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Teenage boys -- Juvenile fiction Books
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George Gladstone
Tom Gillies : $b the knots he tied and untied
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William S. (William Surrey) Hart
The golden west boys, "Injun" and "Whitey": a story of adventure
"The Golden West Boys, 'Injun' and 'Whitey': A Story of Adventure" by William S. Hart is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young boy named Alan "Whitey" Sherwood, who is excited at the prospect of moving to Montana after inheriting a ranch from his uncle. Along with his father, he embarks on a journey filled with the allure of the Wild West, hunting, and encounters with Indians, as he learns about life in a new and rugged environment. At the start of the novel, Whitey celebrates the news of his imminent adventure to the West, where he fantasizes about becoming a cowboy and having thrilling encounters with Native Americans and grizzly bears. We see his personality attachment to traditional Western tropes, leading to humorous misunderstandings about Native American culture and wildlife. Moreover, the beginning establishes Whitey’s excitement and eagerness for adventure as he prepares for the journey with the help of his friends and family, which provides a glimpse into the values of bravery and friendship that will be explored throughout the story. The opening captures both a sense of adventure and humor, setting the stage for the rich experiences that lie ahead in the Wild West.
Ralph Henry Barbour
Hitting the line
"Hitting the Line" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. This engaging story revolves around young boys and their adventures, particularly focusing on the characters Monty Crail and his acquaintances as they navigate life at Grafton School. The book delves into themes of friendship, growth, and competition, woven into a narrative rich with youthful exuberance. The opening of "Hitting the Line" introduces us to two boys, Dudley Baker and Jimmy Logan, who arrive in New York City and witness a bullying incident between two newsboys. They meet Monty Crail, a newcomer with a charmingly fresh perspective, who intervenes in the situation with a mix of humor and courage. The scene sets an engaging backdrop for their friendship as they travel together to Grafton School, where Monty hopes to find his place and integrate into a new and challenging environment. This opening establishes the dynamic relationships and the spirited yet competitive atmosphere that will unfold as the story progresses.
Ralph Henry Barbour
Guarding His Goal
"Guarding His Goal" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a fictional boarding school called Yardley Hall and follows the life of T. Tucker, a determined student who works as a part-time tailor to afford school expenses while pursuing his passion for hockey. The narrative explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the challenges faced by students from different backgrounds. The opening of the story introduces T. Tucker in his modest dorm room at Yardley Hall while he is busy pressing clothes for his classmates as a means of income. During a conversation with his classmate Orson Crowell, Tucker expresses his interest in hockey, a sport Crowell encourages him to pursue. The dialogue reveals Tucker's hardworking nature and hints at his potential in hockey as he contemplates trying out for the team. As the plot unfolds, readers can expect to see how Tucker's aspirations develop along with the dynamics of his friendships and the school environment, setting the stage for adventures that blend sports with personal growth.
Everett Scott
Third Base Thatcher
"Third Base Thatcher" by Everett Scott is a fictional sports novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on Jeff Thatcher, a Freshman at Pennington Institute, who is determined to prove his sportsmanship and skill on the basketball court and eventually on the baseball field. Set against the backdrop of competitive high school athletics, the story explores themes of integrity, rivalry, and perseverance. At the start of the story, Jeff Thatcher is facing a bitter disappointment after being unfairly called for a foul during a crucial basketball game, which leads to the loss of the championship for his class. Frustrated by the accusation of playing dirty, he encounters his rival, Gould, provoking a fight that draws the attention of school authorities. As Jeff grapples with his predicament and the fear of expulsion from school, he learns the value of hard work and clean competition. The narrative sets the stage for his journey back to redemption through baseball, with the support of friends and the desire to outshine Gould, who poses a significant challenge to his ambitions.
Herbert Strang
Martin of old London
"Martin of Old London" by Herbert Strang is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in 1666 amidst the backdrop of London, the story follows a young boy named Martin Leake, who is navigating life's challenges after losing his father and mother to the Plague. As he finds himself working under a strict goldsmith, Martin encounters a series of mysterious events linked to foreign sailors and his volatile employer, which leads him into adventures that test his courage and wits. The opening of the novel introduces Martin, a fourteen-year-old boy who takes solace at the riverside of London after enduring a hot day. As he wanders along the Thames, the narrative hints at upcoming intrigue when he observes a foreign sailor and later encounters a suspicious man who speaks to the sailor. Following this, readers learn of Martin's struggles at home and in his job, where he faces the ill temper of Mr. Slocum, the goldsmith's manager. As Martin navigates his daily responsibilities, he grapples with thoughts of adventure on the sea and the safety of his family, setting the stage for the unfolding mystery and challenges he will face throughout the story.
Emma Leslie
Arthur's inheritance : $b or, How he conquered
"Arthur's Inheritance: or, How He Conquered" by Emma Leslie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around young Arthur Murray, who, after the death of his father, struggles with the family's financial decline and seeks to contribute to their household through work, thus confronting the challenges of growing up and responsibility. The initial chapters introduce Arthur and his sisters as they navigate their new reality while trying to maintain their family dignity amidst financial hardship. At the start of the novel, readers find Arthur discussing his ambitions with his sisters, revealing their family's recent struggles following the death of their father. Arthur takes it upon himself to secure a job at a local shop, much to the concern of his sisters, who worry about societal perceptions. As they navigate their domestic challenges, including their mother's fixation on her cherished cats, the siblings' lively discussions illustrate their resilience and camaraderie. The opening portion sets the stage for Arthur's journey of self-discovery as he grapples with the ideals of family honour, the dignity associated with work, and the harsh realities of their circumstances.
