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Sunday school literature Books
Best books
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
The mission-box : $b or, Doing good and getting good
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Philip Barrett
The Deaf Shoemaker: To Which Are Added Other Stories for the Young
"The Deaf Shoemaker: To Which Are Added Other Stories for the Young" by Philip Barrett is a collection of moral tales and inspirational stories written in the mid-19th century. This compilation centers on themes of perseverance, faith, and character development, particularly aimed at a young audience. The opening stories introduce characters who face severe challenges or moral dilemmas, emphasizing the importance of good conduct, love, and kindness. At the start of the volume, Barrett begins with the story of John McDonough, a heroic figure who bravely rescues people from a sinking ship, intertwining his tale with a call to faith and righteousness. The narrative reflects on the nature of true heroism and the importance of being a positive influence within the community. Following this, the story of a deaf shoemaker showcases a life of perseverance despite significant obstacles, inspiring readers to recognize that one's worth is not dictated by physical limitations but by their character and contributions to society. This opening serves as a precursor to the morals and lessons that permeate the rest of the stories in the collection.
L. A. (Lydia Austin) Holdich
Little Alfred
"Little Alfred" by L. A. Holdich is a children's novel written in the mid-19th century. The story follows a young boy named Alfred Penrose as he experiences various seasonal joys and learns moral lessons through his interactions with family and nature. The narrative is designed to impart values while entertaining young readers, touching upon themes such as gratitude, obedience, and compassion. The opening portion of the book introduces Alfred, a little boy living in a beautiful town near the Connecticut River. It describes his delight in summer activities alongside his father and brothers, including fishing, exploring the brook, and gathering flowers. The narrative contrasts Alfred's happy life with that of less fortunate children, drawing attention to the blessings he enjoys, such as a loving family and a connection to nature. As readers are invited into Alfred's world, they also encounter deeper reflections on kindness and empathy, setting the tone for the moral explorations to come in subsequent chapters.
Sarah S. (Sarah Schoonmaker) Baker
Timid Lucy
"Timid Lucy" by Sarah S. Baker is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story focuses on a sensitive and timid little girl named Lucy Vale, who navigates her fears and insecurities following the death of her mother. Set in a rural English village, the narrative explores Lucy's personal growth as she confronts her anxieties, particularly through her interactions with her brother Hartwell and her newly returned sister Rosa. The opening of the novel introduces Lucy as a delicate child who experiences fear in everyday situations, whether it’s her apprehension about sitting in her tidy bedroom or her trepidation during a thunderstorm. Despite the warmth of her surroundings and the love of her father and new sister, Lucy often feels alone, misunderstood, and bullied by her brother. The early chapters delve into Lucy's reflections as she struggles with her own self-worth, the pressures of morality instilled by her housekeeper, and her deep-seated fear of death and the unknown. As she navigates her tender feelings and the challenges of her young life, the stage is set for her eventual journey towards self-acceptance and healing with the support of her family.
A. L. O. E.
Edith and Her Ayah, and Other Stories
"Edith and Her Ayah, and Other Stories" by A. L. O. E. is a collection of stories likely written in the late 19th century. The book centers around themes of compassion, faith, and cultural encounters, particularly highlighting the relationship between Edith, a little English girl, and her ayah, Motee, a Hindu nurse. Through their interactions, the stories explore the challenges of bridging different belief systems and the transformative power of love and example. The opening of the collection introduces us to Edith, who is eager to learn about faith and wishes for her ayah Motee to know the Christian God. Set in India, we witness Edith's innocent curiosity and her mother's attempts to teach Motee about Christianity, contrasting the beliefs that the ayah holds. The narrative quickly escalates when Edith and Motee find themselves lost in the jungle, facing danger. In a moment of fear, Edith remembers her mother's teachings about prayer and turns to Jesus for safety. This incident marks a significant turning point in Motee's understanding of faith, leading to her eventual embrace of the teachings she initially resisted. The beginning of this collection sets the tone for the stories to follow, emphasizing the importance of compassion and faith in overcoming cultural divides.
S. T. (Sarah Towne) Martyn
Our Village in War-time
"Our Village in War-time" by S. T. Martyn is a historical account written in the mid-19th century, during the period of the American Civil War. The narrative is set in a small village, exploring the daily life of its residents as they navigate the struggles and impacts of war on their community. Through the eyes of its characters, the text captures the intertwining of personal stories with the broader national conflict, highlighting themes of love, loss, and resilience. The opening portion introduces the Beach Hill neighborhood, where the residents gossip about a new family moving into the Tyrrell House, a once-aristocratic mansion that has been empty for some time. Among the new arrivals is Mr. Fenton and his family, who are escaping the South amidst the civil unrest. We are introduced to Miss Letty, a key character who shares news and gossip about her neighbors, revealing connections to the war. The narrative hints at underlying tensions within the community regarding loyalty to the Union and relationships complicated by the war, particularly focusing on the characters of Robert Lester, a young lawyer with unclear motives for his actions, and the Fenton family, particularly the delicate daughter, Elinor. The stage is set for a deeper exploration of the village's dynamics as the war affects personal lives and community ties.
