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Swindlers and swindling -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Horatio Alger
Struggling Upward, or Luke Larkin's Luck
"Struggling Upward, or Luke Larkin's Luck" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows Luke Larkin, a determined and resourceful young boy who struggles against adversity and societal class differences in his small town of Groveton. As he navigates challenges, including a competitive skating contest against the privileged Randolph Duncan, Luke's character and integrity are put to the test, highlighting themes of perseverance, morality, and the socioeconomic divide. The opening of the book introduces a lively scene with boys gathered at a pond for a skating contest. Luke Larkin, a hardworking boy from a less affluent background, is up against Randolph Duncan, the wealthy son of the town's bank president. Tension arises as the stakes for the contest are high—a Waterbury watch is offered as a prize. As the race unfolds, an incident occurs that seemingly foils Luke's chances. The narrative sets the stage for the ensuing drama of class rivalry, friendship, and Luke's quest for self-improvement, laying the groundwork for his journey through both triumph and heartache.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys on the Pacific; Or, the Young Derelict Hunters
"The Motor Boys on the Pacific; Or, the Young Derelict Hunters" by Clarence Young is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows three young boys—Jerry, Ned, and Bob—as they embark on a thrilling journey across the continent to the Pacific coast, where they will search for a mysterious derelict after the tragic loss of their beloved motor boat, the "Dartaway". At the start of the book, the boys are devastated to learn via telegram that their motor boat has been wrecked during shipping. This news prompts them to seek damages from the freight company, but they remain hopeful for new adventures. After receiving letters from their friend Nellie Seabury, who invites them to visit her family in California, they decide to make the journey out west. Along the way, unexpected events unfold, including a dangerous race against their rival, Noddy Nixon, and encounters with mysterious characters that hint at further adventures yet to come. The opening chapters set in motion a tale filled with friendship, excitement, and the promise of exploration, making the book an exciting read for young adventurers.
Clive Phillipps-Wolley
Gold, Gold, in Cariboo! A Story of Adventure in British Columbia
"GOLD, GOLD, IN CARIBOO!" by Clive Phillipps-Wolley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the gold fever that affects the inhabitants of Victoria, British Columbia, as they yearn for fortunes in the Cariboo region. The story appears to follow the adventures of Edward Corbett and his friend Steve Chance, who are drawn into the gold rush, leaving behind their previous lives for the promise of wealth and excitement in the untamed wilderness. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the backdrop of 1862 Victoria, where the remnants of a gold rush linger in the air. Corbett is depicted as eager to venture into the wild and embark on a mining adventure, driven by the promises of gold that entice many others. Alongside Chance, a painter with a practical outlook, and the character Phon, a lively Chinaman, they engage in lively banter and discussions about work, gold, and their transition to life in the wilderness. Their interactions set the tone for a narrative filled with humor, camaraderie, and a quest for fortune, drawing readers into the anticipation of their journey into the heart of the Cariboo gold fields.
Horatio Alger
The Train Boy
"The Train Boy" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Paul Palmer, a resourceful 16-year-old train boy who sells magazines on a Milwaukee-to-Chicago train. As Paul navigates the challenges of life, he demonstrates his integrity and kindness while also facing adversities from characters who threaten his sense of justice and family. At the start of the story, Paul enthusiastically goes about his duties on the train, engaging with passengers and showcasing his charming personality. He encounters an elderly woman and a generous young lady named Grace Dearborn, who shows kindness by giving him money for his little sister's benefit. However, the atmosphere shifts when a thief named Luke Denton, seeking to steal from Grace, finds himself exposed by Paul, leading to a dramatic leap from the moving train. This incident sets the stage for subsequent conflicts involving Paul, his family dynamics, and his determination to protect those he loves from malevolent influences in his life.
