage in wedding preparations, Elizabeth expresses her disdain for their family name and reflects on her perceived superiority. The arrival of a family of "movers"—a group often looked down upon—garners Elizabeth's sympathy, juxtaposing her lofty aspirations with the harsh realities of their lives. Amongst sibling interactions and humorous familial dynamics, an underlying mystery about Elizabeth's true lineage hints at deeper themes to be explored. This opening establishes a charming yet complex world filled with relatable characters and notions of aspiration that will likely resonate with readers who appreciate heartfelt domestic tales.
Edward Stratemeyer
When Santiago Fell; or, The War Adventures of Two Chums
"When Santiago Fell; or, The War Adventures of Two Chums" by Edward Stratemeyer is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around two young friends, Alano Guerez and Mark, who embark on a perilous journey during the Cuban-Spanish War in search of their families, experiencing the chaos and excitement of war, as well as the dangers that come with it. As they navigate through blocked paths, capture, and near escapes, they embody the spirit of adventure and camaraderie. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to the tense atmosphere in Santiago, Cuba, as the boys find themselves caught between Spanish authorities and the war's tumult. After arriving in Cuba to be reunited with their families, they quickly realize the dangers posed by the ongoing conflict. The narrative establishes their determination to escape captivity, leading to an audacious attempt to flee the city and traverse the wilderness, all while gathering information about their families and experiencing the perils of warfare up close. Their journey is marked by obstacles, encounters with the Spanish military, and the search for allies, setting the stage for further adventures and trials ahead.
Russell Doubleday
A Gunner Aboard the "Yankee" From the Diary of Number Five of the After Port Gun (Russell Doubleday): The Yarn of the Cruise and Fights of the Naval Reserves in the Spanish-American War
"A Gunner Aboard the 'Yankee'" by Russell Doubleday is a first-hand account written in the late 19th century, specifically during the time of the Spanish-American War. This narrative recounts the experiences of the crew aboard the auxiliary cruiser "Yankee," particularly through the lens of an ordinary sailor who served as Number Five of the After Port Gun. The book delves into the day-to-day life of naval reservists turned sailors, capturing their adventures, challenges, and camaraderie during wartime. At the start of the book, the author sets the scene with the mobilization of the crew in preparation for the impending conflict. The excitement and anxiety are palpable as young men from various walks of life gather, eagerly anticipating their orders. Doubleday introduces readers to the crew’s preparations, first encounters with their ship, the "Yankee," and the drill routines they undergo while gearing up for action. This section establishes the camaraderie among the crew and sets the tone for a blend of humor and hardship as they transition from civilian life to the demands of naval service amidst the backdrop of preparing for battle.
Kirk Munroe
"Forward, March": A Tale of the Spanish-American War
"Forward, March": A Tale of the Spanish-American War by Kirk Munroe is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Ridge Norris, a young man with aspirations toward heroism, who becomes embroiled in the tumult of the Spanish-American War after the destruction of the USS Maine. The book captures the fervor of wartime sentiment and the personal journey of its protagonist as he grapples with challenges both external and internal, ultimately aspiring to serve and honor his country. At the start of the novel, Ridge Norris is introduced as a flower-loving young man finding himself bewildered by the emotions surrounding the recent news of war. We see him torn between personal duties and the larger calling to serve, especially as he learns of the Maine's destruction. Ridge debates the character of a man named Herman Dodley, whom he perceives as of dubious moral fiber, while feeling the pull of history as war looms. The opening chapters soak the reader in the ambiance of pre-war America, with Ridge feeling a growing sense of purpose that will lead him to enlist. This initial segment sets the stage for our hero's transformation, as he navigates both familial expectations and the onset of a fierce conflict.
Harriet T. (Harriet Theresa) Comstock
A Little Dusky Hero
"A Little Dusky Hero" by Harriet T. Comstock is a children's novel written during the early 20th century. The book tells the story of George Washington McKinley Jones, a small black boy who longs to be a hero in the midst of the Spanish-American War, showcasing themes of bravery, loyalty, and the quest for acceptance against the backdrop of military life. The narrative centers on G. W., who becomes a mascot and unofficial soldier for Colonel Austin's regiment. After losing his mother and becoming an orphan, G. W. boldly enlists in the army, determined to prove himself as a hero. Throughout the story, he faces various challenges, including the harsh realities of war and his own insecurities about race and acceptance. His deep bond with Colonel Austin and a mystical connection with a boy and his mother back home drive him to defy orders, ultimately leading him on a brave mission to rescue the Colonel during a battle. Through G. W.'s journey, Comstock explores the definition of heroism, illustrating that true courage comes from love and selflessness, regardless of one's background.
