Subject
Students -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Ethel Turner
The family at Misrule
"The Family at Misrule" by Ethel Turner is a children's novel published in 1895. This sequel to "Seven Little Australians" follows the family five years later when Bunty disappears after being accused of theft. While his family believes he's fled to America, he remains hidden in Sydney until a sister recognizes him. Meanwhile, Nellie faces her own crisis after contracting scarlet fever following a dinner party. Turner's story combines humor, pathos, and descriptive power in this healthy tale of family troubles.
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards
Captain January
"Captain January" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a children's novel published in 1891. The story follows a solitary lighthouse keeper on a Maine island who rescues and raises an orphaned baby girl named Star Bright after a shipwreck. Their peaceful life together faces upheaval when a wealthy woman arrives, claiming the child as her long-lost niece. This heartwarming tale explores themes of love, belonging, and sacrifice as Captain January must consider what's truly best for the girl he cherishes.
Ethel Turner
The Family at Misrule
"The Family at Misrule" by Ethel Turner is a children's novel published in 1895. This sequel to "Seven Little Australians" returns to the beloved family five years later, when young Bunty flees after being accused of theft. While his family believes he's sailed to America, he remains hidden in Sydney. His sister Nellie faces her own trials after attending a dinner party with dangerous consequences. Turner's story combines humor, pathos, and descriptive power in this healthy adventure for young readers.
Everett T. (Everett Titsworth) Tomlinson
Ward Hill, the Senior
"Ward Hill, the Senior" by Everett T. Tomlinson is a coming-of-age novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Ward Hill, a boy returning to Weston school after a year of struggles and failures, and his determination to redeem himself. The narrative captures the challenges of adolescence, friendship, loyalty, and the complex social dynamics within a school setting. The opening of the book introduces us to Ward as he awaits a friend at the train station, reflecting on his past year at Weston school marked by disappointment and feelings of alienation. As he anticipates the arrival of his friend Jack Hobart, we learn about Ward's turbulent relationship with his peers, particularly Tim Pickard, a central antagonist. The narrative explores Ward's internal conflict regarding his return to school, where he must face not only the academic challenges but also the social repercussions of his previous mistakes. Ward's journey of self-discovery begins as he grapples with his past, the expectations of his friends, and the dynamics of school life.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
A Young Hero; Or, Fighting to Win
"A Young Hero; Or, Fighting to Win" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Fred Sheldon, who displays courage and a sense of justice as he navigates childhood conflicts and a larger adventure involving theft. The opening chapters introduce us to Fred's character as a peacemaker among his peers and as someone who values friendship and fairness. At the start of the novel, excitement builds around a schoolyard fight between two boys, Sammy McClay and Joe Hunt, which is interrupted by Fred, who steps in as a peacemaker. After this skirmish, the narrative shifts to highlight the upcoming circus, which captures the attention of the children. Later, Fred overhears a suspicious conversation with a mysterious stranger who asks about the old Misses Perkinpine's home. Concerned for their safety, Fred decides to spend the night at the Misses Perkinpine's house, eventually thwarting a robbery during which he takes on the role of protector. The opening establishes Fred as a courageous and resourceful hero, as he prepares to defend the elderly sisters and their valuables against potential threats.
Elizabeth W. (Elizabeth Williams) Champney
Witch Winnie: The Story of a "King's Daughter"
"Witch Winnie: The Story of a 'King's Daughter'" by Elizabeth W. Champney is a charming novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the character of Witch Winnie, a vivacious and imaginative young girl, who is introduced into a boarding school known for its proper and well-behaved pupils. The story unfolds through the eyes of Nellie Smith, one of Winnie’s new classmates, who grapples with her shifting social dynamics as Winnie shakes up their well-ordered lives. The opening of the book introduces us to the structured life at Madame's boarding school, where the privileged girls of the "Amen Corner" take pride in their good behavior. The arrival of Witch Winnie disrupts their routine, and tensions arise as the girls react to her impulsive and lively antics. As Winnie finds her footing among her new peers, she ultimately wins their hearts through her generosity and daring spirit, turning initial disdain into friendship. This sets the stage for various escapades, highlighting themes of companionship, social class, and personal growth in a vibrant boarding school setting.
Upton Sinclair
The West Point Rivals: or, Mark Mallory's Stratagem
"The West Point Rivals: or, Mark Mallory's Stratagem" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the adventures of a group of young cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, particularly centering around characters such as Mark Mallory and his enthusiastic friends known as the Banded Seven. The story delves into themes of camaraderie, rebellion against authority, and the quest for personal honor, all set against the backdrop of military life. The opening of the novel introduces us to a group of plebes eagerly anticipating an exciting outing to a circus in Highland Falls. The protagonist, Mark Mallory, who is recovering from hospital treatment, is quickly drawn back into the lively camaraderie of his friends. Texas, a notable character among them, expresses his determination to ride a bucking bronco named Smasher at the circus, setting the tone for the adventures to come. As the cadets plot their escape for a day of fun, the narrative promises a blend of youthful exuberance and mischief, foreshadowing the escapades that will test their bravery and ingenuity throughout the story.