Burt L. Standish
Lefty Locke, pitcher-manager
"Lefty Locke, Pitcher-Manager" by Burt L. Standish is a work of fiction set in the early 20th century. It revolves around the adventures and challenges of a talented pitcher, Lefty Locke, as he navigates the complexities of baseball management and personal loyalty. The story likely captures themes of ambition, loyalty, and the fierce competitive spirit that dominates the world of professional sports. The opening of the book introduces Lefty Locke, a star pitcher for the Blue Stockings, as he engages in a conversation with Bailey Weegman, who has brought an unexpected offer regarding management decisions for the team. Weegman reveals that the current manager, Jack Kennedy, may be replaced and that he wishes to sign Locke as a playing manager. Lefty is initially incredulous about the situation and expresses his loyalty towards Kennedy, pushing back against Weegman’s manipulative tactics. This opening sets up a tension-filled narrative, hinting at bigger conflicts ahead involving team loyalty, personal integrity, and the cutthroat world of baseball.
Helen Wells
The Clue of the Gold Coin
"The Clue of the Gold Coin" by Helen Wells is a mystery novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the protagonist, Vicki Barr, a flight stewardess who becomes embroiled in a mystery involving a theft of antique gold coins during her flights between New York and Tampa. As she interacts with her fellow crew members and airport staff, intriguing characters and a web of secrets begin to unfold. At the start of the book, Vicki, fresh from a flight, engages in conversations with her co-stewardesses about their assignments and the upcoming Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa. Upon arriving, Vicki learns of a significant theft of a shipment of gold coins that was intended for the festival, leading to FBI involvement. As she encounters characters such as Joey Watson, a warehouse worker, and Mr. Jones, a private investigator, Vicki starts piecing together clues while balancing her life as a stewardess. The opening sets the stage for an engaging mixture of adventure, friendship, and the unraveling of a mystery against the vibrant backdrop of Florida's festivals and culture.
Horatio Alger
Brave and Bold; Or, The Fortunes of Robert Rushton
"Brave and Bold; Or, The Fortunes of Robert Rushton" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a school setting where we are introduced to Robert Rushton, a young factory worker, and his rival, Halbert Davis, the arrogant son of a wealthy factory superintendent. The narrative addresses themes of social class disparity, perseverance, and moral integrity as Robert navigates tensions arising from class differences and his attempts to rise above his impoverished circumstances. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Millville Academy and its students under the tutelage of Professor Granville, who is praised by his students at the conclusion of their writing course. Amidst this, we witness a rivalry sparked between Robert Rushton and Halbert Davis. While Halbert is accustomed to privilege and self-importance, he is jealous of Robert, whose character, diligence, and kindness garner admiration, particularly from Hester Paine, a local belle. The conflict between the boys intensifies as Halbert feels insulted by Robert’s interaction with Hester, leading to a confrontation that not only tests their character but also sets the stage for further challenges, including Robert's struggle to maintain his job at the factory amidst Halbert’s social influence.
Horatio Alger
Shifting For Himself; or, Gilbert Greyson's Fortunes
"Shifting For Himself; or, Gilbert Greyson's Fortunes" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Gilbert Greyson, who faces sudden poverty while preparing for college, forcing him to abandon his aspirations and enter the workforce. His journey illustrates themes of self-reliance, resilience, and personal growth, with particular attention to the challenges faced by youth in navigating the demands of adulthood. The beginning of the novel introduces Gilbert Greyson, a spirited 16-year-old boarding at Dr. Burton’s school, and his close friend John Munford, who must leave school to work. As Gilbert looks forward to a summer trip, he receives a letter from his guardian, Richard Briggs, revealing that he will no longer be able to afford his education due to financial constraints. This letter propels Gilbert into adulthood, emphasizing the necessity for him to make his own way in the world, mirroring the experiences of many boys who find themselves required to "shift for themselves" in times of need. The opening chapters set the stage for Gilbert's transformation from a hopeful student to a young man determined to navigate the complexities of life independently.
