Subject
Student adjustment -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Carroll Watson Rankin
Girls of Highland Hall: Further Adventures of the Dandelion Cottagers
"Girls of Highland Hall: Further Adventures of the Dandelion Cottagers" by Carroll Watson Rankin is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows a group of young girls from Lakeville, Michigan, as they embark on a new adventure at Highland Hall, a boarding school. Key characters include Bettie, Jean, Mabel, Henrietta, and Marjory, who navigate their new school environment, face challenges, and form friendships amidst the trials of adolescence. The beginning of the novel sets the stage for the girls' journey to Highland Hall. An introductory scene in Chicago introduces the characters as they walk together, showcasing their excitement and curiosity. We learn how various circumstances, such as parental decisions regarding education and the loss of children's lives at home, lead them to boarding school. The narrative hints at their adjustment to school life and the mysteries and adventures they will face, which include encounters with new teachers, unexpected friendships, and the looming presence of a possible burglar. The story invites readers into a world rich with youthful imagination and the complexities of growing up.
Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston
The Little Colonel at Boarding-School
"The Little Colonel at Boarding-School" by Annie F. Johnston is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of the Little Colonel, Lloyd Sherman, and her friend Betty Lewis as they transition from day pupils to boarders at a school, filled with excitement about new experiences and the friendships they will forge. The narrative explores themes of childhood, friendship, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of a Southern boarding-school. At the start of the book, we witness a significant life change for Lloyd and Betty as they prepare to leave their familiar home at Locust for boarding school. The opening chapter captures their mixed emotions of excitement and nostalgia as they bid farewell to their playful summer life, with friends Rob Moore and others. We see the warmth of their friendships highlighted through conversations and shared reminisces, alongside hints of the challenges they may face in adjusting to their new environment. This rich opening sets the stage for both their individual character developments and their upcoming adventures, establishing an engaging narrative that invites readers to follow their journey.
Carolyn Wells
Patty in the City
"Patty in the City" by Carolyn Wells is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a spirited young girl named Patty Fairfield as she transitions from her serene life in the small town of Vernondale to the bustling atmosphere of New York City. The narrative promises to explore themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the challenges of adapting to a new environment, particularly as she navigates school life and budding relationships in the city. At the start of the book, the Fairfields are preparing to leave their home in Vernondale for a winter stay in New York City, driven by Mr. Fairfield’s desire to be closer to his fiancée, Nan. Patty’s excitement for city life is juxtaposed with her fondness for her hometown and friends. The opening chapters depict her conversations with her father about their move, Patty's feelings of both anticipation and sadness about leaving her friends behind, and her eagerness to create a new life in the city. As she engages with new characters, including her relatives and prospective schoolmates, the stage is set for both humorous and heartwarming encounters that will shape her experiences and growth throughout the story.
Amy Bell Marlowe
The girls of Rivercliff School; or, Beth Baldwin's resolve
"The Girls of Rivercliff School; or, Beth Baldwin's Resolve" by Amy Bell Marlowe is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Beth Baldwin, who is determined to pursue her education and become self-supporting through teaching, despite her family's challenging financial circumstances. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Beth as she converses with her friend Mary Devine about the recent return of Larry Haven, a local youth who has succeeded in law school. This news prompts Beth to reflect on her own aspirations for further education at Rivercliff School, a prestigious institution for girls, which seems financially unattainable for her. The narrative delves into Beth’s hopes and dreams, marked by her determination and resolve to improve her circumstances, particularly as a conversation with Larry's mother reveals the class distinctions that complicate her ambitions and relationships. The opening sets the stage for themes of perseverance, social status, and the importance of education in the lives of young women during this era.
Josephine Chase
Marjorie Dean, College Freshman
"Marjorie Dean, College Freshman" by Josephine Chase is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Marjorie Dean, a lively and spirited young girl who is preparing to embark on her college journey, having spent her summer longing for her friends and the return to school life. The narrative is likely to follow Marjorie and her circle of friends as they navigate the challenges and adventures of college life. The opening of the novel introduces Marjorie in a wistful state as she waits for her friend Jerry to return from vacation. Set during a rainy day, Marjorie’s anticipation of college and the emotional weight of saying goodbye to her family are palpable. The chapter brings to light her close relationship with her mother, her excitement for reuniting with friends, and a sense of her personal growth as she prepares for the transition to college. This beginning establishes the themes of friendship, change, and the bittersweet aspect of leaving behind childhood, setting the stage for Marjorie’s upcoming adventures at Hamilton College.
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