Subject
Young women -- Social life and customs -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Nell Speed
Molly Brown of Kentucky
"Molly Brown of Kentucky" by Nell Speed is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young woman named Molly Brown and her close circle of friends, set against the backdrop of World War I and the personal struggles that arise from it. The narrative likely explores themes of love, friendship, and the impact of war on everyday lives. The opening of the novel begins with a letter from Julia Kean to Molly, describing her life in France just as the war begins to ramp up. Julia expresses concern for her friends and family while detailing her experiences and observations in France. The reader is introduced to Julia’s longing for her home in Kentucky as she navigates the tumultuous atmosphere of pre-war Europe. The narrative quickly shifts to Molly’s life in Kentucky, where she and her husband, Professor Edwin Green, await news of their brother Kent, who has traveled to France. Tension builds as the realities of war encroach on their lives, highlighting the uncertainties and emotional upheavals faced by those at home while loved ones are overseas.
Margaret Vandercook
The Camp Fire Girls by the Blue Lagoon
"The Camp Fire Girls by the Blue Lagoon" by Margaret Vandercook is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work is part of a series focused on the adventures and personal growth of young women involved in the Camp Fire Girls organization. The story likely revolves around Bettina Graham and her companion, Elce, who embark on a spontaneous trip to New York City, where Bettina seeks the guidance of her Camp Fire guardian, Mrs. Burton, amidst the bustling life of the city and her personal struggles with family expectations. At the start of the novel, Bettina and Elce are introduced as they navigate the busy streets of New York. Bettina is anxious to reunite with Mrs. Burton, who she regards as an important figure in her life, particularly as she grapples with her desire for independence and her dreams of pursuing social settlement work, in contrast to her mother's wishes for her to enter high society. The opening chapters set the stage for Bettina's journey of self-discovery, highlighting her aspiration to find her own path while dealing with the challenges of friendship and familial pressure in an unfamiliar environment. As they seek out Mrs. Burton, Bettina's growing sense of agency, her relationship with Elce, and the cultural backdrop of the city come to the forefront, promising a narrative rich in personal growth and adventure.
Helen Beecher Long
Janice Day, the Young Homemaker
"Janice Day, the Young Homemaker" by Helen Beecher Long is a coming-of-age novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Janice Day, a resourceful and caring young girl who is navigating the challenges of managing a household after the death of her mother. As she faces the trials of hiring a series of incompetent housemaids and the mischief caused by neighborhood boys, particularly Arlo Junior, Janice's determination to maintain her family's home life and her education shines through. The opening of the novel introduces Janice in her daily routine, marked by her early morning efforts to provide a proper breakfast for her father amidst the chaos caused by a neglectful housemaid. From her observations of Arlo Junior's antics with a group of cats to her own reflections on her late mother, we see Janice grappling with grief and responsibility. The narrative sets up her interactions with household challenges and community relationships, laying the groundwork for her character development. As the story unfolds, the weight of familial expectations and her ambitions to fill her mother's role create a rich tapestry of youthful resilience and the complexities of growing up.
Edith K. (Edith Kellogg) Dunton
Betty Wales, B. A.: A story for girls
"Betty Wales, B.A.: A Story for Girls" by Edith K. Dunton is a fictional story likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative continues the adventures of Betty Wales, following her experiences after graduating from Harding College, exploring themes of friendship and youthful escapades as she and her friends embark on various journeys. The characters include Betty and her close friends, known collectively as "The Merry Hearts," as they navigate life post-college and prepare for new experiences abroad. The opening of the book introduces Betty Wales as she returns home after graduation and reconnects with her family, while simultaneously receiving exciting news from her friends about a wedding. This sets off a flurry of correspondence, revealing Betty's enthusiastic personality and deep bonds with her college friends. As the plot unfolds, we see Betty express her eagerness to support her friends in their upcoming wedding and travel plans, establishing a lively atmosphere filled with anticipation. The text also hints at various adventures awaiting the characters in Europe, fostering an environment ripe for comically impromptu moments and heartfelt reunions.
