Subject
Youth -- Conduct of life -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Ingersoll Lockwood
Baron Trump's Marvellous Underground Journey
"Baron Trump's Marvellous Underground Journey" by Ingersoll Lockwood is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. This imaginative tale follows the adventures of a young baron named Wilhelm Heinrich Sebastian von Troomp, also known as Baron Trump, alongside his loyal dog, Bulger. Together, they embark on a fantastical journey in search of the mysterious portals to a 'World within a World,' guided by ancient manuscripts and their sense of curiosity. The opening of the story introduces us to Baron Trump and his concerns for his less-than-happy companion, Bulger, who is weary of the familiar surroundings of Castle Trump. After discovering a musty manuscript by Don Fum, which suggests the existence of an underground world, the baron feels compelled to leave home for adventure. His departure is filled with heartfelt farewells from his parents and preparations for what promises to be a thrilling expedition. As Baron Trump and Bulger journey northward through Russia, they face various challenges and characters, including a treacherous teamster named Ivan, hinting at the dangers and marvels that await them in their quest to discover the unknown.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Marvelous Land of Oz
"The Marvelous Land of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1904. This sequel follows young Tip as he escapes his cruel guardian, the witch Mombi, with a magical pumpkin-headed companion. When an all-girl army conquers the Emerald City, Tip joins forces with the Scarecrow and Tin Woodman on a wild adventure involving flying machines, hidden royalty, and shocking transformations that will determine Oz's rightful ruler.
Ingersoll Lockwood
Travels and Adventures of Little Baron Trump and His Wonderful Dog Bulger
"Travels and Adventures of Little Baron Trump and His Wonderful Dog Bulger" by Ingersoll Lockwood is a children's novel published in 1889. The story follows Wilhelm Heinrich Sebastian Von Troomp, known as Baron Trump, a precocious German boy who journeys through fantastic lands and discovers underground civilizations. Accompanied by his dog Bulger, Baron Trump encounters strange natives, narrowly escapes romantic entanglements, and repeats this pattern of adventure until returning to Castle Trump. The novel remained obscure for over a century before gaining attention in 2017.
Tudor Jenks
The Century World's Fair Book for Boys and Girls Being the Adventures of Harry and Philip with Their Tutor, Mr. Douglass, at the World's Columbian Exposition
"The Century World's Fair Book for Boys and Girls" by Tudor Jenks is a children's adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows two boys, Harry and Philip, along with their tutor, Mr. Douglass, as they embark on a journey to the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The book captures their experiences and discoveries at the fair, emphasizing themes of curiosity, learning, and exploration. At the start of the narrative, Harry receives exciting news through a cable from his father, instructing him and Philip to attend the fair in Chicago at his expense. They enthusiastically prepare for their journey, assisted by Mr. Douglass, who supports their adventure as an enriching educational experience. The opening chapter sets the stage for their impending travels, showcasing their contrasting personalities and eagerness to explore the wonders of the exposition. Through witty dialogue and vivid descriptions, the boys' excitement and anticipation paint a lively picture of the time, as they prepare to embark on a memorable adventure.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
Redskin and Cow-Boy: A Tale of the Western Plains
"Redskin and Cow-Boy: A Tale of the Western Plains" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the lives of cowboys in the American West, capturing their character, adventures, and the realities of frontier life. The story introduces us to William Tunstall, also known as English Bill, a former miner who navigates personal revelations about his family and past while confronting the dangers inherent to his life among outlaws and Indians. The opening of the novel sets the scene in Cedar Gulch, a mining camp bustling with activity in 1851, detailing the hard work of the miners and the camaraderie between Tunstall and his two partners, Sim Howlett and Limping Frank. As they discuss their next moves after working their claim, Tunstall discovers an advertisement regarding his inheritance back in England, which prompts reflections on his estranged family. This moment of potential change is juxtaposed against the backdrop of danger in the camp, highlighted by hints of conflict and the violent lives that surround them. The stage is set for Tunstall's journey of self-discovery against the wild, unpredictable backdrop of the Western frontier.
Horatio Alger
Adrift in the City; or, Oliver Conrad's Plucky Fight
"Adrift in the City; or, Oliver Conrad's Plucky Fight" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. This coming-of-age story centers on young Oliver Conrad, who faces a challenging relationship with his step-brother Roland Kenyon and his cruel step-father, Mr. Kenyon. The narrative explores themes of resilience and the struggle for independence amidst familial tensions, as Oliver learns to assert himself against the bullying he experiences. The opening of the book introduces a confrontation between Oliver and Roland, establishing their antagonistic relationship marked by class and privilege disparities. Roland, feeling entitled, commands Oliver to fetch a ball, leading to a physical altercation that exemplifies the underlying tension between them. After defending himself successfully, Oliver is summoned before Mr. Kenyon, who unjustly accuses him of assaulting Roland. As Oliver stands firm in his principles and self-defense, the stage is set for a deeper exploration of his plight, hinting at future conflicts and Oliver's quest for autonomy against the backdrop of his step-father's deceitful motives.
