Subject
United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Naval operations -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Oliver Optic
On The Blockade
"On The Blockade" by Oliver Optic is a novel written in the late 19th century. This work is part of "The Blue and the Gray" series, set during the American Civil War, focusing on the naval conflicts along the Southern coast. The story centers around Christy Passford, a young commander in the United States Navy, as he navigates the dangers of blockade running and encounters treachery among his crew. The beginning of "On The Blockade" introduces Christy Passford, who is reluctantly leaving his previous ship, the Bellevite, as he takes command of the United States Steamer Bronx. The narrative captures his complex emotions about his new role and the seriousness of his mission, revealing crucial intelligence about blockade runners and suspected Confederate vessels. The dialogue between Christy and his father, Captain Passford, hints at the importance of duty, loyalty, and the impending threats they face, establishing a sense of tension as they prepare for Christy's journey into enemy waters.
Oliver Optic
Stand By The Union
"Stand By The Union" by Oliver Optic is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book is part of "The Blue and the Gray Series," which explores the complexities of the American Civil War through the personal experiences of its characters. The narrative follows young Lieutenant Christopher Passford, who has just reached adulthood and is preparing to take part in the war that has divided the nation. At the start of the novel, the protagonist, Christy Passford, experiences a mysterious visitation at his home just before he departs for military service. After an unsettling encounter with a midnight intruder, it soon becomes apparent that unexpected complications arise when Christy boards the ship Vernon, where he discovers another young man claiming the same identity as him. This relative, revealed to be his cousin Corny Passford, has assumed Christy's name and rank to carry out a treacherous plan against the Union, putting Christy in a precarious position as he seeks to uncover the truth and defend his loyalty to the North. The opening chapters craftily set the tone for a tale of intrigue, duty, and the tests of character amidst the turmoil of war.
Oliver Optic
Within The Enemy's Lines
"Within The Enemy's Lines" by Oliver Optic is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book is part of "The Blue and the Gray Series," focusing on themes around the American Civil War. The story likely revolves around family connections and opposing allegiances, particularly following Cornelius (Corny) Passford, who finds himself navigating complex relationships as a young soldier caught between the Union and Confederate sides. The opening of the novel introduces Cornelius Passford as he unexpectedly visits his uncle, Captain Horatio Passford, in New York while having recently served in the Confederate army. The narrative starts with a palpable tension regarding his presence as Captain Passford is puzzled by the absence of letters from Corny's family, hinting at the strain the war has put on familial bonds. The chapter highlights Corny's awkwardness about his situation, the pain of the ongoing conflict, and hints at his desires to connect with his family while exploring the consequences of civil conflict on personal relationships. The stage is set for a series of adventures as Corny interacts with his Union family and navigates his complex identity during a tumultuous historical period.
Oliver Optic
The sailor boy : $b or, Jack Somers in the navy
"The sailor boy : or, Jack Somers in the navy" by Oliver Optic is a juvenile adventure novel written in the mid-19th century. It follows Jack Somers, a spirited New England boy whose patriotism and love of the sea draw him into the U.S. Navy during the American Civil War. Readers can expect brisk nautical action, moral lessons, and detailed shipboard routine as a young sailor learns courage, discipline, and duty. The opening of the novel shows Jack electrified by news of a Union naval victory while his widowed mother worries over losing another son to war. When a naval lieutenant, Bankhead, urgently needs a skilled boatman to reach Fort Warren in a gale, Jack pilots Captain Barney’s yacht through a furious night, later rescuing Bankhead after a near-collision sends him overboard. Grateful, the officer helps win Jack’s mother’s consent; Jack enlists in Boston as an ordinary seaman, receives his kit, and learns the hard edges of discipline on the receiving ship Ohio—including a clash with a bullying mess-cook and a crafty, rule-safe “payback” advised by veteran Tom Longstone. Soon drafted to the sloop-of-war Harrisburg with a few new friends, Jack is assigned stations and roles, and the narrative sketches the ship’s structure and hierarchy as he eagerly awaits getting under way.
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