Margaret Widdemer
Winona of the Camp Fire
"Winona of the Camp Fire" by Margaret Widdemer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a group of girls, led by the lively and imaginative Winona Merriam, who form a Camp Fire club intended to provide adventure, camaraderie, and personal development. The narrative likely explores themes of friendship, empowerment, and the joy of outdoor activities as these young girls embark on their journey of self-discovery and community building. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to Winnie Merriam and her friends as they gather around a fireplace, playfully discussing the idea of forming a club. This light-hearted conversation evolves into a decision to become a Camp Fire Girls group after they learn about the organization from Helen's stepmother, Mrs. Bryan. Throughout the opening chapters, we see the girls excitedly make plans for their club, learning about its values, and expressing their desire for adventures such as camping. They discuss the tasks they need to accomplish and how they can work together, which sets the foundation for their forthcoming experiences, challenges, and the dynamic of their relationships.
Edith K. (Edith Kellogg) Dunton
Betty Wales & Co.: A story for girls
"Betty Wales & Co.: A Story for Girls" by Margaret Warde is a novel written in the early 20th century. This charming work is part of a series featuring the beloved character Betty Wales and her friends as they navigate the challenges of college life and early adulthood. The story explores themes of friendship, family dynamics, and the transition to independence, as Betty embarks on her latest adventure, which involves managing a tea-room. At the start of the book, readers are reintroduced to Betty Wales, who has just returned home after her college graduation. The opening scenes depict her joyful reunion with her family, but the mood shifts as her father reveals the financial difficulties the family is experiencing. This revelation prompts Betty to consider ways to contribute financially, leading her to the idea of running a tea-room with her friends Madeline and Babbie. The chapter sets the stage for Betty's journey of responsibility and entrepreneurship, creating a delightful mix of humor and earnestness as she faces unexpected challenges in her new role.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
Norma Kent of the WACS
"Norma Kent of the WACS" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 1940s. The story centers around Norma Kent, a recent college graduate who eagerly joins the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during World War II. As she embarks on her new adventure at Fort Des Moines, she navigates the challenges of basic training while grappling with suspicions of espionage among her fellow recruits. At the start of the book, Norma Kent lies in a barrack full of other WAC recruits, reflecting on her decision to join the Army and the excitement and trepidation that accompanies this new chapter of her life. The opening scenes focus on her interactions with other girls, including a little Italian named Rosa and a tall girl named Lena, who present different dynamics within the group. As Norma adapts to military life, she becomes increasingly aware of her surroundings, including the odd behaviors of some recruits that lead her to suspect spy activity. This mixture of camaraderie, personal growth, and an unfolding mystery sets the stage for her journey in the WAC and the broader challenges faced during the war.
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Polly and Her Friends Abroad
"Polly and Her Friends Abroad" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. It follows the adventures of Polly Brewster and her friend Eleanor Maynard as they embark on a journey to Europe with other companions, including some adults. The narrative seems to explore themes of personal ambition, friendship, and the contrasts between American and European societal customs, particularly through the perspectives of the girls and their interactions with their mothers. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Polly and Eleanor who are on a steamer bound to Europe, excited to study interior decorating and explore famous museums. The opening sets up their journey, highlighting Eleanor's humorous encounters, particularly with Mrs. Ebeneezer Alexander, who is overly concerned about her daughter Dodo marrying into nobility. Dodo shares her conflicting feelings about her mother’s ambitions versus her own aspirations for independence, which leads to an intriguing dynamic within the group. This engaging setup hints at a mix of adventures, character development, and cultural exploration that would unfold as the story progresses.