A. L. O. E.
The straight road is shortest and surest
No description available.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Master Key An Electrical Fairy Tale Founded Upon the Mysteries of Electricity
"The Master Key" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1901. When young electrical experimenter Rob accidentally touches the Master Key of Electricity, he summons the Daemon of Electricity, who grants him nine futuristic gifts over three weeks—including flying devices, food tablets, and protective garments. As Rob explores the world with these extraordinary powers, he faces adventures that lead him to question whether humanity is truly ready for such advanced technology.
Horatio Alger
The Errand Boy; Or, How Phil Brent Won Success
"The Errand Boy; Or, How Phil Brent Won Success" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Phil Brent, a young boy who faces challenges and adversities after discovering that his stepmother doesn’t consider him her son, which shakes the foundation of his identity and home life. The narrative unfolds as Phil resolves to leave his unhappy home and seek his fortune in New York City, revealing themes of resilience, ambition, and personal growth. At the start of the tale, Phil endures a painful scuffle with his stepbrother Jonas, followed by a confrontation with his stepmother, Mrs. Brent, where he learns that she does not view him as a true member of the family. This revelation prompts Phil to consider a future for himself outside of the oppressive environment he’s lived in. He decides to leave home, sells some of his possessions to save money, and embarks on a journey to New York, where he hopes to find work and establish his independence. Along the way, he encounters various characters, such as Mr. Lionel Lake and Mr. Oliver Carter, who play crucial roles in shaping his fortunes and experiences in the big city. The opening chapters set up Phil's character as determined and resourceful, as well as foreshadowing the trials and opportunities he will face in his quest for a better life.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
When London Burned : a Story of Restoration Times and the Great Fire
"When London Burned: a Story of Restoration Times and the Great Fire" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative is set in 17th century England, a period marked by the turmoil of the Restoration after the English Civil War and encompasses the tragedy of the Great Fire of London. The story follows the young protagonist, Cyril Shenstone, the son of a disillusioned Cavalier, as he navigates the challenges of life after his father's death, seeking to forge his own path in a world rife with adventure and adversity. The opening of the book introduces Cyril at a poignant moment in his life as he mourns the loss of his father, Sir Aubrey Shenstone, who is characterized as a brave yet reckless figure lacking the virtues necessary for responsible fatherhood. Living under the care of Lady Parton and her family, Cyril is portrayed as a reflective and resilient youth, aspiring to become a soldier despite the struggles of his family’s fallen nobility. As Cyril embarks on a journey of self-discovery and grapples with his ambitions amidst the backdrop of political upheaval, readers are drawn into the intricacies of Restoration England, foreshadowing the challenges he will face as the Great Fire looms ahead.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
To Herat and Cabul: A Story of the First Afghan War
"To Herat and Cabul: A Story of the First Afghan War" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Angus Campbell, who embarks on a journey through turbulent Persian territories and into war-torn Afghanistan during the First Afghan War. As Angus navigates the complexities of diplomacy, survival, and warfare, he becomes embroiled in the fate of Herat and the efforts to counter Russian influence in the region. The opening of the novel introduces Angus Campbell, a sixteen-year-old boy who recently lost his parents to the plague. Left alone in a foreign land, he seeks to forge a path for himself, ultimately finding service with the British minister at the Persian court. With his knowledge of languages, Angus is entrusted with a vital mission to deliver a letter to the ruler of Herat, encouraging him to resist Persian invaders. This initial setup not only establishes Angus as a resourceful and determined protagonist but also sets the stage for the historical conflicts and personal trials he will encounter as the story unfolds.
William Drysdale
The Young Supercargo: A Story of the Merchant Marine
"The Young Supercargo: A Story of the Merchant Marine" by William Drysdale is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Christopher "Kit" Silburn, a young and ambitious boy who seeks adventure and a better life by venturing to sea as a cabin boy on the steamship "North Cape". This tale captures his journey from homelessness to finding a place aboard the ship, where he learns about responsibility, maturity, and the challenges of maritime life. Kit’s character as a determined and honest boy is likely to resonate with readers who enjoy stories of personal growth against a backdrop of adventure. At the start of the narrative, Kit finds himself in Brooklyn, trying to escape his precarious life as a homeless boy. After a series of misunderstandings with a police officer, he is fortunate enough to be taken under the wing of Captain Griffith of the "North Cape", who offers him a position as a cabin boy. As Kit begins his adventure at sea, he reflects on his background, including his family and the disappearance of his father at sea. The initial chapters effectively set the stage, showcasing Kit's determination and positive outlook amidst adversity, while also introducing readers to the dynamics of life at sea in the late 1800s.
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