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United States Military Academy -- Juvenile fiction Books
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Upton Sinclair
The West Point Rivals: or, Mark Mallory's Stratagem
"The West Point Rivals: or, Mark Mallory's Stratagem" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the adventures of a group of young cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, particularly centering around characters such as Mark Mallory and his enthusiastic friends known as the Banded Seven. The story delves into themes of camaraderie, rebellion against authority, and the quest for personal honor, all set against the backdrop of military life. The opening of the novel introduces us to a group of plebes eagerly anticipating an exciting outing to a circus in Highland Falls. The protagonist, Mark Mallory, who is recovering from hospital treatment, is quickly drawn back into the lively camaraderie of his friends. Texas, a notable character among them, expresses his determination to ride a bucking bronco named Smasher at the circus, setting the tone for the adventures to come. As the cadets plot their escape for a day of fun, the narrative promises a blend of youthful exuberance and mischief, foreshadowing the escapades that will test their bravery and ingenuity throughout the story.
Upton Sinclair
A West Point Treasure; Or, Mark Mallory's Strange Find
"A West Point Treasure; Or, Mark Mallory's Strange Find" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures of Mark Mallory and his group of friends, known as the Banded Seven, who are cadets at West Point Military Academy. This tale intertwines elements of mystery, camaraderie, and humor as they embark on thrilling escapades, including an unexpected discovery in a hidden cave. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mark Mallory, a bold cadet known for defying upperclassmen. He shares a letter from Wicks Merritt, warning of potential trouble but also relaying gossip about their antics, which has garnered attention. The Banded Seven, including characters like Texas and the Parson, find themselves inspired by the letter to explore the nearby mountains. Their exploration leads to the astonishing discovery of a cave, where they soon encounter signs of previous inhabitants—a cache of counterfeit coins and the unsettling remnants of skeletons—setting the stage for a thrilling adventure as they grapple with the mysteries and dangers that lie ahead.
H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
Dick Prescott's First Year at West Point; Or, Two Chums in the Cadet Gray
"Dick Prescott's First Year at West Point; Or, Two Chums in the Cadet Gray" by H. Irving Hancock is a novel written during the early 20th century. This coming-of-age story follows the experiences of two young men, Dick Prescott and Greg Holmes, as they navigate the challenging and disciplined life at the United States Military Academy at West Point, highlighting their aspirations of becoming officers in the U.S. Army. The opening of the book sets the stage for Dick and Greg's arrival at West Point, where they face a series of examinations to gain entry as cadets. The atmosphere is charged with nervous anticipation as the boys await their turns, revealing their backgrounds and the rigorous requirements they must meet. As they interact with fellow candidates and start to understand the strict military culture, the tension between excitement and fear becomes evident. Their journey serves not only as a trial of physical and mental endurance but also as a means of character development as they confront their fears, make new friends, and learn to respect the traditions and challenges of military life.
Frank V. Webster
Tom Taylor at West Point : $b or, The old army officer's secret
"Tom Taylor at West Point: or, The Old Army Officer's Secret" by Frank V. Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the story of Tom Taylor, a determined young boy with aspirations of attending West Point and becoming an army officer. Narrating his journey from home to the rigorous demands of military academy life, the story intertwines his ambitions with elements of personal challenge, family duty, and rivalry. The opening of the narrative introduces Tom, a sixteen-year-old boy who just learned about a competitive examination for a West Point cadetship. Tom's ambition is made clear through his conversations with his mother, showcasing their humble circumstances and his mother’s concern for his safety in the military. As Tom prepares to apply, he grapples with the challenges of finding work to support their needs while navigating his dreams of military service. The initial chapters set up his determination, the supportive but worried presence of his mother, and hint at a rivalry with Clarence Hawkesbury, the nephew of a captain who has an interest in Tom's success or failure. Tom's journey is not just about personal ambition; it reflects the struggles and sacrifices of a young man trying to rise above his circumstances.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The Young Scout: The Story of a West Point Lieutenant
"The Young Scout: The Story of a West Point Lieutenant" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the young and courageous Lieutenant James Decker as he navigates the challenges of military life and confronts the dangers posed by hostile Apaches, particularly the infamous Geronimo. The story begins by establishing Decker's character and his early encounters with bullying, showcasing his bravery even at a young age, leading to his ambition to become a respected officer in the military. At the start of the novel, a group of boys during a summer afternoon becomes embroiled in a conflict when a bully named Buck Kennon targets Almon Goodwin, a disabled boy. James Decker rises to the occasion, defending Almon and challenging Buck to a fight. This encounter defines Decker's character and establishes his knack for standing up to danger, earning admiration from others. The opening chapters then transition into his military challenges, as Decker is stationed at Fort Reno and becomes involved in potential confrontations with Apache warriors, hinting at the struggles and adventures that lie ahead. The groundwork is laid for an action-packed tale of adventure, courage, and moral dilemmas in the American West.