Nell Speed
A House Party with the Tucker Twins
"A House Party with the Tucker Twins" by Nell Speed is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds as a lively and entertaining account of a house party at a grand country home called Maxton, hosted by General Price, where a group of friends, including the vivacious Tucker twins, gather for summer fun. The main character, Page Allison, and her friends navigate the joys and disappointments of friendships, romances, and interactions with family members, all while dealing with humorous and nostalgic moments typical of youthful adventures. At the start of the narrative, Page reflects on the excitement of the house party she's attending, noting the absence of her close friend Annie Pore due to her father's objections. The opening chapters detail the reunion of Page and her group of friends, including the whimsical Tucker twins, and their antics as they settle into the expansive, elegant setting of Maxton. As they begin to explore the household dynamics and socialize with new guests, the friends express a mixture of joy and longing for their absent companion Annie, devising plans to bring her to the festivities. The story captures the carefree spirit of youth while layering in themes of friendship, social class contrasts, and the lighter side of social gatherings, all of which promise a delightful read for those interested in nostalgic tales of adolescence and camaraderie.
Margaret T. Van Epps
Nancy Pembroke in Nova Scotia
"Nancy Pembroke in Nova Scotia" by Margaret T. Van Epps is a novel written in the early 20th century. This installment in the Nancy Pembroke series follows the main character, Nancy Pembroke, as she embarks on a summer adventure filled with friendship, personal growth, and travel to Nova Scotia. The narrative explores themes of character development, societal expectations, and the importance of kindness through Nancy's interactions with her friends and her efforts to uplift an awkward classmate. The opening of the story introduces a rainy summer day at the Pembroke home, where Nancy's mother is embroidering while engaging in conversation with Nancy's classmate, Emma Kane. The discussion reveals that Nancy has invited Emma, who feels out of place at college due to being socially shunned, to spend the summer with her. The dialogue touches on their shared pasts, highlighting the bonds of friendship and the dynamics of their social circle. Nancy and her mother express a desire to help Emma improve her social skills, setting up a storyline that revolves around transformation and self-discovery against the backdrop of Nancy's upcoming travels. As the characters plan for a trip to Nova Scotia, the stage is set for adventure and growth as they confront various challenges together.
Helen Leah Reed
Brenda, Her School and Her Club
"Brenda, Her School and Her Club" by Helen Leah Reed is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young girl named Brenda Barlow who is navigating the ups and downs of friendships, the arrival of her cousin Julia, and the challenges of attending school. Themes of jealousy, ambition, and personal growth unfold as Brenda encounters the complexities of social dynamics among her peers. The opening of the book introduces Brenda and her three close friends who are anticipating the arrival of Brenda's cousin, Julia. Brenda's feelings are mixed; while she outwardly expresses disdain about Julia disrupting their close-knit group, there’s an underlying reflection of insecurity as she fears being overshadowed. The scene shifts between Brenda's family life, her relationships with her friends, and her initial impressions of Julia, setting the stage for future conflicts and developments. As Brenda interacts with her friends and contemplates Julia's impending arrival, readers get a glimpse into her character, filled with youthful arrogance and vulnerability, as well as the stark reality of growing up and facing change.
Mabell S. C. (Mabell Shippie Clarke) Smith
Ethel Morton and the Christmas Ship
"Ethel Morton and the Christmas Ship" by Mabell S. C. Smith is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around themes of friendship, community service, and the spirit of giving, particularly during the holiday season. The main characters include Ethel Morton and her cousin Dorothy Smith, who embark on a mission to create a bundle of gifts for children affected by a war abroad, all while navigating their involvement in the United Service Club. The opening of the book introduces readers to Ethel and her friends, who gather to discuss the exciting news of a newly found relative and plan their upcoming meeting of the United Service Club. As they converse on the porch, various character dynamics and budding friendships are established, particularly highlighting Ethel's enthusiasm and the group's collective ambition. The talk includes plans for community service in light of current events, reflecting the values of teamwork and compassion in a time of need. This sets the stage for their mission of collecting gifts for the "Christmas Ship," which they hope will serve as a beacon of kindness amidst the backdrop of a world in conflict.
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