L. T. Meade
The Girls of St. Wode's
"The Girls of St. Wode's" by L. T. Meade is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around three young women—twins Eileen and Marjorie Chetwynd, and their cousin Letitia—as they navigate the transition from school to society. The narrative explores themes of modernity, individual choice, and the expectations placed upon young women regarding their roles in society. At the start of the book, Eileen, Marjorie, and Letitia are coming home from school, signaling a pivotal moment in their lives as they prepare for their debut in fashionable society. Conversations between their mother, Mrs. Chetwynd, and her friend Mrs. Acheson highlight differing views on education and societal roles for women. Meanwhile, Eileen and Marjorie express their reluctance to conform to conventional societal expectations, eagerly discussing their plans to lead independent lives and consider attending St. Wode's College for further education. This sets the stage for their ongoing conflict with their mother, who has specific ambitions for their debut in high society.
Helen Leah Reed
Brenda, Her School and Her Club
"Brenda, Her School and Her Club" by Helen Leah Reed is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young girl named Brenda Barlow who is navigating the ups and downs of friendships, the arrival of her cousin Julia, and the challenges of attending school. Themes of jealousy, ambition, and personal growth unfold as Brenda encounters the complexities of social dynamics among her peers. The opening of the book introduces Brenda and her three close friends who are anticipating the arrival of Brenda's cousin, Julia. Brenda's feelings are mixed; while she outwardly expresses disdain about Julia disrupting their close-knit group, there’s an underlying reflection of insecurity as she fears being overshadowed. The scene shifts between Brenda's family life, her relationships with her friends, and her initial impressions of Julia, setting the stage for future conflicts and developments. As Brenda interacts with her friends and contemplates Julia's impending arrival, readers get a glimpse into her character, filled with youthful arrogance and vulnerability, as well as the stark reality of growing up and facing change.
Mary C. (Mary Churchill) Hungerford
The Friendly Five: A Story
"The Friendly Five: A Story" by Mary C. Hungerford is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a group of schoolgirls at Coventry Institute, focusing on themes of friendship, acceptance, and personal growth. The narrative introduces the main characters, including the spirited Lily Dart, and examines their interactions, particularly with a new student named Mary Ann Stubbs, who comes from a humble background. At the start of the tale, the girls at Coventry Institute prepare for the end of the school year, during which Mr. Bellamy makes a heartfelt appeal to the students to embrace his young granddaughter, Elfie, who is joining them at school. While the girls eagerly anticipate Elfie's arrival, the story hints at the dynamic that will unfold between them all, particularly with the later introduction of Mary Ann Stubbs. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for the themes of kindness and social class, setting in motion the relationships and conflicts that will develop as the girls navigate their school life together.
Ruth Ogden
Courage A story wherein every one comes to the conclusion that the Courage in question proved a courage worth having
"Courage" by Ruth Ogden is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a little girl named Courage Masterson who grapples with love, loss, and resilience as she navigates her early life. Orphaned at a young age, Courage finds herself cared for by a kind woman named Mary Duff, while her father, Hugh, attempts to mourn the death of his wife and raise their daughter. As the story unfolds, we see Courage's journey of growing up, marked by her unique name and the expectations it carries. At the start of the book, the narrative introduces Courage as a charming but neglected child, struggling to understand her unusual name. As she matures, she longs for connection and stability, particularly seeking out her friend Larry, who represents a father figure in her life. The opening chapters highlight key aspects of her life: her father's sorrow and commitment to work, her fondness for Larry, and the sudden loss of her father which further amplifies her solitude. Courage's unique character and experiences set the stage for her adventures and challenges ahead, instilling in her a profound sense of bravery that resonates throughout the story.
Joanna H. (Joanna Hooe) Mathews
Bessie Bradford's Prize
"Bessie Bradford's Prize" by Joanna H. Mathews is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a world where camaraderie among children is juxtaposed with the burdens they bear from their communities and families. Central to the narrative are young girls like Bessie Bradford and her companions, who navigate their relationships and personal challenges against a backdrop of social dynamics that reflect the values and pressures of their time. The opening of the book introduces various characters including Mrs. Fleming, Mrs. Granby, and the Richards family, setting a scene filled with familial interactions and community ties. A notable event discussed is the heroism of a girl named Lena, who has recently recovered from severe burns sustained while saving her siblings. Within this setting, tensions arise as personal grievances and expectations thread through the children's lives, particularly regarding Gracie Howard and her complicated relationship with Lena. As the narrative progresses, the dilemmas of friendship, jealousy, and personal growth emerge, hinting at deeper themes to be explored throughout the book.
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