Subject
Trust -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Harry Castlemon
A Sailor in Spite of Himself
"A Sailor in Spite of Himself" by Harry Castlemon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lives of young boys at an academy in Elmwood, focusing particularly on the rivalry between two crews in a rowing competition. The main characters are Bob Nellis, who is more favored among his peers, and Gus Layton, who exhibits jealousy and treachery, orchestrating underhanded tactics to defeat Bob's team. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a thrilling and competitive atmosphere as two rival boat crews prepare for a much-anticipated race. Bob's crew, known as the Zephyr, faces off against Gus's crew, the Mist. Tension increases as it's revealed that Gus may have tampered with Bob's oar in an attempt to sabotage his chances of winning. Amidst this backdrop of competition, we also see elements of loyalty and friendships among the boys, with an intriguing subplot about a boy named Simpson, who is known for sharing secrets, hinting at underlying conflicts and choices that will shape the story ahead.
Thornton W. (Thornton Waldo) Burgess
The Adventures of Chatterer the Red Squirrel
"The Adventures of Chatterer the Red Squirrel" by Thornton W. Burgess is a children's book written in the early 20th century. This delightful tale features Chatterer, the cheeky red squirrel, as he navigates the challenges of the Green Forest. The story explores themes of fear, friendship, and the consequences of one's actions as Chatterer encounters danger and learns valuable lessons along the way. The narrative begins with Chatterer running for his life from Shadow the Weasel, an antagonist that embodies fear and peril in the woods. Throughout his journey, he faces multiple trials, including a narrow escape that leads him to new experiences outside his home in the Green Forest. As he interacts with other animals, like Sammy Jay and Peter Rabbit, Chatterer learns about the importance of caution, honesty, and trust. After being captured in a corn-crib by Farmer Brown’s boy, he discovers that the boy is not a monster but can be a friend. Ultimately, Chatterer grows bolder and learns to embrace his newfound relationship with Farmer Brown's boy, realizing that true bravery is about overcoming fear and building connections.
O. F. Walton
Taken or left
"Taken or Left" by Mrs. O. F. Walton is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young boy named Peter and his close relationship with his younger sister, Salome, within a large family struggling through life's difficulties. With themes of innocence, family ties, and moral challenges, the novel explores Peter's journey as he navigates love, loss, and the significance of integrity. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Peter, the third of ten boys in a hardworking household. His mother often wears herself thin caring for the family, while their father runs a modest grocery shop. The narrative describes the household's dynamics and the warm bond Peter shares with his little sister, Salome, who is adored by all. As Peter recounts his youthful days, the opening chapters hint at impending conflicts and moral dilemmas when Peter loses some of his father's money and faces the temptation to conceal the truth. This sets the stage for the themes of redemption and the importance of faith as the storyline unfolds further through trials and tribulations in their lives.
Edward Stratemeyer
The rival bicyclists : $b Or, fun and adventure on the wheel
"The Rival Bicyclists; Or, Fun and Adventure on the Wheel" by Captain Ralph Bonehill is a young adult adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Joe Johnson, a resourceful and well-liked teenage boy, and his experiences with bicycling, friendship, rivalry, and personal challenges in a small American town. The book features themes of courage, honesty, and perseverance, interwoven with vibrant depictions of rural youth culture and the early days of bicycling as a sport and pastime. The opening of the novel introduces Dick Burns and Joe Johnson as they set out on an evening ride to Greenpoint, only to encounter immediate danger when they find a bridge out, leading to a perilous escape and minor injuries. As Joe seeks help, he thwarts a chicken theft at a local farm, showing his quick thinking and bravery. Upon returning, Joe is falsely accused of theft, leading to a cloud of suspicion over his character, while he continues to participate in local events such as bicycle races and baseball games. Early chapters also highlight Joe's confrontations with local bully Lemuel Akers, displays of heroism (such as saving his brother and a schoolmate from grave dangers), and episodes of loyalty and community spirit among the town's youth. Through these adventures, Joe's character is tested, establishing the book’s adventurous and morally grounded tone.
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