Burton Egbert Stevenson
The Young Section-Hand
"The Young Section-Hand" by Burton Egbert Stevenson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the journey of a determined young boy named Allan West as he seeks work on a railroad section gang after struggling to find employment in Cincinnati. The book explores themes of hard work, camaraderie, and the hazards of railroad life. At the start of the narrative, Allan knocks on the foreman's door to inquire about work, revealing his desperation and willingness to take on the rough life of a section-hand despite the difficult conditions and modest pay. The opening chapters introduce us to various characters, including Jack Welsh, the kind-hearted foreman, and Reddy Magraw, a seasoned and jovial section-hand. As Allan begins his grueling job, he quickly learns the ins and outs of maintaining railroad tracks alongside the gang. The stakes heighten when Allan bravely saves a child from an oncoming train, solidifying his place among the workers and earning respect from his new friends and mentor.
John Luther Langworthy
The Bird Boys' Aeroplane Wonder; Or, Young Aviators on a Cattle Ranch
"The Bird Boys' Aeroplane Wonder; Or, Young Aviators on a Cattle Ranch" by John Luther Langworthy is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around two young aviators, Frank and Andy Bird, whose passion for flying leads them to a thrilling adventure on a cattle ranch in Arizona where they intend to showcase their aeroplane. The story promises excitement, camaraderie, and the challenges of both aviation and ranch life. At the start of the book, the Bird boys learn that their school vacation has been unexpectedly extended due to construction delays, which sets the stage for new adventures. Eager to make the most of their time off, they plan to visit their uncle Jethro in Arizona, packing their aeroplane for the journey. The opening chapters introduce their friends Larry and Elephant, who share in their excitement about fishing and the impending trip, while hints of rivalry with a boy named Percy Carberry are established. As they prepare for their journey, the themes of youthful ambition, friendship, and the joy of exploration come to the forefront, making for an engaging setup for the adventures that lie ahead.
Clarence Young
The Racer Boys; Or, The Mystery of the Wreck
"The Racer Boys; Or, The Mystery of the Wreck" by Clarence Young is a children's novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two adventurous brothers, Frank and Andy Racer, who find themselves embroiled in both a thrilling race and a shocking encounter with a whale, leading to one of them being nearly wrecked in his boat. This adventure eventually unveils a deeper mystery involving a wrecked motorboat and an unidentified boy they rescue, provoking curiosity about their new acquaintance and setting the stage for further discoveries. The opening of this lively narrative introduces Frank and Andy as they engage in a friendly rowing race on a sunlit day in Harbor View, a coastal fishing village. Their competition is interrupted when they spot a whale approaching their small boats, resulting in a dramatic hit that damages Andy's skiff. Following this close call, they discover a wrecked motorboat and an unconscious boy in the water, prompting them to take swift action to save him. This sets the stage for an unfolding mystery, as the brothers try to uncover the identity of the rescued boy, Paul Gale, and the secrets behind his past while navigating their summer adventures.
Irving Crump
Jack Straw, Lighthouse Builder
"Jack Straw, Lighthouse Builder" by Irving Crump is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures of the young protagonist, Jack Straw, who takes a summer job working on the construction of a lighthouse on Cobra Reef, Hood Island, Maine. The narrative highlights themes of ambition, engineering, and camaraderie, as Jack navigates challenges with his fellow workers while aiming to learn more about marine engineering. The opening of the book introduces Jack Straw, a high school student consumed with excitement over a telegram offering him a summer job in the Lighthouse Bureau. The narrative describes his life at Drueryville Academy, including his friends and their engagement in athletics. After receiving the telegram, Jack eagerly prepares for the journey ahead, reflecting on both his family and the imminent opportunity that lies in lighthouse building. This sets the stage for the adventures and challenges he will face, including interactions with quirky characters and the learning experience in a demanding work environment.
Ralph Henry Barbour
Keeping His Course
"Keeping His Course" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a spirited young boy named Toby Tucker, who works at his father's boatyard in Greenhaven, L.I. The narrative explores Toby's adventures as he navigates both the waters of Great Peconic Bay and the challenges of friendship, competition, and self-identity, particularly regarding his fiery hair and the teasing that comes with it. At the start of the novel, we find Toby responding to an incident at the town landing, where he encounters Arnold Deering, a new boy who seems a bit arrogant and inexperienced with boats. Their initial meeting involves a clumsy boat docking that leads to an angry confrontation when Arnold insults Toby about his hair. After a brief scuffle, they part ways, but fate brings them together again when they join forces to help recover stolen goods from a houseboat after chasing down the culprits. This opening sets the stage for a developing friendship between the two boys as they embark on a summer filled with adventure, ultimately testing their character and ideals in the process.
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