Laura Dent Crane
The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach; Or, Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies
"The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach; Or, Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies" by Laura Dent Crane is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of adventurous young women, known as the 'Automobile Girls,' as they navigate social dynamics and personal challenges during a summer sojourn in Palm Beach. Key characters include Ruth, Barbara, Mollie, and Grace, who each bring unique perspectives and traits to their experiences in this vibrant setting. At the start of the novel, the 'Automobile Girls' are lounging on the piazza of a hotel in Palm Beach, soaking in the ambiance of their idyllic surroundings. As they share their plans for the day, they are unexpectedly joined by Maud Warren, an acquaintance who seems to carry a haughty demeanor that bothers the girls. Their conversation touches upon their leisure activities, leading to the introduction of adults, including Maud's father, who reveals tensions regarding her associations with society figures, hinting at deeper familial concerns. As the narrative unfolds, the girls not only enjoy the sights and sounds of Palm Beach but also confront complex social interactions that challenge their understanding of class and character, setting the stage for the adventures and lessons that lie ahead.
Julia K. Duncan
Doris Force at Locked Gates; Or, Saving a Mysterious Fortune
"Doris Force at Locked Gates; Or, Saving a Mysterious Fortune" by Julia K. Duncan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the protagonist, Doris Force, a young girl who finds herself embroiled in mystery and intrigue when she receives an invitation from two sisters to visit their enigmatic home, known as Locked Gates. As she navigates the complexities of family secrets and unexpected encounters, Doris's quest to uncover the truth about her relatives and potential fortunes begins. At the start of the novel, Doris is introduced as an active and ambitious teenager who receives a peculiar letter from the Misses Azalea and Iris Gates, inviting her to their home in Rumson. As Doris shares this news with her friend Marshmallow, they speculate about her newfound family ties, including the possible inheritance. Upon her arrival at Locked Gates, she encounters not only the sisters but also Ronald Trent, whom she learns is supposedly her cousin. The opening chapters build a suspenseful atmosphere with hints of hidden agendas belonging to Ronald and his accomplice, Henry Sully, foreshadowing an unfolding plot that Doris feels compelled to unravel.
Edward Stratemeyer
The Boy Land Boomer; Or, Dick Arbuckle's Adventures in Oklahoma
"The Boy Land Boomer; Or, Dick Arbuckle's Adventures in Oklahoma" by Captain Ralph Bonehill is a young adult adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the exploits of Dick Arbuckle, a sixteen-year-old boy who, along with his father, is swept up in the excitement of the land boom in Oklahoma, where settlers known as "boomers" vie for opportunities to claim rich farmland. In the midst of this turbulent rush toward westward expansion, Dick embarks on a perilous journey to locate his father, who goes missing under mysterious circumstances. At the start of the story, the narrative introduces Dick as he awakens in a boomer's wagon in Arkansas City, only to discover that his father has disappeared into the stormy night. In his search, Dick encounters various characters, including the amusingly cowardly Pumpkin Bill and the resourceful Pawnee Brown, a leader among the boomers. As the plot unfolds, Dick learns of troubling events involving his father, including an encounter with an assailant who has robbed him of important documents. As tension builds with each chapter, the stakes rise, leaving readers captivated by Dick's determination to uncover the truth and ensure his father's safety amidst the challenges facing the boomers.
Horatio Alger
The Store Boy
"The Store Boy" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel likely written in the late 19th century, during a time when stories of young men overcoming adversity were popular in American literature. The narrative centers around Ben Barclay, a hardworking boy who faces various challenges as he strives to support his widowed mother while working in a local grocery store and navigating encounters with a range of characters, including a threatening tramp and his wealthy rival Tom Davenport. The opening of the book introduces readers to Ben as he meets a rough-looking tramp who attempts to intimidate him and demands money. Despite the tramp's aggressive inquiries, Ben cleverly manages to protect the money he collected from his employer. After an encounter with the tramp, Ben meets Rose Gardiner, a girl he admires, and the two exchange pleasantries as they head towards town. The narrative sets the stage for themes of bravery, morality, and the complexities of social class, particularly through Ben's struggles to keep his family secure as they face the possibility of losing their home due to financial pressures applied by Squire Davenport.
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