Subject
Students -- Social life and customs -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Evelyn Sharp
The Youngest Girl in the School
"The Youngest Girl in the School" by Evelyn Sharp is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Barbara, a lively and imaginative eleven-year-old girl, who is eager to leave her chaotic home life with her five brothers to attend a girls' school, where she yearns for friendships and new experiences. At the start of the book, we see Barbara in her London schoolroom, preparing for the arrival of her Aunt Anna and her cousin Jill. Barbara’s family dynamics reveal her as the "Babe" among brothers, struggling with their teasing but maintaining a desire for more than their rough boyhood games. She dreams of school as a place of order and companionship, expressing her longing to escape the mischievousness of her brothers. As Aunt Anna arrives, expectations unfold about how Barbara’s life will change, marking the beginning of her journey into a new world of school and friendships, but also anxiety about fitting in with her new peers.
Edith K. (Edith Kellogg) Dunton
Betty Wales decides : $b a story for girls
"Betty Wales Decides: A Story for Girls" by Edith K. Dunton is a young adult novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Betty Wales, a bright and resourceful young woman at Harding College, as she navigates the challenges of tutoring a newcomer, Montana Marie O'Toole, who is both an intriguing character and a bit of a handful. The book provides insights into college life, friendship, and personal growth, particularly in the context of female empowerment. At the start of the novel, we find Betty enjoying a quiet afternoon at her family's cottage when she receives some surprising news about a slump in her business involving quirky figurines called ploshkins. This unexpected turn of events compels her to reconsider her plans for the upcoming winter. Shortly thereafter, Betty meets Mrs. O'Toole and her daughter Marie, who arrive with a proposal for Betty to tutor Marie, a girl who clearly stands out due to her unique background and personality. As Betty agrees to mentor Marie, she reflects on her own responsibilities at Harding College and her aspirations, setting the stage for a story rich with humor, friendship, and the ups and downs of collegiate life.
Edith K. (Edith Kellogg) Dunton
Betty Wales on the campus
"Betty Wales on the Campus" by Edith K. Dunton is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work follows the adventures and personal growth of Betty Wales as she navigates her college years at Harding College, its campus life, and her relationships with other students. The story combines elements of friendship, ambition, and exploration of responsibilities as Betty embarks on her journey in the context of academia and young adulthood. At the start of the story, Betty Wales is introduced as a vibrant character with a mix of domestic responsibilities and aspirations for her future. The opening chapter depicts a sunny day where she takes care of her family's home while also longing for the beach, showcasing her fun-loving nature. Betty’s interactions with her younger sister Dorothy and her friends build a warm atmosphere, hinting at her significant role among them. Shortly after, she receives an unexpected letter from the President of Harding College, inviting her to contribute her ideas for a new dormitory, Morton Hall, alongside the wealthy Mr. Morton. This development signifies the beginning of her journey to balance her personal ambitions with her considerable potential, setting the tone for the challenges and triumphs that will unfold throughout the narrative.
Harriet L. (Harriet Lummis) Smith
Peggy Raymond's Way; Or, Blossom Time at Friendly Terrace
"Peggy Raymond's Way; Or, Blossom Time at Friendly Terrace" by Harriet L. Smith is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story is centered around a group of friends, particularly focusing on Peggy Raymond and her interactions with her companions Amy, Ruth, and Priscilla as they navigate life’s challenges and joys. The book seems to explore themes of friendship, personal development, and social dynamics during a period of change, likely just after the First World War. The opening portion of the novel introduces readers to Amy Lassell, one of the main characters, as she reflects on her spring vacation. While Amy has a natural inclination toward idleness, she finds herself preoccupied with sewing and household responsibilities due to the absence of her mother and the necessity of preparing dinner for her father. This daily struggle highlights her character's industriousness despite a tendency to prefer leisure. As the story unfolds, her unexpected guests, Hildegarde and Robert Carey, compel her to confront social awkwardness and her own self-image. The scene captures the charming dynamics of friendship, social mishaps, and the humor found in everyday life, setting the stage for further exploration of the characters’ growth and interactions throughout the book.
Lewis Hough
Dr. Jolliffe's Boys
"Doctor Jolliffe's Boys" by Lewis Hough is a historical novel set in a boys' boarding school during the late 19th century. The story revolves around the experiences and relationships of the students, particularly focusing on the tensions and rivalries that arise amidst their youthful antics, including cricket games and clandestine adventures. The narrative is rich in detail and vividly captures the spirited lives of the boys as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to an exciting cricket match between Weston School and Hillsborough that sets the stage for rivalry among the boys. We meet the ambitious Saurin, who is determined to prove himself on the field, and Crawley, who is portrayed as a skilled and confident captain. Tensions escalate as Saurin grapples with feelings of jealousy and resentment towards Crawley, culminating in their first conflict that implies deeper animosities. This section effectively establishes character dynamics, the competitive atmosphere of school life, and foreshadows a confrontation that reflects the underlying themes of pride and ambition within the boarding school setting.
Talbot Baines Reed
The Willoughby Captains
"The Willoughby Captains" by Talbot Baines Reed is a school story written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the lives of boys at the Willoughby school, detailing their experiences, friendships, and rivalries, particularly focusing on a major boat race between houses that sets the stage for intrigue and competition. The opening of the story introduces an eventful day at Willoughby school, highlighted by festivities surrounding the May Day races, where excitement and camaraderie fill the air. Young Master Cusack proudly showcases his father, Captain Cusack, while the students engage in discussions about the races, particularly the race outcomes that indicate strong competition among the houses. Amidst the hubbub, the narrative hints at tensions with an underlying plot of sabotage, suggesting that the competitive spirit among the boys goes beyond mere sport, potentially leading to mystery and conflict as they seek to uncover the truth behind a reckless act during the race. Stripling character dynamics are effectively set up, establishing the rich tapestry of school life that promises both adventure and emotional depth.
Nell Speed
At Boarding School with the Tucker Twins
"At Boarding School with the Tucker Twins" by Nell Speed is a novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging tale follows Page Allison, a fifteen-year-old girl, as she embarks on a new chapter of her life at Gresham Boarding School. The narrative centers around her experiences and friendships, particularly with the lively Tucker twins, Dum and Dee, providing a glimpse into the challenges and joys of adolescence and the importance of friendship. The opening of the story introduces Page as she leaves her home early in the morning for boarding school, filled with both excitement and uncertainty. Through her reflections and interactions with her family, particularly with her father and the caring Mammy Susan, we understand her longing for companionship and connection with other girls. As Page travels to Gresham, she encounters the Tucker twins, who immediately capture her attention with their vibrant personalities and strong bond. Their charm and dynamic nature promise to play a significant role in Page's new school life and adventures, setting the stage for a narrative woven with friendships, growth, and delightful escapades.
Talbot Baines Reed
Follow My Leader: The Boys of Templeton
"Follow My Leader: The Boys of Templeton" by Talbot Baines Reed is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around three young boys, Richardson, Heathcote, and Coote, who are preparing for an important examination at Templeton School, a prestigious institution that will determine their future. As they navigate the pressures of adolescence and the threshold of a new chapter in their lives, the themes of friendship, bravery, and personal growth are explored. The opening of the book introduces the three boys on a cold spring morning as they embark on their crucial journey to Templeton School. Set against the whimsical backdrop of school life, they are filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety about the impending examination. Their interactions depict the innocence and camaraderie that often characterize childhood friendships. From fumbling with historical trivia to joking about their uncertain futures, the boys’ dialogue captures their youthful anxieties, setting the stage for an adventure filled with challenges and mischief as they strive to prove themselves in a new environment.
Recently surfaced classics