F. S. (Frederick Sadleir) Brereton
Under the Star-Spangled Banner: A Tale of the Spanish-American War
"Under the Star-Spangled Banner: A Tale of the Spanish-American War" by Captain F. S. Brereton is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the character Hal Marchant, a young man from Birmingham who faces sudden adversity after his father's financial ruin and subsequent death. The narrative explores themes of resilience, courage, and the transition from a life of comfort to one of hardship, as Hal embarks on a journey that leads him ultimately to America in pursuit of a new beginning. At the start of the book, we find Birmingham engulfed in a thick fog, setting a somber tone for the troubles soon to unfold in the Marchant family. Hal's father, Mr. Marchant, is confronted with financial catastrophe that shatters their once-thriving industrial business and leads to his demise from the shock. As Hal copes with his father's death and the loss of their family fortune, he resolves to leave Birmingham for America, compelled by the desire to reshape his destiny. The opening chapters set the stage for Hal's transformation from a privileged background to a life filled with uncertainty and adventure, hinting at the larger conflicts and historical backdrop of the Spanish-American War.
James Otis
Off Santiago with Sampson
"Off Santiago with Sampson" by James Otis is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young boy named Teddy Dunlap, who is determined to find his father, a coal-passer in the Navy involved in the Spanish-American War. This engaging narrative promises to explore themes of adventure, courage, and the bond between father and son as Teddy embarks on an ambitious quest to reunite with his father amidst the chaos of war. The opening of the book introduces Teddy, a small but defiant boy, as he contemplates breaking into a forbidden coal yard filled with towering heaps of coal and the potential for adventure. After a chance encounter with a workman, Teddy hatches a plan to stow away on a coal ship, the Merrimac, which is bound for Cuba. Throughout this opening portion, Teddy's character is fleshed out as a resourceful and determined young boy, eager to link up with his father despite the fears and challenges that lie ahead. The stage is set for a charming and action-filled journey that highlights the resilience and bravery of youth during a tumultuous time in American history.
Edward Stratemeyer
A sailor boy with Dewey : $b or, Afloat in the Philippines
"A sailor boy with Dewey : or, Afloat in the Philippines" by Edward Stratemeyer is a juvenile adventure novel written in the late 19th century. It follows Oliver Raymond, a plucky American teenager bound for Manila who is shipwrecked in a typhoon and plunged into dangers among hostile islanders and warring forces as he struggles to reunite with friends and reach safety. Key figures include his loyal chum Dan Holbrook, the steady mate Tom Dawson, and the drunken, menacing Captain Kenny. Expect fast-paced nautical peril, jungle escapes, and the path toward Commodore Dewey’s campaign. The opening of the story follows Oliver from a business-tinged “holiday” trip toward Manila aboard the schooner Dart to a violent hurricane, a collision with a Chinese vessel, and a desperate abandonment of ship in small boats that separates him from Dan. Oliver’s boat, led by second mate Watt Brown and burdened by the treacherous Captain Kenny, survives a brutal night at sea and reaches the Luzon coast; Dawson’s boat later appears, but Dan is feared drowned. While foraging and scouting, the survivors encounter grisly signs of local warfare, a giant bat attack, and the Dart stranded up the coast—only to be confronted by Tagal tribesmen who seize the wreck and capture the castaways. A lightning-splintered storm enables Oliver and Dawson to escape through a flooded forest, elude pursuit (and a cayman), glimpse a distant battle between Spanish troops and insurgents, link up with the Chinese cook Ah Sid, and ready a small boat to run for Subig Bay—just as unseen figures approach.
Walter Fenton Mott
Young Glory and the Spanish cruiser : $b or, a brave fight against odds
"Youthful Glory and the Spanish Cruiser: Or, A Brave Fight Against Odds" by Mott is a patriotic adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the daring exploits of the central character, Young Glory, and his loyal friend, Dan Daly, during a time of conflict between the United States and Spain. The narrative revolves around themes of bravery and loyalty as the characters face various challenges amidst the backdrop of the Spanish-American War. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Dan Daly, who finds himself captured by Spanish soldiers while his comrade, Young Glory, devises a plan to rescue him. The tension escalates as Dan prepares for execution, only to be saved in a climactic moment by Young Glory, showcasing their strong friendship and courage. The opening sets the stage for a series of action-packed events, highlighting the dangers they face from both their enemies and the circumstances of war, as they navigate treacherous situations and attempt to outsmart the Spaniards.
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