H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
Dick Prescott's Fourth Year at West Point Or, Ready to Drop the Gray for Shoulder Straps
"Dick Prescott's Fourth Year at West Point" by H. Irving Hancock is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story follows Cadet Richard Prescott, now a first-classman at the United States Military Academy, as he encounters the trials and tribulations of military training, camaraderie, and class politics during his final year before graduation. The narrative centers around Prescott's character as a leader and how his adherence to duty and principles leads to conflict, particularly with Cadet Jordan, who seeks revenge after being reported for his indolence. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Prescott's leadership during a military engineering exercise, where he is challenged by the lazy conduct of his classmate Jordan. As Prescott assigns duties for constructing a pontoon bridge, he faces both logistical challenges and personal rivalries. Tensions rise as Jordan's resentment leads to a series of retaliatory schemes against Prescott, culminating in class divisions and an official silence imposed by their classmates. The narrative provides insight into cadet life, leadership responsibilities, and themes of honor and loyalty, while hinting at further conflicts as the class navigates the challenges of military discipline and personal relationships.
Upton Sinclair
A Cadet's Honor: Mark Mallory's Heroism
"A Cadet's Honor: Mark Mallory's Heroism" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Mark Mallory, a cadet at West Point, who finds himself embroiled in a series of conflicts and challenges that jeopardize his honor and reputation. As he navigates the harsh realities of cadet life, including hazing and competition, the narrative explores themes of bravery, integrity, and friendship against the backdrop of military training. The opening of the book introduces the cadets as they gather for a significant meeting to discuss the perceived misconduct of Mark Mallory. The discussion reveals that Mark has been accused of insubordination, leading the yearlings (upperclassmen) to plot a punishment against him. As tensions escalate, we see Mark's determination to defend his actions and maintain his honor, despite the collective scorn of his peers. The dynamics between the various characters, including Mark's friends and the antagonists from higher classes, set the stage for a story filled with conflict, heroism, and the struggle to uphold one’s values in the face of adversity.
Upton Sinclair
On Guard: Mark Mallory's Celebration
"On Guard: Mark Mallory's Celebration" by Upton Sinclair is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the experiences of Cadet Mark Mallory at the West Point Military Academy, focusing on his spirited resistance against the hazing practices of the upperclassmen and the adventures that ensue among his peers. The story promises themes of camaraderie, youthful rebellion, and the fight for dignity among new cadets navigating a rigorous military culture. The opening of the book introduces Cadet Mark Mallory, who receives an encouraging letter from his friend Wicks Merritt about his anti-hazing efforts at West Point, where he has gained a reputation for standing up against upperclassmen bullies. Mark gathers his fellow plebes to discuss the contents of the letter, which reveals that other cadets, specifically at Annapolis, are encountering similar challenges with hazing. As the story unfolds, readers meet a vibrant group of characters, including Mark's friend "Texas," and they rally around their shared goals. The initial chapters set the stage for Mark's burgeoning leadership, the formation of camaraderie among the plebes, and their schemes to counteract the oppressive culture at the academy.
H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
Dick Prescott's Second Year at West Point Or, Finding the Glory of the Soldier's Life
"Dick Prescott's Second Year at West Point" by H. Irving Hancock is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. It follows the journey of Dick Prescott and his friends as they move beyond their plebe year at the United States Military Academy, West Point, into their second year, grappling with the inherent challenges of cadet life, including friendships, responsibilities, and the culture of hazing. At the start of the book, the narrative introduces the three friends, Prescott, Holmes, and Anstey, who are adapting to their new status as yearlings, enjoying a break from the harsh realities of plebe life. The opening chapters depict their afternoon routine and discuss their responsibilities while hinting at the rules and social dynamics at play among the cadets, including the light-hearted yet serious discussions regarding hazing. As Prescott navigates the challenges of leadership and camaraderie among his peers, the groundwork is laid for the humorous and tense situations that will arise, especially with the expectation of new visitors from home and the upcoming social events at the academy.
H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
Dick Prescott's Third Year at West Point; Or, Standing Firm for Flag and Honor
"Dick Prescott's Third Year at West Point; Or, Standing Firm for Flag and Honor" by H. Irving Hancock is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the journey of the main character, Dick Prescott, a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point, as he navigates his third year at the academy and its various challenges while on summer furlough in his hometown. Alongside his friend Greg Holmes, Dick faces old adversaries, social expectations, and questions of honor and integrity in the military. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Dick Prescott, who has returned home during a summer break from the rigorous life at West Point. His interactions with the townspeople, particularly Mrs. Davidson, reveal the misunderstandings and lack of knowledge surrounding military life. As he reconnects with old friends and contemplates the changes in his life, Dick learns that his former nemesis, Bert Dodge, is also in town. Tension builds as the narrative shifts to dark accusations against Dick from Dodge, hinting at a conspiracy that threatens his future at the Academy. The opening sets the stage for themes of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of friendship as Dick prepares to confront the challenges ahead.
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