M. H. (Mary H.) Maxwell
Be Courteous, or, Religion, the True Refiner
"Be Courteous, or, Religion, the True Refiner" by M. H. Maxwell is a moral and spiritual narrative written during the mid-19th century. The story revolves around Emma Lindsay, a kind-hearted young woman who interacts with various characters from the community, including the impoverished family of Graffam, as they navigate themes of courtesy, compassion, and the complexities of social interactions. The book begins to establish a commentary on human behavior through its depiction of Emma's thoughtful gestures and sincere conversations, particularly her encounters with the less fortunate. The opening of the narrative introduces a vivid setting of a plain near a village, where the Graffam family lives in isolation. It contrasts the simplicity of the Graffam's life with the more socially engaged characters, including Emma and her acquaintances. Their blueberry-picking party serves as a backdrop for emerging social dynamics, highlighting the attitudes of various young people towards the new residents at Appledale. The passage captures Emma's genuine kindness as she expresses concern for the sick child of Graffam and engages meaningfully with those around her. Through her polite demeanor, Emma seeks to bridge the gap between the social classes and foster understanding, even as she grapples with her own health and the challenges of fitting into refined society. The narrative hints at her desire to uphold Christian values, specifically the call to "be courteous" amidst the trials of human relationships.
American Sunday-School Union
History of Orrin Pierce
"History of Orrin Pierce" by American Sunday-School Union is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. This book explores the formative experiences of a young boy named Orrin Pierce, focusing on his early life, values, and faith, particularly through the lens of Christian teachings. The narrative reflects themes of morality, parental guidance, and the significance of education in a religious context. The story unfolds with Orrin growing up under the nurturing care of his mother, who instills in him a love for Scripture and the natural world. After facing the profound loss of his mother, Orrin is taken in by his uncle and continues to embody the values taught to him, becoming a model student and a kind friend. His commitment to faith leads him to teach in a Sunday school and ultimately aspire to become a missionary, dedicated to spreading the Gospel to those in need. The book emphasizes the importance of continual learning, compassion toward others, and the enduring impact of a mother's love and teachings throughout one's life.
Christoph von Schmid
The Wolf-slayer; [Margaret Kaurner]
"The Wolf-slayer; [Margaret Kaurner]" by Christoph von Schmid is a collection of two moralistic tales likely written in the early 19th century. The book follows the story of a brave young boy named George who actively seeks to protect his community from a menacing wolf and also narrates the experiences of a young girl, Margaret, as she navigates life in the city while remaining devoted to her family virtues. This collection emphasizes themes of courage, honesty, and the importance of family bonds. The first tale, "The Wolf-slayer," recounts George's journey as he rises to heroism by trapping and ultimately slaying a wolf that terrorizes his village, earning him admiration and rewards, including a cow for his mother. The second tale, "Margaret Kaurner," unfolds through a series of letters detailing Margaret's life as a servant in the city, where she remains diligent and caring. Unexpectedly, Margaret finds herself in possession of gold coins that she initially assumes were given by mistake; however, in her honesty, she resolves to return them. This act leads to a series of events that ultimately bring blessings to her family, illustrating the virtues of kindness and righteousness. Both stories serve to inspire readers with moral lessons while portraying relatable characters and their trials.
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
The red plant
"The Red Plant" by Lucy Ellen Guernsey is a children's moralistic fiction story, likely written in the early 1870s. The narrative revolves around themes of honesty, temptation, and friendship as it follows the story of a young girl, Flora Lester, who succumbs to the temptation of stealing a beautiful red plant from her wealthy neighbor, Mrs. Hausen. The book delves into Flora's moral struggles and her journey toward making amends for her actions. In the story, Flora admires Mrs. Hausen's exquisite garden and, driven by envy and a desire for beauty, takes a vibrant red Coleus plant without permission. However, once she recognizes the gravity of her actions, she decides to return the plant and confess. Unfortunately, before she can do so, the plant is stolen from her hiding place. The plot thickens as Flora faces accusations of theft when Tilly Mansfield, a fellow student, misplaces her watch and wrongly blames Flora, leading to a series of misunderstandings and the need for reconciliation. Through Flora's experiences, the book conveys important lessons about accountability, the impact of envy, and the value of forgiveness and integrity.
American Sunday-School Union
Little Susan and her lamb
"Little Susan and her lamb" by American Sunday-School Union is a children's story written in the early 19th century. This short narrative reflects moral lessons aimed at young readers, focusing on themes of kindness, compassion, and the importance of faith and obedience to God. It likely serves as a tale to encourage children to engage with good deeds and virtuous behavior, reinforcing the values taught in Sunday Schools of the time. The book tells the story of a young girl named Susan, who discovers a weak lamb abandoned by a shepherd. Lovingly, she decides to care for it, showing deep compassion and adhering to her teachings about mercy towards all creatures as prescribed by biblical principles. As she nurses the lamb back to health, it becomes a cherished companion that follows her everywhere. Throughout the tale, Susan exemplifies kindness and respect for life, reflecting her upbringing in a nurturing environment that emphasizes Christian values. Additionally, as the story progresses, the lamb grows and eventually provides assistance to Susan's family, emphasizing the rewards of caring for others and the blessings that can come from good actions in one's life.
Robin Ranger
Up in the garret
"Up in the Garret" by Robin Ranger is a children's story written in the early 1860s. This charming book follows the playful adventures of the Bondy children—Alice, Maggie, and James—as they explore the various treasures and old toys stored in their home’s garret during a rainy day. The narrative captures the essence of childhood, depicting how young imagination can transform even the most mundane spaces into realms of joy and creativity. The story unfolds with descriptions of the Bondy household, emphasizing the warmth and happiness brought by the children. When a planned outing is canceled due to rain, the siblings make the most of their day by playing in the garret, discovering old toys, and indulging in imaginative play. Mr. Bondy, their father, joins them and shares a delightful story about swallows, tying in important lessons about kindness and helping those in need. Through their playful interactions and Mr. Bondy’s storytelling, the book illustrates the bond of family and the importance of appreciating the comforts of home, while also encouraging empathy toward the less fortunate.
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